If you’re planning CJ4Days runs through Ocala National Forest, you’ll pass through pine scrub, sandhill, hardwood hammocks, prairies, and freshwater springs — which means a ton of wildlife and unique plants.
🦅Printable ONF WildLife Checklist.
Here’s what you might encounter out on the trails 👇
🐾 Animals in ONF
🐻 Florida Black Bear
- Largest land mammal in Florida
- Most active at dawn and dusk
- Usually shy, but always secure food at camp
🦌 White-Tailed Deer
- Very common along trails and clearings
- Most active early morning / evening
🐊 American Alligator
- Found in lakes, marshes, and slow rivers
- Keep pets and distance away from water edges
🦅 Bald Eagle
- Often seen near large lakes like Lake George
- Protected species — enjoy from afar
🐢 Gopher Tortoise
- Keystone species of Florida scrub
- Their burrows shelter dozens of other species
- Protected — do not disturb
🐍 Snakes (Both Harmless & Venomous)
Common species:
- Eastern diamondback rattlesnake
- Cottonmouth (water moccasin)
- Florida black racer
- Eastern coral snake
Stay aware when walking through scrub or near water.
🌿 Plants & Landscape You’ll See
🌲 Longleaf Pine
- Dominates ONF sandhill ecosystems
- Fire-adapted species
🌾 Saw Palmetto
- Low, fan-shaped palms
- Thick undergrowth along many trails
🌸 Florida Scrub Rosemary
- Unique to Florida scrub
- Important habitat plant
💧 Cypress Trees (Near Wet Areas)
- Found near springs and marshes
- Recognizable by “knees” sticking out of water
🏞 Bonus: Springs Ecosystems
ONF is home to crystal-clear freshwater springs like:
- Juniper Springs
- Alexander Springs
- Salt Springs
Around these, you may see:
- Otters
- Wading birds
- Freshwater fish
- Turtles
Also local to these parts, the well loved old jeep carcass. Be kind, recycle! Double points for a vintage model.
🛞 CJ4Days Trail Tip
When running sand trails:
- Watch for tortoise burrows in open scrub
- Stay on marked routes
- Be cautious near water crossings