UPDATE: Wildfire near Salt Springs grows to 60 acres as crews build containment lines

Posted on 5.16.25 10:31 AM
ContributedFire crews operate in heavy smoke and low visibility conditions during overnight wildfire containment efforts near Salt Springs in the Ocala National Forest. US Forest Service/Facebook

MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – According to the U.S. Forest Service, more than 50 personnel and multiple aircraft are working to contain the Shanty 2 Fire near Salt Springs in the Ocala National Forest.

The fire has grown to approximately 60 acres and is expected to increase as crews build containment lines.

Official U.S. Forest Service fire update document detailing the Shanty 2 Fire near Salt Springs, including staffing, smoke impacts, weather, and trail closures.
The U.S. Forest Service issued a fire update on May 16, 2025, as the Shanty 2 Fire near Salt Springs grew to 60 acres and prompted smoke advisories in the Ocala National Forest. Courtesy: US Forest Service

Smoke is affecting FL-19 and CR 314, and the Florida Scenic Trail is closed in the area. The cause remains under investigation.

Originally published 5.16.25 at 6:59 a.m.: A wildfire dubbed the “Shanty 2 Fire” is burning near the Shanty Pond Campground, just south of Salt Springs in the Ocala National Forest, and west of FL-19 near the FL-314 junction.

The U.S. Forest Service reports the fire is consuming light fuels and pine needle debris under open timber, with a low rate of spread. As of last night, the fire had grown to approximately 15 acres. Despite recent rainfall, officials say this is a reminder that forest fuels can quickly dry out and reignite.

Crews continued working overnight to contain the edges, with additional firefighting resources arriving this morning.

Wildfire burning low to the ground in a pine forest at night, with smoke rising through the trees near Salt Springs in Ocala National Forest.
Wildland firefighter stands with hand tool near scorched ground and burning forest in Ocala National Forest during nighttime wildfire response.
Group of firefighters in yellow gear and helmets stand on scorched forest ground near active flames in Ocala National Forest at night.
Firefighters prepare gear from utility vehicles and coordinate near fire engines during a nighttime wildfire response in the Ocala National Forest.
Silhouetted firefighters stand near utility vehicles amid thick smoke and bright lights during nighttime wildfire response in the Ocala National Forest.
Firefighter in yellow gear adjusts engine controls at night while others work nearby during wildfire response in the Ocala National Forest.
Fire crews work day and night to contain a wildfire near Salt Springs in the Ocala National Forest, using bulldozers, hand tools, and engines to protect surrounding forest and roadways. Courtesy: US Forest Service

Smoke Advisory:

  • Moderate smoke impacts are expected along FL-19 and FL-314, especially during morning hours.
  • Drivers should be prepared for smoke mixing with fog, reducing visibility.
  • Anyone encountering visibility issues on the roadway is urged to report it to the Florida Highway Patrol by calling *347 (*FHP).

Motorists traveling through the forest—especially south of Salt Springs—should reduce speed, turn on headlights, and use extreme caution.