O’Leno State Park  is situated north of High Springs Florida and northwest of Ocala. My new pup and I practically had this whole beautiful park to ourselves which was perfect for our initial “getting acquainted” period. O’Leno is one of Florida’s first state parks. On the east end of the suspension bridge built in 1938 by the Civilian Conservation Corps is where walking trails start. History buffs will love O’Leno State Park.

The River Trail is a short loop around the River Sink where the Santa Fe River begins it’s subterranean journey.

Parener’s Branch loop meanders around sinks which allow glimpses of the Santa Fe River’s underground passage.

A more adventurous hike trails south to the Sweetwater Primitive Camping area.

The trail to The River Rise where the Sante Fe River resurfaces is the longest hike.

We found this park to be peaceful, well kept with clean bathrooms and great playgrounds.