The best campgrounds in Crescent Lake with hot tubs

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% (272)

Top-rated campgrounds

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% (272)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

96%

(69)

1 site · RV · 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

2. Runaway Bay Lodge

94%

(172)

7 sites · Lodging · 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 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.

3. Ocean Grove RV Resort

87%

(27)

2 sites · RVs · Butler Beach, FL

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

4. Radiant Beginnings

9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Keystone Heights, FL

Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Keystone Heights Fl, Radiant Beginnings Native American Church and healing center is a sacred sanctuary where nature, frequency and spirit unite for deep healing and renewal Founded and hosted by Radiance by Misty Dawn, and the Radiant family tribe, this retreat center offers guests a rare opportunity to re-connect with Earth and soul through multi-dimensional wellness experiences that blend ancient wisdom and modern frequency science. Our offerings include by David Sereda- the cube Tesla scalar wave healing as guests can choose to sleep within harmonic light and frequency fields designed to align your energy body and restore balance The Avatar Tree Biofeedback Garden- A living installation that responds to human emotion and frequency with color and sound guiding you into coherence with nature as you are lulled into a peaceful surrender by being connected to a 200 year old oak tree hanging from cocoon like hammocks in a lit up under the sea garden and projection light show with Crystal Sound bowl Healing. Interactive symphony of music played by the tree bio electric grid Reiki spiritual massages with crystal bio mat and cube frequencies. Ayurvedic Facials Spiritual, Art, food and grow classes. Fireside dinners in the Gazebo- Heart Warming locally sourced meals shared in community under the stars of for intimate gatherings prepared by our Radiant family church tribe. Cacao Ceremonies and Sound Healing Journeys-Open the heart through sacred cacao vibration release song and drum ceremony calling in the four corners and sacred masculine and feminine for recalibration of spirit. Overnight frequency Immersions-Stay overnight within the Cube Radiant Harmonics in our community space indoors with private bathroom-shower, bath Overnight accommodations include in our retreat experiences warm detox salt pool and jacuzzi. We honor all paths and traditions that seek truth and harmony with the creator and the Earth. Visit with intention. All stays are by request. and curated personally to each guests healing journey. Instant booking applies only to those who are using only the land without amenities. And it is $178 per person per night. Retreat is $356 for weekend friday-sunday per person

5. Luxury Hut with 5 Star Amenities

100%

(1)

7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Ormond Beach, FL

I turn my home into a unique place to stay, give it a try, I think you'll love it. Approx. 400 sq feet of living space. Available Amenities: Mini-Fridge Microwave Filtered & Chilled Water Fountain _____________________________________________ No Kitchen Access Due to Fire Hazards Cooking is Not Allowed on the Property, But Look Below; **Central Park is Within Walking Distance and has **Grills**, Gazebos, Picnic Pavilions, and Picnic Tables all at no Cost. 3.5 Miles Radius, 4 City Blocks in Size. Beautiful Nature Walks, Organic Gardens, Restrooms, Wildlife Preserve. For More Information Google Central Park Ormond Beach FL

6. Twin Cedars

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(46)

1 site · Tent, RV · Saint Augustine, FL

St. Augustine's original Alligator Farm was located adjacent to our property. We are one mile south of the NE FL Regional Airport and it's not unusual to see a biplane practising barrel rolls for an air show. We are 30-45 minutes from Jacksonville, birthplace of the Blue Angels, and 15 minutes from downtown St. Augustine, the nation's oldest continuously occupied city. Message me for discounts on long-term stays. Learn more about this land: Bring your tent, van or small camper and share our slice of paradise! You'll have the camp site all to yourself--we sometimes need to water the garden, but otherwise avoid the camping area when it's occupied. Enjoy a variety of seating areas on our half acre lot full of fruit trees and flowers, or watch the sunset from the hot tub. Camping is easy with washer, dryer, fridge, stove, microwave, dishes, coffee pot, toaster and blender, all in an air-conditioned shed. Don't want to cook inside? Use the propane Jennair grill with gazebo and lights. Clean up is a breeze with our stainless steel triple sink and 4 gal hot water tank. We're one block off US1 and 10-15 minutes by car to beach and downtown. Hang out around our stone fire pit or sit at our 6 person table with solar powered lighted umbrella. Wifi, electric and water included. Porta potty and outdoor shower with 8 gal. hot water tank. Two large outdoor sinks, one with 4 gal. hot water tank. Two locked gates in our chain link fence allow most RVs the option to pull through or back in. Water and 30A electric hookup located at corner of concrete pad, next to the Jennair gas grill. Relax on our Broyhill couch and easy chairs under the awning, and enjoy our latest addition, a fire table. Hang out in the new gazebo with mosquito netting and fabric panels on a Trex deck with a polycarbonate roof. Keep an eye out for hawks, owls, osprey and ibis. If you are extra lucky, you might spot our resident gopher tortoise! (If you do, please enjoy from a distance, they are protected.)

7. Gracie and Suzie’s Park

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(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Belleview, FL

We have 2.5 acres just south of Ocala, Florida. It’s very quiet here, with the occasional sound of cows and a friendly donkey next door. You might also hear a train about half a mile away. Guests have access to a hot tub and hot/cold outdoor shower, as well as Wi-Fi, water, and electricity. We host campers because we love meeting the wonderful people out there exploring the world. Previously, we welcomed campers on our oceanfront property in Mexico, a few hours north of Puerto Vallarta, for five years before moving back to the States to be closer to family. We have plenty of great stories to share from our adventures living and traveling throughout Mexico and the U.S. in our VW van!

8. Pine Tree Lane

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(2)

2 sites · RVs · Eustis, FL

A winding driveway leads you to easy access parking with a comfortable grassy area to enjoy, plenty of walking space and use of our guest pool during your stay. We are very. near lots of public access lakes and very walk-able towns including charming Mt Dora. Lots of walking trails and nature preserves also nearby. Direct drive to east or west coast via County roads. We are great tour guides to let you know what is going on around our area. Plenty to see and do, or just do nothing and enjoy our comfortable space.

Camper favorites in and near Crescent Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Radiant Beginnings

9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Keystone Heights, FL

Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Keystone Heights Fl, Radiant Beginnings Native American Church and healing center is a sacred sanctuary where nature, frequency and spirit unite for deep healing and renewal Founded and hosted by Radiance by Misty Dawn, and the Radiant family tribe, this retreat center offers guests a rare opportunity to re-connect with Earth and soul through multi-dimensional wellness experiences that blend ancient wisdom and modern frequency science. Our offerings include by David Sereda- the cube Tesla scalar wave healing as guests can choose to sleep within harmonic light and frequency fields designed to align your energy body and restore balance The Avatar Tree Biofeedback Garden- A living installation that responds to human emotion and frequency with color and sound guiding you into coherence with nature as you are lulled into a peaceful surrender by being connected to a 200 year old oak tree hanging from cocoon like hammocks in a lit up under the sea garden and projection light show with Crystal Sound bowl Healing. Interactive symphony of music played by the tree bio electric grid Reiki spiritual massages with crystal bio mat and cube frequencies. Ayurvedic Facials Spiritual, Art, food and grow classes. Fireside dinners in the Gazebo- Heart Warming locally sourced meals shared in community under the stars of for intimate gatherings prepared by our Radiant family church tribe. Cacao Ceremonies and Sound Healing Journeys-Open the heart through sacred cacao vibration release song and drum ceremony calling in the four corners and sacred masculine and feminine for recalibration of spirit. Overnight frequency Immersions-Stay overnight within the Cube Radiant Harmonics in our community space indoors with private bathroom-shower, bath Overnight accommodations include in our retreat experiences warm detox salt pool and jacuzzi. We honor all paths and traditions that seek truth and harmony with the creator and the Earth. Visit with intention. All stays are by request. and curated personally to each guests healing journey. Instant booking applies only to those who are using only the land without amenities. And it is $178 per person per night. Retreat is $356 for weekend friday-sunday per person

Luxury Hut with 5 Star Amenities

100%

(1)

7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Ormond Beach, FL

I turn my home into a unique place to stay, give it a try, I think you'll love it. Approx. 400 sq feet of living space. Available Amenities: Mini-Fridge Microwave Filtered & Chilled Water Fountain _____________________________________________ No Kitchen Access Due to Fire Hazards Cooking is Not Allowed on the Property, But Look Below; **Central Park is Within Walking Distance and has **Grills**, Gazebos, Picnic Pavilions, and Picnic Tables all at no Cost. 3.5 Miles Radius, 4 City Blocks in Size. Beautiful Nature Walks, Organic Gardens, Restrooms, Wildlife Preserve. For More Information Google Central Park Ormond Beach FL

Twin Cedars

100%

(46)

1 site · Tent, RV · Saint Augustine, FL

St. Augustine's original Alligator Farm was located adjacent to our property. We are one mile south of the NE FL Regional Airport and it's not unusual to see a biplane practising barrel rolls for an air show. We are 30-45 minutes from Jacksonville, birthplace of the Blue Angels, and 15 minutes from downtown St. Augustine, the nation's oldest continuously occupied city. Message me for discounts on long-term stays. Learn more about this land: Bring your tent, van or small camper and share our slice of paradise! You'll have the camp site all to yourself--we sometimes need to water the garden, but otherwise avoid the camping area when it's occupied. Enjoy a variety of seating areas on our half acre lot full of fruit trees and flowers, or watch the sunset from the hot tub. Camping is easy with washer, dryer, fridge, stove, microwave, dishes, coffee pot, toaster and blender, all in an air-conditioned shed. Don't want to cook inside? Use the propane Jennair grill with gazebo and lights. Clean up is a breeze with our stainless steel triple sink and 4 gal hot water tank. We're one block off US1 and 10-15 minutes by car to beach and downtown. Hang out around our stone fire pit or sit at our 6 person table with solar powered lighted umbrella. Wifi, electric and water included. Porta potty and outdoor shower with 8 gal. hot water tank. Two large outdoor sinks, one with 4 gal. hot water tank. Two locked gates in our chain link fence allow most RVs the option to pull through or back in. Water and 30A electric hookup located at corner of concrete pad, next to the Jennair gas grill. Relax on our Broyhill couch and easy chairs under the awning, and enjoy our latest addition, a fire table. Hang out in the new gazebo with mosquito netting and fabric panels on a Trex deck with a polycarbonate roof. Keep an eye out for hawks, owls, osprey and ibis. If you are extra lucky, you might spot our resident gopher tortoise! (If you do, please enjoy from a distance, they are protected.)

Gracie and Suzie’s Park

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Belleview, FL

We have 2.5 acres just south of Ocala, Florida. It’s very quiet here, with the occasional sound of cows and a friendly donkey next door. You might also hear a train about half a mile away. Guests have access to a hot tub and hot/cold outdoor shower, as well as Wi-Fi, water, and electricity. We host campers because we love meeting the wonderful people out there exploring the world. Previously, we welcomed campers on our oceanfront property in Mexico, a few hours north of Puerto Vallarta, for five years before moving back to the States to be closer to family. We have plenty of great stories to share from our adventures living and traveling throughout Mexico and the U.S. in our VW van!

Pine Tree Lane

100%

(2)

2 sites · RVs · Eustis, FL

A winding driveway leads you to easy access parking with a comfortable grassy area to enjoy, plenty of walking space and use of our guest pool during your stay. We are very. near lots of public access lakes and very walk-able towns including charming Mt Dora. Lots of walking trails and nature preserves also nearby. Direct drive to east or west coast via County roads. We are great tour guides to let you know what is going on around our area. Plenty to see and do, or just do nothing and enjoy our comfortable space.

Stories from the community

The Ohm Sweet Ohm yurt at Runaway Bay Lodge has high sides so that all the interior space is useable.

D

Derek

1 week ago

2 nights at Runaway Bay Lodge

Super nice folks Down to earth vibes Nice and quiet place to sleep

J

Josh

3 weeks ago

20 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Gracie and Suzie’s Park

Great visit dirt driveway is a little bumpy but totally worth the stay the people were super friendly and helpful and the property was secluded and very peaceful

Romantic Waterfront Glamping Tent with room to relax and enjoy dreaming to the serene sounds of nature after a beautiful sunset evening. We are clothing optional so you can loose your tan lines and 420 friendly so you can loose your stress and Relax in Nature at Runaway Bay Lodge.

S

Sherry

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Runaway Bay Lodge

We loved it, beautiful views, very friendly people. Good vibes would definitely will go back.

S

Shae

October 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Twin Cedars

This site was great. The site was well thought, very accomodating, and a beautiful, place to relax. The hosts were very kind and even went above and beyond to be great hosts. I highly recommend this spot!

S

Sarita

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

Quiet and very nice community. Everyone was friendly. Nice spot for the camper. We enjoyed ourselves. The only drawback about this community is there is no Wi-Fi.

B

Bree

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Runaway Bay Lodge

I recently had the pleasure of using Hi-Camp for my first camping experience, and it was truly exceptional! Kennedy and Kristina were outstanding hosts, going above and beyond to make our stay memorable. Kennedy, in particular, graciously waited for us to arrive well past our scheduled check-in time, providing us with a warm welcome and a comprehensive tour of the campsite. The atmosphere was incredibly relaxing, and falling asleep to the soothing sounds of the lake waves was just what I needed to unwind. I couldn't have asked for a better getaway experience. I highly recommend Kennedy’s Land to anyone looking for a serene escape into nature!

C

Carol

July 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Twin Cedars

This has become my go to place for rest and peace. I get caught up on my sleep and relax.

Christine

July 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Twin Cedars

This property has so much to offer and it's exactly as advertised. Hosts are super nice and welcoming.

K

Kimberley

July 2025

30 ft travel trailer

2 nights at J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

This is a great 55+ RV community that was so welcoming and friendly!! It was our first trip out in our RV and we hadn’t anticipated the challenge of backing in the RV but a nice couple out walking helped us get the RV backed in properly so we didn’t have any issues. The hosts were very responsive to texts and calls, super helpful and accommodating! There are several lots for sale in this community but we didn’t find any others on Hipcamp. We did not use any of the amenities but it is a great option to have them available so close. The resort is only a short distance from town so you can run to Walmart, Starbucks, or Bob Evans if you need anything. You are also a short distance from several springs as well. We will definitely be back again!!

C

Carol

July 2025

20 ft campervan

3 nights at Twin Cedars

This is my favorite place to go for peace, quiet and small projects. Everything I need is right there. Shower, kitchen, laundry and peace. I showed up exhausted , laid own for a nap, and slept the majority of the next 24 hours. No interruptions, problems or hassles.

J

Joshua

July 2025

1 night at Runaway Bay Lodge

This is a great spot! Incredibly relaxing and full of fresh air. I loved laying out on the deck, fishing, and having a safe place to spend the night with nature on the other side of the door. The site comes plenty of amenities (hot shower, window AC units, indoor plumbing, stovetop burners, microwave, and fridge among other things). The owners have done a great job decorating the place, making functional and comfortable living spaces, and are just genuinely nice and sweet people. I had a great time and will be back!

H

Heather

June 2025

26 ft travel trailer

6 nights at J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

This spot was so perfect for what we needed. The site is clean and level and the deck provided such a nice spot for morning coffee or relaxing at the end of the day. The pool and hot tub were a nice addition. Laundry was really fairly priced. The cafe had great breakfast and you must get a Whoopie pie from the candy store! This spot is in a park but there are other RVs. Everyone was nice and friendly. Would go back!

C

Carol

June 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Twin Cedars

I find myself returning here because of the peace and quiet, the convenience of all the amenities and to watch the lizards and cats. The occasional laundry facilities and the electric hookups. I truly like it here.

N

Nicholas

June 2025

36 ft fifth wheel

With pets

2 nights at J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

It is in a great location. The site is very nice and quiet.

D

Douglas

June 2025

39 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

Weekend Trip to J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL was a clean, well appointed site, only a short drive from Silver Springs. The pool was nearby and open until 10pm and the Bath House had AC and clean hot showers. Tina was a welcoming and attentive host and we recommend this site to anyone visiting the area.

M

Martin

June 2025

21 ft fifth wheel

5 nights at Twin Cedars

Many more amenities than most Hipcamps...outdoor shower, hot tub, grill, washer/drier, and more. Fairly close to beach to boot! Very secure thanks to locking gates. No regrets - plan to return when in the area.

Justine

May 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Twin Cedars

This was a great spot to camp! Everything you need was right on site. We really appreciated the outdoor shower and the shed with amenities and cooking supplies. We didn’t get a chance to use it but saw there was a cooler available and other camping things you might need. It was very private and a convenient location to St. Augustine. After a long day of walking and exploring the hot tub was a great way to relax, it was very nice that they have towels available to use. Phil was kind and helpful when we arrived. The garden and property was was spacious and comfortable, we also enjoyed meeting some of the cats.

C

Carol

May 2025

20 ft campervan

4 nights at Twin Cedars

I needed peace, quiet and time to myself. That is what I got.

Leana

May 2025

Weekend Trip to Luxury Hut with 5 Star Amenities

The host was super kind, helpful, and responsive. They had an incredible space, very clean, and great energy. I'm excited to see what they do with their other spaces and would absolutely stay again!

C

Carol

May 2025

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Twin Cedars

Well shaded, quiet and relaxing. Lots of areas to relax, hammock, outdoor furniture, bug screen gazebo. The outdoor shower has lots of hot water, the Porta potty was clean and well maintained. Kitchen area is more than adequate plus there is a really nice barbecue. There are some free roaming cats around but they seem to stay away from humans, the next yard has chickens but they were all quiet. There is some of the biggest geckos there. I am sure I'll go back.

Other options in and near Crescent Lake

Keystone Heights RV Resort

5 sites · Keystone Heights, FL

Keystone Heights RV Resort stands out as a premier adult-only RV community, specifically designed for those who cherish an active lifestyle in a serene environment. Nestled in the heart of sunny Florida, this charming resort offers guests a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it the perfect getaway for adults seeking both tranquility and excitement. Whether you choose to stay for a week or a year, Keystone Heights RV Resort welcomes you with open arms, ensuring a warm Florida experience. The resort is surrounded by the natural beauty of the region, providing easy access to stunning beaches, vibrant attractions, and a variety of outdoor activities. Guests can explore nearby state parks, enjoy swimming holes, or indulge in local dining and shopping options. This idyllic location serves as an ideal retreat for short breaks or as a seasonal residence, allowing you to fully embrace the benefits of a Florida address. At Keystone Heights RV Resort, you can truly make this your home away from home, enjoying the perfect balance of leisure and adventure in a welcoming community.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Crescent Lake with hot tubs 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.