CLEARWATER LAKE REC AREA

Overview Clearwater Lake Recreation Area offers a quiet getaway along the southeastern edge of the Ocala National Forest, just outside the community of Paisley, Florida. With a shaded campground, day use picnic area, beach and a nature trail that winds through the pine woods and scrub around Clearwater Lake, this facility has plenty of activities to keep campers occupied. The Ocala National Forest, in north central Florida, spans four counties and 383,000 acres.

It is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River, and protects the world's largest, contiguous sand pine scrub forest. Recreation The abundant water in the area offers many opportunities for recreation. In addition to swimming in the lake, a 7-mile canoe trail meanders not far from Clearwater Lake.

Canoe rentals are available at the campground. Campers can fish for largemouth bass, brim or catfish. 3-mile nature trail; a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail; and mountain bikers can ride the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail, a 22-mile forested path.

This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques. It is also alligator country; practice caution around water. Facilities The campground area is nicely shaded, its breezy lakefront sites border Clearwater Lake.

Sites accommodate motor homes, trailers and tents, and flush toilets and showers are available. A dish washing station is also available in both loops. Campsites have level parking pads and space for tents.

No hookups are available. The small town of Paisley is a mile away, with camping supplies, a post office and a library with Internet access. Natural Features The semi-tropical region gives the campground a mixture of pines and palms, with lush greenery and warm temperatures.

With ample habitat, alligators, turtles, deer, raccoons, black bear and numerous birds make their home here.