The popularity of the river route to Silver Springs declined after the arrival of railroad service to Ocala in 1881.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Marjorie Harris Carr led the successful campaign to stop construction of the Cross Florida Barge Canal, which would have dammed the river at two points and created two artificial reservoirs to facilitate navigation along the canal; however, the river is still blocked by Rodman Dam.

Florida Defenders of the Environment, which Carr co-founded in 1969, continues to push for the preservation and restoration of the Ocklawaha River.

The natural landscapes and lush wildlife and growth of the outlying area are mostly hydric hammocks and flatwoods, with scrub pine ridges and sugar sandy soils.

Wildlife is abundant, including wild turkey, white-tailed deer, and wading birds in this area.

Outdoor recreational activities include hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding, and paddling, although there are few established trails.