The best cave camping near Lake City

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Originally named Alligator after the indigenous Seminole settlement nearby, Lake City is a northern gateway to Florida that houses several lakes and natural springs. Campsites for RVers, tent campers, and primitive backpackers abound among forests with shady oaks, lush marshes, and the raging rapids of the Suwannee River (just 35 minutes away). Nearby parks like Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, Big Shoals State Park, and Osceola National Forest are great base camps for recharging in nature, exploring the landscape, and attending any of the many festivals celebrating the area’s rich culture.

100% (551) 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake City

Glenn Farm

1. Glenn Farm

100%
(466)
20mi from Lake City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of 4 spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow, North Hall Pasture or Magnolia Sink). We also have a 1 bedroom Tiny home that used to be the farm office. Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1824), Magnolia sink and The North Hall Pasture are also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Jewel’s Sink

2. Jewel’s Sink

100%
(56)
35mi from Lake City · 1 site · Tent, RV
Family owned and operated since 1853. Jewel’s sink has been a special place that the Blanton family has swam and celebrated things at for 7 generations. It’s a slice of paradise hidden away from the hardships of society’s rat race. You can see to the bottom when the sun hits the water at the right time of day. It’s crystal clear blue like the springs that feed the rivers. This is truly a foundation of youth! Learn more about this land: Jewel’s Sink is a private spring that you can swim in, share a Picnic with your friends or family. Has a nice fireplace to sit around and roast marshmallows as you listen to scary camp fire stories. Generators are allowed don’t pay attention to what is says below
Pets
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night
Royal Springs Riverfront Retreat

3. Royal Springs Riverfront Retreat

98%
(124)
27mi from Lake City · 3 sites · RVs
Relax with your feet up by the historic Suwannee River under majestic hickory trees, catch some bass from the dock or along the river bank. Walking distance to Royal Springs and boat ramp. Bring your gear to the Spring Diving capital or go spring hopping in a kayak to the many local springs in the area. Have the site to yourself, or bring your friends as there are 3 full hookups (30 amp) and one electric/water only as well as beautiful spots for tent camping. Just message me and I'll make the additional site(s) available. *Please note: due to 3 hurricanes going over us in just over 1 year, the dock and steps were under water for quite some time. We are working on refreshing them, but in the meantime the upper steps are closed. There is an easy path down so it should not affect your enjoyment of the property. **Inquire about long term rental
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$53
 / night
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

4. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

100%
(1)
44 sites · White Springs, Florida
Discover the charm of Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park.
Suwannee River State Park

5. Suwannee River State Park

100%
(16)
29 sites · Lee, Florida
Find natural beauty near one of the largest swamps in America.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Friendly's River Retreat RV

6. Friendly's River Retreat RV

100%
(13)
37mi from Lake City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
10 beautiful wooded acres nestled in the middle of hundreds more. One mile off of the Suwannee River boat ramp Simms landing,Charles Springs Blue Springs ,Peacock Springs,Spirt of Suwannee music park and Big and camping 30amp 50amp R.V. sites camp cabin that sleeps a couples cabin bath house outdoor kitchen close to the spirit of Suwannee music park and many spring and cave diving near by
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
Peaceful & Private ~ Moonlit Avenue

7. Peaceful & Private ~ Moonlit Avenue

97%
(17)
22mi from Lake City · 1 site · Tent
Looking for your own private campsite convenient to the area's rivers, springs and trails? Escape to Moonlit Avenue - A private treelined driveway leads to the primitive campsite with bathhouse nearby where the deer (and sometimes turkeys) have a regular route along with other forest animals and insects; birds abound in the trees. Goats, chickens (including a rooster), dogs and cats are domesticated nearby. Enjoy this private and serene primitive camping area in a forested riverfront neighborhood with a great public boat ramp a short walk away. The campsite is located on the back acre with cleared areas for tents and vehicles. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided. Spring well water access via hose at the campsite or at bathhouse with shower, sink and toilet. Whether you're in need of forest bathing, a dip in real fresh spring water (always around 70F or 21C degrees year round!) or looking to explore by water or land, this is a great location. Just a short walk from the Hollingsworth Boat Ramp which can act as a base from which to enjoy many areas nearby for fresh water swimming, paddling, boating or fishing via public parks and private outfitters. Close to Gilchrist Blue Springs and Ichetucknee State Parks, Rum Island Park, and Ginnie Springs Recreation Park. Birds especially love this area and the serenade from the treetops gets better each year with a wide variety of bird songs. Owls reside nearby and bats have also been known to fly in the sundowning sky! Make sure to bring a blanket for sitting around the campfire and stargazing if temps get into the 60s or below overnight. RESOURCES: Facebook Photo Album for the most up-to-date conditions and pictures here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10159430995895957&type=3 Rum 138 https://www.facebook.com/Rum138 The Collective Food Yard & Garden (Fort White) https://www.facebook.com/TheCollective386 River Levels: http://www.mysuwanneeriver.org/realtime/river-levels.php Download this app so you can identify the local sounds! https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/ Ichetucknee to O'Leno Bike Trail https://www.100floridatrails.com/trails/ich Please message us if you have any questions!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$31
 / night
Moonshine Acres RV Park

8. Moonshine Acres RV Park

18mi from Lake City · 8 sites
Moonshine Acres RV Park stands out as a unique destination, steeped in history and charm, having once been the land of a renowned local moonshiner. This rich heritage is woven into the very fabric of the park, where visitors can experience a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. The park features a cozy log cabin clubhouse and a general store filled with antiques and memorabilia, alongside the charming "old barn" and a hand-painted logo that evoke a sense of stepping back in time. Guests can take advantage of a variety of onsite amenities, including a comfortable lounge area, a well-maintained bathhouse, and a coin-operated laundry facility. For pet owners, there’s an off-leash dog park where furry friends can roam freely. The grounds are alive with events and activities, offering opportunities for competitive games, socializing, and making new friends. In addition to the park's offerings, Moonshine Acres RV Park is conveniently located near a wealth of exciting attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby nature trails, enjoy scuba diving adventures, or embark on cave explorations. With so much to see and do, there’s truly something for everyone at Moonshine Acres RV Park!
Lafayette Blue Springs State Park

9. Lafayette Blue Springs State Park

50%
(4)
7 sites · Day, Florida
64 million gallons of water a day flow from Lafayette Blue Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Originally named Alligator after the indigenous Seminole settlement nearby, Lake City is a northern gateway to Florida that houses several lakes and natural springs. Campsites for RVers, tent campers, and primitive backpackers abound among forests with shady oaks, lush marshes, and the raging rapids of the Suwannee River (just 35 minutes away). Nearby parks like Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, Big Shoals State Park, and Osceola National Forest are great base camps for recharging in nature, exploring the landscape, and attending any of the many festivals celebrating the area’s rich culture.

100% (551) 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake City

Glenn Farm

1. Glenn Farm

100%
(466)
20mi from Lake City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of 4 spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow, North Hall Pasture or Magnolia Sink). We also have a 1 bedroom Tiny home that used to be the farm office. Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1824), Magnolia sink and The North Hall Pasture are also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Jewel’s Sink

2. Jewel’s Sink

100%
(56)
35mi from Lake City · 1 site · Tent, RV
Family owned and operated since 1853. Jewel’s sink has been a special place that the Blanton family has swam and celebrated things at for 7 generations. It’s a slice of paradise hidden away from the hardships of society’s rat race. You can see to the bottom when the sun hits the water at the right time of day. It’s crystal clear blue like the springs that feed the rivers. This is truly a foundation of youth! Learn more about this land: Jewel’s Sink is a private spring that you can swim in, share a Picnic with your friends or family. Has a nice fireplace to sit around and roast marshmallows as you listen to scary camp fire stories. Generators are allowed don’t pay attention to what is says below
Pets
Campfires
from 
$80
 / night
Royal Springs Riverfront Retreat

3. Royal Springs Riverfront Retreat

98%
(124)
27mi from Lake City · 3 sites · RVs
Relax with your feet up by the historic Suwannee River under majestic hickory trees, catch some bass from the dock or along the river bank. Walking distance to Royal Springs and boat ramp. Bring your gear to the Spring Diving capital or go spring hopping in a kayak to the many local springs in the area. Have the site to yourself, or bring your friends as there are 3 full hookups (30 amp) and one electric/water only as well as beautiful spots for tent camping. Just message me and I'll make the additional site(s) available. *Please note: due to 3 hurricanes going over us in just over 1 year, the dock and steps were under water for quite some time. We are working on refreshing them, but in the meantime the upper steps are closed. There is an easy path down so it should not affect your enjoyment of the property. **Inquire about long term rental
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$53
 / night
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

4. Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

100%
(1)
44 sites · White Springs, Florida
Discover the charm of Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park.
Suwannee River State Park

5. Suwannee River State Park

100%
(16)
29 sites · Lee, Florida
Find natural beauty near one of the largest swamps in America.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Friendly's River Retreat RV

6. Friendly's River Retreat RV

100%
(13)
37mi from Lake City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
10 beautiful wooded acres nestled in the middle of hundreds more. One mile off of the Suwannee River boat ramp Simms landing,Charles Springs Blue Springs ,Peacock Springs,Spirt of Suwannee music park and Big and camping 30amp 50amp R.V. sites camp cabin that sleeps a couples cabin bath house outdoor kitchen close to the spirit of Suwannee music park and many spring and cave diving near by
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$39
 / night
Peaceful & Private ~ Moonlit Avenue

7. Peaceful & Private ~ Moonlit Avenue

97%
(17)
22mi from Lake City · 1 site · Tent
Looking for your own private campsite convenient to the area's rivers, springs and trails? Escape to Moonlit Avenue - A private treelined driveway leads to the primitive campsite with bathhouse nearby where the deer (and sometimes turkeys) have a regular route along with other forest animals and insects; birds abound in the trees. Goats, chickens (including a rooster), dogs and cats are domesticated nearby. Enjoy this private and serene primitive camping area in a forested riverfront neighborhood with a great public boat ramp a short walk away. The campsite is located on the back acre with cleared areas for tents and vehicles. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided. Spring well water access via hose at the campsite or at bathhouse with shower, sink and toilet. Whether you're in need of forest bathing, a dip in real fresh spring water (always around 70F or 21C degrees year round!) or looking to explore by water or land, this is a great location. Just a short walk from the Hollingsworth Boat Ramp which can act as a base from which to enjoy many areas nearby for fresh water swimming, paddling, boating or fishing via public parks and private outfitters. Close to Gilchrist Blue Springs and Ichetucknee State Parks, Rum Island Park, and Ginnie Springs Recreation Park. Birds especially love this area and the serenade from the treetops gets better each year with a wide variety of bird songs. Owls reside nearby and bats have also been known to fly in the sundowning sky! Make sure to bring a blanket for sitting around the campfire and stargazing if temps get into the 60s or below overnight. RESOURCES: Facebook Photo Album for the most up-to-date conditions and pictures here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10159430995895957&type=3 Rum 138 https://www.facebook.com/Rum138 The Collective Food Yard & Garden (Fort White) https://www.facebook.com/TheCollective386 River Levels: http://www.mysuwanneeriver.org/realtime/river-levels.php Download this app so you can identify the local sounds! https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/ Ichetucknee to O'Leno Bike Trail https://www.100floridatrails.com/trails/ich Please message us if you have any questions!
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$31
 / night
Moonshine Acres RV Park

8. Moonshine Acres RV Park

18mi from Lake City · 8 sites
Moonshine Acres RV Park stands out as a unique destination, steeped in history and charm, having once been the land of a renowned local moonshiner. This rich heritage is woven into the very fabric of the park, where visitors can experience a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern convenience. The park features a cozy log cabin clubhouse and a general store filled with antiques and memorabilia, alongside the charming "old barn" and a hand-painted logo that evoke a sense of stepping back in time. Guests can take advantage of a variety of onsite amenities, including a comfortable lounge area, a well-maintained bathhouse, and a coin-operated laundry facility. For pet owners, there’s an off-leash dog park where furry friends can roam freely. The grounds are alive with events and activities, offering opportunities for competitive games, socializing, and making new friends. In addition to the park's offerings, Moonshine Acres RV Park is conveniently located near a wealth of exciting attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby nature trails, enjoy scuba diving adventures, or embark on cave explorations. With so much to see and do, there’s truly something for everyone at Moonshine Acres RV Park!
Lafayette Blue Springs State Park

9. Lafayette Blue Springs State Park

50%
(4)
7 sites · Day, Florida
64 million gallons of water a day flow from Lafayette Blue Springs.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best cave camping near Lake City guide

Where to go

Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park

Named after American composer Stephen Foster (whose song “Old Folks at Home” made the bordering Suwannee River famous), this park features a museum about his songs as well as shaded, ADA-accessible tent and RV campsites with electricity and water hookups that serve as launch points for days spent paddling and canoeing. Primitive group campsites with picnic tables and fire rings can host those attending the park’s Florida Folk Festival in late May. Hipcampers can also find riverside cabins with screened-in porches and full kitchens ready to make a delicious meal out of the fish caught (with a license) along Suwannee.

Big Shoals State Park

Boasting huge stretches of whitewater rapids among limestone bluffs rising 80 feet high, Big Shoals State Park earns a Class III Whitewater classification when the Suwannee River swells to 61 feet above sea level. For a calmer experience, trek down Woodpecker Trail connected to Little Shoals Rapids. There’s no camping in the park, but nearby Hipcamps offer RV, tent, and cabin campsites. Catch a glimpse of bald eagles, scarlet tanagers, and wading birds to flesh out life lists, or witness white-tailed deer and timber rattlesnakes in their natural habitat. Campers visiting to hunt should make sure they have the proper licenses, as hunting is permitted in the wildlife management area during certain game seasons.

Osceola National Forest

Named to honor Seminole leader, hero, and warrior Osceola, Osceola National Forest is 200,000 acres of pine flatwoods and cypress-hardwood swamps, and home to many endangered animals. Waterfront campsites are close to public boat launches and serve as hunting camps during hunting season. There are no reservations for campsites, so Hipcampers arriving early get first pick of electrical and water hookups or primitive camping sites. Fishing, boating, and water-skiing on Ocean Pond are popular activities, as is hiking along the Trampled Track Trail with historical interpretations telling Osceola’s history.

When to go

With average highs near 90°F, summer is a popular time to visit Lake City campgrounds, with lots of opportunities for water recreation like swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking to cool off. The humid, subtropical climate rarely sees cold snaps, even during winter, so many campers find October through March to be the best time for backpacking, tent camping, and car camping when even the muggiest of days cool down to an average of 45°F.