The best parks & outdoor spots in Ocala

Brown & Brown Farms and Country Store is the local spot for corn maze wanderings, U-Pick strawberries, barnyard hangs, train rides, and a surprisingly solid calendar of things to do, from monthly Junk in the Trunk to tribute concerts, plus a country store that’s perfect for take-home goodies.

From the Wildwood newsletter, October 7, 2026

5-mile loop at Hogeye Preserve Pathway in The Village of Marsh Bend and you’ll wind under oak hammocks around a historic Florida water basin that links to the clear Fenney Spring. It’s an easy local reset, pretty enough to make those daily 10,000 steps feel like cheating.

From the Wildwood newsletter, October 10, 2026

SeaBreeze Recreation Pathway offers a scenic walking path with outdoor exercise stations, perfect for turning a casual stroll into a quick sweat session. If you like mixing steps with simple strength moves, this spot at SeaBreeze Recreation keeps the heart rate happy without straying far from the neighborhood.

From the The Villages newsletter, September 28, 2026

5-mile meander under a shady tree canopy on a flexi-paved path, perfect for a brisk walk or chatty stroll. Start at the Lake Miona Recreation trailhead, breathe a little deeper, and call it a solid win between errands.

From the Wildwood newsletter, October 21, 2026

Colony Cottage Recreation Pathway is an easy, sunshine-soaked walk that slots nicely between morning coffee and your next pickleball match. When you want fresh air close to home, this neighborhood pathway makes it simple to clear your head, stretch the legs, and maybe wave to a few familiar faces.

From the The Villages newsletter, September 22, 2026

Laurel Manor Recreation Pathway wraps around Laurel Manor Recreation under breezy, shady oaks, tracing the fitness park and a mix of rec spots. It’s an easy local go-to when you want a peaceful walk, a quick think, or a casual lap between errands.

From the Wildwood newsletter, October 17, 2026

Need a quick reset close to home? Lillian Bryant Park brings well-kept walking trails, shaded lawns, and community energy with fitness programs, workshops, and seasonal events. It’s the kind of urban oasis where you can sneak in a stroll or plan a low-key family hang this week.

From the Ocala newsletter, August 4, 2026

Belleview’s Wilma Loar Splash Park is a sweet kid-size splash pad with multiple water features, plus a covered playscape with slides that turns wiggles into nap time. Easy, low-key fun when you just need a quick cool-down without committing to a whole pool day.

From the The Villages newsletter, September 12, 2026