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The best camping near Manatee Springs State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Manatee Springs adventure.

The best camping near Manatee Springs State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Manatee Springs adventure.

Camping near Manatee Springs State Park

96% (12 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Manatee Springs adventure.

Enjoy a wealth of recreation at one of Florida’s largest springs.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Manatee Springs State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Manatee Springs State Park

98%
(186)

Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

11 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Dunnellon, FL
Welcome to Happy Campers Rescue Ranch! 🌿 We're thrilled to have you join us for an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature and animals. 🐾 At Happy Campers Rescue Ranch, we're dedicated to providing a sanctuary for rescued animals and offering our guests a unique opportunity to connect with nature and support our mission of animal welfare and conservation. Our property is more than just a place to stay – it's a haven where you can relax, unwind, and make memories that will last a lifetime. 🌟 During your stay, you'll have the chance to meet our furry friends, including rescued farm animals and adorable companions who call Happy Campers Rescue Ranch home. Whether you're feeding the goats, cuddling with the kittens, or exploring the beautiful surroundings, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 🐷🐱🌳 We offer various accommodations allowing you to experience the beauty of nature without sacrificing the comforts of home. 🏕️ But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your experience. Rent a Kayak or Paddle Boat to explore the area and crystal-clear waters of Rainbow Springs, or choose our cooler with built-in air conditioning ❄️ to stay comfortable during hot summer days inside your tent. As a guest at Happy Campers Rescue Ranch, you'll not only have the opportunity to relax and unwind, but you'll also be supporting our mission of animal rescue and rehabilitation. A portion of your stay goes directly towards caring for our rescued animals and maintaining our sanctuary, allowing us to continue our important work. 🤲 We can't wait to welcome you to Happy Campers Rescue Ranch and share our love for animals and nature with you. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a unique retreat, we're here to make your stay unforgettable. 🌈 Thank you for choosing Happy Campers Rescue Ranch – we look forward to hosting you soon! 🎉
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(2)

Suwannee River Hideaway Campground/RV park

82 sites ¡ RVs, Tents122 acres ¡ Old Town, FL
​Suwannee River Hideaway Campground is known for its 1,500-foot boardwalk through the untouched beauty of the natural wetlands leading to the historic Suwannee River. The park consists of 122 acres which assures a serene and tranquil experience to wander and explore your surroundings. Sit back and relax or take a stroll along the river's edge to 'Jim's Place' where you can have a picnic beside the spring-fed creek as it flows into the river. With 2,000 feet of riverside, you can fish, swim, picnic, and just enjoy the beauty that surrounds you and understand why Florida natives refer to this part of Florida as God's country. A catch and release pond is located within the park where you can cast a line and pull in a bass, brim, or catfish, or just enjoy watching the turtles, alligators, and occasional otters. A crystal-clear pool is a hidden gem to enjoy a cool refreshing break from the Florida sun. The Clubhouse is available for gatherings in which to fellowship with other guests and share food and friendship. During the Winter months, we enjoy potluck dinners, Holiday celebrations, crafting, and other social events. The park is centrally located among many natural springs that are known for fishing, hiking, biking, and boating. We are only 3 miles from the Nature Coast State Trail (Rails to Trails). After a day of adventure, return to the stress-free ambiance of a campfire under a beautiful night sky full of stars. You may be joined by one of the resident owls sitting nearby calling to his mate. All RV sites are full hook-ups with Cable and Wi-Fi and have a patio and firepit for your enjoyment. The sites are smartly distanced to give you space to have outdoor activities. If you love the natural beauty of untouched Florida that unfortunately is disappearing, come spend some time with us and you may never want to leave.
from 
$28
 / night

Maribella's Corner

1 site ¡ RV1 acre ¡ Old Town, FL
Adjacent to the Airbnb/VRBO travel trailer site, there's an RV hookup spot capable of accommodating a camper or RV up to 30 feet in length. It offers a 30 amp hookup, along with water and sewer connections. Parking space for one car is provided, and there's also an additional toilet available on-site for convenience.
from 
$25
 / night
93%
(7)

Skyacres aka the tin cottage

18 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre ¡ Chiefland, FL
Some open spaces for self contained rvs. Trails to open spaces for pitching a tent. Off the beaten path,, private and secluded. Full of wildlife away from the hustle and bustle of the city,, a true country retreat. Nearby fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Travel to the town of cedar key about 18 miles away it's a very quiet area. With shops , restaurants and a pier to fish at. It's a very laid back way of life at this charming gulf coast town.. Chiefland also is close by for the more convenient places to shop.
from 
$8.50
 / night
98%
(30)

Camp Gilchrist

1 site ¡ RV, Tent10 acres ¡ Spring Ridge, FL
Camp Gilchrist is located in heart of Springs Country in North Florida. Ginnie Springs and several other local springs are just minutes away. Come visit and explore nature with us! Pitch your tent and relax. You can enjoy beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and star gazing in an open field. Enjoy wildflowers throughout the Florida blooming seasons. Find blackberries, mushrooms, and other edible foraged goods. For optimum peace and privacy, there is currently 1 campsite on our 10 acres. There are several recreational activities in the area including hiking, swimming in natural springs, fishing, kayaking, wildlife watching, and more!
from 
$15
 / night
98%
(106)

Pure Paradise Lebanon station

25 sites ¡ RVs, Tents23 acres ¡ Inglis, FL
Learn more about this land:Beautiful area with waterfalls observation Tower 23 beautiful acres to roam plenty of fishing and water sports in the area as well as other activities , tent and self-contained camping starting at $25 per night full hookup $50 per night
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(3)

La Finca Glamping

2 sites ¡ Lodging7 acres ¡ Bell, FL
Escape to our fully equipped glamping tent, where luxury meets the great outdoors. Nestled near the Suwannee River and Gilchrist County's natural springs, enjoy water activities, dining, and state parks. We're here to assist you before and during your stay, ensuring a memorable experience. Relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature at our extraordinary glamping site.
from 
$100
 / night
100%
(122)

Paradise Park and River Retreat

2 sites ¡ RVs1 acre ¡ Old Town, FL
My father bought the property next door to the RV sites over 30 yrs ago. After his passing,  my husband and I acquired the property. We initially were going to be snowbirds and make this our winter vacation home. After much thought and many winters in PA, we decided to sell our home and make the move south. It was a difficult decision to leave our family,  friends and what was comfortable to us. About 3 years after our move, our neighbor asked if we were interested in his property. My husband Jeff and I discussed it and thought it would be a great idea to have a little more land. To make a long story short, that land somehow became Paradise Park River Retreat. My husband and I love this area and wanted to share it with other people who love being outdoors. We hope you'll come and visit Old Pine Landing and see the beauty and uniqueness that our little piece of paradise has to offer.  
from 
$35
 / night
100%
(24)

Los Pollitos Family Farm

2 sites ¡ RVs5 acres ¡ Chiefland, FL
Learn more about this land: Welcome to the Los Pollitos Family Farm in the heart of the nature coast! We are less than 3 miles from the Nature Coast State Trail , just 4 miles away from Manatee Springs and 5 miles from Fanning Springs, where you can bike, swim, snorkel, kayak, scuba dive and hike ! Chiefland Golf and Country Club is 2 miles away where you can golf and have lunch! We are less than 20 mins away from Otter Springs, Hart Springs , and Blue Spring Park . Ichetucknee, Ginnie and Ghilchrist Blue Springs about 45 mins away or less. Got your fill of the springs ? Missing the beach ? Cedar key is only 30 miles away ! It is a quaint town on the gulf offering swimming, dining, shopping, kayak and golf cart rentals! Make sure to check out Shell Mound while you are there ! There is so much to do and explore! We offer tent and RV camping sites throughout our 5 acre property. Tent camping is offered in the 3 acres of live oak woods. RV camping is located on the 2 acres surrounding our home. Amenities such as sink, portable toilet, fire pit and picnic table are available. ​Plenty of room to park your boat trailer, RV, horse trailer or toy hauler. Your first bundle of wood is on us! Feed and pet ducks, turkeys, geese and chickens ! Check out the Extras tab during your booking. Sign up for a farm tour ! Canoes available for rent. Duck, turkey or chicken eggs available for your breakfast! What about some hot coffee or tea ? You got it ! Local shops and dining are less than 10 minutes away for anything else you might need . Looking forward to hosting you and your family! Check us out on facebook or Instagram @lospollitosfamilyfarm
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(7)

Manatee Springs Glamping

2 sites ¡ Lodging2500 acres ¡ Chiefland, FL
Our glampsites offer all the excitement and adventure of camping, without sacrificing the little luxuries of home. Our sites are nestled in the Hickory Loop of the Family Campground, and are just a short walk from the main spring. Manatee Springs State Park People have enjoyed the cool waters of Manatee Springs for more than 10,000 years. The first-magnitude spring releases an astounding 100 million gallons of water every day. Swimming, hiking, and kayaking are enjoyable year-round. Your Glamp site is situated a very short walk from the Manatee headspring, in the Hickory Loop Campground. Only Glamp sites and tents are permitted in the Hickory Loop. Sister park to Manatee Springs, Fanning Springs is a 10 minute drive away, and offers the perfect 72-degree water to cool down on hot Florida days and an abundance of underwater wildlife to view. Swimming, grilling, volleyball, and a playground create the perfect setting for a family day outdoors.
from 
$100
 / night
100%
(271)

Glenn Farm

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents125 acres ¡ Fort White, FL
The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of three spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow or Magnolia Sink). Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1844), Magnolia sink is also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.
from 
$27
 / night
100%
(8)

Tranquility Woods

5 sites ¡ RVs, Tents4 acres ¡ Fort White, FL
Discover serenity on this enchanting 4-acre property tucked away at the end of a tranquil road, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating escape. Embrace the beauty of nature as you observe the graceful deer that freely roam the grounds. Surrounding this haven are stunning springs for refreshing swims, and an array of hiking and biking trails beckon adventure enthusiasts. For those seeking a night under the stars, we provide four tent sites, each situated on mostly flat ground, perfect for camper vans to park and set up camp. To enhance your comfort, amenities include a convenient porta potty and a refreshing shower, ensuring that your stay is both delightful and revitalizing. Welcome to your haven of tranquility, where nature's beauty awaits at every turn.
from 
$18
 / night

The best camping near Manatee Springs State Park guide

Overview

About

Stroll the boardwalk in Florida’s Manatee Springs State Park to take in sights of “trees with knees” in the namesake first-magnitude spring, which pumps out as much as 150 million gallons of water a day. The clear waters of the spring run eventually join the tea-stained Suwannee River, offering scenic spots for kayaking, swimming, and fishing along the way. You might even spot cave divers–-or join them! During cool weather, manatees visit the park. Over eight miles of biking and hiking trails meander through cypress swamps and around sinkhole ponds. A camping area offers sites for tents and RVs. Glamping rentals are also available.

Notable Campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Reservations for may be made on the Florida State Parks website or by phoning 800-326-3521.
  2. Florida residents can make campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
  3. Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.
  4. Most sites have water and electric hookups, with select sites offering full hookups.
  5. A dump station is available.
  6. Campers with RVs longer than 40 feet may be limited to select sites or may not find accessible sites. Check with the campground for full details.

When to go

The best time to visit for manatee sightings is winter, when the spring waters attract these popular sea cows. Winters are generally pleasant and good for outdoor recreation year round, with daily highs in the 60s and 70s. While lows may dip into the 30s, freezing temperatures are rare. The rest of the year offers nice weather in fall and spring, while summer is often hot and humid, with the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms.

Know before you go

  • Recreational opportunities include snorkeling, scuba diving, wildlife viewing, cave diving, paddling, and more.
  • The park’s trail system connects to the greater 32-mile Nature Coast State Trail.
  • Park ranger programs are free and offered seasonably.
  • Though swimming in the clear spring waters is generally considered safe since alligators prefer murkier waters, alligator sightings are not out of the question in the waters and in other areas of the park.
  • Take a kayak tour from Fanning Springs State Park to Manatee State Park along the Suwannee River to explore more of the region’s flora and fauna.
  • The boardwalk and swimming area may close when the Suwannee River floods.

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