River, stream, or creek camping near Gainesville

Discover and reserve the best campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and more.

97% (1201 reviews)
97% (1201 reviews)

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12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Gainesville

92%
(105)

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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100%
(32)

Hawthorne Backwoods Sanctuary

3 sites · Lodging, RVs13 acres · FL
The lovely open woodland of Hawthorne Backwoods Sanctuary was a pasture in the 1970's. Where there are large live oaks on the property, one can imagine those trees stood in the pastures of the 1970's and provided shade for the cattle there. By the time we purchased this property in 2017, it was a young regenerating hardwood forest. The previous owners did not inhabit or pollute this land. We have found very little trash or garbage here, only charred wood when we dig down several feet. You'll have to make up your own story about that. Our aim is to keep this forest healthy, and allow it to continue to provide shelter and food for the creatures that buzz, burrow, nest, forage, browse, hunt and pass through here regularly. Hawthorne Backwoods Sanctuary has been a healthy and regenerative place for us, and we feel honored to offer guests an opportunity to rest and to feel the generous forest energy that has settled us here. Learn more about this land: A hardwood forest with a few parking spots off of the driveway in wooded areas between our homesite and the access road County Road 2082. Armadillo, Deer, Turkey, Hawks, Crows and morning cacophony of songbirds on the property. Less than a mile from the Hawthorne Gainesville Bike Trail. Less than a mile from Magnesia Springs, near Newnan's Lake, Payne's Prairie Preserve, Sweetwater Preserve, Boulware Springs Park, Devil's Millhopper State Park, LaChua Hiking Trail. And, much more.  12 miles to Gainesville, 9 miles to scenic old town Micanopy. A good jumping off point to various springs, and parks.
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$21.50
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98%
(196)

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

12 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 pet friendly! If you have a pet please add the pet Extra at checkout so you will be charged a $20 pet fee ($10 for the trailers). We are close to hiking, horse trails, lakes and springs. Bocce Ball and Croquet is available to play here anytime! We are only a short distance away from amazing horse riding trails and Florida's most popular natural springs. We live on the property and are available during normal business hours. We are free to ask questions and give suggestions for surrounding activities and dining options. We will interact as little or as much as you need. Birds singing in the morning and crickets at night ensure a restful getaway here. Our property is the perfect place to escape the noise and high paced city life.
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$35
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96%
(14)

Free to Be Acres

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL
Welcome to Free to Be Acres. An entire private acre, nestled in the beautiful N Central Florida forest. In spring country you are free to unwind and enjoy all that nature has to offer. Be greeted by a family of deer while enjoying your morning coffee or tea, listen to the barred owls talking to one another in the evenings. You will have easy access to both the Ichetucknee and Santa Fe rivers just a short 5 minute drive from your campsite. Encounter manatees, spotted gar and a multitude of different species of turtles as you float down the crystal clear Ichetucknee river. Spend the day boating or fishing on the Santa Fe or world famous Suwannee River. Just 15 minutes from well known Ginnie Springs, Gilchrist Blue Springs, Rum Island Spring, Ichetucknee Spring State Park, Peacock, Little River, Royal and more. We offer 30/50amp electric and water on site as well as a port o let that has weekly scheduled cleanings. Dumping of black and gray tanks can be done on your way out of town (within a 1/4 mile) for a nominal fee of $15.
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$50
 / night
Booked 2 times

Grass Campers Farm

22 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Reddick, FL
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 15-20 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. 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 40x60 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, 1 RV hookup, running water and outdoor games. 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, 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
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$34
 / night
99%
(37)

Collins Farm

2 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Micanopy, FL
Collins Farm is conveniently located 20 minutes south of Gainesville and 30 minutes north of Ocala, off of interstate 75. Private, peaceful camping is available with full RV hook-up that includes sewer, 50 amp electric with a 30 amp adapter, and water. Your campsite is located right in the heart of our farm. While at your site, you will see and surely be entertained by our goats, sheep, horse, Charlie and Dottie Mae our Kunekune pigs, chickens, Eduardo our turkey, and many more. The wildlife that you see is dependent on the season but likely includes deer, sand cranes, and the occasional bald eagles. Pets are welcome. We just ask for the safety of our farm friends that they stay on a leash. A fire pit and picnic table is at each site. We also include animal feed so you can feed the animals through the fence at your leisure. We kindly ask that you only feed them their feed and no other feed to ensure their health. For those needing grocery delivery. Instacart and Shipt delivers to Collins Farm on a regular basis. The historic town of Micanopy is just a few minutes' drive from Collins Farm and offers antique shopping, restaurants, unique gift shops, and entertainment. Paynes Prarie Preserve State Park is also within a few miles and offers hiking trails and wildlife sightseeing. There is also trails for horseback riding within two miles of Collins Farm.
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$100
 / night
100%
(25)

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
 / night
99%
(69)

Bowman's Landing

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Fort White, FL
We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River. We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances: Ginnie Springs - 6 miles Blue Springs - 9 miles Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles Gainesville - 38 miles Rum 138 - 8 miles Lake City - 27 miles White Springs - 38 miles Branford - 13 miles High Springs - 12 miles Dollar General - 3 miles Publix - 15 miles Bobs River Place - 20 miles
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$45
 / night

Downtown Nature Retreat

1 site · RV2 acres · Gainesville, FL
Welcome to a slice of nature on the edge of downtown Gainesville! This fully fenced, dog friendly full RV hook up campsite is located on a quiet dead-end road just minutes from all of your favorite downtown entertainment. You’ll be a short walk from First Magnitude Brewery, local restaurants, Depot Park and a stones throw from the Gainesville-Hawthorne Multiuse Trail. This location is great for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts! This single RV site offers privacy that is unmatched this close to UF campus. Go Gators! 🐊
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$100
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98%
(170)

Treehouse Cabin Retreat - Florida

3 sites · Lodging4 acres · Old Town, FL
Welcome to the Treehouse Cabin Retreat located near the Suwannee River in Old Town, Florida! If you like camping, you will love this getaway. Our unique Treehouse (one queen bed on main floor plus small single bed in the loft) plus Rustic Cabin rental (1 bedroom with 1 queen bed, loft with double bed) brings you back to nature for relaxation and unplugging. Located just minutes from the Suwannee River with wonderful, clear, freshwater springs that are great for paddling and swimming. Just escape and relax among the trees, play outdoor games and have a campfire, or visit nearby springs, parks and rivers. Enjoy an outdoor shower under the stars. Warm up next to the campfire and create new memories. Old Town is a small town, 20 minutes north of Chiefland, 45 minutes northeast of Cedar Key and 45 minutes northwest of Gainesville. We allow a maximum of 7 people and 2 cars. Our retreat is designed to bring peace and simplicity, it’s a place to disconnect and breathe again. It helps us to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature and as a family. We believe everyone needs time away to breathe, that’s why we are sharing our little piece of nature with you. Trade the cell phone for a book on insect ID (there are plenty of bugs, this is the woods!) Relax in the hammock and look at how bright the stars are. Sit on the deck of the treehouse and enjoy the view of the treetops. Enjoy a refreshing outdoor shower. Breathe.... So disconnect from your busy lifestyle and plan a stay at our Tree House Cabin Retreat where you can relax and leave it all behind. Featured on the DIY Network-Tree House Guys. Find us on Facebook and Instagram as well. Rewrite the "roots" of your life! PLEASE NOTE, we allow up to 2 dogs with fees paid. PLEASE ADD THIS AS AN EXTRA AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. Be sure to read the Treehouse Retreat Rules and let us know if you have questions. This covers what's allowed, not allowed, expectations, things to be aware of, what you should plan to bring, etc. **Please note some of the photos are uploaded by past guests and some of the items pictured may have changed, been replaced, upgraded, etc. Feel free to reach out with any specific questions.
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$175
 / night
100%
(124)

Paradise Park and River Retreat

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Old Town, FL
My father bought the property next door to the RV sites over 30 yrs ago. After his passing,  my husband and I acquired the property. We initially were going to be snowbirds and make this our winter vacation home. After much thought and many winters in PA, we decided to sell our home and make the move south. It was a difficult decision to leave our family,  friends and what was comfortable to us. About 3 years after our move, our neighbor asked if we were interested in his property. My husband Jeff and I discussed it and thought it would be a great idea to have a little more land. To make a long story short, that land somehow became Paradise Park River Retreat. My husband and I love this area and wanted to share it with other people who love being outdoors. We hope you'll come and visit Old Pine Landing and see the beauty and uniqueness that our little piece of paradise has to offer.  
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$35
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98%
(274)

4A River Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL
This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world. Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers. Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience. Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum. Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away. Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee. Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore.  The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles. Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.
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$50
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River, stream, or creek camping near Gainesville guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, where you can find the perfect camping experience near Gainesville, Florida with a river at over 1000 available options! Whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out, we've got you covered. From riverside campsites to cozy cabins, we have something for everyone. Looking for a top-rated campsite? Check out Buffalo Creek Campsites (243 reviews), 4A River Camp (174 reviews), or Bronson's CampOutlaw at IndianBow (171 reviews). With popular amenities like potable water, pet-friendly accommodations, and campfires allowed, you'll have everything you need for a great trip. Plus, enjoy popular activities such as swimming, wind sports, and snow sports. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

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