Chain-O-Lakes Northern Access (Forest Road 599)

Located at Camp Ocala in the Ocala National Forest, this boat ramp provides convenient access to Chain-O-Lakes and Sellers Lake for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters. The launch is situated on Forest Road 599 and serves as the northern entry point to this scenic lake system within the Ocala National Game Refuge. Wildlife viewing is excellent in this area, with sandhill cranes and wading birds commonly spotted around the lakes.

Paddlers should note that a self-operated lock system connects Lake Hartridge (South Chain) to Lake Conine (North Chain), operating daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Plan accordingly if you intend to explore both sections of the chain. The site can experience heavy use on weekends, so arriving early or visiting on weekdays may provide a more peaceful paddling experience.

Several campgrounds are available nearby for multi-day trips, including Hopkins Prairie, Big Scrub, and Lake Dorr campgrounds—all within 10 miles and offering reservations through Recreation.gov. This makes the northern access an ideal base for extended paddling adventures in the Ocala National Forest.