Lakeside camping near Ocala
Some of Florida's best springs, mountain biking, and horseback riding await in Ocala.
96% (1790 reviews)
- Ocala
96% (1790 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Ocala
Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
12 top lakeside campgrounds near Ocala
98%
(49)
SC Campgrounds
27 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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$18
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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
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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
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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
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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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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
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River Garden Farm
2 sites · RVs1 acre · Dunnellon, FL
River Garden Farm is located just across the street from the Withlacoochee River in beautiful Dunnellon Florida. We have 1 RV camping space for up to a 30 foot RV. with water and 30 amp electric. We also have a pull through site for "Boondocking" with 15 amp electric and water. We have a deeded boat dock and kayak launch just across the street. The Rainbow River is only about 2 miles away.
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Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl
7 sites · Lodging, Tents3 acres · Crystal River, FL
3 acres on beautiful Lake Rousseau. Fishing , camping , kayaking , cabin rentals. 10 miles from ThreeSisters Springs, Hunter Springs and Crystal River. Abundant wildlife. Beatiful sunrirses and sunsets. Very peaceful!
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Lakefront Sweet Spot, N Central FL
2 sites · Lodging, RVs1 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
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LAZY K RANCH SOUTH
149 sites · RVs, Tents150 acres · Lady Lake, FL
150 Acres of paradise in Central Florida Situated with 3000 feet on lake Griffin with access via a private inlet . Lazy k Campground is Surrounded with horses, cattle, wild turkey and amazing wildlife! We offer a inlet into beautiful lake Griffin. Lake Griffin is one of the biggest lakes in the harris chain of lakes Known for trophy bass fishing, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, speckled perch, and catfish. Anglers visit from around the world to experience the trophy bass! Slip you boat or kayak in our new boat ramp in the park or fish from the waters edge! Add in amazing wildlife including osprey, bald eagle, blue heron, anhinga, ibis, and river otter lake Griffin is a majestic experience. Lazy k ranch south also offers a agricultural experience in the heart of Central Florida ! We are working hard to put together a unique stay on the ranch for the cowboy in us all . Learn what farm life is all about if you choose from our herd of zebu cows , Brahman cattle, goats , horses and a host of other farm animals all surrounded by grand live oaks. Camp under the stars in our beautiful park with boat ramp into lake griffin. A unique experience to enjoy the best of both worlds all in one trip. We are here to take you back to a simpler way of life. Lazy k ranch south will be your escape into life as it should be time and time again. Lazy K Ranch south is Close to everything from restaurants, shopping, entertainment and outdoor adventures but tucked away and surrounded by nature and privacy. Enjoy one of the horses out grazing, pet our friendly goats and mascot calf mila always ready to get bottle fed . Come spend the day or week and enjoy everything Lazy k ranch south has to offer. Bathroom with shower, kitchen, lounge area with tv and wifi located by the ranch house. Lazy k ranch south will be your go to Florida destination . We promise. Make lazy ranch south your camping destination.
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$30
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Saved 1 time
Countryside Lakefront Retreat|Ocala
1 site · Lodging40 acres · Morriston, FL
40 Acres Farm near World Equestrian Center, HITS, Rainbow River, Ocala, Gainesville, Devils Den Scuba Diving
Private Lakeview Home in the country only a short distance from super fun attractions/locations: Zip Lining, Blue Grotto, UF, Morriston, Williston, Cedar Lakes, Red-White and Blues Farm, Rainbow River/Springs, Cedar Key & Two Tales Farm. Within 30-60 minutes drive to famous fishing & kayaking destinations. Near several natural springs.
This spectacular property is surrounded by beautiful tall pine trees and at its center a majestic fish filled lake, green pastures with rolling hills.
Enjoy your stay in our Master Suite bedroom 1.5 bathroom farm-style home that can sleep up to 2 guests comfortably.
Our home offers an abundance of natural light and a cozy atmosphere. Step out onto the custom porch overlooking the lake to soak in the amazing natural scenery.
This farm is the perfect location for:
A family fun experience
An escape to nature as a business or corporate retreat
An over-the top romantic country getaway
Or an equestrian lover’s private-paradise
The landscape is filled with opportunities for natural encounters with beautiful wildlife.
This private-gated property is a bird watchers dream. The lake is for fishing and releasing, where you can experience the smoothest and coolest breezes as the wind just whispers through the pines.
Let yourself go, disconnect from the outside world, unwind, relax and enjoy the sweet sounds and astonishing sites that only nature can bring.
There is an abundance of things to do on this 40 acre retreat and there are even more sites to check out in the neighboring towns and cities.
WHAT MAKES THIS PROPERTY SO UNIQUE?
At the Red Door Cottage Farmhouse our guests can wake up to the early morning songs of the birds and catch the miraculous sunrise and sunsets over the lush green fields.
You can relax in a hammock between the pines next to the lake. There is also a net to play badminton or volleyball with your family and friends.
After a fun day exploring nature and enjoying the country life, our farm home provides plenty of space to relax with a warm cup of coffee, hot cocoa or a cold-tall glass of sweet tea.
Pick up delicious local steaks and grill them on the indoor or outdoor grills.
Have a grand picnic at our Oversized Outdoor Pavilion.
Enjoy your evenings next to the fire pit, make some delicious s'mores, play horseshoes, or challenge each other to a game of corn hole.
Small Dogs under 30 pounds are welcome here for an additional fee, but please keep them leashed at all times. (No more than 1 pet and rates apply)
Please be aware that there will be other guests and staff on the property during your stay.
There may be events being hosted on the property, such as small weddings, picnics, family or engagement photography.
We also welcome and entertain bird/botany/agricultural or wildlife enthusiast as well.
By booking this property you agree that if anything happens to your pet or horse we are not responsible.
The lake is not for diving or swimming. It is approximately 20 feet deep. Child Supervision is required.
You can fish as close to the water as you are comfortable with, so bring your fishing gear and bait. The area leading to the water can be marshy depending on the recent amounts of rainfall. We do recommend wearing snake boots in this area.
Please feel free to enjoy the beautiful nature walks. Also, you will find many areas along the paths that are perfect for a spontaneous picnic and fun photos.
Guests are responsible for any damages to the home, bridge or pavilion.
Early Check-In and Late Check-Out Options Are Available
Red Door Cottage Farmhouse is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and for those who just want to kick back-unplug and have an awesome time in the great outdoors. So, put a little dirt on your boots, breathe in the clean crisp air and enjoy country living among the pines and pastures. It is an amazing experience that is unparalleled.
IN ADDITION:
You can request to have an event on the property; such as at the pavilion or another site which can exclusively be reserved for specific dates during your stay. Please note that there is a fee for each guest that will be attending your event.
This fee covers the impact that your event and guests will have on the property and the cost for cleaning/parking arrangements/trash-waste management/etc.
This fee is dependent on the number of guest above the 10 that are allowed during your stay and takes into account additional fees and taxes. Please feel free to ask concerning more details.
Events Allowed: Picnics | Family Gatherings | Baby Showers/Reveals | Bridal Showers | Rehearsal Dinners | Corporate Events/Meeting | Musical Recitals | Small Weddings | Small Church Retreats
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$99
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Booked 1 time
Grass Campers Farm
20 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Reddick, FL
Come experience a true raw Florida country life paradise at our 10 acre farm and cattle pasture . Our campsite is perfectly located between Gainesville Florida and Ocala Florida with a short 15-20 minute drive to either destination. This property is Surrounded by horse farms, cattle pastures, natural springs, The World Equestrian Center, and many lakes and rivers. You will have the opportunity to truly experience all of the beautiful nature that central florida has to offer from kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding and even zip lining. There is so much to do within minutes of your camping location. You will experience total tranquility on this country dead end road yet be close enough to small food marts, local diners, and quaint shops to cater to any needs you might have during your stay. This property has wide open spaces for camping complete with a large 40x60 pole barn common area with 10 foot ceiling fans, cafe style lighting, a bar top and seating for entertaining or eating, a large fire pit with bench seating, air conditioned bathrooms, 1 RV hookup, running water and outdoor games. A great place to come alone or with a large group of friends. This farm property is a convenient 20 minutes from The World Equestrian Center, 8 minutes from Orange Lake, 10 minutes to Canyon ziplining, 20 minutes to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, 28 minutes to Silver Springs State Park, 30 minutes to Cactus Jacks trail rides, 30 minutes to Santos Trail Head, 35 minutes to Hog Waller, 45 minutes to Rainbow River and many more exciting outdoor adventures. So come stay on our wide open pastures here at Grass Campers Farm and enjoy everything nature has to offer here in central Florida.
** sites include indoor bathrooms and an outdoor shower
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$34
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Available this weekend
Star Hosts in Ocala
Lakeside camping near Ocala guide
Overview
For a nature getaway from Gainesville or Orlando, Ocala can't be beat. Known as "the horse capital of the world," it’s a popular spot for equestrian adventure camping. But it’s also close to major natural wonders of subtropical Central Florida: crystal-clear spring waters, forests of pine and palms, cypress swamps with gators, and an incredible diversity of local and migratory birds on the Atlantic Flyway. Ocala-area waterways like Silver Springs State Park and Crystal River put campers up close with manatees, while mountain biking and hiking trails through Ocala’s hilly terrain are a welcome change from Southern Florida’s flatlands. Ocala is also an RV camping hot spot for big rigs, with many RV sites offering full hookups, restrooms, clubhouses, and wifi.
Where to go
Ocala Area
Numerous ranches offering horseback riding and beginner lessons dot Ocala and the surrounding area. But if you prefer a two-wheeled steed, Ocala has incredible Sunshine State mountain biking at Santos Trails and along the Cross Florida Greenway. Local bike rental shops can equip you to explore these forest trail systems.
Silver Springs State Park
Just six miles east of downtown Ocala lies Silver Springs State Park, one of Florida's best-known springs. Here, translucent, turquoise water bubbles up from underground limestone aquifers to form the Silver River. Campers can travel these waters by kayak or glass-bottom boat to see manatees, freshwater fish, and alligators, but don’t forget to look up for a chance to spot wild rhesus macaque monkeys in the trees. Opt for a tent site or a cabin within the park to be set near trailheads.
Crystal River
A 7-mile river west of Ocala, Crystal River is fed by water from 30 different springs. At the head of the river in certain Kings Bay areas, you can swim with the manatees—hit the town of Crystal River for snorkeling and kayaking outfitters.
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is one of the great protected swaths of wild forest in Florida, containing numerous lakes, springs, and hiking trails winding through sand pine scrub. Kayaking and canoeing tours and the Florida Trail are popular ways to explore, while public campsites in Juniper Springs Recreation Area and Salt Springs Recreation Area are solid options for spending the night.
When to go
Although Ocala is a year-round camping destination, winters are more pleasant than summers—they’re less hot, less humid, and less rainy. The tradeoff is that Ocala and its popular attractions can be more crowded during this time. Summer is doable, but high heat and humidity mean you may be more comfortable in an RV park, a cabin with air conditioning, or at a campground with a swimming pool.
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