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The best camping near Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

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

100% (7 reviews)
100% (7 reviews)

This preserve has a whopping 800 types of plants and 420 varieties of vertebrate animal species.  

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Community favorites near Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

94%
(81)

Camp Seminole Springs

99 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.
from 
$39
 / night
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! 🎉
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$30
 / night
99%
(43)

Artists Nature Retreat

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents7 acres ¡ FL
Learn more about this land: Nestled under the old oak forest and longleaf pines, listen for the owls and woodpeckers. Walk the path or relax in the couch swing. Quiet, secluded, close to Gainesville yet eons away. Paynes Prairie and UF 1/2 hour away. Blue Springs, Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, and Ichetucknee Springs parks all within an hour's drive. Equally close to Fanning, Manatee and Rainbow Springs. If you just need a quick getaway or a base camp for vacation explorations, this is the place for you. UF, Shands and "The Swamp" - Go Gators! - 30 minutes away. Fenced paddocks and covered stalls available at additional cost. 2 mile dirt road leads you back into the woods and away from the noise into a paradise time forgot. RTC Tiny Theater and workshop also available at an additional cost for bands, theater, circus and dance rehearsals and performances. Self-funded residencies available.
from 
$35
 / night
97%
(154)

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!
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$45
 / night
100%
(38)

Monarch Manor Farm

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Williston, FL
40 acre organic farm. No chemicals used on site ever. Very private and peaceful. 1 acre spring fed pond stocked with Tilapia, Largemouth Bass, Red ear, Blue Gill, Catfish. You are welcomed to bring your fishing poles. 25 acres of open pasture. We are also a registered Monarch Butterfly weigh station. If it's migration time you are in for treat. Depending on the time of the year there are visiting geese, ducks and other birds at the pond and all around the property. Property is gated and fenced around the entire property. SITE 1 HAS 110 POWER AND ALSO 30AMP POWER available for a nominal fee if needed. Porta-potty and shower housed in building at pond. Shower is heated by geo-thermal means. All water is drinkable and filtered. Only 22 minutes north of Ocala and 22 minutes south of Gainesville. Only 5 miles from US 75 for easy access. RV's, Campers and Tents welcomed. Things to explore close by TWO TAILS RANCH: 18655 NE 81 St WILLISTON, FL. 32696 Have you ever seen an elephant up close and personal? If not, here's your chance! At Two Tails Ranch (All About Elephants) we offer a guided tour where we will talk about the animals and answer questions. We will also have demonstrations as well as a visit to our museum and gift shop. During the tour you will also get a chance to ride the elephants and feed them! Our ranch also includes other animals including zebras, birds, and turtles, tourfeed Don't miss out! Our ranch makes a great visit for all ages! DEVIL'S DEN SPRING 5390 NE 180th Ave Williston, FL 32696 Visit one of North America's most prehistoric places, Devil's Den Spring! This underground spring inside a dry cave has been home to many extinct animal fossils dating back to the Pleistocene Age, which are on display at The University of Florida's Museum of Natural History. 120 ft. surface diameter 72 degrees F/22.2 degrees C year round water temperature. Inverted mushroom shape below the surface. Maximum depth is 54 ft/16.45 m EQUIPMENT RENTAL: Scuba diving equipment Snorkeling equipment CEDAR LAKES WOODS AND GARDENS 4990 NE 180th Ave. Williston, FL. 32696 A beautiful botanical garden with cascading waterfalls, 50+ garden displays, koi ponds, and countless breathtaking views! BLUE GROTTO 3852 NE 172 CT, Williston FL. Florida's favorite freshwater dive for divers of all levels. Large open-water basin with depths of 40 feet. Upper cavern offers 50 foot depths with an air bell with viewing windows and breathable air pump from the surface. Lower chamber for experienced divers. RED, WHITE & BLUE FARM 3250 NE 140th Avenue, Williston, FL. Come and enjoy our beautiful, one-of-a-kind blueberry, peach, strawberry, & sunflower farm located in Central Florida. We are open on select days for our u-pick strawberry & sunflower season.
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$49
 / night
98%
(31)

Collins Farm

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Micanopy, FL
Collins Farm is conveniently located 20 minutes south of Gainesville and 30 minutes north of Ocala, off of interstate 75. Private, peaceful camping is available with full RV hook-up that includes sewer, 50 amp electric with a 30 amp adapter, and water. Your campsite is located right in the heart of our farm. While at your site, you will see and surely be entertained by our goats, sheep, horse, Charlie and Dottie Mae our Kunekune pigs, chickens, Eduardo our turkey, and many more. The wildlife that you see is dependent on the season but likely includes deer, sand cranes, and the occasional bald eagles. Pets are welcome. We just ask for the safety of our farm friends that they stay on a leash. A fire pit and picnic table is at each site. We also include animal feed so you can feed the animals through the fence at your leisure. We kindly ask that you only feed them their feed and no other feed to ensure their health. For those needing grocery delivery. Instacart and Shipt delivers to Collins Farm on a regular basis. The historic town of Micanopy is just a few minutes' drive from Collins Farm and offers antique shopping, restaurants, unique gift shops, and entertainment. Paynes Prarie Preserve State Park is also within a few miles and offers hiking trails and wildlife sightseeing. There is also trails for horseback riding within two miles of Collins Farm.
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$100
 / 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
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$25
 / 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!
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$15
 / night
100%
(80)

Tudor Farm Serenity Awaits You!

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Ocala, FL
Tudor Farm was manifested in 2019 from dreams and desires built over a lifetime.  This 10-acre property is more than a horse farm.  It is a natural sanctuary for both people and animals... a nurturing home for the wildlife and companion animals that live here, and a welcoming retreat for visitors and guests.   The pavilion and retreat center is used for restorative workshops and special events and the property's collection of beautiful oaks and other trees happily share their majesty with those who relax under their boughs.  Enjoy a change of pace and visit us at Tudor Farm! Learn more about this land: Wake up on a 10 acre horse farm in beautiful Ocala, Florida. The farm is a relaxing, natural haven for spending time near beautiful oak trees and enjoying the sights and sounds of farm and wildlife. Conveniently located near local attractions like the World Equestrian Center, Silver Spring State Park, and multiple freshwater Springs. Pricing is 1 tent or RV per site. RV hookups can accommodate 20, 30, or 50 amp connections.  Please verify with us to ensure we have the hook up you require before booking.
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$48
 / night
100%
(1)

Champions Run Luxury RV Resort

640 sites ¡ RVs50 acres ¡ Ocala, FL
Discover classic Florida and the spirit of adventure here in Ocala, Marion County. Officially known as “The Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala has become a coveted equestrian and adventure destination with a rich cultural history. Champions Run RV Resort was built from the ground up to offer premier outdoor hospitality with supreme locality for visiting guests, snowbirds and on-location workers throughout the county. Our resort features 482 full hookup 40’x80’ RV sites with 20’x70’ concrete pads, Tiki Bar, a huge clubhouse, massive resort-style pool, two hot tubs, pickleball courts, Free Hi-Speed WiFi, & more!
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$77
 / 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%
(22)

100% Dad Headquarters

13 sites ¡ RVs11 acres ¡ Interlachen, FL
100% DAD Headquarters is family friendly 11 acres of flat land partially wooded land and cleared land. Easy big rig access right off CR 315, a main road, and walkable to stores and restaurants. Water, electric, and dump station are available. We have 3 electrical RV hookups. 1- 50 Amp connection next to our main building, a 30 amp connection next to our main building, and a 30 amp connection next to the barn. This property is owned by the Russell Family that toured the country from 2020-2023 visiting over 180 campgrounds in their RV. This property will eventually be developed into an RV Resort of their very own. This location is surrounded by lakes and springs. Public lands are all around. 1 hr from st augustine and the Atlantic Ocean. This is a small town with dark skies and beautiful starry nights. Tons of nature in every direction all with a few modern conveniences just minutes away.
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$12
 / night

The best camping near Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park guide

Overview

About

There's a reason why U of F's football stadium is called The Swamp. Just south of Gainesville, this park contains a rich array of habitats for wildlife. A notable swamp is one of them.

This preserve is unique in Florida because you can see animals you don't normally see. If you're lucky, you might spot wild bison or horses roaming free. You might spot alligators among the cypress trees in the swamp. Birdwatchers love the 300-plus bird species (including bald eagles diving for fish) here.

A total of eight park trails covering 30 miles put you close to nature. The Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail is particularly easy to navigate. If you'd rather see animals from afar, there's a 50-foot observation tower. Lake Wauberg offers great options for water-lovers at any time of year. BYOB (bring your own boat) for fishing and canoeing.

The lake also has a fantastic shaded, secluded campground. Choose from 30 RV or 14 tent-only campsites.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is during the cooler months from October to April, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer months can be hot and humid, with a higher chance of afternoon thunderstorms, making some trails less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's official website for any trail closures or safety alerts before your visit.
  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for hiking and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
  • Accessibility options are available; contact the park in advance for specific needs.
  • While there are no camping facilities, day-use areas provide restrooms and picnic spots.
  • Remember to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent to enhance your comfort amid the park's natural setting.

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