Discover Ocala and Nearby Stunning Native Inspired Landscapes: Inspiration for Your Own Outdoor Space
Ocala, Florida, in the heart of Marion County, is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. From beautifully designed public parks that blend native flora with thoughtful landscaping to nearby state parks and wild areas showcasing Florida's indigenous plants, the region offers peaceful escapes that highlight our unique ecosystems.
Central Florida natives like majestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss, sabal palms, saw palmettos, vibrant firebush, and colorful wildflowers thrive here. These plants support local wildlife while creating resilient, low maintenance landscapes.
When planning your own yard, choosing plants suited to Ocala's warm, humid climate and sandy/clay soils is key. The spots below are hand picked for inspiration, whether you're seeking design ideas, a serene walk as a local, or nature's tranquility as a visitor.
Sholom Park: A True Serene Oasis in Ocala
Right in town, this 45 acre park is designed for peace and natural beauty. Enjoy over three miles of meandering paved trails, open meadows, woodland areas, and a meditative labyrinth. Native plants mix harmoniously with perennials, annuals, and ornamentals for a resilient, Florida friendly landscape. You'll see generous displays of local greenery, mature live oaks with Spanish moss, and spaces alive with native wildlife. Perfect for quiet strolls, birdwatching, or unwinding. Free admission and well maintained paths make it accessible for everyone. If you live in OTOW, Stone Creek or nearby, this is a great spot for inspiration!
World Equestrian Center: World Class Beauty Meets Nature
Beyond its renowned equestrian events, the World Equestrian Center boasts stunning landscaping that embraces Ocala's native plants and trees. The property features more than 5,000 newly planted trees and 1.5 million shrubs, plus preserved heritage live oaks for a mature, graceful feel. Specimen plantings, ornamental gardens, and lush park-like settings surround competition fields and event lawns. Stroll the grounds to spot plants that would thrive in your own yard, it's upscale elegance blended with natural Florida charm. The WEC is an Ocala spot not to be missed whether you’re a horse person or not it’s absolutely beautiful and a great place to visit for outdoor plants and trees that will thrive here.
Santos Park: Embrace Live Oaks and Outdoor Trails
Centered around the popular Santos Trailhead & Campground, this recreation area is a favorite for hiking, horseback riding, and connections to the Florida National Scenic Trail. Miles of equestrian paths wind through landscapes rich with iconic live oaks and native vegetation, ideal for experiencing Ocala's classic tree lined beauty up close.
Appleton Museum of Art: Beautifully Landscaped Local Museum
The museum's 11+ acres of wooded, meticulously maintained grounds enhance the cultural experience. A long reflecting pool and fountain lead to the elegant travertine marble building, framed by mature trees, shaded green spaces, and formal water features. It's a tranquil outdoor complement to the art inside.
Silver Springs State Park: Eleganty Landscaped Grounds
Just east of Ocala lies Silver Springs State Park, one of Florida's oldest and most famous attractions. This park centers around the crystal clear Silver Springs, with ancient ravines, lush tropical gardens, and a rich array of native flora. Expect to see towering bald cypress trees, turkey oaks with their rusty fall tones, native persimmons, Virginia creeper vines, and a variety of indigenous plants along the spring-fed creek and trails. The park blends natural wilderness with historic elements, including glass bottom boat tours that showcase the underwater world and surrounding vegetation. Hiking trails wind through diverse habitats, highlighting Florida's native ecosystems in a breathtaking setting.
Nearby Gems
While not strictly within city limits, the Ocala National Forest (just north) is an essential extension of the area's natural landscape. Spanning hundreds of thousands of acres, it features pine flatwoods, scrub, and numerous crystal clear springs like Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, and Silver Glen Springs. These areas are dominated by native vegetation longleaf pines, saw palmettos, scrub oaks, and seasonal wildflowers, creating immersive, untouched beauty ideal for hiking, kayaking, or camping.
Rainbow Springs State Park (a short drive west): Famous for its gardens, waterfalls, and natural springs, with trails surrounded by native and adapted plants.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is a 60+-acre botanical park and garden managed by a local non-profit that offers a peaceful, nature rich escape just outside the heart of Gainesville. Winding paved paths lead through dozens of themed plant collections, from Florida’s largest public bamboo display and the Southeast’s biggest herb garden to colorful water gardens and butterfly and hummingbird habitats, making it a favorite spot for leisurely strolls, photography, picnics, and seasonal blooms. The gardens host year round events like the Spring Garden Festival and special light walks, and with benches, gazebos, and accessible walkways it’s welcoming to visitors of all ages and it’s a great place to see what flowers will thrive here!
These areas emphasize conservation, with efforts to promote native species that support pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
Why Native Plants Matter in Ocala Landscaping
Ocala's climate, warm, humid, with sandy or clay soils, favors Florida natives that require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance than exotic species. Popular choices for local yards and parks include:
Firebush (for vibrant red blooms attracting hummingbirds),
Coral honeysuckle (a twining vine with tubular flowers),
Coontie (a low-growing cycad),
Black-eyed Susan (cheerful wildflowers),
And iconic trees like southern magnolia and live oak.
Parks like Sholom exemplify "Florida friendly" design, blending these natives for beauty and ecological benefits.
Ocala's parks and natural areas offer more than just scenery, they provide a connection to the region's heritage and biodiversity. Pack some water, wear comfortable shoes, and explore these spots to experience the peaceful, green side of Central Florida. Whether it's a quick visit to Sholom Park or a full day at Silver Springs, you'll leave refreshed by the area's beautiful, native inspired landscapes.
If you love what you see and want to incorporate anything into your own outdoor space, give us a call and we’ll help you transform your outdoor space, the Bella Way!
