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.

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

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Stay at a public campground in Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

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Paynes Prairie Campground

46 sites · RVs, Tents In Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

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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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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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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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Glenn Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Fort White, FL

The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of three spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow or Magnolia Sink). Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1844), Magnolia sink is also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.

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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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Crystal River Paradise Camp

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Crystal River, FL

Monthly reduced rates for RV's available! NEW! This property is close to everything! Precious lighting turns the property into a virtual lightshow at dusk! Crystal River Famous Fishing, Beautiful crystal-clear springs for diving, swimming and tubing. Manatees and abundant wildlife. RV's and campers alike will enjoy creature comforts of fast Internet, Water hookup, Firewood, Toilet, 30 AMP, Electricity and Sewer. You will have access to a gas grill, horseshoes, spring fed pond stocked with bass, canoe, and a fire pit on the deck already stocked with propane. There are three wood-burning firepits on the campsite with one being a chimenea to roast marshmallows and hot dogs! Firewood and starter log provided and subsequent firewood for sale. Gazebo with table and chairs and a beautiful outdoor shower with views of mossy oak trees! The outdoor shower is a must. For CAMPERS! I do provide a camping toilet with bags for disposal along with hand sanitizer. Water is available from the hose on the deck. Tea and morning coffee will be provided. You are literally 1 mile from 2 parks with hiking trails (7-mile loop) to view all types of wildlife including alligators, birds, fox and deer. Kayaking spots are abundant. Historic Downtown offers a variety of bars and restaurants as well as local artist crafts. There is something for everyone. PS My backyard paradise is much more beautiful than my photographs. FREE WIFI!

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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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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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Hawthorne Backwoods Sanctuary

3 sites · Lodging, RVs13 acres · FL

The lovely open woodland of Hawthorne Backwoods Sanctuary was a pasture in the 1970's. Where there are large live oaks on the property, one can imagine those trees stood in the pastures of the 1970's and provided shade for the cattle there. By the time we purchased this property in 2017, it was a young regenerating hardwood forest. The previous owners did not inhabit or pollute this land. We have found very little trash or garbage here, only charred wood when we dig down several feet. You'll have to make up your own story about that. Our aim is to keep this forest healthy, and allow it to continue to provide shelter and food for the creatures that buzz, burrow, nest, forage, browse, hunt and pass through here regularly. Hawthorne Backwoods Sanctuary has been a healthy and regenerative place for us, and we feel honored to offer guests an opportunity to rest and to feel the generous forest energy that has settled us here. Learn more about this land: A hardwood forest with a few parking spots off of the driveway in wooded areas between our homesite and the access road County Road 2082. Armadillo, Deer, Turkey, Hawks, Crows and morning cacophony of songbirds on the property. Less than a mile from the Hawthorne Gainesville Bike Trail. Less than a mile from Magnesia Springs, near Newnan's Lake, Payne's Prairie Preserve, Sweetwater Preserve, Boulware Springs Park, Devil's Millhopper State Park, LaChua Hiking Trail. And, much more. 12 miles to Gainesville, 9 miles to scenic old town Micanopy. A good jumping off point to various springs, and parks.

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Wildflower Pond

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Alachua, FL

Welcome to a sweet and soulful little piece of the woodlands. Tucked in on 4.5 acres, this spot is a secluded, enchanting piece of old Florida. Pitch a tent in one of our four designated camping sites, tie a hammock, gaze at the koi and other fish, or relax on the embankment. Check out what's growing in the seasonal garden and if you’d like to to visit our horses, KuneKune pigs, dairy goats, birds and local mascot, Nacho the Donkey, please book a private tour with us. Florida's gem-colored, healing spring waters are just a 20 minutes up the way and local retreat centers and yoga studios dot the area. Gator fans? Head into Gainesville for a game and to visit the University of Florida. Mostly, enjoy. We look forward to hosting you! To note for all guests: We suggest arriving before dark so as to make set up easy and comfortable. We do not require a formal check-in and encourage being self-reliable in set up of primitive campsites. (For something with more structure and a space already set up, check out our Aframe cabin.) We do have water, a composting toilet, sink, and groundtemp shower for your use and ease.

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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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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

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.