The best camping in Crescent Lake

Name: Crescent Lake
Address: Crescent Lake
Rating: 4.812

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% (3.8K) • 4,614 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Crescent Lake

Camp Seminole Springs

1. Camp Seminole Springs

94%

(373)

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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Campfires

True Trail Farm

2. True Trail Farm

96%

(209)

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

3. Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

98%

(364)

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

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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Campfires

Tangerine Hideaway

6. Tangerine Hideaway

99%

(74)

Mount Dora, FL · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

6 full hookup sites, and 5 camping sites. 10 mins from downtown Mount Dora, FL We have improved access to the property for folks with the larger rigs. We are still under construction at some sites. We are upgrading the sites to provide full hookup. We are dog friendly, but must be on leash...

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Home of Many Miniature Animals

7. Home of Many Miniature Animals

97%

(309)

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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Campfires

Lakeside RV Sites

8. Lakeside RV Sites

100%

(176)

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 and 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.

Pets

Full hookups

Harmony Farm

9. Harmony Farm

99%

(100)

New Smyrna Beach, FL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Stay at a Florida Pollinator Sanctuary just minutes from the Beach. Harmony Farm is more than a place to pitch a tent—it’s a working sanctuary created for bees, butterflies, native plants, wildlife, and the people who love them. Settle beneath our beautiful Florida live oaks, explore the farm, discover our pollinator gardens, watch butterflies and bees at work, and experience a quieter, more meaningful side of New Smyrna Beach. Settle into your campsite, enjoy a campfire under the trees, explore nature trails, and slow down surrounded by Florida’s natural beauty. Our 5 RV/tent sites provide a quiet, natural place to camp, relax and reconnect with the outdoors. As an agritourism farm and pollinator sanctuary, Harmony Farm offers more than an overnight campsite. Guests can experience our gardens, native plants, butterflies and bee experiences while exploring the property. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend camping getaway, a unique farm stay, or an opportunity to experience Florida nature up close, Harmony Farm gives you a little bit of all three. 📍 New Smyrna Beach, Florida — just minutes from the beach 🏕️ Farm Stay camping from $40/night for 2 guests 👥 Additional guests: $5/night each, up to 5 guests 🔥 Campfires permitted 🐾 Pets welcome Come stay. Explore. Unplug. Come Find Your Harmony. 🌿

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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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Campfires

Cross Florida Greenway

12. Cross Florida Greenway

97%

(15)

State park in Florida · 117 sites

Discover Cross Florida Greenway's scenic trails and diverse activities.

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Toilets

Campfires

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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Campfires

Pennylane Farm

14. Pennylane Farm

99%

(99)

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.

Pets

Full hookups

Wolf Branch Ranch

15. Wolf Branch Ranch

100%

(11)

Mount Dora, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to our peaceful 2.5-acre retreat in Mount Dora, Florida—a scenic and relaxing getaway perfect for recharging. Our property features a beautiful round lake filled with lotus flowers and large lily pads, creating a truly serene setting. Guests can choose from a variety of unique accommodations, including our charming Pinup Shop Cottage, a cozy yurt, or primitive campsites for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. No matter where you stay, you’ll have access to our unique outdoor shower with hot water, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing shower surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors. Camping areas are nestled beneath majestic live oak trees, offering plenty of shade and comfort—even during Florida’s warmer months. Guests often spot local wildlife, including sandhill cranes, alligators, turtles, ducks, armadillos, rabbits, and a wide variety of native birds. Despite the quiet, natural setting, we’re conveniently located just five minutes from historic downtown Mount Dora, known for its charming shops, restaurants, and frequent festivals and events. We’re also five minutes from Renninger’s, popular for antiques, flea market finds, and fresh fruits and vegetables. The property is centrally located near several of Florida’s most beautiful natural springs, including Wekiwa Springs, Kelly Park/Rock Springs, and Blue Spring State Park, as well as numerous state parks and local attractions. With easy access to destinations like Walt Disney World and the World Equestrian Center, our retreat is the perfect home base for both relaxation and adventure.

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Toilets

Full hookups

Timakwa Lakeside Campsites

16. Timakwa Lakeside Campsites

100%

(4)

Mc Intosh, FL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

TIMAKWA Lakeside Campsites are located on the west side of Orange Lake, Florida—once inhabited by Timucuan Indians, Spanish missionaries, and local fishermen. The campsites sit beneath shady cypress tree limbs on the north side of the property, which is teeming with sandhill cranes, eagles, cattle, and other wildlife. Relaxation is built into the landscape. Whether you enjoy kayaking, fishing, or birdwatching, our campsites offer something for everyone. You’ll also have access to a private boat ramp and covered boat slips. Each campsite includes or has access to the following amenities: • Picnic tables • Private bathrooms • Outdoor showers • 110V power outlets • Potable water By Special Request: • 30/50 amp RV partial hookups • Boat ramp access • Fish-cleaning station • Firepit access • Grill

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Sun Outdoors St. Augustine

17. Sun Outdoors St. Augustine

100%

(1)

St. Augustine, FL · 123 sites · RVs, Lodging

Experience the charm of Old Florida at Sun Outdoors St. Augustine, previously known as Compass RV Resort. This unique RV park stands out as one of the premier destinations near St. Augustine, Florida, offering a variety of site options to suit every traveler’s needs, including full hookup sites, patio sites, and buddy sites for those traveling with friends. The resort is divided into three distinct sections: The Grove, The Pond, and The Oasis, each providing a unique atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment. Guests can take advantage of a spacious dog park, a refreshing swimming pool, and a well-equipped fitness center. Additional amenities include a convenient laundry room and a scenic nature trail that meanders through the property, perfect for leisurely strolls. At Sun Outdoors St. Augustine, you'll find a welcoming community that hosts a variety of fun planned activities, ensuring there's always something to do. With its proximity to St. Augustine's rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local shops and restaurants, this RV park is the ideal base for exploring the area. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience all that this exceptional St. Augustine RV park has to offer. Reserve your spot today! NOTE: There is a maximum of two pets per reservation with a $50 non-refundable fee per reservation

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Toilets

Full hookups

Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

18. Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

93%

(52)

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!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Lady Winona's Camp

19. Lady Winona's Camp

91%

(69)

De Leon Springs, FL · 6 sites

Welcome to Lady Winona's camp, a peaceful retreat nestled on two acres of scenic beauty in west Volusia County, just a short drive from Daytona Beach. Situated on a beautiful spring-fed lake, our camp offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Please note that our camp is currently in the early stages of development, so there are no bathroom facilities, electricity, or running water available on-site. However, if you're self-contained and seeking a rustic camping experience, this little slice of paradise is the perfect destination. For a low rate, you can enjoy the serene surroundings and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our lakefront property. Take advantage of our canoe and rowboat to explore the tranquil waters, or simply relax and unwind on the shore. If you like to fish, there is the lake. Bring your own bait. Nearby, the charming town of Barberville is just three miles away, offering amenities and attractions for your convenience. And if you're feeling active, bring along your badminton equipment for a friendly game on our spacious grounds. Please be mindful of our peaceful atmosphere and respectful of our neighbors, who are located a comfortable distance away. Noise complaints are not welcome here, as we strive to maintain a quiet and serene environment for all guests to enjoy. While we continue to improve and expand our amenities, we invite you to experience the tranquility of Lady Winona's camp and create memories that will last a lifetime. DeLeon Springs state park is only a couple of miles away. They have a very unique breakfast there. Check it out while you are here.

Pets

Ocean Grove RV Resort

20. Ocean Grove RV Resort

86%

(33)

Butler Beach, FL · 1 site

Ocean Grove Resort is a vacation destination located just blocks away from St. Augustine Beach and only 7 miles south of the historic district. We have an amazing pool-side restaurant and bar, or you can enjoy a variety of other restaurants along with the convenience of having unique shops, grocery stores, and other entertainment venues nearby.We offer several activities year-round for our guests to enjoy, such as horseshoes, basketball, bocce ball, holiday parties, trivia on Thursdays, Karaoke on Fridays, live music on Saturdays, fish from our pier, launch a kayak off our ramp, swim in our heated pool, or go for a relaxing soak in our heated spa. Stay as busy as you want or simply kick back, relax, and enjoy your stay

Pets

Full hookups

The best family-friendly campsites in Crescent Lake

Camp Seminole Springs

94%

(373)

Fort Mc Coy, FL · 103 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

True Trail Farm

96%

(209)

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

98%

(364)

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Home of Many Miniature Animals

97%

(309)

Mount Dora, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Celestial Acres

98%

(160)

Hastings, FL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our little homestead. Nestled amidst the serene countryside, this quaint campground offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by lush farms and sprawling horse pastures, the air is filled with the sweet scent of wildflowers and the gentle rustle of leaves. With only a handful of RV spots and a few cozy tents scattered among the trees, guests can truly reconnect with nature while roasting marshmallows over crackling campfires under a blanket of stars. Here, the pace slows down, allowing visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in the simple pleasures of rural life. We just finished (well 2 years ago) traveling the country in an RV with five of our 7 kids (oldest two were in college) and we had a terrible time finding places to stay in Saint Augustine when we came home to visit. I hope that we can offer some nice people a safe and beautiful place to park their rig. Things to do: The property is near the historic St. Augustine, a fun walkable/bikeable city, lots of state parks and of course an awesome beach! Other things to note: 6 Miles away is 4 Lakes Campground with dumping facilities

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

Wooded areas in a horse pasture

94%

(449)

St. Augustine, FL · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Campsites are on a small horse farm located just 4 miles from downtown St Augustine and 5 miles from Vilano Beach. Many hiking and water activities within 30 minutes. You select the space you where you wish to set up camp. The entrance off the dirt road is tricky for large rigs or trailers more than 35' may not have easy access. Our sites offer potable water, a shower, picnic tables, a toilet, wifi, trash disposal, space for campfires, and we are pet friendly! We can accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers. Our guests love staying here: "Camping at Gayle’s property was an amazing experience. We shared the field with 3 other campers but there was still plenty of room between sites. Land is flat and has fire pit spaces and BBQ grills. Outdoor shower was appreciated even though we didn’t use it & it was great to have the port-o-potty on site. The best part was getting to see the animals!"

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The best dog-friendly campsites in Crescent Lake

Camp Seminole Springs

94%

(373)

Fort Mc Coy, FL · 103 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

True Trail Farm

96%

(209)

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

98%

(364)

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Tangerine Hideaway

99%

(74)

Mount Dora, FL · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Home of Many Miniature Animals

97%

(309)

Mount Dora, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Lakeside RV Sites

100%

(176)

New Smyrna Beach, FL · 2 sites

Pets

Full hookups

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Andrew

5 days ago

25 ft truck camper

3 nights at Anastasia Island RV Pad Rental

Great Place to stay, Sherri & Robert are Great Host!!!

Azaleas bloom throughout the property during the spring. We have many other flowers and fruit trees around the property which attract lots of birds,

Ella

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

2 nights at Twin Cedars

Such a lovely place with lovely owners! I would reccomend this place over and over again to anyone looking to stay in st Augustine.

Candy

2 weeks ago

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lakeside RV Sites

Lakeside is, by far, the best Hipcamp we ever visited. Our stay was SO relaxing and peaceful! We slept in everyday because even our pets were not disturbed and were happy to sleep late!! We had planned to check out Ponce Inlet but found ourselves never wanting to leave the beautiful lake and never even unhooked our camper from the truck. Laura was such a gracious host even when we misread her directions and entered the campsite from the wrong direction. We DEFINITELY recommend her place and we're already booked for Thanksgiving with our hipcamper friends! Looking forward to making memories by the lake with them. Lakeside will be our go-to camp spot as it's only an hour away from our home. Thank you Laura for providing such a great camping experience!!

Ever_Explore

2 weeks ago

15 ft rooftop tent

4 nights at Tangerine Hideaway

Good place to stay for a few days. Close to town for easy shopping. Will definitely be back

Christopher

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Tangerine Hideaway

Well maintained sites, easy access, beautiful area, will definitely come back!

Allison

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Harmony Farm

Lovely hosts! We thoroughly enjoyed our time here- clean, quite(besides the occasional train), within a close driving distance to stores & the Canaveral National Sea Shore. Will definitely be back next time we are in the area.

Tara

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

3 nights at The FOLC Farm Campground

I enjoyed my stay at The FOLC Farm. The hostess, Catherine, was very responsive which I really appreciated since it was my first solo camping trip. The outdoor shower and access to the outdoor sink and composting toilet was very convenient. I sat in the Adirondack chairs in the evenings which was nice. I loved the location being so close to the trails and 20 minutes from other areas in Gainesville. A tip for other campers would be to bring your own water or a water filter. Although the well water is safe to drink, it has a strong sulfuric odor. I used the well water to take showers, wash dishes and brush teeth. The odor does not linger. It's just unappetizing. Also, if you're not from Florida, know that the state bird is the Palmetto Bug (giant flying roaches). Be aware that they like to hang out in the outhouse where the composting toilet is at night, but they clear out at first light. I used the outhouse during the day the whole time I was there and saw zero. Thanks again to everyone at The FOLC Farm! I definitely look forward to staying there again the next time I'm in Gainesville.

Randy

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to True Trail Farm

Communication was excellent. Directions were great. The site was fantastic! The small outdoor bathroom is clean & modern. The shower has hot & cold water. They even provide soaps & hair products! We met the owners, & they introduced us to the many goats, the resident pig, the two turkeys, & a bunch of roaming chickens. We tent, & there was plenty if shaded space, an electrical outlet, and access to water. The historic city of Deland is only a short distance away, with an outdoor market every Friday night. There are great places to eat, to get a drink, or to hear live music. AND the goats are the best!

Savanna

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

It was really cute and nice to stay in! And very peaceful. Directions had me slightly confused at first but other than that I would definitely recommend

Aaron

3 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Tangerine Hideaway

Hidden gem. Check in was very easy. Nice facilities. We will definitely be back!

Matt

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Seminole Springs

The place was quiet and the spring was nice and relaxing. Everyone was very helpful and nice. The dogs enjoyed the spring and the trail.

Matt

September 2026

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to The FOLC Farm Campground

Great spot! Perfect for overnighting in my Tesla and close to UF to see my daughter. Catherine was very easy to work with and communicated very well. Will def stay here again!

Cindy-jo

September 2026

18 ft campervan

2 nights at True Trail Farm

This was a great spot to camp for the night, and so fun in the morning! Goats, chickens, a donkey and pig. All were super friendly and looking for scratches. Bought some farm fresh eggs which were excellent. The bathroom was well kept and the shower had the expected hot water when you needed it, plus the host provides some nice body wash, shampoo & conditioner. Since we were up in the area working on the beach. The bathroom was an important part of our stay. Electric was easy to hook up to. We came in a van; no interior shower, home build. It was easy to park and find our way onto the property. Both hosts are very nice and we really enjoyed our stay. In fact, so much we will definitely be back. Fun concept, lovely folks, hosts and guests, and if it had not been raining I’m sure we would have all been chilling by the sweet fire pit they have set up. Recommend highly!

Jamie

September 2026

36 ft Class A

With pets

Weekend Trip to Pennylane Farm

We had a wonderful holiday weekend . It was quiet and the area around it was great. We found two places to hike. A great dog park. Of course Mt Dora is always a great place to walk and shop. We lov going to Rennigers Antique mall . All super close . Thanks for accommodations Mark.

Rebekah

September 2026

Weekend Trip to True Trail Farm

Such a great spot! We loved staying here, it was perfect location really close to downtown DeLand but also enough space to enjoy the property with the gorgeous low hanging trees and adorable animals. The Gypsy itself had what you needed and more for a small space. You can tell it was designed well. And the futon itself was comfortable. We enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back!

Jennifer

September 2026

30 ft toy hauler

With pets

4 nights at Lakeside RV Sites

What a peaceful spot!! The lake spot is exactly what we needed to unwind and relax. We brought our 3 pups who loved being there as much as we did. We took our kayak on the lake which was great too. Even the daily storms lulled us farther into relaxation. We'd, definitely, come back.

Elizabeth

September 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Timakwa Lakeside Campsites

We absolutely loved the camping area. It was very open, but also very beautiful. The tree house over seeing the lake is a view to remember !

Danette

August 2026

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to True Trail Farm

I absolutely love this place! It’s our favorite spot when we go to Daytona. The hosts are so nice and the goats and the pig named Dixiebell are so friendly. It’s so peaceful. Very well kept the bathhouse is excellent. I highly recommend

Brittni

August 2026

24 ft Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Seminole Springs

this is truly a hidden gem and a magical place. we had almost the whole place to ourselves! Randy the property owner told us all about the history of the land and his preservation plans. the spring is wonderful and so refreshing and it was such a treat that we could share it with our dog! he had the best time swimming and walking around the creek! the sand boil is truly a natural wonder and we felt so lucky to experience it! i hope this place always stays this special, preserved, and natural!

Chad

August 2026

25 ft campervan

3 nights at Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

We absolutely LOVE this place! My wife in particular really appreciated the bathroom/shower building. So many little details and creature comforts. If we had horses I can imagine this place would be even MORE special. If we are ever in the area again we will certainly be coming back.

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

What are the recreational activities available at Crescent Lake?

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

What wildlife can be found at Crescent Lake?

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.

What camping options are available near Crescent Lake?

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.

What is the best time to visit Crescent Lake for swimming and fishing?

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.