If you're looking for a horse trail in a Florida state park, you're not odds on. Of the Sunshine State's 151 parks, only 32 have equestrian trails. But Silver River is trying to make a flying finish in the field. The Marion County park runs a little over 5,000 acres and now boasts of 10 miles of horse trails.
The idea of the trail developed years ago, and finally, in September 2010 the park gave a "soft opening," without a lot of fanfare. Why so quiet? Because of limited parking, rangers were concerned too much traffic would show up. Despite the lack of promotion, word got out, and folks are taking advantage of the trail--both with horses, and their own feet.
For RVers, the park offers 59 sites that easily accommodate large units. Each site provides water and electric hook-ups with 30 amp service; ten have 50 amp service. All sites have fire ring, a barbecue grill and a picnic table. A separate dump station for holding tanks is located in the park.
Once you've settled in, even if you didn't bring your own "Mr. Ed," along, you can still see the park aloft on a horse. The park has contracted with Cactus Jack's Trail Rides for guided trail rides seven days a week. “The rides are by reservation,” explains Debbie Zito, owner of Cactus Jack's. “The horses don't live at the trail. We bring them and meet guests there.” A one hour (or maybe a bit longer) trail ride for one is $40; two riders clock in at $35 per hour each. A two hour ride is $55. “It is a pretty ride,” says Zito. “We've seen lots of wildlife: deer, hogs, hawks, owls.”
Horse riding not in your travel plans? You'll find plenty of other activities at Silver River. A couple of put-ins for canoes or kayaks onto the river will float your boat. And there are plenty of trails to walk (or jog) thoroughly equipped with wildlife to view. Check out the park's website for more information.
photo: mrtrailer.com
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