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The best camping in Crescent Lake

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Named, unsurprisingly, for its mildly crescent-like shape, this large northern Florida lake is a great place for swimming and fishing, as well as hiking over four miles of walking trails. Primitive group camping and a covered picnic pavilion are available in the adjacent Haw Creek Preserve State Park, while plenty of reservable Hipcamps can also be found on the western side of the lake. Tent and RV sites with hookups are available at Faver-Dykes State Park, about a 40-minute drive from the eastern part of the lake, a portion of which is protected by the Crescent Lake Conservation Area.

96% (3.6K) 4,407 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Crescent Lake

Camp Seminole Springs

1. Camp Seminole Springs

94%
(365)
Fort Mc Coy, FL · 103 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We have it all here at Seminole Springs. We are open for tent camping.First come, First serve. 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 hereas we do have garbage cans, we prefer that anything you bring into the property, you bring out with you. We allow campfires. 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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Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

2. Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

98%
(356)
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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True Trail Farm

3. True Trail Farm

96%
(198)
Deland, FL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Hi Hipcampers and Farm enthusiasts....We are a small hobby farm with many goats and chickens...When the time is right you may find yourself helping Mike milk the goats or collecting eggs...If farming isn't your thing, we are just 2 miles away from historic downtown DeLand and SkyDive DeLand another 10 minutes will get you to Either Blue Springs or DeLeon Springs...Plus we are 30 minutes to Daytona or New Smyrna Beach...The choices are endless here. Your RV site is directly in front of our goat field with your own side entrance. We have potable water and electric hook up for your RV...Sorry no dump station available at this time. Shower house and toilet ava
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Electrical hookup
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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.
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Electrical hookup
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Faver-Dykes State Park

5. Faver-Dykes State Park

100%
(5)
State park in Florida · 27 sites
Discover Faver-Dykes State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
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Huli Huli Hideaway Site A

6. Huli Huli Hideaway Site A

100%
(1)
Summerfield, FL · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Huli Huli Hideaway is a quiet slice of old Florida tucked into our private 4-acre wooded property—a peaceful place to slow down, unwind, and enjoy country living with a touch of tropical charm. Surrounded by horse pastures, cattle fields, and mature trees, these spacious RV sites offer a private setting for travelers who prefer nature sounds over campground noise and open skies over crowded rows of RVs. If busy campgrounds aren't your style, you may feel right at home here. Neighboring homes disappear from sight, evenings settle in with crickets and country sounds, and dark night skies create the perfect setting for relaxing by the large shared fire pit with complimentary firewood. New tropical landscaping is slowly taking root around the property, adding to the laid-back hideaway atmosphere while keeping the natural old Florida setting intact. Our spacious pull-through RV sites accommodate rigs up to 40 feet with slide-outs and include 20/30/50-amp electric service, water hookups, and sewer connections. Guests can enjoy: • Spacious pull-through RV site • Easy access from I-75 • Private wooded 4-acre property • Accommodates RVs up to 40 feet with slide-outs • 20/30/50 amp electric hookup • Water hookup • Sewer hookup • Large shared fire pit with complimentary firewood • Peaceful ranch-country surroundings • Dark, quiet nights and excellent privacy • Pet-friendly stay (pets must remain leashed or on a tie-out) • Reliable cell service Conveniently located about 20 minutes south of Ocala, 15 minutes west of The Villages, and within easy reach of shopping, dining, Florida springs, and central Florida attractions, Huli Huli Hideaway offers a comfortable place to recharge — whether you’re passing through, exploring the area, or simply looking for a quieter alternative to crowded campgrounds.
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Full hookups
Lakeside RV Sites

7. Lakeside RV Sites

100%
(168)
New Smyrna Beach, FL · 2 sites
Learn more about this land: SUMMER SPECIAL PRICES! 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
Pennylane Farm

8. Pennylane Farm

99%
(92)
Sorrento, FL · 2 sites
Small farm atmosphere on about 6 acres. Rural setting but close to shopping and charming Mount Dora. Easy access to Disney, Universal, and Sea World. Kennedy Space Center and beaches are about 1 hour away.
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Full hookups
Home of Many Miniature Animals

9. Home of Many Miniature Animals

97%
(308)
Mount Dora, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Our farm is off the beaten path surrounded by mossy oaks and lots of shade. If you are having a rough week, load up and relax on our working farm filled with miniature horses and numerous other adorable miniature animals that will be sure to put a smile on your face. Pack your camping gear, tents, vans or RVs and find peace away from the traffic and everyday stress. There is plenty of nature and you can take a long stroll to clear your head. Mount Dora is across the main street less than 5 minutes away. Our antique town is an amazing experience to explore with lots of history and complete with quaint shops and restaurants, boating and lots of things to do. Rennigers Antique Center is located right up the street (less than 5 minutes away) for some great picking. We are conveniently close to the Central Florida Attractions and the beach on both east and west coasts within an hour drivep. A few Campers favorite places to visit are Mount Dora Bike Trail - 2.6 miles, Kelly Park - 11 miles and Kings Landing 12 miles from farm. We offer youth day camps on various dates, pony rides and a tour of our farm animals for an additional fee. Reservations required in advance due to the other activities we have going on. In 2007, we had no idea where this adventure was going to take us. Our small urban farm was sharing our miniature animals with assisted living facilities and Neulife, where we have 3 miniature horses that live on their property. Little by little we have evolved into more of a need to share with the community and help others with the relaxing qualities our farm and animals have to offer, we want to be able to share and better educate with hands on experiences, teach kindness, patience, confidence and help others to be the best they can be. Thank you for your time and if you visit, share a review! Reviews are the best way for us to better ourselves and your experience. Have a great stay!
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Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

10. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

100%
(9)
State park in Florida · 46 sites
This preserve has a whopping 800 types of plants and 420 varieties of vertebrate animal species.
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Tomoka State Park

11. Tomoka State Park

100%
(14)
State park in Florida · 88 sites
A paradise for birdwatchers, this Florida park also has a fascinating history.
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Cross Florida Greenway

12. Cross Florida Greenway

96%
(14)
State park in Florida · 117 sites
Discover Cross Florida Greenway's scenic trails and diverse activities.
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Blue Spring State Park

13. Blue Spring State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Florida · 52 sites
Mesmerizing manatees and crystal-clear water make Blue Spring State Park unforgettable.
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Anastasia Island RV Pad Rental

14. Anastasia Island RV Pad Rental

98%
(291)
St Augustine Beach, FL · 2 sites
Our two level (full hookup) RV pads are on beautiful Anastasia Island within walking distance to the Atlantic ocean, Pier Court Park and the St. Augustine Amphitheater. Anastasia State Park is within a mile. St. Augustine is just over the Bridge of Lions three miles away. Each pad has its own furnished patio and small green yard space. We have a small fishing lake in the back yard (unfenced). There is a national bird rookery preserve a few blocks away so the bird watching is wonderful. There is an alligator farm and a dolphin aquarium on the island., as well as a historic continuous working light house and Maritime Museum. Our pads are just across the Bridge of Lions (2 miles) from the Oldest USA city, St. Augustine, Fl. The historic Fountain of Youth is here along with Castillo de San Marcus National Monument, St. George Street, the historic district plus many other attractions. We have two level paver RV Pads. They both have electric, black and grey water cleanout, fast high speed internet (full hookup). They each have private patios for picnics, socializing, and relaxing. Both pads have high speed internet. Pad 1 accommodates an RV up to up to 28' in length. Pad 2 accommodates an RV up to 34' in length. We accept small Class A Motorhomes (34' and under), Class B, Class C, Small 5th Wheel, Pop-up Campers, Vans and Travel Trailers. Sorry, no tent camping is allowed. There is also a large back deck with picnic area overlooking the small fishing lake in the back yard. We enjoy meeting fellow travelers and sharing our paradise island. We are LGBTQ friendly. Our neighborhood is quiet and safe. The location has easy access to great adventures, history and wonderful memories may be made here. Pets are welcome on leash. accompanied by an adult, Each pet is $5. additional fee. There is an off leash park two blocks away. Most of the beaches are also pet friendly. We adhere to CDC guidelines for safety. We wish you safe travels and happy trails.
Pets
Full hookups
Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

15. Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

94%
(62)
Umatilla, FL · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
When you are here you are family. Hi, I'm Danielle. My Mom, JoAnn, founded Black Horse Ranch in 2017. "You're family here" is something she said all the time to people who came to stay, and it is truly at the heart of our ranch. Black Horse is a place to enjoy nature, camping, campfires, and good company, in a place that feels like home. The property is a beautiful campground nestled into a nook of the Ocala National Forest. We are surrounded on 3 sides by forest, and you can ride or hike straight from any of the many trailheads on property! We offer 30 and 50amp sites, there is a bath house with full bathrooms and laundry, a Community Kitchen you are welcome to use, a screened in Pavilion for meals or hanging out, a POOL! (yes you read that right!) and a Clubhouse with couches, games and all! We have a few rentals (a cabin and RV) and we are working on getting more. We do have wifi on the property, and we also offer golf cart rentals. If you have horses, you'll love coming to Black Horse. We are surrounded by countless trails through the forest with the trail heads sitting right on property, two barns for horses, many outdoor stalls and paddocks, wash racks, and an extra large riding arena. There is world class fishing nearby at the St. John's River and we are right near many beautiful springs - which, if you have never spent time in a natural spring you will absolutely want to check that out! Kayaking, tubing, swimming galore in crystal clear waters. We are a 20 minute drive from the Villages which offers shopping, dining, and activities, as well as 20 minutes to historic Mount Dora which is a beautiful artsy downtown village. We are 1 hour from Daytona & New Smyrna, 1 hour from Orlando (Disney anyone?). There is plenty to do on the ranch and nearby the ranch. You will have a blast. We'll see you by the campfire!
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Full hookups
Oceanside Organics Farm

16. Oceanside Organics Farm

100%
(10)
New Smyrna Beach, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Oceanside Organics, a peaceful 4-acre regenerative farm in mainland New Smyrna Beach, Florida. We’re a working organic farm focused on soil health and sustainability—with vegetable fields, food forests, and happy animals all around. Wake up to roosters crowing, watch goats play in the morning sun, and explore our gardens or simply unplug and recharge. Whether you're stopping through or staying a while, this is a laid-back, eco-friendly spot to reconnect with nature—just minutes from the beach.
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Electrical hookup
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NiceStay🏕️

17. NiceStay🏕️

83%
(9)
Hawthorne, FL · 4 sites
Summer Savel! Book now and enjoy 10% OFF your stay. Peace, nature, and relaxation are waiting for you! ✨ ZB6WUFE5 Escape to NiceStay for a romantic getaway with firelight nights, slow days, and a little mischief under the stars—moments you’ll always remember.
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Camp Stella Lake Dome

18. Camp Stella Lake Dome

100%
(8)
Crescent City, FL · 1 site
Stargazing Lakefront geodesic dome with the most amazing sunsets! Stop and take a breath! This property offers a tranquil and relaxing feeling within walking distance to downtown. Not to mention FREE boat parking.! The property is located on the back side of the main homes property. We offer privacy and seclusion from the main home with a privacy fence and private entrance with a separate waterfront area. The dome is fully furnished and has an outdoor bathroom. The bathroom has running hot water with a rainfall shower head and a flushing toilet. We’ve taken Glamping to the next level. We include complimentary snacks! The Dome has a small kitchenette area with a mini fridge/freezer and a microwave. A propane grill is provided as well as an electric griddle. The Dome has A/C and a portable heater is available upon request. Enjoy some of the most magical sunsets your eyes can withstand. The sky lights up with most vibrant colors of orange, pinks and blues. While visiting us, take a row on the lake in the complimentary kayaks. You’re a short drive to the Famous Daytona Beach and the magnificent St. Augustine and many other beaches and cool landmarks. If you like to hike, Dunns state park is a 10 minute drive and Ocala National Forest is also a short drive away. Numerous natural springs are located throughout the area, many within an hours drive. If you’re celebrating a specific occasion we can jazz up the area ahead of time for you. ** For an additional charge. We offer charcuterie boards
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HandS Homestead Hipcamp

19. HandS Homestead Hipcamp

97%
(112)
Fort Mc Coy, FL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: We are on 3 private wooded acres just minutes outside of Ocala Natl. Forest and Silver Springs State Park. Plenty of wildlife and activities in the surrounding areas along with natural hiking trails, canoe and kayak launch sites and 15 minutes from shopping stores. We offer cookouts, yard games, tents and privacy. Our property is secured with a locked gate so your vehicle and belongings are always safe. We also offer transportation to nearby venues so you don't have to find parking for your vehicle, guided nature trail hikes, meals cooked and ready for you after a day of adventure, tent rentals, firewood and much more. We require 24 hours notice on all bookings. All extras are paid for when services are performed.
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Tiny House + Marina near springs!

20. Tiny House + Marina near springs!

97%
(18)
Seville, FL · 1 site
Brand new waterfront tiny house with amazing sunsets and views 😍 Message me for weekly and monthly significant discounts. Bring your boat and toys as there’s so much to do in nature. Fish off the deck or from the yard, zip over to the springs in 10 minutes or head over to the St Johns river for a meal. Lawn games anre under the 5th wheel to use. There is a camp store on site for snacks, bait, drinks, ice, fire wood etc. and there are board games up there that you’re welcome to check out. We are surrounded by conservation land and we have one of the highest populations of bald eagles. We also have friendly squirrels that love to tap on the door for nuts 🥜 in the morning. Turtles, small alligators and a very diverse bird population to name a few are always around. Our internet is Starlink and isn’t the best by any stretch of the imagination, cell service is pretty good though.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Crescent Lake camping guide

Where to go

Haw Creek Preserve State Park

Abutting the southern part of Crescent Lake, Haw Creek Preserve State Park surrounds a blackwater creek that attracts paddlers wanting to take in views of the surrounding Florida cypress swamp. It's also a great place for birdwatching, particularly in the winter, when migratory birds flock to the area from the cooler north.

Dunns Creek Wildlife Management Area

Encompassing over 3,000 acres on the eastern part of Duns Creek, this preserved area is full of wildlife, ranging from frogs and lizards to white-tailed deer and bobcats. Birders bring your binoculars for a chance to spot yellow-crowned night herons, barred owls, and red-shouldered hawks. There are also trails for walking, cycling, and horseback riding, and tent camping is permitted.

Ocala National Forest

Encompassing over 400,000 acres, the Ocala National Forest is a prime spot for fishing, swimming, and paddling, with hundreds of lakes to choose from (not to mention four natural springs). It's also a great place for land-based recreation, with miles of trails, many of which are mountain biker- and equestrian-friendly. Camping options range from developed campgrounds to Civilian Conservation Corps cabins.

When to go

Crescent Lake is popular year-round, though you'll find the best temperatures for swimming between late spring and early fall, when the weather is at its warmest. The rainiest months are from June through August, tapering off in September. Come in October for warm-weather camping with a lower risk of tropical storms. If you're coming to fish, your best bet is to come in late spring or early summer during the spawning season.

Frequently Asked Questions

Crescent Lake, located in the Ocala National Forest, offers fishing, swimming, paddling, walking trails, mountain biking, and equestrian-friendly trails.

Crescent Lake, situated on the eastern part of Duns Creek, is home to a variety of wildlife including frogs, lizards, white-tailed deer, and bobcats. Birders can also spot yellow-crowned night herons, barred owls, and red-shouldered hawks.

Crescent Lake offers primitive group camping, Civilian Conservation Corps cabins, and reservable Hipcamps. Additionally, Faver-Dykes State Park, about a 40-minute drive from the eastern part of the lake, provides tent and RV sites with hookups. You can also explore different options for camping near Crescent Lake on Hipcamp.

The best time to visit Crescent Lake for swimming is between late spring and early fall, when the weather is warmest. For fishing, the late spring or early summer during the spawning season is recommended.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Popular Crescent Lake trips