Volunteer Events From: Florida Trail Association

Join the Black Bear Chapter of the FTA in a week of work in the Juniper Wilderness on the Ocala National Forest.  The Wilderness is a unique part of the Florida Trail and it is maintained with hand tools only, bringing a legacy of skill and hard work to each day.  This project has a very long history and it is a great place to meet up with old friends, make new friends, and enjoy some fine Florida winter weather.

Camping: Camping is provided at the OHV Center on the National Forest near Salt Springs.  There are full bath house facilities and electricity in the kitchen area under a large pavilion.  RVs are welcome to this project but there are no hookups available. 

Meals: All meals, Thursday dinner - Tuesday lunch will be provided. Please by plan to arrive no earlier than 4pm on January 8th to set up camp and enjoy dinner with the crew. The workdays will be on Friday - Monday.

What to bring: For all projects you will need to bring a day pack, sturdy boots, and appropriate clothing. Long pants are required to do trail work and long-sleeved shirts are recommended. Sunscreen and bug spray are also advised. You will need to provide your own camping gear, this includes a tent, sleeping bag, lunch container (baggie or tupperware,), coffee mug, and personal items.

What to expect: Juniper Prairie Wilderness is in the Ocala Forest between Juniper Springs and Pat’s Island.  This is a unique project on the Florida Trail because of the exclusive use of hand tools without any mechanized equipment. Work can be strenuous at times and some crews will be required to hike up to 8 miles a day.

Directions: From intersection of Rt. 19 and Rt. 316 at Salt Springs, go west on Rt. 316 for 6.2 miles to FR 11 go north on FR 11 for 2 ½ miles to OHV camp on the right.

Latitude 29°23'58.17"N Longitude 81°48'23.81"W

For questions regarding your registration status contact volunteer@floridatrail.org

For questions regarding the event, contact Jeff Glenn jeffg@floridatrail.org