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Waterside Camping

The best lakeside camping in Florida

Name: Florida
Address: Florida
Rating: 4.791

The Sunshine State has over 30,000 lakes, and that doesn't even count the numerous rivers, springs, and other waterways found at nearly every turn. It's a given that water sports are a top activity during a camping trip to Florida—from wakeboarding and waterskiing, to kayaking and canoeing, be sure to bring your swimsuit. Check out the country's fourth-largest natural lake at Lake Okeechobee near West Palm Beach, an area for boating and fishing as well as swimming. Campers can also pick from over 15 lakes for day-time fun at the Clermont Chain of Lakes near Orlando. For an unusual summer experience, go snorkeling in one of Florida's hundreds of crystal clear, freshwater springs. Silver Glen Springs in the Ocala National Forest and De Leon Springs near Daytona Beach are both freshwater areas open for snorkeling and scuba diving, so you don't have to deal with rinsing salt water out of your hair. Lake campsites and RV parks exist near all of these Florida hot spots, many with amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and full hookups.

96% (5.9K) • 4,357 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Florida

North Shore Relic Ranch

1. North Shore Relic Ranch

97%

(611)

Mount Dora, FL · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

This property is called relic ranch because we have actually found a ton of old relics. the campground is under an ancient canopy of oaks. so youll always have shade. the center of the property is unique to say the least but the campground is nature at its finest. there is a 2.6 mile nature trail across from the campground to explore. also there is a boat ramp for fishing about 1/8 mile away. you are welcome to roam over most of the 80 acres. We have goats, cows and chickens as well. All super friendly.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl

2. Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl

97%

(274)

Inglis, FL · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging

3 acres on beautiful Lake Rousseau. Fishing , camping , kayaking , cabin rentals. 10 miles from ThreeSisters Springs, Hunter Springs and Crystal River. Rainbow River. Abundant wildlife. Beatiful sunrirses and sunsets. Very peaceful!

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

3. Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

98%

(362)

Ft. Mc Coy, FL · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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 pet friendly! If you have a pet please add the pet Extra at checkout so you will be charged a $20 pet fee ($10 for the trailers). 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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Campfires

Ocala National Forest

4. Ocala National Forest

83%

(64)

National forest in Florida · 635 sites

This watery wilderness is perfect for hikers, campers, and outdoor explorers.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Osceola National Forest

5. Osceola National Forest

100%

(7)

National forest in Florida · 78 sites

Osceola National Forest is 200,000 acres of exploration with your name on it! In the northeastern Floridian forest, pine flatwoods and cypress-hardwood swamps surround, with diverse wildlife abound. In this leafy paradise lives gopher tortoises (they act like gophers, but are tortoises!), alligators, black bears, and the skunk ape, also known as the “stink ape,” which bears an uncanny resemblance to bigfoot. Areas of recreation include Ocean Pond--a fave place for boaters, skiiers, and campers, and Olustee Beach for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The park is also open to hunters and fishermen with permits. With so much land to explore in this National Forest, we wouldn’t be surprised if bigfoot was hiding in there!

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

East Bay Family Retreat

6. East Bay Family Retreat

96%

(382)

Navarre, FL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Explore 11+ acres of rustic and untamed woods. We are a military veteran family who enjoys the land as a place for family and friends to explore, camp, and relax at the 250+ feet of the East Bay beach. We do not have WiFi, but we do have 5g service Our camping sites DO NOT have electricity These are HIKE-IN ONLY campsites Check-in after after 4PM Check-out is at 10AM Primitive camping is permitted at designated wooded high grounds in the middle of the property. It is a 5 and 10-minute rugged hike in to the middle ground respectively. The trail remains under development, so please bring close-toed shoes or boots for hiking throughout the property (depending on rainfall, there may be mud and water). We have two primitive campsites These campsites are first come first serve, they are not assigned when booking. Our Glamper tent is a 10x12 canvas furnished full size bed with bedding, pillows and enough floor space for two sleeping bags. The tents are located off a short trial, but rugged 2-minute hike from the parking area. We provide the opportunity to go camping without having to pack the tent. Closed toed shoes are highly suggested as well as plenty of lighting with batteries or solar charging capability. This is a rugged, fun and serene camping experience. Located less than 10 mins to Navarre Beach, - 30 mins to Pensacola Beach, - 15 mins to Naval Live Oaks, - 45 mins to Fort Pickens, - 50 mins to NAS Pensacola, - 45 mins to Santa Rosa Island, - 35 mins to Okaloosa Island, - 40 mins to Destin. Recommended local restaurants: St. Michael's Brewery which has rotating food trucks and is family friendly, Ye Olde Brothers Brewery, Emerald's WaterfrontGrill, Dewey Destin’s, Andy D's on Navarre Beach, Stripe's Pub, Johnny Huston's, Windjammers, TC’s Front Porch, Deb’s Coffee, The Eatery food truck park, Top’s Burgers, and New York Pizza Depot. Other sightseeing in the area includes: Museums: National Naval Aviation Museum, Air Force Armament Museum, Fort Pickens, Indian Temple Mound Museum, Pensacola Museum of Art, Museum of Industry, and Destin History & Fishing Museum Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, HH Arts Gallery, Emerald Coast Science Center, Gulf Breeze Zoo, and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.

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Full hookups

Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

7. Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

98%

(442)

Lakeland, FL · 85 sites · Tents, RVs

ESCAPE TO THE WILD!!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore!! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 4 beautiful miles of Shoreline and 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Lake View or Oak Forest RV sites available with (20/30/50 amp) along with double water hookups and dump station on site! WE have beautiful RV CAMPERS ON SITE TO RENT AS WELL!!! Shoreline tents sites available right along the Lake shoreline! Or chose a Primitive Tent Campsite or RV boondocking! Picnic table, fire ring, water and charcoal grills provided with RV sites and Shoreline tent sites! Don't have a tent? We rent those too! Tent rentals medium/large are $35-$45. FREE HIGHSPEED OPTIC WIFI ON THE RANCH FOR ALL! Come see the beautiful scenery, lots of animals and breathtaking sunsets! We are Florida's Best Kept Secret! Non-Urbanized, Solitude and Family Fun Recreation! Join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and kid Hayrides! Pet and feed snacks to our herd of friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats, beautiful Ranch Horses and our amazing Longhorn Cows! Grab a kayak (we rent them) and hit the lake to explore our dozens of islands and vast waterways! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails! Along with FISHING GALORE!!! On our vast 4 miles of Lake Shoreline!! Sit on our relaxing 3 person swings throughout the property and enjoy a beautiful nature filled sunrise or sunset! End the day with cookouts, music, fun, laughter and family time around the Campfire! Country Store on site with our grass fed hamburger meat/steaks for sale! Along with other food items/ essentials to purchase. Firewood on site/we sell large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome!! Limit 2 per site/keep on a leash. Our Ranch and Campsite is a designated Agritourism by the State of Florida combining its two largest industries, Agriculture and Tourism. Feel free to inquire with us! Our website is wildernessshores.com For all of our sites Check-in is daily from 2PM - 6PM. Check-out is a 11am daily. Centrally located! 18 miles to LEGOLAND, 37 miles to Busch Gardens and 32 miles to Disney World! Enjoy all the Parks! In addition, we are 6 miles to Super Walmart for shopping needs and close to lots of restaurants!

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Ocala Forest ATV Basecamp

8. Ocala Forest ATV Basecamp

98%

(24)

Fort Mc Coy, FL · 1 site

🌲 RV Lot in Ocala Forest | Full Hookups + OHV Trail Access + Pet-Friendly Welcome to your private oversized RV site in the heart of the Ocala National Forest. Whether you're here to ride, relax, or reconnect with nature, this site has you covered — with direct access to OHV trails, modern amenities, and peaceful forest surroundings. 🏍️ OHV Riders Welcome! Bring your ATVs, UTVs, or dirt bikes and hit the trails directly from the campground — no need to trailer out. With miles of designated OHV routes in the forest, it's a rider’s paradise. You’ll be back to camp in minutes to recharge by the fire and lake view. 🛻 What’s Included: Full RV hookups (50 amp, water, sewer) Level concrete pad for patio setup + fire ring (DO NOT PARK ON CONCRETE) Pet-friendly site + fenced dark park Designated trailer parking Guarantee no neighbors on one side with common hammock area 🌿 Comfort Meets Wild Florida Enjoy the best of both worlds — amenities like restrooms and hot showers within the campground, plus access to hiking trails, springs, and wildlife just minutes away. 🏕️ Hosted by a HipCamp ⭐ Star Host — so you know you’re in good hands. **Campsite hosts will NOT be on property. Please "leave no trace behind". Make sure all trash is taken to the nearby dumpster.**

Pets

Full hookups

Vineyard Lake Getaway

95%

(146)

Key Largo, FL · 2 sites

Circa 1954 an old fishing camp unforgettable memories the way the keys used to be the good old times and memories fortunately I still preserve some of that nostalgic era , however, it’s changed for better or for worst .. but still hold the same charm.. I’m fortunate to manage it and continue with the same old traditions. We are excited to have you learn more about our beautiful Bayside Beach Camp and sunsets in Key Largo, Florida. Located just 1 hour from Miami, and 2 hours from Key West, you will find the amazing beautiful Florida Keys within your reach. Situated on the Florida Bay you will quickly come to appreciate and enjoy the incredible beauty that surrounds you at Bayside Beach Camp and Sunsets As our guest, you will enjoy beautiful amenities, a private sandy beach fishing pier and kayak rentals great trails to cruise along the shoreline, direct access to the Florida Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and a short ride away from the Atlantic Ocean. Thanks to year-round sunny skies, makes for an amazing weekend escape, holiday vacation getaway or seasonal extended stay. While nature may have provided the perfect sunsets and fishing adventures it makes it possible for you to enjoy it from your own coach, back-in site or pull thru partially shaded Surrounded by tranquil and peaceful old native trees and abundance of wildlife.

Pets

Full hookups

Rasayana Cove

17. Rasayana Cove

98%

(345)

Ona, FL · 2 sites

Rasayana Cove is a 25-acre eco-retreat located in the heartland of west central Florida. An hour's drive east of Sarasota surrounded by vast tracts of orange groves and ranch land, Rasayana Cove has been operating as a small retreat center since 1995. The long eastern boundary borders Horse Creek, a major tributary of the Peace River. The property features two spring-fed ponds - one small and the other large.  The cabins are accessible by well constructed shell-topped roads with good drainage and a variety of nature pathways.  A natural ecosystem remains undisturbed in the middle of the property - a Florida bay head of native flora and wildlife. While most of the state is crowded and overdeveloped, this eco-retreat offers a haven of peace in the pristine nature of Florida

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

Idlewild Lodge and RV Park

18. Idlewild Lodge and RV Park

99%

(96)

Lake Panasoffkee, FL · 17 sites · RVs, Lodging

Idlewild Lodge and RV Park is located on the spring-fed waters of Lake Panasoffkee and built on 3 acres with 10 cabins and 10 RV pads. While peaceful and quaint, Idlewild offers all the comforts of home accompanied with plentiful amenities. Positioned as a boutique lodge, groups may find it ideal to host private events and families will find the amenities to be entertaining while also serving as a unique, but truly “Floridian,” nature experience. Located on the western perimeter of Lake Panasoffkee, Idlewild sits across a 9,911 acre state park preserving Lake Panasoffkee's vast floodplain forest, natural springs, pine flat-woods, freshwater marshes and oak scrub forest. Recognizing the beauty Lake Pan has to offer, the current owners revitalized Idlewild in 2022 welcoming residents and tourists alike to enjoy the natural beauty and fishing opportunities. In addition to cabin renovations and paved RV sites, Idlewild now features premium amenities including pontoon boat rentals, bait and tackle, a boat launch, boat slips, vending, recreational area, laundry machines, an on-site café, pool-side cabanas, and the most spectacular views of Lake Pan while sitting around the gas-fired fire pit. Idlewild is also host to Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures. Swamp Fever guests can sign up for the interactive alligator experience and ride an airboat deep into the shallow waters of Lake Pan's forest where snakes, turtles, cranes, and gators are aplenty.

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Toilets

Full hookups

Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

19. Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

97%

(52)

Auburndale, FL · 302 sites · RVs, Lodging

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort Auburndale is a family-friendly RV and cabin oasis located in Central Florida. Situated on 66 acres located off the Polk Parkway next to Lake Myrtle in Auburndale, our resort is your all-access pass to everything Florida. From our two resort swimming pools, complete with a 147 ft. water slide, to our 9-hole putting course and tiki bars, we offer amenities to excite the whole family. Even your furry friends are welcome! Explore the major theme parks and sparkling beaches or stay central for a sports event or festival without sacrificing any of the amenities. At Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, Our resort pools are more than just water – they're a sanctuary of luxury and enjoyment that will take your vacation to new heights. Get ready to immerse yourself in a poolside paradise like no other: Our resort features a variety of water-based activities that cater to guests of all ages. Our main pool features a thrilling 147 ft. water slide, whereas our Chill Pool overlooks Lake Myrtle. And the best part, our pools are heated year-round, so no matter when you visit, you can always enjoy a dip. So come join us at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, where every day is a pool day! We understand that family vacations are all about creating magical moments that your kids will cherish forever. That's why we're thrilled to present an array of kid-friendly amenities that will light up their smiles and make your stay truly unforgettable! From the moment your kids step foot on our resort, they'll be immersed in a world of adventure. Our dedicated play areas are designed to ignite their imagination, whether they're making a splash at the Jolly Mon Splash Pad, engaging in age-friendly activities, or making new friends at the Parakeets Kid's Park. Download our app to see our weekly activities schedule! Our resort boasts sprawling grounds where your pets can explore, sniff, and play to their heart's content. Enjoy leisurely strolls through paradise and scenic pathways, making memories together every step of the way. Take them to explore and play at one of our four Barkaritaville Dog Parks, located throughout the resort. Pamper them with a bath and blow dry at one of our two Barkaritaville Dog Spas. Or you can take them to exercise at our dog run! We ensure a paw-positive vacation for all our furry guests! Rain or shine, energize your mornings with an invigorating workout, or wind down after a day of adventure with a rejuvenating evening session. Enjoy the refreshing AC in our Fins Up! Fitness Center with state-of-the-art equipment. Or work up a sweat at our out-door basketball courts! Whether you're aiming to refine your skills or simply have fun, our fitness areas provide the perfect backdrop.

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Full hookups

Lakeside RV Sites

20. Lakeside RV Sites

100%

(172)

New Smyrna Beach, FL · 2 sites

Learn more about this land: A little slice of paradise! Lakefront RV site with electric, water and sewer. Close to new Smyrna Beaches, Daytona Beach events and theme parks & Boombah Sportplex. Fishing from your private dock, kayaking (two kayaks available for free) or just enjoy the view! Get to know our mini zebu Doris, Bessy and Nutmeg & Paprika! Private. Between Cabbage Patch and Foxhead, famous motorcycle stops. Close to Disney, Kennedy Space Center and beautiful beaches and springs. Boombah sportplex for all kid tournaments! Motorcycles and horses, boats welcome.

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Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Rebecca

1 week ago

3 nights at The Bougainvillea Glamping Tent

We had such a wonderful stay at this beautiful property while celebrating our 4-year anniversary. It was the perfect place to relax and unwind, and the hosts were exceptional. The only thing worth noting is that the property is near a busy road, so the traffic noise can be heard at times. That said, it was not a major issue and was easy to ignore. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and would highly recommend it for a romantic getaway.

Candyce

2 weeks ago

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

I loved camping here! Waking up with longhorns in your front yard and horses to the side. It's what Florida is supposed to be with beautiful views of the lake. My kids loved all the animals and exploring the land. Lorraine made it such a memorable experience. Thank you so much! We will be back!

Trisha

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Camp Stella Lake Dome

This place is so cute and private. The lights and everything make it super cute. I spent my 2 yr anniversary there and they were super nice and helpful. Close to all things right on the water. Highly Recommend!

Grant

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Blue Fox Ranch: Lake & Farm Camp

Flat, soft grass. We came to watch the meteor shower and the few street lights in the neighborhood was a bit sad. But thanks to cloud cover I didn't see many anyway. The ponies were cute and the pond was a vibe. Would camp again if I was in the area.

James

3 weeks ago

1 night at Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl

The view of the lake is beautiful. The cabin was nice and quaint, and we enjoyed our stay.

As all boys are, he's fascinated with fire.

Joseph

3 weeks ago

With kids

2 nights at East Bay Family Retreat

I took my 4 yr old son to the glamper again, we had a blast! It's such a beautiful place that makes camping incredibly simple and easy when you have a child. Especially when you have water easily accessible on the camp grounds.

Selected as one of Hipcamps Best RV spots! Come for the views & stay cause you’ll love it!!!

Caroline

August 2026

38 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeside RV Sites

We loved every minute of our weekend stay. The site was very spacious and easy to setup with a ton of privacy and beautiful views of the lake. The host was very responsive anytime we reached out. Will def be returning soon.

Mckenzie

August 2026

30 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Ocala Forest ATV Basecamp

Great experience!! The patio was our favorite! A nice area to put our chairs and hangout, and the pool being so close made it easy to walk my kids too and spend the day there. We will definitely be back!

Megan

August 2026

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Lakeside RV Sites

My family and I had an amazing and peaceful time. Will be back in the future.

Jessi

August 2026

32 ft Class A

With pets

4 nights at Vineyard Lake Getaway

So quiet and peaceful. We had to be in Jacksonville for multiple meetings and needed to extend our stay twice. Easy booking, fast feedback and privacy. Host was available but not intrusive, he responded quickly when we needed anything. Area was clean, paddleboat available to float around the pond. Conveniently located close enough to town with that out of town feel. We will stay again if we come back to the area.

The cutest little cottage you will ever step foot in.

Jodi

July 2026

With pets

2 nights at Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

The cottage had everything we needed for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Linus, our fur baby, loved the space to run leash free. Our mini-vacation was planned around touring the Marjorie Rawlings homestead and the cottage was a lovely refuge from the thunderstorms to relax and re-read Cross Creek and The Yearling. We were shown around the 7+ acre property, exploring the out buildings, the retro campers, the blueberry patch. We even got 3 freshly laid eggs. The entire adventure was delightful. Jodi

stacy

July 2026

40 ft fifth wheel

3 nights at Lakeside RV Sites

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had a really relaxing stay at Laura's place. The campsite felt secluded and private, which made it easy to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Waking up to the cows ( Bessy, Nutmeg, Paprika, Doris and Thunder) nearby added so much charm and made the experience feel unique. The kayaks were a nice touch and gave us another way to enjoy the property. Laura was a wonderful host—friendly, welcoming, and easy to communicate with while still giving us plenty of privacy. If you're looking for a quiet place to disconnect, enjoy nature, and experience a little farm life, I would definitely recommend staying here. We'd happily come back again.

Julie

July 2026

With kids

Weekend Trip to Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

We loved the cottage. Our son made friends with all the cats. It was the most relaxing Saturday night after a day of tubing the Ichetucknee river. We brought some bacon and had it with fresh eggs. The hosts were great to give us space as military combat family this makes the trip way less stressful. We will be back.

M J

July 2026

23 ft Class B

1 night at Blue Fox Ranch: Lake & Farm Camp

The place is peaceful. The sites are spread out and picturesque. To reach the unlabeled farm gate you will pass through a crowded manufactured home and trailer park. Don't worry! The directions are clear. The gate is mock-locked, which wasn't noted in the directions, so it took us a few minutes to realize. We'll retuun next time we take a trip!

Michelle

July 2026

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

I loved every moment of my stay except for the moment I got lost and ran my car in a rut. Lol That was all my mistake. I could get to my campsite but it took several tries to find my way out. My stay was a 10/10. After those attempts, i had it mastered. I walked many miles exploring the camp. The animals were so fun to watch! I loved it all. I already have my spot picked out for my next stay! Oh, They have the sweetest gal at the front desk!

Jane Wilkins

July 2026

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Flying Frog Ranch

It was very quiet, and there was a lovely pond with seating by it. The property was mowed and well kept. It felt safe. We saw a bunny and what I think was a short tailed weasel. No alligators though! The small Flying Frog sign confirmed that the address was correct.

Tisse

July 2026

2 nights at Camp Stella Lake Dome

The space is a beautiful little private oasis. It feels peaceful and it thoughtfully set up. It was nice having a grill as well as a fire pit. The dome has all the comforts of a hotel room with the benefit of feeling closer to nature.

John

July 2026

20 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Fox Ranch: Lake & Farm Camp

Luis is an excellent friendly host, great to see all the animals, my dog got to run around and play with his dog, would recommend

Melissa

July 2026

Weekend Trip to East Bay Family Retreat

I loved tent camping on Sarah's land! The views were beautiful and directions were clear. There was another site nearby but it was quiet. Loved going for 4th of July weekend highlight on campsite was taking a shower at night with the twinkling lights and the fireworks going off. Such a great experience and a magical moment.

Jordan

July 2026

16 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Lakeside RV Sites

Absolutely spectacular and peaceful. We actually stayed at their newly opened section of their property and it was incredibly secluded and private. It felt like we were our in the wilderness completely by ourselves (which we love). The deer visited us every morning and I caught a catfish off of their dock. I had planned on kayaking but we ended up exploring some of the surrounding areas instead. There's always next time. We will back. 😁