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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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Top-rated campgrounds near Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

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
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
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!
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$45
 / night
98%
(32)

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
99%
(49)

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.
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$35
 / 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
100%
(41)

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
100%
(23)

Jewel’s Sink

1 site ¡ RV, Tent35 acres ¡ Newberry, FL
Family owned and operated since 1853. Jewel’s sink has been a special place that the Blanton family has swam and celebrated things at for 5 generations. It’s a slice of paradise hidden away from the hardships of society’s rat race. You can see to the bottom when the sun hits the water at the right time of day. It’s crystal clear blue like the springs that feed the rivers. This is truly a foundation of youth!Learn more about this land:Jewel’s Sink is a private spring that you can swim in, share a Picnic with your friends or family. Has a nice fireplace to sit around and roast marshmallows as you listen to scary camp fire stories. Generators are allowed don’t pay attention to what is says below
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$80
 / night
Booked 1 time

Santa Fe Palms RV Resort

1 site ¡ RV10 acres ¡ Gainesville, FL
Welcome to Gainesville, Florida's premier RV Resort – the first and only of its kind in the area. Our fairly new park boasts a range of amenities for your comfort and convenience, including a laundry facility, a heated swimming pool, and high-speed wireless internet powered by fiber optics. Rates encompass electricity, city water, and sewage services. Enjoy the privacy of our two-bath houses, each equipped with lockable showers for both women and men. Additionally, a small on-site store caters to your immediate needs. Rest easy with our 24-hour security cameras and the secure gated resort, ensuring a safe and tranquil environment for your stay.
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$57
 / 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
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
 / night
92%
(98)

Citra Royal Palm RVPark

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents6 acres ¡ Citra, FL
Citra Florida was once an area known for its orange groves.   Citra Royal Palm RV Park was built on an previous Orange Grove.  We are very close to Orange Lake and Lake Lochloosa -- both great for fishing.  Come have a free wine tasting at Island Grove Winery down the street or have a fresh glass or orange juice at the Orange Shop just down the street. Another great spot to visit while here is Silver Springs (glass boat rides, kayaks/canoes/SUP).    Come and stay with us for a day, week,month, year, or longer!   We invite RV's, Tiny Homes, Vans, Tents, Skoolies, and others to come camp with us!
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$29
 / 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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