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96% (3.7K) • 4,412 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in Crescent Lake
Serene Forested Blueberry Farm
1. Serene Forested Blueberry Farm
98%
(361)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Pennylane Farm
2. Pennylane Farm
99%
(95)
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
True Trail Farm
3. True Trail Farm
96%
(203)
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
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Rest Nest in Umatilla Florida
6. Rest Nest in Umatilla Florida
100%
(3)
Umatilla, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Rest Nest, our peaceful retreat space on a 40-acre working farm in Umatilla, FL. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your camper, you'll have a quiet, tucked-away spot surrounded by trees, fresh air, and open skies—just you, the birds, and the stars.
Our land is a mix of wild woods and cultivated gardens. We’re growing food and community with a focus on soil regeneration, native planting, and creating safe habitat for wildlife-and space for humans to rewild. You might spot monarchs in the pollinator beds, hear owls in the pine canopy, or get a giggle at our chickens free-ranging.
We're a family homestead, and you'll likely see signs of everyday farm life—children playing, garden beds in progress, and seasonal projects around the land. Rest Nest is designed to be a slow, intentional space that supports both rest and reconnection—with yourself, with the Earth, and with the rhythms of simple living.
Guests are welcome to walk our nature paths, explore native plantings, or simply connect and recharge by a small camp fire. Looking to unwind even more? You can book a session in our outdoor infrared sauna or cold plunge—simple ways to soothe your body and support your well-being while you’re here.
We’re just minutes from Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, and the Ocala National Forest, and a short drive to Mount Dora, Ormond Beach, and even Orlando for a day trip. Local gems like Sunsational Country Store and Atwood’s U-pick Farm are just up the road if you want to explore nearby.
You'll likely see us around the farm, and we're always happy to lend a hand or say hello if you’d like company. That said, we’re also mindful of your space and will let you enjoy the peace and quiet unless you reach out.
We ask that guests respect the natural rhythm of this space—quiet evenings, mindful fires, and leaving no trace are all part of what keeps Rest Nest nourishing for everyone who visits.
Come root in, breathe deep, and let the land work its quiet magic.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Lakeside RV Sites
7. Lakeside RV Sites
100%
(170)
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.
Pets
Full hookups
Camp Seminole Springs
8. Camp Seminole Springs
94%
(366)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Tangerine Hideaway
9. Tangerine Hideaway
99%
(68)
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
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
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.
Pets
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Good Earth Farm
14. Good Earth Farm
99%
(228)
Hastings, FL · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Attention- the camp ground closes at dusk. New arrivals will not be permitted unless you have spoken to and made specific arrangements with the hosts. Ty
Learn more about this land:
Good Earth Farm - Relax - Enjoy - Experience. A quiet and beautiful setting on a working farm in Northeast Florida. Great place for touring Bicyclists, tent campers or glampers - less than 3 miles from the Florida Bike Trail at Hastings, Florida, with hard-surface road access into main property. Fun farm animals and growing crops. A large barn venue with lighted sound stage - perfect for Reunions, Birthdays, Weddings and your special Event. Adjacent to large state conservation lands. Short distance to St. Johns River access and close to Historic St. Augustine and the Beach. Get up with the chickens and gather some Farm Fresh Eggs for breakfast. Good Earth Farm - an old Florida experience that you will never forget.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Anastasia Island RV Pad Rental
15. 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
Ocala Forest ATV Basecamp
16. 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
Sun Outdoors St. Augustine
17. Sun Outdoors St. Augustine
100%
(1)
St. Augustine, FL · 101 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
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Grass Campers Country Cow Farm
18. Grass Campers Country Cow Farm
97%
(19)
Reddick, FL · 70 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Come experience a true raw Florida country life paradise at our 10 acre farm and cattle pasture . Our campsite is perfectly located between Gainesville Florida and Ocala Florida with a short 20 minute drive to either destination.
This property is Surrounded by horse farms, cattle pastures, natural springs, The World Equestrian Center, and many lakes and rivers.
At the property itself you can visit with the cows, relax in the shade or hang out in our covered entertainment space.
You will have the opportunity to truly experience all of the beautiful nature that central florida has to offer from kayaking, canoeing, horseback riding and even zip lining. There is so much to do within minutes of your camping location.
You will experience total tranquility on this country dead end road yet be close enough to small food marts, local diners, and quaint shops to cater to any needs you might have during your stay. This property has wide open spaces for camping complete with a large 3700 sq ft pole barn common area with 10 foot ceiling fans, cafe style lighting, a bar top and seating for entertaining or eating, a large fire pit with bench seating, air conditioned bathrooms and running water. A great place to come alone or with a large group of friends. This farm property is a convenient 20 minutes from The World Equestrian Center, 8 minutes from Orange Lake, 10 minutes to Canyon ziplining, 15 minutes from Blue Highway Pizza, 20 minutes to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, 28 minutes to Silver Springs State Park, 30 minutes to Cactus Jacks trail rides, 30 minutes to Santos Trail Head, 35 minutes to Hog Waller, 45 minutes to Rainbow River and many more exciting outdoor adventures. So come stay on our wide open pastures here at Grass Campers Farm and enjoy everything nature has to offer here in central Florida.
** sites include indoor bathrooms and an outdoor shower
** sites also include a bag of grain to feed the cows
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Runaway Bay Lodge
19. Runaway Bay Lodge
94%
(179)
Seville, FL · 6 sites
Runaway Bay Lodge - a place where Love and Magic Happen
After the 4 mile trip through The Lake George State Forest, you will pass two small RV campgrounds of Pine Island.
Runaway Bay Lodge is the first private property past The Pine Island RV Campground, on the right side of the street.
OUR PROPERTY IS NOT LOCATED IN THE CAMPGROUND.
We have 4 separate units on our property, including 2 cabins and 4 yurts, Each cabin and yurt is set up with only one bed, in each. We are a perfect spot for solo journeyers and couples. Larger groups can rent multiple units. We also host 3rd party retreats for up to 18 total guests.
Not all campsites have water views, from the units, but none are more than 30 feet to the water…
We do allow cannabis smoking on our property, in the common areas outside of the tents and cabins.
We offer our exclusive holistic services and Yoga, Plant Based Vegan, Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian Meal Options, Energy work and other holistic well-being services, Small Group Retreats, Boat Tours and Boat Rentals.
Use of a private vehicle is required.
The property is on a natural 46000 acre lake that is connected to The Atlantic Ocean by The St Johns River.
This location offers abundant wildlife refuge.
This can be exciting, but dangerous.
Please do not feed or approach the wildlife.
You may see alligators, snakes, otters, manatees, as well as several species of fish and birds, including, but not limited to, american bald eagles, egret, heron, seagulls, bass, mullet, crappie, bluegill and more.
Please simply use caution and do not attempt to disturb the animals or their environment.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Oceanside Organics Farm
20. 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
M
Mckenzie
1 week ago
30 ft travel trailer
With kids
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!
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A
Ashliegh
1 week ago
Tent
This was our 2nd time camping here and we enjoyed the off grid campsite. The host has always been amazing and quick with responding and very accommodating. Peaceful campsite tucked in the woods with privacy. It was very peaceful and to our selves. We would defaintly camp here again!
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T
Tiffany
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We had a wonderful evening there. The shower is an outside, however it is private. The water was warm. The bathroom was very clean. The whole experience was wonderful.
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stacy
2 weeks ago
40 ft fifth wheel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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.
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A
Amy
2 weeks ago
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
Fantastic view and host for our first stay with hipcamp!
See moreD
Danielle
2 weeks ago
20 ft campervan
Such a beautiful and peaceful location. Easy drive to Universal theme park area with a rural feel. The owners even gave us eggs on our way out - perfect for our breakfast tomorrow. Would definitely recommend to anyone visiting the area!
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E
Elizabeth
3 weeks ago
1 night at Serene Forested Blueberry Farm
Very cute spot with a comfy bed! The outdoor shower was great but not very private as there are big gaps in the siding, if that's something you care about.
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H
Hayley
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
I loved camping at true trail farms
Truly felt amazing to be outdoors with all the animals and fire pit & our tent :)
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J
Julie
3 weeks ago
With kids
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.
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Charlie
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to True Trail Farm
We’d loved our quick stay here! Very comfortable and Kathryn was a wonderful host. Very close to town and easy to bike around which was a mess for us!
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J
James
3 weeks ago
26 ft travel trailer
With pets
Lovely site that was very quiet with hook ups close by. Waking up was very pleasant with the sunrise over the field and horses standing close by when the sun set down
See moreB
Blaine
3 weeks ago
1 night at True Trail Farm
Awesome farm and really cool people. They are true animal heroes. And the place was super cute.
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J
Jenna
July 2026
With pets
I stayed in the Beehive for 1 night with my dog. We thoroughly enjoyed it and will be returning. Such a cute and comfy spot.
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T
Tim
July 2026
31 ft Class A
Nice location! Very close to the beach and old town St. Augustine. A very quiet location. Will stay again!
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M
Madison
July 2026
Weekend Trip to Serene Forested Blueberry Farm
Had the most amazing stay at Little Lulu! The property was easy to find and quick to get to Lulu. It was so cutely set up and had everything we needed. No need to buy/bring cooking supplies, she was stocked with everything! Only thing we bought was food and charcoal from the nearby market. Lulu was even stocked with s’mores supplies and lighter fluid! The bed and table were so cozy and provided the perfect ambiance. We used the stove for breakfast, cooking eggs straight from the farm! My favorite part were the two little kitties that kept us company. Spent the next day hiking in Salt Springs. 10/10 would return!
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A
Anthony
July 2026
Tent
With kids
Wonderful site. Quiet and peaceful. The host was quick to respond.
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T
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.
See moreV
Violet
July 2026
Tent
I absolutely loves it here! So much room and privacy. I definitely recommend for all types of camping. Totally awesome horses😊
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J
Jordan
July 2026
16 ft pop-up camper
With pets
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. 😁
See moreJ
Jessika
July 2026
Tent
We had a great stay at Kathryn’s property! She was incredibly kind, checked in on us each day, and made us feel very welcome. The animals were so sweet and were a highlight of our trip.
The only issue we had was due to our own inexperience with tent camping during a heavy rainstorm. When our gear got soaked, Kathryn kindly offered us her cottage for a very reasonable fee, which we were very grateful for. The location is also excellent, with easy access to the springs and plenty of nearby restaurants. We would definitely recommend staying here, especially for RV travelers!
See moreCrescent 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.
