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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

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
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.  
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$35
 / night
95%
(10)

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.
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$8.50
 / night
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(276)

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.
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$27
 / night
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(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
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$30
 / 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
98%
(267)

4A River Camp

1 site ¡ RV, Tent1 acre ¡ Fort White, FL
This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world. Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers. Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience. Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum. Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away. Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee. Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore.  The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles. Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.
from 
$50
 / night
96%
(222)

Caceres Organic Blueberry Farms

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents25 acres ¡ Old Town, FL
Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 500 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of stores with our blueberries. We also have an active u-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.Learn more about this land:Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 600 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of other stores with our blueberries. We also have an active we-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.
from 
$22
 / night
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(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!
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$15
 / 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
97%
(160)

Moondancing Meadows

12 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents5 acres ¡ Ocala, FL
Moondancing Meadows is a back-to-nature wellness glamping facility. We believe in enjoying the abundance of nature, with a few creature comforts. Please note, we currently have 4 different glamping tent sites and 2 primitive tent camping sites. The primitive tent camping sites are NOT a glamping tent, you must bring your own tent. Glamping tents come fully furnished as in the pictures. WEATHER INFORMATION: If the forecast is below 32 degrees we will give you 100% refund. If there is a severe weather warning posted (tornado, hurricane, severe thunderstorms, etc.) and predicted for the zip code for Moondancing Meadows we will refund you 100%. We do not allow cancellations outside of the window with refunds for rain or normal Florida weather systems. Our tents are rated for winds have proven to be safe and dry during storms. We have never had a flooding issue on the land and we supply umbrellas for walking to the bathroom. Please embrace the stage that Mother Nature sets for you and bask in the beauty of experiencing weather so intimately that we usually shelter ourselves from. Our canvas glamping bell tents are nestled in to nature. All the tents have a beautiful Florida forest view and is located in a private area of the campground. They have all been beautifully furnished with real mattresses, sitting area, storage, indoor and outdoor lighting, along with other perks. All of our sites are pet friendly except for the Jupiter glamping tent. There is a community outhouse like no other outhouse you have seen and a beautiful community outdoor shower with hot water. We have a community fire pit for all to enjoy. We have an outdoor kitchen with a charcoal grill, propane burner, and a coffee station. We also have potable water available for campers. Check in time is 3pm or later, Check out time is 12pm Our goal is to provide a perfect balance of peaceful connection with self and nature coupled with a connection to community. Please check our Facebook page to see if we are hosting any events during your stay. We are located in the Horse Capital of the World and also 10 minutes from world-famous Rainbow Springs and KP Hole Park for kayakers and tubers. There is a waiting line in front of the park and at the tubing entrance starts 30 minutes to an hour before the park opens. The park often reaches capacity before the morning is over. It is very convenient to be close to the park to guarantee entry. We are also centrally located and close to several other nature attractions such as: World Equestrian Center: 12 miles/15-20 minutes Silver Springs Park: 22 miles/34 minutes Santos Bike Trail 23 miles/42 min Devil's Den: 26 miles/32 minutes Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens: 26 miles/34 minutes Crystal River/King's Bay Kayak launch to Three Sisters Springs: 26 miles/42 minutes Fort Island Beach in Crystal River: 36 miles/ 52 minutes Gainesville: 42 miles/52 minutes Juniper Springs: 44 miles/1 hour Weeki Wachee Park: 53 miles/1 hour, 13 minutes Cedar Key: 59 miles/ 1 hour Suwannee River: 81 miles/ 1 hour 33 min Daytona Beach: 91 miles/ 1hour 57 min Orlando: 91 miles/1 hour, 30 minutes Tampa: 108 miles/1 hour 50 min We look forward to hosting your stay in the beautiful Ocala/Dunnellon area!
from 
$45
 / night
97%
(189)

Happy Glampers Rescue Ranch

11 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Dunnellon, FL
Welcome to Happy Glampers Rescue Ranch! 🌿 We're thrilled to have you join us for an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature and animals. 🐾 At Happy Glampers 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 Glampers 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 Glampers 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 Glampers 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. 🌈 ***We kindly request bookings for a maximum duration of up to 7 days. This allows us to maintain the integrity of our sanctuary for both our cherished rescued farm animals and our guests. By limiting stays to this duration, we ensure that our animals receive consistent care and attention while also offering our guests the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing and rejuvenating getaway. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter. Thank you for choosing Happy Glampers Rescue Ranch – we look forward to hosting you soon! 🎉
from 
$30
 / 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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