Discover the best campgrounds near Gainesville, Florida with hiking

United States
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Florida
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Gainesville

95% (2288 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Gainesville

Under $50

Star Hosts in Gainesville

100%

(19)

Tranquility Woods

5 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Fort White, FL

Discover serenity on this enchanting 4-acre property tucked away at the end of a tranquil road, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating escape. Embrace the beauty of nature as you observe the graceful deer that freely roam the grounds. Surrounding this haven are stunning springs for refreshing swims, and an array of hiking and biking trails beckon adventure enthusiasts. For those seeking a night under the stars, we provide four tent sites, each situated on mostly flat ground, perfect for camper vans to park and set up camp. To enhance your comfort, amenities include a convenient porta potty and a refreshing shower, ensuring that your stay is both delightful and revitalizing. Welcome to your haven of tranquility, where nature's beauty awaits at every turn.

Spacious Oak Hammock

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · High Springs, FL

Only a 5 Minute drive to High Springs Historic District and 20 Minutes to Gainesville. Enjoy peacefulness with a 30 amp electric/water site on this dead end road that abuts O’Leno State Park. It is common to see wildlife on this and the surrounding properties. Located only 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers. Learn more about this land: Located 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers.

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.

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.

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!

12 top campgrounds near Gainesville with hiking

92%

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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.

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.

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!

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.

Spacious Oak Hammock

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · High Springs, FL

Only a 5 Minute drive to High Springs Historic District and 20 Minutes to Gainesville. Enjoy peacefulness with a 30 amp electric/water site on this dead end road that abuts O’Leno State Park. It is common to see wildlife on this and the surrounding properties. Located only 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers. Learn more about this land: Located 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers.

83%

(6)

Forest Retreat Sanctuary

15 sites · Lodging108 acres · Gainesville, FL

Love meditation, yoga, music, and the deep woods? The Gainesville Retreat Center is located on 108 acres of gorgeous conservation land in the forests near Gainesville, Florida. Nestled in a cornucopia of habitats including hardwood and pine forests, palm scrub, and wetlands, we are also only ten minutes from the University of Florida. This land once belonged to the Timucuan Indians as a hub for canoe making. We are only one mile from boat and lake access as well as the Hawthorne bike trail that takes you through Payne's Prairie. Choose from tent/RV camping, cabins, or a room in the retreat center. Vegetarian kitchen access. Teacher-led and personal retreats available--request info on meditation, yoga, kirtan, more. Learn more about this land:***NOTE: DUE TO COVID 19, WE CAN ONLY ACCEPT RESERVATIONS FOR A MINIMUM OF ONE MONTH, FOR CAMPERS WHO ARE OBSERVING QUARANTINE AND/OR SOCIAL DISTANCING.***The Gainesville Retreat Center is a sanctuary for yogis, meditators, and nature lovers. The retreat center is situated on 120 acres of conservation property near Newnan's Lake, with miles of hiking trails. Many lodging options, from staying in the center itself to cabins to tent and RV camping. Meditation instruction, yoga, guided nature hikes, and more available upon request.

Tranquility Woods

5 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Fort White, FL

Discover serenity on this enchanting 4-acre property tucked away at the end of a tranquil road, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating escape. Embrace the beauty of nature as you observe the graceful deer that freely roam the grounds. Surrounding this haven are stunning springs for refreshing swims, and an array of hiking and biking trails beckon adventure enthusiasts. For those seeking a night under the stars, we provide four tent sites, each situated on mostly flat ground, perfect for camper vans to park and set up camp. To enhance your comfort, amenities include a convenient porta potty and a refreshing shower, ensuring that your stay is both delightful and revitalizing. Welcome to your haven of tranquility, where nature's beauty awaits at every turn.

100%

(25)

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

97%

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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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4A River Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world. Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers. Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience. Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum. Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away. Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee. Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore. The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles. Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.

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Bowman's Landing

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Fort White, FL

We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River. We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances: Ginnie Springs - 6 miles Blue Springs - 9 miles Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles Gainesville - 38 miles Rum 138 - 8 miles Lake City - 27 miles White Springs - 38 miles Branford - 13 miles High Springs - 12 miles Dollar General - 3 miles Publix - 15 miles Bobs River Place - 20 miles

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Free to Be Acres

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

Welcome to Free to Be Acres. An entire private acre, nestled in the beautiful N Central Florida forest. In spring country you are free to unwind and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Be greeted by a family of deer while enjoying your morning coffee or tea, listen to the barred owls talking to one another in the evenings. You will have easy access to both the Ichetucknee and Santa Fe rivers just a short 5 minute drive from your campsite. Encounter manatees, spotted gar and a multitude of different species of turtles as you float down the crystal clear Ichetucknee river. Spend the day boating or fishing on the Santa Fe or world famous Suwannee River. Just 15 minutes from well known Ginnie Springs, Gilchrist Blue Springs, Rum Island Spring, Ichetucknee Spring State Park, Peacock, Little River, Royal and more. We offer 30/50amp electric and water on site as well as a port o let that has weekly scheduled cleanings. Dumping of black and gray tanks can be done on your way out of town (within a 1/4 mile) for a nominal fee of $15.

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Camping near Gainesville with hiking guide

Overview

Looking to go camping near Gainesville, Florida? Hipcamp has over 1500 options just for you! Whether you're a hiking enthusiast or just looking to explore the beautiful terrain, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like Smokey Acres (358 reviews), North Shore Relic Ranch (221 reviews), and 4A River Camp (174 reviews) to see what other campers have loved. With popular amenities like toilets, showers, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need to enjoy your outdoor adventure. Don't wait, book your camping experience today for as low as $5 per night!