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Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area

The best camping in Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area, FL

Discover the scenic Inglis Dam & Island Recreation Area.

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Stories from the community

Robert

3 days ago

13 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Smokey Acres

Quiet place and convenient location for all your needs.

Anthony

4 days 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

Frank

4 days 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.

Jennifer

4 days 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.

Alisa

4 days ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smokey Acres

Cozy place to stay! Forest trails and little pond where our little boy was fishing)

Darrell

4 days 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!

Chuck

4 days ago

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

8 nights at Smokey Acres

Great place to camp, very safe and comfortable will definitely return

Aleksei

4 days ago

27 ft pop-up camper

With pets

3 nights at Sunflower Farm

Amazing place. A lot of space. All is nice and clean.

Morgan

5 days ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Smokey Acres

We stayed at spot 7 for two night and absolutely loved it! Loved that they have a shower & bathrooms. We will definitely be back!

Kristian

1 week ago

16 ft car

1 night at Smokey Acres

Had a very pleasant stay. Thanks a lot again. Fully recommend.

Shane

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

5 nights at Jewel’s Sink

35 open acres. The giant pond. Close to any needed amenities.

Yordanis

1 week ago

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

5 nights at Smokey Acres

We had such a wonderful stay at this campground! The grounds are absolutely beautiful and incredibly peaceful — the perfect place to unwind. The amenities were excellent and made everything so convenient and comfortable. Our dog loved it just as much as we did, which is always a huge plus! We will definitely be back. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable getaway.

Zach

1 week ago

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!

Perla

1 week ago

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.

Zach

1 week ago

28 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Smokey Acres

It was such a nice peaceful place. Everyone was spread out good so you can do your own thing. Would definitely love to stay there again!

Urszula

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lucky U Ranch

Our stay at Lucky U Ranch was wonderful. Robe and Mike are exceptional hosts. Very welcoming, attentive, and accommodating. The property is beautiful and well-maintained, and the bathrooms were spotless. We loved all the animals on the farm, especially the free-roaming horses and donkeys. And don’t forget to bring your binoculars, the stargazing there is absolutely amazing.

Joseph

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Smokey Acres

First time at this site. Very simple and beautiful camp ground. Quiet, fishing pond, and bathroom and shower. Could not ask for more. Will definitely be back soon.

Amy

1 week ago

31 ft Class C

With kids

5 nights at Smokey Acres

This was my first Hipcamp stay. Have to say….I was NOT disappointed!!! Just like a state park. Nice area, great space between sites, clean, peaceful! Hilary was excellent as well!

Leigh Ann

1 week ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Sunflower Farm

Diane and Chris's property was perfect. The property itself is beautiful and nicely tucked away for some peace and quiet while still being very convenient to normal amenities and the special aspects of the Homosassa and Crystal River area. Our dogs had lots of space to roam and were particularly fond of Diane. Diane and Chris were both extremely friendly and went out of their way to ensure we had whatever we needed. Diane is such a kind soul; she made excellent recommendations for the area and continually offered us amenities and help. One of our dogs got sick and she even kept checking in on her the rest of our stay. By far a favorite spot and favorite hosts for us.

2 weeks ago

Tent

14 nights at PermOcala

I loved camping at Jai’s Jungle, and intend on camping here in the future!!

Top-rated campgrounds

Smokey Acres

93%

(1141)

34mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Brooksville, FL

Welcome to Smokey Acres! This property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires out there. Down a hidden gravel drive with wetlands on either side you will find a completely fenced in field surrounded by pine, oak, and swamp maple trees. There are two ponds located on the property both stocked with bass, bluegill, and sunfish. The front pond is home to many natural Florida wildlife and is a great location to bird watch. Located a few miles from Brooksville and the Suncoast Parkway, this quiet and peaceful setting is just 5 minutes from the parking area and trailhead for the Suncoast Trail and 10 miles from the famous Weeki Wachee Springs, where you can spend the day at the local park or float down the river with the manatees. Withlacoochee State Park and other natural preserves with trail access and kayaking are only a short distance away, and Dames Cave, Homosassa Springs, and Chasawiska Springs are all within a ~20-minute drive as well. Spending a day at the beach is easy with plenty of options along the Nature Coast. We’re also less than an hour from Tampa and Clearwater and two hours from Orlando. A perfect weekend get-away for anyone looking to “unplug,” Smokey Acres is also a great stop for those passing through the area. We are a close distance to many racing, livestock, boating and fishing events. We have no problem accommodating whatever you’re towing! Whether you'd like a leisurely day on the river or an adventure in the Gulf, there are plenty of boating options nearby. Be sure to make it back to the property in time to enjoy amazing sunsets that bring peace and tranquility to your experience. Our neighbors, JG Ranch, offers U- Pick Fruit and Vegetables or a great selection of local harvest at their roadside stand. This 10-acre property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires together out there. I've recently moved back home with my own family and as much as we enjoy the land for ourselves we'd love to share it. Any profit from hosting campers will help us maintain our sustainable farm that we're hoping to expand onto Smokey Acres. Just in! Our dirt road has been repaved. So no worries about a bumpy drive in!

Lucky U Ranch

99%

(386)

31mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bushnell, FL

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.

Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

95%

(324)

5.9mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dunnellon, FL

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! 🎉

Honey Bee Haven

41mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Archer, FL

The BEST of both worlds. 2 acres of country setting in the middle of Gainesville Florida. This is Dog Friendly place Host lives on site with professional pet sitting on premises. 2 RV hookups one Self contained Chinook RV hooked up. Places for tents access to showers and laundry. Beautiful and quiet. 10 minutes from football stadium at UF, 30 minutes from springs St Augustine Beach less than 2 hours east beautiful surroundings. College town lots of fun to be had.

Pure Paradise Lebanon station

96%

(158)

11mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · Inglis, FL

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

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

98%

(302)

49mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl

97%

(238)

3.6mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Inglis, FL

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!

Higher Ground "The Barn"

95%

(80)

15mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lecanto, FL

Come get back to nature with camping at your comfort level and YES, we have A/C AND MINI HEATERS and a mini-fridge in all of our cabins. PLEASE note that there IS A PET FEE and AND WOOD FEE and it must be added when you complete booking (as Extras). Kayaks available for rent too! Whether you'd like a tent site (tents available) or a rustic cabin with lofts, we have what you're looking for. Get out of the city and get into nature. Just over an hour drive from Tampa or Orlando and you'll be laying in a hammock or making s'mores by the campfire. BUT REMEMBER, you are IN THE WOODS.. Bugs live in the woods and eliminating them all is never possible. Bring spray :) We spray weekly but there are all kinds of bugs around because you're camping! We even have Kayaks available for rent to head to Crystal River or Lake Henderson!

Manatee Delight RV Camp Site

98%

(179)

15mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 1 site · RV · Homosassa, FL

Sandwiched between the Homosassa River and the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, this property has unique features, including karst windows with bubbling fresh water, natural springs, and large, mature trees. Learn more about this land: Tucked along a narrow road, this popular site offers users direct access to the crystal clear waters of the south-east fork of the Homosassa River. Use our kayaks or bring your own to explore one of Florida’s Outstanding Waterways where you may meet a manatee, observe otters, find fish, or watch wildlife of all kinds. The site has direct access to Pepper Creek Trail, a 0.75-mile paved trail that is part of the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. While you’re there, swing into the state park to view the sparkling waters of the Homosassa head spring and meet all of the native wildlife ambassadors, including Florida panthers, black bears, endangered whooping cranes, and many other amazing animals. Interested in charter fishing, scalloping, or an ecotour? Your hosts are both professional, experienced charter captains. Avoid the crowds at the dock and step right onto the boat here! Ask for availability prior to your stay. The site is private and away from the hosts home, approximately 75-yards from the river, with electricity and water provided. There is no sewer hookup; restrooms and shower facilities are not available. If your rig does not have a toilet, please bring your own method to contain and dispose of solid toilet wastes.

Big Oak Farm Dog And Horse Camping

100%

(14)

26mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Bronson, FL

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.

PermOcala

89%

(45)

39mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Ocala, FL

Jai Jungle is a natural health education center, as well as an active permaculture farm. The property was purchased in 2018 by Keith Lopez and his young son Jai with the intention of building a sustainable farm and an overall positive environment for Jai and all those who choose to work or spend time on the farm. You are warmly invited to come to Jai Jungle to enjoy the land as you please. Thank you, hope to see you soon Learn more about this land:We have a oak canopy as a campground with an outdoor shower and plenty of space at our 5 acre Permaculture retreat. 10 minutes from Private Beaches on Lake Weir such as Carney Island, Hampton Beach, and Gator Joe's Restaurant. 30 Minutes from Juniper Springs and 20 from Silver Springs. You will be able to tour a growing permaculture food forest. JAI Jungle is named after the 5 year old who lives here and loves guests to play on the trampoline or swim in our tiny pool with him. We have trails to explore and you can see the stars and hear old almost every night. We have over 10 swimming holes within the hour including 6 springs: Salt, Juniper, Alexander, Silver Glen, Rainbow, Kelly Rock, and 4 lake fed beaches: Carney Island, Hampton Beach, Mill Dam, Gator Joes (with food and sometimes music). You can also take an OGFit class while you are here: 10 minutes of world class Calisthenics. Breathe control and guided meditations also available. We have water available and an outdoor shower. We have plenty of room yet no electrical hookups and usually do not have very large rvs. Campfires (burn wood only- no plastic) and music with respect to being a bit more quiet when its dark. Please keep dogs on a lease and clean up after them. Please remove all garbage. Thank you. We also have a 16’ Canvas Tent available for an extra fee (77 total) or a 3 person 2 door tent for 40$ total, or a small pop up tent for 35$ total.

Homosassa Springs RV Site

99%

(208)

15mi from Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area · 3 sites · RVs · Homosassa, FL

Homosassa is an old Florida fishing town that is a hidden gem along the gulf coast, this site is nestled quietly at the head of the river on our shared residential property. This location is close to the head springs and Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park where you can discover the wild side of Florida with endangered Florida panther, red wolf, manatee and whooping crane, plus black bear, bobcat and, of course, alligator. The site is located 150 ft from the dock on our private residential property at the head of the springs, the dock is not visible from the site you do have to walk down to the dock area. This is a residential area and is very quiet. You can see the layout of the property in the photos from an aerial view as well as other photos of the setup. This listing is for the SITE ONLY. Setup your own RV under the shade then enjoy our shared dock with direct access into the Homosassa springs for a refreshing dip or paddle. We provide full hookups (water, sewer, 50amp electric) for your RV as well as WIFI service and access to the docks for your boat or swimming. We have kayaks and paddleboards INCLUDED with our site or bring your own to paddle the springs and take a chance at seeing a manatee up close and personal or catching some fish. We love to share our space with like minded outdoorsy people who respect nature and like to relax in the outdoors. This is not a party place, loud music or late nights aren't acceptable.

The best camping in Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area, FL guide

Overview

About

Camping near Lake Rousseau Dam & Recreational Area opens up a world of outdoor activities that go beyond the typical camping experience. Originally created in the early 1900s with a hydro-electric dam, Lake Rousseau has evolved into a hub for freshwater fishing, bird-watching, and picnicking. Multi-use platforms along the lakeshore make it easy to engage in these activities, offering a versatile outdoor experience. But the fun doesn't stop at the lake. Just a short drive away, the Inglis Dam Recreation Area provides another layer of outdoor adventure. Situated about 2 miles east of U.S. 19, the Inglis Main Dam serves as an access bridge onto Inglis Island's south side. It's a perfect spot for those who love to explore different terrains and water bodies. For the water enthusiasts, the downstream side of the dam features a large paved parking area with a boat ramp that doubles as a canoe and kayak launch. This ramp is your gateway to the Withlacoochee River segment, which stretches 1.5 miles from below the Main Dam and Spillway to the barge canal channel. Whether you're into boating, canoeing, or kayaking, this area has got you covered. A Lake Rousseau camping trip offers more than just a night under the stars; it's a multi-faceted outdoor adventure waiting to happen. From fishing and bird-watching on the lake to exploring nearby dams and rivers, the options are plentiful. Why limit yourself to one activity when you can have a smorgasbord of outdoor experiences? It's time to pack your gear and head out for an unforgettable adventure.

When to go

The best time to visit Inglis Dam & Island Recreation Area is during the cooler months from November to March, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Summer months can be hot and humid, with increased chances of afternoon thunderstorms, making some activities less enjoyable.

Know before you go

Ensure you navigate within marked channels while boating on Lake Rousseau due to submerged stumps.
Remember to bring your fishing license and adhere to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission's regulations.
Accessible amenities are available, including a paved multi-use trail and picnic/fishing pavilions.
Pets are welcome but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times, and owners must pick up after them.
For equestrian trail access, call the Greenway Inglis Lock office in advance for equine trailer parking.

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