- Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge/
- Camping
The best camping in Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, FL
Discover Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for wildlife and adventure.
The best camping in Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, FL
Skyacres aka the tin cottage
1. Skyacres aka the tin cottage
97%
(33)
19mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Some open spaces for self contained rvs. Trails to open spaces for pitching a tent. Off the beaten path,, private and secluded. Full of wildlife away from the hustle and bustle of the city,, a true country retreat.
Nearby fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Travel to the town of cedar key about 18 miles away it's a very quiet area. With shops , restaurants and a pier to fish at. It's a very laid back way of life at this charming gulf coast town.. Chiefland also is close by for the more convenient places to shop. Refrigerator at cabin, solar shower, charcoal grill, wood grill, gas stove top one burner, wading pool for those hot summer days.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$13
/ night
Neal’s Nest
2. Neal’s Nest
99%
(34)
22mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging
This cabin is the perfect disconnect from the hustle and constant presence of everyday life. Surrounding you with lots of outdoor activities including fishing,kayaking,diving, swimming and plenty of wildlife to see. Has handicap ramp,screen porch and campfire. Mini fridge, microwave, linens and towels.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Pure Paradise Lebanon station
3. Pure Paradise Lebanon station
96%
(176)
23mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 25 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Beautiful area with waterfalls observation Tower 23 beautiful acres to roam plenty of fishing and water sports in the area as well as other activities
, tent and self-contained camping starting at $25 per night full hookup $50 per night
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
Manatee Springs Glamping
4. Manatee Springs Glamping
90%
(10)
24mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
Our glampsites offer all the excitement and adventure of camping, without sacrificing the little luxuries of home.
Our sites are nestled in the Hickory Loop of the Family Campground, and are just a short walk from the main spring.
Manatee Springs State Park
People have enjoyed the cool waters of Manatee Springs for more than 10,000 years. The first-magnitude spring releases an astounding 100 million gallons of water every day. Swimming, hiking, and kayaking are enjoyable year-round. Your Glamp site is situated a very short walk from the Manatee headspring, in the Hickory Loop Campground. Only Glamp sites and tents are permitted in the Hickory Loop.
Sister park to Manatee Springs, Fanning Springs is a 10 minute drive away, and
offers the perfect 72-degree water to cool down on hot Florida days and an abundance of underwater wildlife to view. Swimming, grilling, volleyball, and a playground create the perfect setting for a family day outdoors.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
Fairytale Forrest
5. Fairytale Forrest
100%
(16)
25mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 5 sites
***There is ONLY 1 SITE on the property, with 4 options.*** YOUR GROUP will be the ONLY one onsite.
Welcome to my enchanting 1-acre Fairytale Forest nestled within a tranquil rural subdivision on the north side of Crystal River. As evening descends, a mesmerizing trail of lights illuminates the property, transforming it into a magical oasis.
NOTE: Parking is approximately 300 ft from the site. No, you cannot sleep in your vehicle.
Discover your secluded camping spot, accompanied by a cozy bench for private relaxation. Your spot is equipped with convenient access to power and water for your comfort. At your site you will have access to an outdoor shower (no hot water), a sink with a table, a screened dining area featuring a table and six chairs and a coffee station, and a barbecue grill.
Moreover, the property boasts an array of additional amenities for guests to indulge in. Take advantage of four distinct seating areas, a hammock for lazy afternoons, a swing for whimsical moments, and a lounge seat/bed perfect for sunbathing, unwinding, or stargazing under the night sky. Immerse yourself in the charm and serenity of our Fairytale Forest retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$40
/ night
Los Pollitos Family Farm
6. Los Pollitos Family Farm
100%
(28)
26mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
Learn more about this land:
Welcome to the Los Pollitos Family Farm in the heart of the nature coast! Come experience farm life while you camp! Ride a 50 year old tortoise (if you are a toddler 😉), snuggle some sheep and bunnies or feed some chickens! Say hello to the pigs ! We treat our guests like family! This will be a trip your family will always remember 🥰.
This is the RV Listing on our property (see other listing for tent and group camping). We are less than 3 miles from the Nature Coast State trail , just 4 miles away from Manatee Springs and 5 miles from Fanning Springs, where you can bike , swim, snorkel, kayak, scuba dive and hike ! Chiefland Golf and Country Club is only 2 miles away where you can golf and have lunch ! We are 20 mins away from several other springs. Got your fill of the springs? Missing the beach ? Cedar key is only 30 miles away ! It is a quaint town on the gulf offering swimming, dining, shopping, kayak and golf cart rentals. Make sure to check out Shell Mound while you are there ! (Cedar key and shell mound currently under construction due to recent hurricanes).
There is so much to do and explore!
RV camping is located on the 2 acres surrounding our home on a limerock pad with 30 amp service and water hookup. See Tent camping @ Los Pollitos for TENT camping. Amenities such as fire pit and a table are available. Your first bundle of wood is on us! Check out the Extras tab during your booking. Sign up for a farm tour ! Chicken eggs available for your breakfast!
Local shops and dining are less than 10 minutes away for anything else you might need .
Looking forward to hosting you and your family! Check us out on facebook and instagram @lospollitosfamilyfarm
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$30
/ night
Paradise Park and River Retreat
7. Paradise Park and River Retreat
100%
(143)
27mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
My father bought the property next door to the RV site
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 in PA 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.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl
8. Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl
97%
(251)
28mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 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!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from
$35
/ night
Big Oak Farm 🌳🐴🐕
9. Big Oak Farm 🌳🐴🐕
98%
(26)
29mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Big Oak Farm & Stables – a peaceful 39-acre farm located beside the beautiful Goethe State Forest in Bronson, Florida. This is a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the sights and sounds of real farm life.
We offer 30- and 50-amp RV hookups, water, septic dump, and a private, fenced-in campsite perfect for relaxing with your pets. The site includes shaded areas, a disc golf basket, hammocks, and a large green space where your dogs can run safely.
Campers must remain in the designated fenced-in area unless escorted by the host, for the safety of our animals and yours. We’re a working farm with free-roaming livestock guardian dogs, horses, emus, sheep, and more – and we love sharing their world with respectful visitors.
Nearby attractions include:
• Devil’s Den (10 mins)
• Blue Springs (15 mins)
• Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens (20 mins)
• Rainbow River (25 mins)
• World Equestrian Center (40 mins)
• Black Prong Equestrian Village (5 mins for trail riding)
• Crystal River & Cedar Key (under 1 hour)
Come enjoy farm sunsets, starry nights, and a truly unique countryside experience. Whether you’re in a tent, camper, or RV – you’ll leave here refreshed, inspired, and maybe with a few furry friends.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$15
/ night
Sweet Citrus Acres RV Resort
10. Sweet Citrus Acres RV Resort
96%
(12)
30mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 61 sites
Discover Sweet Citrus Acres RV Resort, tailored for adults seeking an active RV Lifestyle. Join our vibrant community for a home-away-from-home experience!
Included in your stay, we provide your electricity, sewer, water, and premium Wi-Fi on your site.
Our gated RV resort has a heated swimming pool and hot tub, pickleball courts, bocce ball, a fitness center, individual private bath/shower rooms, a large laundry facility, and a dog park. We also have a 7-acre catch & release spring-fed lake with a 1 ½ mile walking trail. Our 12,000 sq ft clubhouse, The Grove, has 7 big screen TVs, tables for games, a gift shop, and a full schedule of daily activities, PLUS a fully stocked bar.
Sweet Citrus Acres is just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Crystal River and is close enough to bike to multiple shops, restaurants, and King’s Bay.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$82
/ night
Happy Campers Rescue Ranch
11. Happy Campers Rescue Ranch
95%
(350)
31mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome! 🌿 We're thrilled to have you join us for an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature and animals. 🐾
At our ranch, we're dedicated to providing a sanctuary for rescued animals and offering our guests a unique opportunity to connect with nature and support our mission of animal welfare and conservation – it's a haven where you can relax, unwind, and make memories that will last a lifetime. 🌟
During your stay, you'll have the chance to meet our furry friends, including rescued farm animals and adorable companions who call Happy Campers Rescue Ranch home. Whether you're feeding the goats, cuddling with the kittens, or exploring the beautiful surroundings, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 🐷🐱🌳
But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your experience. Rent a Kayak or Paddle Boat to explore the area and crystal-clear waters of Rainbow Springs, or choose our cooler with built-in air conditioning ❄️ to stay comfortable during hot summer days inside your tent.
As a guest, you'll not only have the opportunity to relax and unwind, but you'll also be supporting our mission of animal rescue and rehabilitation. A portion of your stay goes directly towards caring for our rescued animals and maintaining our sanctuary, allowing us to continue our important work. 🤲
We can't wait to welcome you to out ranch and share our love for animals and nature with you. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a unique retreat, we're here to make your stay unforgettable. 🌈
***We kindly request bookings for a maximum duration of up to 7 days. This allows us to maintain the integrity of our sanctuary and ensures that our animals receive consistent care and attention while also offering our guests the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing and rejuvenating getaway. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.
Thank you for choosing our ranch – we look forward to hosting you soon! 🎉
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Wildflower Ranch
12. Wildflower Ranch
100%
(20)
32mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape on 20 acres of serene rural land. Take a walk to the chicken coop and hear all of the chickens' opinions. Lay a blanket out in the meditation corner and enjoy the peace and quiet. Walk through the fruit trees and past the blackberries and take any ripe fruit of your liking. Explore the ranch to locate gopher tortoise burrows (but don't get too close) and wave at all the fox squirrels. Find the northeast corner of the ranch and play volleyball with your friends (let us know if you need a ball). Stroll through the round-pen-turned-garden and check out the Datil pepper plants which we use to make our datil sauce and datil vinegar (both are for sale to guests). Finally, enjoy the starry night sky. Thanks to our rural setting we have some of the darkest skies in Florida. There is an observatory only one mile away!
Wildflower Ranch is close to dozens of crystal clear natural springs and rivers, bike trails, hiking trails, state parks, and more. We are ideally located in North Central Florida, so many of your Florida outdoor bucket list adventures are within reach. The ranch is a close neighbor of Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring, the Blue Grotto, Black Prong horse riding and biking trails, Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens and more.
Wildflower Ranch offers two private primitive campsites (accommodating tents or vehicles), one private RV site, and one private cabin. Our cabin has a private bathroom, while our campsites have 24/7 access to climate-controlled full bathrooms with hot water showers, flushing toilets, and sinks.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Lazy Longhorn
13. Lazy Longhorn
99%
(37)
32mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
!!!!’FREE KAYAK RENTALS!!!!
25 acre property with 5 acres tucked away behind oak and pine trees, cross fenced for camping .
We breed miniature longhorn cattle, have plenty of farm animals, including donkeys, chickens, pigs and a horse. We are located close to many boat ramps that access the withlacochee and Rainbow River.
Our lovely little town of Dunnellon hosts many restaurants on the river, unique shops and plenty of parks to visit.
We have complementary high speed WIFI and full laundry room.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Cabin Glamping
14. Cabin Glamping
94%
(117)
34mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites
Check in between 2:00 and 8:00 p.m., unless prior arrangements with owners have been made.
Known as the Nature Coast and one of Florida's greatest hidden secrets, this property is private, yet just minutes from civilization and manatees!
Your cabin has a full bed for two and a comfy pull out couch that will accommodate two more.
The cabin is located on private property with owners and security on site, yet plenty of privacy.
During the day, paddle your way to the beautiful Three Sisters Springs for a swim. You may see some manatee, turtles, and dolphins along your way!
Hunter Springs is a great little park with a beach area for swimming and kayak rentals too.
There are also several Diving with the manatee tours available.
We also highly recommend for the sportsman in you, the newly opened Mallards Guns. Located only one mile down the road!.
You can enjoy swimming, fishing, scalloping, snorkeling, kayaking, pontooning just five minutes away, or just relaxing back at the camp.
Heritage Village is in town filled with many hometown eateries and shoppes. It's a great way to spend the afternoon and explore Crystal River.
We have a variety of great one-of-a-kind eateries with many special events and festivals throughout the year.
Conveniently located at the end of the street is a Publix, DG, Mexican restaurant, Brother's Pizza and Beef O'Brady's.
Firewood is available on site.
We also have brochures on all kinds of other great places you'll want to experience while staying in beautiful Crystal River!
Oh, and don't forget to stop by Grandma's gift shop before you leave.
We look forward to your stay!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$79
/ night
The Scramble On Inn
15. The Scramble On Inn
95%
(10)
34mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
CHECK-IN is from 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. No exceptions for late check-in unless previous arrangements made with owners.
Welcome to the Scramble On Inn! An "Old Florida" vibe in Florida's Manatee Capitol of Crystal River. The property is private, yet just minutes from stores, restaurants and the water.
The cabin is located on private property with owners and security on site, yet plenty of privacy.
Your cabin is fully supplied with bedding, towels, refrigerator, coffee pot, cups and silverware, AC in the summer months, and an electric fireplace in the wintertime.
On site is our own Bistro Barn fully furnished with a refrigerator, gas grill, charcoal grill, silverware and all the pots and pans you may be looking for. It's a great little hang out area with bluetooth speaker setup.
Outside you will find a firepit as well as a charcoal grill, a table for eating, a hammock, and a swing chair.
The outside shower house is on the primitive side and made for the adventure type. It is equipped with a portable toilet and shower under the stars. It is hooked up with instant hot water.
During the day, paddle your way to the beautiful Three Sisters Springs for a swim. You may see some manatee or dolphins on your way there.
Hunter Springs is a great little park with a beach area for swimming and kayak rentals too.
There are also several Diving with the Manatee tours available. One we suggest in town is Fun2Dive. These are all only a short drive away.
You can enjoy swimming, fishing, scalloping, snorkeling, kayaking, pontooning just five minutes away, or just relaxing back at camp fireside.
Heritage Village is in town filled with many hometown eateries and shoppes. It's a great way to spend the afternoon and explore downtown Crystal River.
We have a variety of great one-of-a-kind eateries with many special events and festivals throughout the year.
Conveniently located at the end of the street is a Publix, DG, a Mexican restaurant, and Beef O'Brady's.
We also have brochures on all kinds of other great places you'll want to experience while staying in beautiful Crystal River!
Oh, and don't forget to stop by Grandma's gift shop before you leave.
We look forward to your stay!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$79
/ night
Crystal River Pirate's Den
16. Crystal River Pirate's Den
95%
(29)
34mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
Check in between 2:00 and 8:00 p.m., unless prior arrangements with owners have been made.
Only five minutes from the Nature Coast's Manatee tours, this two-person cabin with one Queen bed is a great nature get-away! Somewhat primitive glamping, with an outside hot shower, charcoal grill and fire pit. Property owners on site, yet plenty of privacy. The Pirate's Den has your usual camping vibes with the comfort of a bed at the end of your day of adventure! Limited electric in the cabin. There is A/C, a lamp, an outside light, plug for chargers, an electric blanket, and an infra red light in the winter chilly months. Bedding, plates, mugs & silverware provided. Firewood Available @ $10/bundle.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$55
/ night
Grazing Oaks Ranch RV and Horse Stables
17. Grazing Oaks Ranch RV and Horse Stables
99%
(34)
34mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Camp in our oak Hammock at Grazing Oaks Ranch . Enjoy our farm animals and abundance of wildlife. Beautiful sunset views over the pond. We have 3 sites but only rent one at a time. All 3 are full hookup sites. We have horses, a few cows, chickens, ducks and our bunny fluffy.
Bring your horses.
We are 3 miles from Devils den and 4 miles from the blue grotto.
25 minutes to WEC and 15 minutes to HITS.
Enjoy all the springs around our area or just enjoy the property.
Learn more about this land:
Camp in our oak Hammock at Grazing Oaks Ranch. Enjoy our farm animals and abundance of wildlife. Beautiful sunset views over the pond. We have 3 sites but only rent one at a time. All 3 are full hookup sites. We have horses, a couple cows, chickens, ducks and our bunny fluffy. We are 3 miles from Devils den and 4 miles from the blue grotto. Enjoy all the springs around pur area or just enjoy the property. Price includes 6 stalls warm with feed and tac room as well as 4 paddocks and riding area.
Please ask about our extended stay possibilities.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
End of the Rainbow Resort
18. End of the Rainbow Resort
99%
(60)
35mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Indians ran this land for many years. You’ll find arrowheads and other artifacts. With lush vegetation and thousand of feet of waterfront you find that camping, fishing, swimming and exploring the property to be incredibly relaxing. Don’t forget to sit on the docks and watch the stars as moon gazing is some of the best in Florida.Learn more about this land:Incredible waterfront property with over 2,000’ of water frontage. This is designed to offer an amazing primitive experience.
Site has private access
Fire pits
Kayaks for rent
Chairs for rent
Picnic tables
Exploring
Swimming
Floating docks
Small kayak / boat ramp
50’ from Floridas most beautiful springs
And much much more.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$120
/ night
Jacob Tree RV Parking
19. Jacob Tree RV Parking
97%
(66)
35mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
This is a parking area for two seperatly rented RVs or campers. Each space is approximately 15ft x 40ft, a 33ft plus pull behinds will need expert driver to back in. The electrical hookup is 50 amp. If you have 30 amp, you will need to bring your own adapter. The area is under two large Oak trees giving plenty of shade. Electric and Water hook up is available. NO DUMP STATION! Extra parking for one vehicle only. If you have a trailer, a pull car and a second car the space is very tight, but can work. Basically this is a large parking area for the main home. The main home has a separate drive and garage parking so renters there will not be using your RV space. Golf cart friendly area, Walking distance to waterfront restaurants, tour guides and public boat ramp. Check out my favorite site, Monkey Island!
This RV camping space does NOT have access to the water, please do NOT walk through the yards of the property. Stay in our area and use the sidewalks and roads.
Pets are welcome, please walk them inbthe front road side, between the front fence and the road area. Please pick up after your pets and tie the bags before putting them in the garbage. Garbage can provided, located on the side if the old white house. Again be respectful of renters in the house.
Other:
Nearby Manatee Pub allows you to put in kayaks for a small fee.
Local community has a 10pm quiet curfew, no music or loud play after 10pm.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$35
/ night
Homosassa River Escape
20. Homosassa River Escape
93%
(14)
35mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to our piece of river heaven! With lots of space for tents and/or a small RV right along Mason Creek, you'll enjoy a secluded environment yet remain close to fun activities and plenty or restaurants and necessities. You can choose where to pitch your tent either right by the river or in the expansive yard closer to the wooded area. You will also have access to the outdoor amenities of our home, including an outdoor bathroom, outdoor shower, and hangout space under the stilt house. Plenty of seating at the bar area and high top table. Two fire pits available for camp fires, one by the river and a larger one on the other side of the house towards the wooded area. Common areas may be shared with other campers.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$41
/ night
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Kim
4 days ago
Tent
It was so nice to wake up to views of donkeys and horses! Great hosts that got me to the perfect spot, under the large oak trees. . I felt very safe behind a large gate not too far from the owners’ and farm interns’ homes, and except for a seldom vehicle, it was very quiet, in spite of being relatively close to the road. No potties, but, even without them, it definitely has the kind of vibe that made you want to stay longer!
See moreB
Brandon
1 week ago
31 ft Class C
With pets
What a beautiful quiet spot! Loved how secluded and peaceful everything was! Surrounded by gentle farm, giant's this was the perfect stop before exiting our Florida vacation! The hospitality of the host was unmatched!
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Jeff
2 weeks ago
32 ft Class C
A dog’s paradise! Free run, lots of “work” (his boarder collie came out!) quiet, peaceful and the humans enjoyed watching my new friends the longhorns!
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J
John
2 weeks ago
With kids
Great location. Nice host. Easy to get to. Could throw a rock into the lake from my front porch.
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Tiffany
2 weeks ago
18 ft campervan
With pets
We camped at Big Oak Farm in our camper van. We stayed 3 nights. It was lovely. Hosts are super nice, the property is beautiful, and we loved watching their pigs, horses, emus, goats, and working farm dogs do their thing. They made sure we had everything we needed but also gave us plenty of privacy. This spot is a gem. This will be our go-to spot for this area.
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s
scotty
2 weeks ago
Tent
The camp and the host were both great.
Character count was too short for reviews. Character count was too short for reviews. Character count was too short for reviews. Character count was too short for reviews
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L
Lashanda
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Wildflower Ranch
My wife and I first time camping we spent Valentines weekend here and I loved everything here it was so peaceful and beautiful and well equipped… Kim made sure we was safe and happy with our trip..
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c
charity
2 weeks ago
25 ft Class C
What an incredible experience! The property is truly one of a kind, offering the perfect balance of peaceful relaxation and vibrant energy. It attracts such wonderful people, which made the stay even more special. I will absolutely be back.
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Shaun
2 weeks ago
38 ft travel trailer
With pets
We didn’t know what to think before we arrived as we were just looking for a place to test out the new RV and Crossroads was very biker friendly. Turns out it was a perfect weekend. There just happened to be jack Russel Terrier races going on so there were dogs everywhere but the wife and I love dogs so it just added to the adventure. The campground was perfectly fine. Everything worked great. The only downside was we wanted full hookups and to get sewer we had to take a location close to annuals, but nobody messed with us or was loud. We walked the grounds and it was beautiful land. The waterfalls were all working and flowing as they should. We don’t drink much but the bar looked excellent. We did have a cheesecake on a stick and it was amazing. All in all it was excellent for the price. The owner was fantastic and very helpful even offering to let us use things if we forgot something.
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J
Jeremiah
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had five people 3 single tents an one double, the table was great and we enjoyed our stay. Had two hammocks up and still had room.
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J
Joshua
2 weeks ago
Tent
The intro email lays out everything you need to know. The hosts are very kind and welcoming people. Have a great set up on their property, and all of the campsites have enough space around them to have a feel of privacy, even when the place is full. I do recommend you bring firewood, or you can buy it here which is nice. They also let you pick up sticks so you can have small fuel and kindling to supplement your firewood with. Theres no shortage of sticks, they have a lot of healthy oak and pine trees on the property. It was a great spot to camp out while visiting Rainbow River and Springs for a paddle trip. Bring a hammock!
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L
Linda
2 weeks ago
24 ft Class C
We loved it at Nealsnest! It wasn't a planned stop but glad we did. Stayed 3 nights in our RV. Quiet and peaceful with tall trees all around the property. Less than 30 min to Cedar Key and beach. I had to work, so set up my laptop on a nearby picnic table for a few hours. Also love the astroturf next to the RV site and badminton court. It may not be natural, but it feels great stepping out onto it and is visually appealing amongst the dry sandy ground. Only a handful of sites, but plans for more are in the works. It's a perfect setting. Owners live on the adjacent property. Tina was very responsive and greeted us when we arrived and later checked in to make sure all was good. Also can't beat the price. I'm sure it won't stay that way as they expand and become more well-known. Highly recommend!
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Anealia
2 weeks ago
26 ft travel trailer
We always enjoy staying at this Hipcamp site. Tina has set up such a warm and welcoming campsite with improvement since we were here last year. We returned due to it being very convenient to go down to Cedar Key for dinner and a beautiful spot on property for stargazing. We will definitely return again in the future.
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H
Heather
2 weeks ago
Tent
David was an exceptional host. Very responsive and welcoming. The property has excellent camp sites right on the water.....perfect for our rooftop camper.
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J
Jeese
2 weeks ago
Tent
good worthy village cow birds lake campfire cock fishing
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C
Carly
2 weeks ago
19 ft campervan
Perfect little spot to spend the night. We walked to our manatee boat excursion the next morning and were back before checkout time.
It’s right on the main road but the road is pretty much dead quiet at night.
A decent amount of restaurants/bars in walking distance
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L
Lori
3 weeks ago
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Hosts are super nice and helpful. Beautiful large property and longhorn steer neighbors were quiet and curious. We had the place to ourselves and great to have our dog off-leash. So generous to include laundry and kayak use. We enjoyed a paddle up Rainbow River and drinks at Swampy’s bar and grille. Enjoyed local hikes too. Our best Hipcamp stay!
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C
Crystal
3 weeks ago
Tent
This was my first stay with hipcamp, host was friendly and the site was fine for tent camping :) thank you for your hospitality. I arrived late in the evening so I can vouche for a quiet peaceful sleep.
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P
Pamela
3 weeks ago
32 ft Class C
Resort type facility with tons of amenities. Overall nice place and convenient location. Failures for me - No trees! - and they only have a few picnic tables so bring your own as well as no firepits.
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C
Carlos
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
We had an amazing experience at Wildflower Ranch. The property is beautiful, peaceful, and exactly what we were hoping for—a perfect place to disconnect and enjoy nature with our family.
Kim was an incredible host from start to finish. She was kind, attentive, and truly made us feel welcome. From the moment we arrived, she made sure we had everything we needed and checked in to make sure we were comfortable, without ever being intrusive. You can tell she genuinely cares about her guests and the experience they have at her ranch.
The atmosphere was calm, relaxing, and well-maintained, and it felt very safe and family-friendly. We left feeling refreshed and already talking about coming back.
Highly recommend Wildflower Ranch if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with a host who goes above and beyond. Thank you, Kim, for such a great stay!
See moreThe best camping in Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, FL guide
Overview
About
A Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge camping trip is like stepping into a sanctuary where nature thrives. This refuge in the Gulf of Mexico is a sprawling archipelago of 13 islands, each with its own unique charm. Originating as fish camps of First Peoples, these islands have a rich history that adds an extra layer of intrigue to your outdoor adventures. The refuge is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to a diverse array of avian species. While the numbers have dwindled from 200,000 to around 20,000, the variety is still impressive. Egrets, night herons, brown pelicans, and white ibis are just a few of the birds that have found sanctuary in the Seahorse Key rookery. In recent years, even reddish egrets and roseate spoonbills have joined the mix, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in ornithology. Camping near Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge offers more than just birdwatching. The islands are perfect for a range of water-based activities. Whether you're into kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the Gulf's tranquil waters, there's something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Plus, the refuge's location in the Gulf of Mexico means you're never too far from other exciting attractions. What makes this refuge truly special is its commitment to both wildlife conservation and human recreation. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in nature while also respecting the habitat that so many species call home. So, if you're looking to experience the Gulf of Mexico in all its natural glory, Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge is the place to be.
When to go
The best time to visit Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge is during the fall, winter, and spring months, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the islands is at its peak. Summer visits are possible, but be prepared for higher temperatures and ensure you have plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Know before you go
- Check the latest guidelines and updates before planning your visit to ensure a safe experience.
- Be aware that some areas of the refuge are closed to the public and require a permit for entry.
- Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the refuge's natural beauty.
- Bring your own refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- For any inquiries or assistance, contact the refuge manager at (703) 622-3896.
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