Forest camping in Crescent Lake with campfires
Fish, swim, or go for a hike at this northern Florida lake.
92% (1458 reviews)
- Crescent Lake
92% (1458 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Crescent Lake
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Star Hosts in Crescent Lake
12 top forest campgrounds in Crescent Lake with campfires
92%
(102)
Camp Seminole Springs
100 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Fort Mc Coy, FL
Bring your mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks and fishing gear. We have it all here at Seminole Springs. We are open for tent camping.
Limited number of campsites with Tents on them in a variety of sizes available. First come, First serve.
These sites will have a slight upcharge. When you book, if you want to upgrade and reserve one of these sites, let us know and we will accommodate you.
We also have 3 units inside the lodge for the people who need just a step up from glamping, but not quite the whole hotel experience. These are beautiful comfortable rooms with half baths in the rooms. The showers are located in the lodge bathhouse. WE have the Jungle themed room, the Equestrian themed room and the Honeymoon Suite. Each unit comes equipped with its own hot tub. (To book any of these units, just send us a message and we will reserve it for you. The prices for these units are different than that campsite and glamping site prices.)
The Grist Mill is also available for rent too! This is a very romantic, yet rustic getaway equipped with a half bath as well. Very secluded and private overlooking the spring on one side and the water fall on the other. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and at night the sound of the waterfall will lull you to sleep. The shower is located in the Lodge bathhouse. (To book this unit you must send a message to us and we will reserve it for you. The price is different than the campsites but we will go over that with you)
WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR YOUR EVENT: TAKING BOOKINGS FOR WEDDINGS, CAR SHOWS, MUSIC EVENTS, ETC. LET US KNOW!
NOTE: TURN AT CAMP SEMINOLE SPRINGS SIGN ON HIGHWAY 21. Your GPS may tell you to turn at the wrong St. Make sure that you are turning at 244th...Your GPS may tell you to turn at 243rd Street (where the Orange Market it) which is a dead end street. Just go a little bit further until you see the sign for Camp Seminole Spring.
Bring bug spray and sun screen. If you need something, don't worry! There is a Dollar General, a gas station and a small cafe within walking distance.
We have 38 acres of camping sites nature trails for hiking and mountain biking.
Guests can park right on their site, or they have the option of parking and hiking into the woods to set up their site a bit more remote and off the beaten path.
This is rustic camping. We have a bathhouse located at the campsites with showers. The bathhouse at the Great Lodge will be ready by Fall 2022.
Whereas we do have garbage cans, we prefer that anything you bring into the property, you bring out with you.
We allow campfires.
Don't be surprised if you see a monkey or two in the trees...
The fishing is amazing in these parts, so if you are an angler, come and visit.
We have .75 miles of frontage on the Orange Creek. The creek flows into Lake Ocklawaha which just so happens to be one of the best bass fishing lakes in the USA. In fact, ten-pound bass are not uncommon from the Lake Ocklawaha River in the winter. Recently (2020), a 17.2-pound bass was caught there. The combined Ocklawaha and St. Johns drainage basin is possibly the most significant river-estuary waterway of Florida. This water system is of legendary reputation among anglers of largemouth bass who seek 10 pound plus trophy fish.
Conveniently located between Ocala and Gainesville in the heart of Orange Springs, Florida, Camp Seminole Spring is perfectly located for the traveler who wants to really connect with nature. It appears to be ‘off the beaten path’, yet it is close enough to civilization so that even the most seasoned camper can make a quick run to store should he or she need something not found in nature.
Camp Seminole Spring is mid-way (approx.. 22 miles) between Ocala and Gainesville, Florida, which are two thriving cities in this area of Florida. Ocala, the ‘horse capital of the world’ showcases a brand new multi-billion-dollar equestrian center which draws people from all over the world.
This scenic property has an artesian spring which pushes out 1.6 million gallons of water per day rated among the top three percent of water in the world with an 8.4 natural pH. This water fills the pond and then continues on to flow into Orange Creek.
Camp Seminole Springs was established in the 1940’s as a honeymoon resort and campground. The founders built a heart-shaped ‘pond-spring’ which is filled with the crystal-clear water pushed out from the spring where guests can lounge by the beach or gaze down into the bottom through the glass-like water or take a refreshing swim.
At the top of the hill overlooking the heart-shaped spring, one will find the rustic Great Lodge where guests can come and mingle with each other, enjoy a relaxing conversation and a drink on the veranda or just sit and watch the activity in and around the spring.
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$39
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98%
(178)
Hidden Gem
14 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · New Smyrna Beach, FL
Welcome to our HIDDEN GEM which is tucked away in 11 acres of beautiful oak trees. Splashed with Spanish moss this tropical paradise offers a serene experience and creates a perfect environment for the Monarch Butterfly to thrive. We offer hot outdoor showers and flushable toilets. Our sites are large and secluded.
We are 10 minutes from the white sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. Bring your boat if you like to fish. We are 3 minutes from the boat ramp which accommodates boats large and small to access off shore fishing at the Inlet or flats fishing at Mosquito Lagoon.
If you are a motorcycle enthusiast we are 30 minutes from Daytona Speedway and NSB Speedway. Kayak and surfing with your own or rentals are available.
All the popular attractions are one hour drive time from us. There are 5 Golf Courses in NSB as well as an array of fine dining, art shows and of course lots of sunshine.
As lifelong campers it is a pleasure to share our Hidden Gem with you. We love animals so bring your best friends along.
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$40
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93%
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The LODGE @ Runaway Bay
7 sites · Lodging1 acre · Seville, FL
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 3 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 12 total guests.
We do allow cannabis smoking on our property, in the common areas outside of the tents and cabins.
We offer our exclusive Magic M Meditations, Yoga, Plant Based Vegan, Vegetarian and Non Vegetarian Meal Options, Moxibustion, Kundalini, Tantra, 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.
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$75
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100%
(1)
Palm Jungle Beach Camp
1 site · RV1 acre · Palm Coast, FL
Secluded End-of-Road Camp Lot, nestled just off the beaten path to Jungle Hut Beach near Florida's A1A road in the Palm Coast "Hammock" area.
This tranquil spot boasts very few friendly retired neighbors, offering a peaceful retreat. It backs up to a Jungle Forrest with numerous trails and an excellent mountain bike course, with a boat launch conveniently nearby. There's a lot to explore in this hidden gem of the NE Florida coastline—a discovery you'll be delighted to stumble upon!
Public showers and bathrooms are accessible within a short 15-minute walk to the beach. Alternatively, the host can provide complimentary beach cruiser bikes, reducing the journey to just 5 minutes! Power, WiFi, outdoor shower, and water are available at the host's discretion, ensuring a comfortable stay.
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$38
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96%
(12)
Clean and comfortable
12 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Georgetown, FL
Learn more about this land: clean camping no drama no loudness no getting crazy no stealing peaceful camping here only everyone is welcomed to come and enjoy the outdoors in beautiful Georgetown Florida clean camping. No loudness, no getting crazy. Peaceful camping here only everyone is welcomed to come and enjoy the outdoors in beautiful Georgetown Florida
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$35
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100%
(1)
Magickal Oaks
2 sites · Tents20 acres · Crescent City, FL
Secluded campsite nestled in 20 acres of conserved land. Camp among beautiful ferns under a hardwood canopy of oaks, camphor, magnolias, etc. The site is in an agricultural setting and adjacent to railroad tracks. Practice conservation by having a minimal impact on the land. Primitive camping only - Leave no Trace. Bring your own water and pack out all waste.
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$25
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98%
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Serene Forested Blueberry Farm
11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Ft. Mc Coy, FL
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 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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$35
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Booked 1 time
Robbins Lodge
1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Pomona Park, FL
Originally a girls' camp, this property is rural, yet close to attractions (about 2 hours drive to Orlando and an hour to St. Augustine and Daytona Beach). It is approximately 9 acres, some of which is wetland/hummock, some lakefront (fronting on 2 lakes), some wooded (formerly orange groves) as well as meadow on the largest hill.
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$30
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The Griffin Ranch
1 site · Lodging30 acres · Fort Mc Coy , FL
One of Floridas old saw mills. Located on a 30-acre ranch minutes from the Ocala Forest and springs like Salt Springs, Juniper and Silversprings.
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$89
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(24)
J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL
1 site · RV1 acre · Silver Springs, FL
Beautiful high and dry corner lot with privacy hedge and full hook ups in the highly sought after Wilderness RV Resort. Our property is nestled within the tranquil Ocala National Forest, complete with tons of resort amenities! Did we mention our resort is located on a portion of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Highway!
Come Explore the Local Area!
The Florida freshwater springs are a natural and tropical central Florida paradise with pristine crystal clear waters. Enjoy the wide array of wildlife the Ocala National Forest and the Florida freshwater springs offer! Our property is located just minutes from Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Alexander Springs! Do you love the "Lake Life?" Central Florida is known for their beautiful lakes such as Lake George and Lake Kerr! Love to canoe or kayak? There are tons of canoe runs throughout this area of central Florida. In fact, you can canoe or kayak on the Ocklawaha River with direct river access from the resort!
Love mountain biking? Check out the Santos Trailhead which offers over 30 miles of mountain bike trails with three levels of difficulty! One visit to Santos Trailhead and you'll see why so many people say that these are the BEST bike trails in Florida!
Explore a Bit Farther!
From our property's location and with a short drive, you can easily access the following towns and/or cities:
Orlando - 1.5 hour drive
Daytona Beach - 1 hour drive
Gainesville - 30 minute drive
Crystal River - 1 hour drive
The Villages - 45 minute drive
Enjoy the many amenities that Wilderness RV Resort offers:
* Community Pool and Hot Tub
* Full Hook Up Service
* Direct Access to the Ocklawaha River (canoe/kayak rentals through resort)
* Direct Access to Florida Greenway Hiking Trail
* Clubhouse/Lodge
* On Site Restaurant
* On Site Candy Shop (w/ Whoopie Pies)
* Laundry Facility
* Bathhouse
* Recreation Room (Ping Pong, Pool, Darts)
* Private Mail Box
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$48
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Waterfront Island Bungalow
1 site · Lodging6 acres · FL
Drayton Island is a private island (only accessible by boat*) on Lake George and the St. John's River in North Central Florida, home of the manatee and crystal clear fresh water springs and part of the historical "Bartram Trail". We are on 6 secluded, jungle acres with 12 more additional available for exploring. We have a canoe and a pontoon boat that seats 8 people available for guided charter. You can explore the shoreline, find hidden canals or be at one of our crystal clear, freshwater springs in about 15 minutes. Enjoy stunning sunrises from our private dock, watch the wildlife from anywhere on the property.
NO CLEANING FEES :)
*private water taxi may be available for $50 round trip. If you need a water taxi please inquire in regards to availability before booking.
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$135
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Marci's Magical Lakefront Oasis
3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Ocklawaha , FL
Beautiful spot overlooking Lake Weir in The Ocala National Forest.
Watch the otters play and count the many different birds that make this lake their home. Treat yourself to
incredible sunsets every night as the sun disappears into the water and enjoy the awesome reflection of the moon as it sets on the lake.
(Check the moonrise/moonset tables to see if there is a visible moon during your intended stay - it really is an incredible sight).
We have an amazing outdoor shower, with hot and cold running water, overlooking the lake.
The extra large soaking bathtub is available for your use for $20 per stay if there are not other campers at the time due to us only having one bathroom available. Great for relaxing, bathing kids, or a very romantic evening.
Canoe, stand up paddle board and kayak available for your use at no charge.
You can paddle to nearby Gator Joe's which is an awesome spot on the lake for great food, drinks, and live music.
Electric and water hookup (garden hose) both sites.
RV 30 amp electric hookup, as well as regular 15 amp electric hookup on hilltop site.
Many trees on the property makes it tricky for large vehicles to maneuver, therefor we have a limit of 25 feet including tow vehicle.
Dockside site has 15 amp hookup. We do have an adapter to connect to 30 amp hookup. It is closer to the house and bathroom than site 2 and has more shade and easy access to the dock.
Pontoon boat rentals are available down the road.
Being on the lake we do have mosquitos but they are mostly an issue at dusk and dawn for about an hour but we are out in nature so insect encounters of all kinds are to be expected.
If there is a nice breeze, which is often the case, you can enjoy the sunset from the rocker loveseat at the edge of our dock.
We also have citronella torches available for rent.
We also offer a large bundle of firewood for $10.
Campers MUST check in by 10 pm. We recommend arriving during daylight whenever possible.
It is important you understand that our property is not in the wilderness. We are NOT a commercial campground.
We have a couple of acres in a residential area and there are homes near the campsite. That being said, you will have complete privacy at your campsites as the two sites are on opposite ends of the property and you will not see me at all other than when you check in, unless you desire to do so.
Both campsites face the lake however, and you may see some fisherman out there from time to time, but I guarantee you will see much more wildlife than people.
Each site has its own fire pit.
Our guests love this place because of the lake, the incredible sunsets and moonsets over the lake, and all the incredible wildlife we have here, as you can see from the reviews.
Well behaved pets are welcome off leash as long as they are supervised and don't bother other campers. They are not allowed on the porches. Please pick up any mess that is in the path of foot traffic. There is a $20 pet fee per pet per stay. Add it under extras. Pet sitting is available for an additional charge.
I'm a professional photographer with 30 years of experience. Please inquire if you are interested in having your portrait made at this incredible location.
We are 20 minutes from world famous Silver Springs, 20 minutes from Ocala Drive-In Movie Theater that usually shows great films for both kids and adults, and 20 minutes from the Santos Trailhead that offers world class biking and hiking paths.
Unfortunately, I cannot do anything about the people that come here that have not read the description, expecting a wilderness campground and choose to leave a negative review based on that but everyone that has read the description has loved it here and many return.
Pets
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$55
/ night
Dog-friendly getaways
Available this weekend
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Forest camping in Crescent Lake with campfires guide
Overview
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.
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.
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