Silver Springs State Park

The alligator had been a popular curiosity among kayakers and paddleboarders in Silver Springs State Park, where it was often seen lounging in the sun along the banks of the Silver River.

The green-and-white bus-shaped aluminum vessel looks a lot like the others at Silver Springs. But on the inside, it has room for large wheelchairs and foldaway seats allowing people with disabilities to enjoy underwater views with family or friends.

Vicki Baker, 60, of Ocala, encountered what she estimated was a 10-foot alligator that approached her in Silver Springs State Park.

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