The best great views campgrounds near Dunnellon, Florida

This small Central Florida town on the confluence of the Rainbow and Withlacoochie rivers sits right next to Rainbow Springs State Park, where campers can swim and snorkel in gorgeous, deep blue spring water. Dunnellon also sits along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, a 110-mile-long park and trail system that bisects Florida and serves as a critical wildlife corridor for animals like the Florida black bear. Expect opportunities for kayaking, tubing, hiking, backpacking, and biking right in town, or head just 10 minutes away to Lake Rousseau, a popular boating and fishing destination where RV campers can find multiple lakeside RV sites with full hookups and wifi.

96% (877)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dunnellon

This small Central Florida town on the confluence of the Rainbow and Withlacoochie rivers sits right next to Rainbow Springs State Park, where campers can swim and snorkel in gorgeous, deep blue spring water. Dunnellon also sits along the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, a 110-mile-long park and trail system that bisects Florida and serves as a critical wildlife corridor for animals like the Florida black bear. Expect opportunities for kayaking, tubing, hiking, backpacking, and biking right in town, or head just 10 minutes away to Lake Rousseau, a popular boating and fishing destination where RV campers can find multiple lakeside RV sites with full hookups and wifi.

96% (877)

Top-rated campgrounds near Dunnellon

1. Lucky U Ranch

99%

(402)

27mi from Dunnellon · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Authentic Old Florida Homestead & Agritourism Experience Step into the charm of old Florida at our peaceful homestead, where Spanish moss drapes gracefully from Grandfather Oak trees, grassy hills roll gently across the landscape, and cypress-filled wetlands welcome an abundance of birdlife each day. We raise Nigerian Dairy goats and always make time for visits and petting. Our horses and donkeys roam freely during the day and are safely boarded at night. Explore our marked trails and open land—hiking here offers a true sense of serenity and a chance to reconnect with nature. Just minutes away, you’ll find incredible destinations like Withlacoochee State Park, Hog Island, and the Withlacoochee River—where kayaking is a must for nature lovers. Whether you’re tent camping, staying in one of our RVs, or bringing your own, you’ll enjoy peace, privacy, and a genuine connection to the land. Join us as part of our Agritourism Venue and experience the Ranch Experience—a guided visit where you’ll meet and interact with our livestock. Pet baby goats, miniature horses, twin turkeys, chickens, and even pigs who love a good scratch. With over 80 goats on the ranch, there’s always a friendly face waiting to greet you.

2. Camp Seminole Springs

93%

(314)

43mi from Dunnellon · 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. 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.

3. Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl

97%

(242)

7.8mi from Dunnellon · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging

3 acres on beautiful Lake Rousseau. Fishing , camping , kayaking , cabin rentals. 10 miles from ThreeSisters Springs, Hunter Springs and Crystal River. Abundant wildlife. Beatiful sunrirses and sunsets. Very peaceful!

4. Marci's Magical Lakefront Oasis

93%

(201)

31mi from Dunnellon · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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 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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jackson

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

We had an awesome time at Lucky U camping for a weekend in mid-December. Rob and Mike were excellent hosts, both very responsive and hospitable on site. The ranch’s facilities (with the hosts built themselves!) were in pristine condition and well-appointed with extra towels, indoor-style plumbing and even a full camp kitchen. Our tent campsite was quiet and secluded in a nicely shaded spot. Interacting with the animals on the farm during the day was a blast. We could not recommend their camp more.

A

Allie

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

This camping experience was incredible! The land is beautiful and cared for, the property felt private and exclusive, yet was very easy to navigate; the roads well maintained and accessible for any vehicle. Large flat beautiful areas for multiple tents under the trees or in the open, and plenty of room to park and lay out blankets to star gaze. Rob and Mike were wonderful and available, met us at the gate and led us to our spot, showing us all the important points. The horses and mules were adorable and friendly. SO many birds to listen to when awakening, and the stars at night were incredibly bright. Bathroom area was clean, and not only stocked with shampoo and conditioners, but also coffee, creamer, and hot chocolate! We went to swim with manatees one day, but honestly could have stayed and just enjoyed the scenery just as happily. It was heaven. We missed the tour, but trust it would have been lovely as well. We will definitely return!

A

Annemarie

1 week ago

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

Rolling hills of ancient sand dunes and mysterious cypress forest…lots of space to roam and shade to relax!

A

Achilles

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Lucky U Ranch

This was our third time at Lucky U Ranch. It is by far the best camping experience we have had in Florida. Rob and Mike are the best hosts and go above and beyond to make your stay amazing.

L

Leonard

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Lucky U Ranch

My wife and I loved it there. Beautiful place. Rob and Mike were amazing hosts, could not ask for better. Loved the animals grazing freely and visiting us daily at our site, Loved it. Looking forward to going back. If there was a 1 to 10 rating I would give it an 11.

J

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

We had a great time on the property and around the area. Rob and Mike are excellent hosts and have a great operation. They give a tour of the property on Saturdays so we got to see all the goats, stallions, miniature horses, geese and donkeys! The spots are spread out nicely and the bathroom/shower area are top notch for an outdoor setting! The little touches do not go unnoticed. We stayed in the RV they have availabile and boy were we happy with it since some rain showers decided to come along on our trip. We look forward to coming back sometime. Thanks Rob and Mike!

K

Kaylee

2 weeks ago

18 ft campervan

With pets

6 nights at Lucky U Ranch

My family and I spent a wonderful week here. Undoubtedly the best campground with the best hosts in America. There are so many details that make this place wonderful!

T

Tenneil

3 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

1 night at Lucky U Ranch

I always enjoy my stay at this place! Even in primitive! However the gated area was PERFECT for my working needs this week. Thank you all so much again!!

B

Bonnie

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

We loved everything about the his place. We can’t wait to go back hopefully in January! We camped primitive at far away site and it was great. The hosts are responsive and so accommodating.

A

Anthony

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Lucky U Ranch

Amazing people, beautiful property, secluded camp sites, great showers and rest rooms honestly an all around great experience

C

Chad

3 weeks ago

28 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

What a wonderful place with great hosts! This was our second visit and we will return again. The place is paradise and although we boon docked they had a place to fill up with water upon arrival and a dump station when we left. While staying we were soo far away from other campers we had to search to find them. So many private sites. There is a reason they are number 1!!

Frank

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

This was our second visit to Rob & Mike's, and it was a perfect getaway weekend. The location is always so well-maintained, and it is absolutely perfect. Nights are filled with peace and quiet, and the location allows for so many activities during the day. This is a go-to from now on.

J

Jennifer

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

We had a fantastic time camping at Lucky U. Mike and Rob were the nicest hosts we’ve had so far. They gave us a tour of their farm and it was absolutely amazing. They were there to help us with anything and everything we needed.

J

Jennifer

3 weeks ago

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

Rob and Mike were the perfect hosts. They were able to help us with anything and everything we needed. They even gave us a tour of their farm on Saturday. Highly highly recommend.

D

Darrell

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Lucky U Ranch

The camping was amazing. The camp sites were extremely spacious. Lots of rooms to let the kids run around and not disturb other campers. The horses walking right upto you was an awesome experience. Mike and Rob were very attentive to any needs or questions (ice, wood). We will be back!

Lisa

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Seminole Springs

We had a great time! The cabins were spacious, the springs were so clear, and the grounds were great for exploring. Will definitely be back!

Ashley

3 weeks ago

Group trip

3 nights at Camp Seminole Springs

We had an amazing stay. The property was quiet with giant shaded trees and unbelievable stars at night. Our teens even swam in the spring even though it was too cold outside, then ran to the lodge for a hot shower. We loved sitting by the spring on the dock and with our feet dangling over the edge, and wished we had brought floats or our inflatable paddle board. The canvas tent was huge and comfortable, with shelves, heaters, a picnic table on the deck, and a bathroom attached outside. Just note the shower there is cold water only. The three canvas tents overlooking the spring are close together, so we were glad our friends rented the tent beside us. There were also lots of great tent-camping spots, and the old grist mill building looked like an awesome future option. The river/creek was too low to kayak or fish, but we enjoyed exploring the property. The sand boil was one of the coolest things we’ve ever seen. Make sure you find it. The kids sank almost to their chests, the sand was exfoliating, and we were completely mesmerized. Perry was very accessible and helpful with all our questions before the stay. Fantastic spot.

Zach

November 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

We had a great time at Lucky U Ranch and will definitely be back! The bathrooms, showers, coffee bar, and dishwashing station were absolutely next level and set a new standard for camping. Rob and Mike also did a great job thinking of little things that made this day even more enjoyable. And of course, interacting with the animals was great fun for our whole group. We are frequent campers and brought along first timers - this was a great place to “break them in“ 🤓 We’re looking forward to our next visit!

K

Katie

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Camp Seminole Springs

Second time staying-- perfect place : ) Love the water on the property and the laid back vibe. Owners are very kind and welcoming. Leave your phone in your car and go make some friends!

P

Perla

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

The site was very peaceful and we absolutely enjoyed our visit. The hospitality was great. Would definitely recommend this campsite.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Dunnellon guide

Where to go

Dunnellon Surrounds

Several tubing options sit on the Rainbow River, and a convenient shuttle service runs from Rainbow Springs State Park. Locals tend to caravan their floats the old-fashioned way, launching out of KP Hole and taking out at the Blue Run of Dunnellon Park.

Rainbow Springs State Park

Rainbow Springs State Park is not to be missed. Swimming and snorkeling are allowed at the headsprings, while campers can also rent kayaks and canoes to paddle the Rainbow River or tube down its clear waters with the help of the park’s shuttle service. The Rainbow Springs campground has both RV camping and tent camping sites with picnic tables, fire pits, and water/electric hookups.

Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway

The Cross Florida Greenway, which stretches 110 miles and connects the Gulf of Mexico to the St. Johns River, passes right through Dunnellon. The Greenway’s Dunnellon Trail section starts in town and features 2.4 miles of paved multi-use trail perfect for walking, running, biking, or rollerblading. At Lake Rousseau, the Greenway’s Ingle Lock section has miles of hiking and mountain biking trails on Inglis Island.

Additional Springs Nearby

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge sits about 30 minutes southwest of Dunnellon. This famous springs site and manatee sanctuary has opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in Kings Bay. For even more spring access, head east to Ocala and Silver Springs State Park, the home of the glass-bottom boat and a colony of wild rhesus macaque monkeys.

When to go

Camping is possible in Dunnellon year-round, but many locals avoid tent camping in the hot, humid, and rainy summer season. Summer travelers may be most happy in an RV or lodging with climate control. The popular Rainbow Springs State Park campground books up well in advance for weekends, holidays, and school breaks.