Lake Eaton Sinkhole

Lake Eaton Sinkhole

Located in the heart of the Ocala National Forest is a seldom visited geologic feature known as the Lake Eaton Sinkhole. It is the second largest dry sinkhole in the state, measuring 450 feet across and 80 feet deep.

Steep wall of the sinkhole as seen from the stairs

A sinkhole is a cavity in the ground, especially in limestone bedrock, that is caused by water erosion and provides a route for surface water to disappear underground. Florida, which is largely composed of limestone, has the most sinkholes in the country, followed by Kentucky, Tennessee and West Virginia.

Down into the abyss

There are three trails that lead to the rim of the crater which has an observation deck and interpretive display that explains the unique geology of sinkhole formation. Wooden stairs lead to the bottom where the vegetation is similar to that of an oak hammock, featuring magnolias, live oak, dogwood, loblolly pine and the sabal palm.

The bottom of the sinkhole

The trailhead can be accessed from Florida Hwy. 314 and is located about 25 miles northeast of Ocala.

Golden silk spider (Nephila clavipes)

For more information contact: www.fs.fed.us/r8/florida/recreation/index_oca.shtml#top