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The best camping near Ocala National Forest

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

The best camping near Ocala National Forest

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

Camping near Ocala National Forest

83% (58 reviews)

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

This watery wilderness is perfect for hikers, campers, and outdoor explorers.  

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Community favorites near Ocala National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Ocala National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Ocala National Forest

94%
(81)

Camp Seminole Springs

100 sites ¡ RVs, Tents38 acres ¡ Fort Mc Coy, FL
Bring your mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks and fishing gear. We have it all here at Seminole Springs. We are open for tent camping. Limited number of campsites with Tents on them in a variety of sizes available. First come, First serve. These sites will have a slight upcharge. When you book, if you want to upgrade and reserve one of these sites, let us know and we will accommodate you. We also have 3 units inside the lodge for the people who need just a step up from glamping, but not quite the whole hotel experience. These are beautiful comfortable rooms with half baths in the rooms. The showers are located in the lodge bathhouse. WE have the Jungle themed room, the Equestrian themed room and the Honeymoon Suite. Each unit comes equipped with its own hot tub. (To book any of these units, just send us a message and we will reserve it for you. The prices for these units are different than that campsite and glamping site prices.) The Grist Mill is also available for rent too! This is a very romantic, yet rustic getaway equipped with a half bath as well. Very secluded and private overlooking the spring on one side and the water fall on the other. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and at night the sound of the waterfall will lull you to sleep. The shower is located in the Lodge bathhouse. (To book this unit you must send a message to us and we will reserve it for you. The price is different than the campsites but we will go over that with you) WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR YOUR EVENT: TAKING BOOKINGS FOR WEDDINGS, CAR SHOWS, MUSIC EVENTS, ETC. LET US KNOW! NOTE: TURN AT CAMP SEMINOLE SPRINGS SIGN ON HIGHWAY 21. Your GPS may tell you to turn at the wrong St. Make sure that you are turning at 244th...Your GPS may tell you to turn at 243rd Street (where the Orange Market it) which is a dead end street. Just go a little bit further until you see the sign for Camp Seminole Spring. Bring bug spray and sun screen. If you need something, don't worry! There is a Dollar General, a gas station and a small cafe within walking distance. We have 38 acres of camping sites nature trails for hiking and mountain biking. Guests can park right on their site, or they have the option of parking and hiking into the woods to set up their site a bit more remote and off the beaten path. This is rustic camping. We have a bathhouse located at the campsites with showers. The bathhouse at the Great Lodge will be ready by Fall 2022. Whereas we do have garbage cans, we prefer that anything you bring into the property, you bring out with you. We allow campfires. Don't be surprised if you see a monkey or two in the trees... The fishing is amazing in these parts, so if you are an angler, come and visit. We have .75 miles of frontage on the Orange Creek. The creek flows into Lake Ocklawaha which just so happens to be one of the best bass fishing lakes in the USA. In fact, ten-pound bass are not uncommon from the Lake Ocklawaha River in the winter. Recently (2020), a 17.2-pound bass was caught there. The combined Ocklawaha and St. Johns drainage basin is possibly the most significant river-estuary waterway of Florida. This water system is of legendary reputation among anglers of largemouth bass who seek 10 pound plus trophy fish. Conveniently located between Ocala and Gainesville in the heart of Orange Springs, Florida, Camp Seminole Spring is perfectly located for the traveler who wants to really connect with nature. It appears to be ‘off the beaten path’, yet it is close enough to civilization so that even the most seasoned camper can make a quick run to store should he or she need something not found in nature. Camp Seminole Spring is mid-way (approx.. 22 miles) between Ocala and Gainesville, Florida, which are two thriving cities in this area of Florida. Ocala, the ‘horse capital of the world’ showcases a brand new multi-billion-dollar equestrian center which draws people from all over the world. This scenic property has an artesian spring which pushes out 1.6 million gallons of water per day rated among the top three percent of water in the world with an 8.4 natural pH. This water fills the pond and then continues on to flow into Orange Creek. Camp Seminole Springs was established in the 1940’s as a honeymoon resort and campground. The founders built a heart-shaped ‘pond-spring’ which is filled with the crystal-clear water pushed out from the spring where guests can lounge by the beach or gaze down into the bottom through the glass-like water or take a refreshing swim. At the top of the hill overlooking the heart-shaped spring, one will find the rustic Great Lodge where guests can come and mingle with each other, enjoy a relaxing conversation and a drink on the veranda or just sit and watch the activity in and around the spring.
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$39
 / night
93%
(185)

Marci's Magical Lakefront Oasis

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Ocklawaha , FL
Beautiful spot overlooking Lake Weir in The Ocala National Forest. Watch the otters play and count the many different birds that make this lake their home. Treat yourself to incredible sunsets every night as the sun disappears into the water and enjoy the awesome reflection of the moon as it sets on the lake. (Check the moonrise/moonset tables to see if there is a visible moon during your intended stay - it really is an incredible sight). We have an amazing outdoor shower, with hot and cold running water, overlooking the lake. The extra large soaking bathtub is available for your use for $20 per stay if there are not other campers at the time due to us only having one bathroom available. Great for relaxing, bathing kids, or a very romantic evening. Canoe, stand up paddle board and kayak available for your use at no charge. You can paddle to nearby Gator Joe's which is an awesome spot on the lake for great food, drinks, and live music. Electric and water hookup (garden hose) both sites. RV 30 amp electric hookup, as well as regular 15 amp electric hookup on hilltop site. Many trees on the property makes it tricky for large vehicles to maneuver, therefor we have a limit of 25 feet including tow vehicle. Dockside site has 15 amp hookup. We do have an adapter to connect to 30 amp hookup. It is closer to the house and bathroom than site 2 and has more shade and easy access to the dock. Pontoon boat rentals are available down the road. Being on the lake we do have mosquitos but they are mostly an issue at dusk and dawn for about an hour but we are out in nature so insect encounters of all kinds are to be expected. If there is a nice breeze, which is often the case, you can enjoy the sunset from the rocker loveseat at the edge of our dock. We also have citronella torches available for rent. We also offer a large bundle of firewood for $10. Campers MUST check in by 10 pm. We recommend arriving during daylight whenever possible. It is important you understand that our property is not in the wilderness. We are NOT a commercial campground. We have a couple of acres in a residential area and there are homes near the campsite. That being said, you will have complete privacy at your campsites as the two sites are on opposite ends of the property and you will not see me at all other than when you check in, unless you desire to do so. Both campsites face the lake however, and you may see some fisherman out there from time to time, but I guarantee you will see much more wildlife than people. Each site has its own fire pit. Our guests love this place because of the lake, the incredible sunsets and moonsets over the lake, and all the incredible wildlife we have here, as you can see from the reviews. Well behaved pets are welcome off leash as long as they are supervised and don't bother other campers. They are not allowed on the porches. Please pick up any mess that is in the path of foot traffic. There is a $20 pet fee per pet per stay. Add it under extras. Pet sitting is available for an additional charge. I'm a professional photographer with 30 years of experience. Please inquire if you are interested in having your portrait made at this incredible location. We are 20 minutes from world famous Silver Springs, 20 minutes from Ocala Drive-In Movie Theater that usually shows great films for both kids and adults, and 20 minutes from the Santos Trailhead that offers world class biking and hiking paths. Unfortunately, I cannot do anything about the people that come here that have not read the description, expecting a wilderness campground and choose to leave a negative review based on that but everyone that has read the description has loved it here and many return.
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$55
 / night
100%
(29)

SC Campgrounds

23 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents80 acres ¡ Astatula, FL
Welcome to SC Campgrounds, , a peaceful 80 acre homestead turned into a serene activity campground located just outside Orlando, FL. Our campground offers a wide range of accommodations, including several camp sites with power, water, restrooms and cozy campers with central A/C and Heat. But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your camping experience. On the estate there is a putt putt course, canoes, pirate ship, swimming pool, ATV trails, and much. And for a unique outdoor movie experience, we offer a projector screen with any movie of your choice - just imagine enjoying your favorite film under the stars! 🎥 Each campsite comes with electricity, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Our campgrounds are very pet friendly as long as you have friendly pets. So what are you waiting for? Come join us at the SC Campgrounds for an unforgettable camping experience filled with nature, farm animals, and plenty of extras to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Please note:::::: Requirement as of 2/19/24 All campers and guests must present a valid ID upon check it.
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$21
 / night
98%
(189)

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

11 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres ¡ Ft. Mc Coy, FL
Located on 5 acres in the Ocala National Forest, Hookie's Hideaway is the perfect place to stay for easy access to all of nature's bounty and activities.  This property is easily accessible, serene and peaceful. Campsites are in a beautiful grove of pine and sycamore trees. We are surrounded by forested camping areas and close enough to drive into town to pick up groceries or get a meal. We have a "you pick them" blueberry farm when in season. We are close to hiking, horse trails, lakes and springs. Bocce Ball and Croquet is available to play here anytime! We are only a short distance away from amazing horse riding trails and Florida's most popular natural springs. We live on the property and are available during normal business hours. We are free to ask questions and give suggestions for surrounding activities and dining options. We will interact as little or as much as you need.Birds singing in the morning and crickets at night ensure a restful getaway here. Our property is the perfect place to escape the noise and high paced city life.
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$35
 / night
91%
(17)

Enchanted Oaks Camp & Farm

6 sites ¡ Lodging10 acres ¡ Ocala, FL
Welcome to Enchanted Oaks Farm and Camp site. We are an 8.5 acre farm in Ocala Florida, that offers unique glamping experiences. Activities in the area include: -Rainbow River Canoe and Kayak (40 minute drive)-K.P. Hole County Park (40 minute drive)-Disney (1 hr 10 minute drive)-Ocala National Forest (30-50 minute drive)-Juniper Springs Swimming Area (1 hr drive)-Ocala Drive-in (30 minute drive)-Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring (52 minute drive)-The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park (29 minute drive)-Silver Springs State Park (40 mintue drive)Hi Y’all, I’m Cassie Peech. I own and operate Enchanted Oaks Farm and Cassie Peech and Company (a wedding and events company based out of Orlando, Jax, and Tampa).We are from a tiny Kentucky town (2000 people), and love to show people our southern hospitality. We originally bought the farm to host weddings but we figured we would give hosting a try and we love it!!
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$75
 / night
91%
(27)

Smith Lake Oasis w Private Dock

2 sites ¡ RVs8 acres ¡ Belleview, FL
Learn more about this land: Bring your RV, trailer, or van. Our home is located within Marion county, the horse capitol of the world! We have a covered 40x40 double pole barn with: picnic table areas with electric, water, sewage on each side (site) and a fire pit with complementary firewood for your enjoyment while at our Smith Lake Oasis. Located on fenced 4 acre pasture. This semi-private site allows you access to the adjoining property's private dock and boardwalk while on your stay of our Oasis. There are also plenty of fun destination places like The Florida Greenway (Santos trailhead) which boasts of some of the best and most beautiful hiking, biking and horseback riding just around the corner! We also have great restaurants nearby or far depending on your preferences and length of stay. We will do our very best to accommodate your needs to help make your stay as memorable and enjoyable as possible. We do give discount codes to current campers for future stays.
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$50
 / night
100%
(3)

Wilderness VP87

1 site ¡ RV1 acre ¡ Silver Springs, FL
Just down the street from Ocala and Silver Springs State Park, in the Village Park portion of Wilderness RV Resort. Wilderness is a lovely community of RV lot owners and tenants with palm trees, manicured lots, and many amenities: laundry and bath house, a gym and sauna/steam room, swimming pool and hot tub, big dog park, and a hiking trail... all nestled right on the shore of the beautiful and famous Ocklawaha River. Lot 87 is a 1/10 acre pull through site with ~70 feet of concrete and room to park two vehicles. Water, sewer, and 30/50amp power on site. An 8X12 shed complete with full size modern washer and dryer, residential size refrigerator, a utility sink and even a real porcelain flushing toilet ready for your use! The shed only has cold water... Quick and easy shopping for typical requirements just down the road in Ocala or Silver Springs. Silver Springs State Park is less than 6 miles away and offers glass bottom boat tours of the famous springs or if you have your own kayak/canoe you can paddle from there right to Wilderness RV Resort - 6 miles of beautiful clear water and Florida jungle with manatee, gators, birds, otters, and even monkeys! The entire trip is with the current! Like bicycling? The Cross Florida Greenway (Santos Trail System) is about 15 miles away and offers 32 miles of paved path for road cyclist and easily over 50 miles of world class mountain bike trails for anyone from beginner to expert skill level. The Florida Horse Park is in the Greenway too, and is great for polo matches and all types of horse shows. The World Equestrian Center is in Ocala - also great for horse shows and has a couple nice restaurants. Ocala is sweet!
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$40
 / night
100%
(50)

Golden Oaks Farm

2 sites ¡ RVs16 acres ¡ Salt Springs, FL
It is 16 acres we grow gourmet mushrooms on the farm and also have a small vineyard. Our property is surrounded by the Ocala National Forest which is great for riding trails in a jeep, 4x4, dirt bike or hiking the Florida Trail. Salt Springs is also home of the famous Salt Springs recreation area which features one of the most beautiful springs in florida. There are several rivers and lakes close by for fishing and water sports.
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$45
 / night
100%
(21)

J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

1 site ¡ RV1 acre ¡ Silver Springs, FL
Beautiful high and dry corner lot with privacy hedge and full hook ups in the highly sought after Wilderness RV Resort. Our property is nestled within the tranquil Ocala National Forest, complete with tons of resort amenities! Did we mention our resort is located on a portion of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Highway! Come Explore the Local Area! The Florida freshwater springs are a natural and tropical central Florida paradise with pristine crystal clear waters. Enjoy the wide array of wildlife the Ocala National Forest and the Florida freshwater springs offer! Our property is located just minutes from Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Alexander Springs! Do you love the "Lake Life?" Central Florida is known for their beautiful lakes such as Lake George and Lake Kerr! Love to canoe or kayak? There are tons of canoe runs throughout this area of central Florida. In fact, you can canoe or kayak on the Ocklawaha River with direct river access from the resort! Love mountain biking? Check out the Santos Trailhead which offers over 30 miles of mountain bike trails with three levels of difficulty! One visit to Santos Trailhead and you'll see why so many people say that these are the BEST bike trails in Florida! Explore a Bit Farther! From our property's location and with a short drive, you can easily access the following towns and/or cities: Orlando - 1.5 hour drive Daytona Beach - 1 hour drive Gainesville - 30 minute drive Crystal River - 1 hour drive The Villages - 45 minute drive Enjoy the many amenities that Wilderness RV Resort offers: * Community Pool and Hot Tub * Full Hook Up Service * Direct Access to the Ocklawaha River (canoe/kayak rentals through resort) * Direct Access to Florida Greenway Hiking Trail * Clubhouse/Lodge * On Site Restaurant * On Site Candy Shop (w/ Whoopie Pies) * Laundry Facility * Bathhouse * Recreation Room (Ping Pong, Pool, Darts) * Private Mail Box
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$48
 / night
98%
(254)

Private Escape on the Lake

22 sites ¡ RVs, Tents8 acres ¡ Pierson, FL
Welcome to your own private escape on the lake! You will be treated to natural beauty, plenty of wildlife viewing, and lake side views! Our listing is for tents, camper vans, RV’s, or anything in between and we are excited to host you!  It just doesn’t get much better than this! Our property features a dock for fishing or launching a kayak. The property is close to town and some different springs. There's also lots of activities in surrounding area. Daytona is only 30 minutes away which means you will have easy access to services should you need them! Our property also provides good access to Ocala National Forest, a great place to find all sorts of outdoor recreation opportunities. You can find kayaking, fishing, and hot springs all within striking distance of our listing.Please make sure to BYO on cooking and kitchen gear if you plan on cooking. Campfires are allowed but you will need to bring or buy firewood.  We do live onsite and we will be excited to greet you upon arrival.Learn more about this land:Welcome to your own private escape on the lake! You will be treated to natural beauty, plenty of wildlife viewing, and lake side views!About the propertyIt just doesn’t get much better. Our property features a dock for fishing or launching a kayak. Close to town and some different springs. Lots of activities in surrounding area. Daytona is only 30 minutes away which means you will have easy access to services should you need them! Our property also provides good access to Ocala National Forest, a great place to find all sorts of outdoor recreation opportunities. You can find kayaking, fishing, and hot springs all within striking distance of our listing.We do live onsite and we will be excited to greet you upon arrival.About the listingOur listing is for tents, camper vans, RV’s, or anything in between and we are excited to host you! The maximum length of vehicle we allow is 50ft. We have 8 sites available that are located on a grassy surface and my require some leveling, please keep this this in mind. Our sites have electrical and water hookups for your convenience for an additional fee and generators are allowed.Limited hookup sites availableContact host for availability. Our listings are family friendly and private but you can expect to see other hosts or other campers around the property. Some amenities you can expect to enjoy:-Fire pit provided at sites-Porta-potty available -Spigot available for potable water-Pets allowed-Wheelchair access is possible-Firewood bundles for purchase through Hipcamp-We do not offer picnic tables and we do not have a kitchen or cooking suppliesAdditional details to notePlease make sure to BYO on cooking and kitchen gear if you plan on cooking. Campfires are allowed but you will need to bring or buy firewood. 
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$40
 / night
Booked 1 time

Lakefront Sweet Spot, N Central FL

2 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre ¡ Hawthorne, FL
Get in on low intro rates: LAKEFRONT RETREAT! Boondock parking/tent camping spot or bunkhouse accommodations located in north central Florida lake country with an 'old Florida' feel, at homeowner Host's parcel on a small lake (private, i.e., no public access) that offers fishing, swimming (sandy-bottomed), birdwatching, and plenty of outdoor seating. INTRO RATES! For these new HipCamp listings provided by an experienced, highly rated Host on other lodgings platforms, and fellow van-life traveler. Lakefront property is located in between Hawthorne and Interlachen out in the wooded countryside (decidedly rural) on a dead-end road as it turns to dirt -- usually very peaceful and quiet. Central location serves as a good base camp for day trips to the ocean beaches at either the Atlantic or the Gulf Coast, the manatees at various springs, or Ocala horse country. Variety of shops and restaurants are located in Gainesville to the west or Palatka to the east, both an easy drive on S.R. 20. BOONDOCKING SITE: Must be self-contained and leave no trace. Accepting only one camping guest vehicle at a time. The homeowner property is fenced with drive-through wing gates, host will greet you upon arrival so you can choose your spot either in the shade or in the sun or somewhat in between as the sandy ground slopes gently to the private lake. Best for vans, SUVs, or those with car and tent. Please inquire regarding compact RVs -- due to overhanging branches of oak shade trees, and limited size of the 0..66 acre lot, cannot accommodate large RVs or travel trailers. Potable water available from the yard's garden hose, but cannot offer power, and there's no public restroom or dump station. Small bags of trash or two can go in our communal covered trash bin. BUNKHOUSE OPTION: Charming dry-camp lakefront cottage (no running water) with basic electrical (cannot handle high-draw electrical devices like heaters or A/C units) has a van-life type camp toilet (bag #2, collect urine/#1; proper disposals supported by Host), jug of local spring water for drinking, bed options include a new twin mattress in upper sleeping loft and a new cot-width padded chaise lounge below (clean fitted bottom sheet and pillowcase provided per stay). Guests provide their own towels and toiletries. Some basic camping kitchen/household items provided. Guests are welcome to use the homeowner Host's vintage rowboat, kayaks, communal firepit, and/or wooden dock. Or there's a small tire-rim firepit by the shorefront. Firewood bundle with kindling available for a small fee. Not best property for traveling with pets, may be negotiable on a case-by-case basis, due to homeowner's dog (communicate directly with Host prior to booking). Guest pets would have to remain on tether at all times while on premises. Also, why care with gates must be practiced, such as securely latched and closed after going in or out, due to homeowner Host's dog.
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$15
 / night
98%
(385)

North Shore Relic Ranch

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents80 acres ¡ Mount Dora, FL
This property is called relic ranch because we have actually found a ton of old relics. the campground is under an ancient canopy of oaks. so youll always have shade. the center of the property is unique to say the least but the campground is nature at its finest. there is a 2.6 mile nature trail across from the campground to explore. also there is a boat ramp for fishing about 1/8 mile away. you are welcome to roam over most of the 80 acres. We have goats, cows and chickens as well. All super friendly.
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$28
 / night

The best camping near Ocala National Forest guide

Overview

About

Stretching over almost 400,000 acres and home to four of Florida’s natural springs—Juniper, Alexander Springs, Silver Glen, and Salt Springs—Ocala National Forest has far more to offer than woodland walks. Bubbling springs, sandy beaches, and more than 600 lakes afford ample options to get on the water, whether you want to swim, fish, snorkel, or paddle. Away from the water, take your pick of hiking, biking, horseback riding, and OHV trails, totaling more than 300 miles. As for national forest camping, you'll find 14 developed campgrounds, two Civilian Conservation Corps cabins, and several dispersed, primitive camping areas.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for peace and quiet: Lake Dorr Recreation Area has 34 oak-shaded tent and RV sites in a tranquil wooded spot with a boat ramp, picnic tables, and fire rings by the lake.  
  • Best for family campers: Juniper Springs Recreation Area has 79 tent/RV sites with easy access to the springs, trailheads, and spots for canoes and kayaks.
  • Best for RV camping: Salt Springs Recreation Area is the only campground with full hookups, with 160 sites to choose from.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You can reserve sites at the 14 U.S. Forest Service campgrounds online, while others like Hopkins Prairie Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  2. Online reservations open up to six months in advance. 
  3. Campsites can book up as fast, so plan your getaway at least three months in advance, especially for summer and holiday weekends.

When to go

With daytime temperatures in the high 70s, winter is the ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities in Ocala National Forest, although the natural springs can be enjoyed year-round. Pack insect repellent if visiting in spring and summer, when weather can be hot and thunderstorms are not uncommon. Despite this, summer is still the busiest period, so expect long lines of traffic on approach to popular areas such as the natural springs. 

Know before you go

  • Ocala National Forest is in Central Florida, about 70 miles north of Orlando, or about a 90-minute drive away. Silver Springs State Park is also nearby.
  • Admission to Florida national forests is free, but some springs and some of the best camping areas require entry fees.
  • Facilities at Ocala include a visitor center, restrooms, watercraft rentals, swimming areas, and picnic areas with grills. Most are accessible.
  • Black bears are present at Ocala National Forest, so keep food and garbage secure in tent camping and day-use areas, and follow bear safety guidelines.
  • The 1,500-mile Florida Trail runs through Ocala, perfect for backpacking and secluded camping spots.

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