Alexander Springs Recreational Area, FL

On the way to my next campsite, I stopped by Port Orange to visit with my long time friend Joe and his wife Dee, and to retrieve th package containing my chargers that were delivered to his house. The visit was too short but it was good to touch base.

Alexander Springs Recreational Area is part of the Ocala National Forest, run by the National Forest Service. I was able to use my senior lifetime America the Beautiful multi-agency pass to get 50% off camping rates. The place was in a rather remote area, almost no cell reception. I could not get an electric site so my Jackery got a good workout. It got the last campsite (no. 67) which was a good spot. Quickly set up the tent awning (am getting pretty good at this with the daily practice), just in time as the insects were beginning to bite. There were warning signs about being in bear country and putting away food and trash in bear proof containers, provided at each campsite. I just put everything back into the minivan.

The next day, I hiked over to the day use area and found quite a number of people there enjoying the springs. Most of the springs were shallow except for one area that goes down to 20 ft. There were also groups of people scuba diving, with an interesting sign right next to where the scuba divers go into the water.

I changed into my swimsuit, put on my new sand shoes and went into the water. It feels good when the sun is out but cold when it turned cloudy. The rest of the day I relaxed at the campsite and finished another scrubby dish sponge.