The river flows east from the springs, being joined by an unnamed tributary creek from the north just east of the park, for approximately 5.4 miles (8.7 km) before joining the Ocklawaha River just south of the Bert Dosh Memorial Bridge.

[2] The Silver River flows through an undeveloped woodland just to the west of the Ocala National Forest; the water quality is considered excellent, and the river is regarded as being in pristine condition.

[2] Many types of turtles are found in the Silver River, while ospreys and anhingas breed along its banks.

[5] The Silver River is designated under the Outstanding Florida Waters program.

[2] The parks around the river's source, Silver Springs State Park and the historic Silver Springs attraction, are noted tourist destinations; the river is considered to be excellent for exploration by canoe and kayak.