The best camping in Historic Santos Recreation Area, FL

Name: Historic Santos Recreation Area
Address: Historic Santos Recreation Area

Discover the historic charm and natural beauty of Historic Santos Recreation Area.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Historic Santos Recreation Area adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Historic Santos Recreation Area

GOLDEN OAKS

1. GOLDEN OAKS

100%

(153)

6.4mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

Come relax under beautiful live oaks or swim, fish, canoe or kayak on our private, spring fed lake! Enjoy some farm fresh eggs from our happy hens! Make happy memories . Our home is located within Marion county, the horse capitol of the world! We have a covered 20x40 pole barn and a covered, 10x20 concrete picnic table area with electric, water, sewage and a fire pit. Located on fenced 1/2 acre pasture under large live oaks. Bring your bathing suits, kayaks or fishing gear and enjoy the beautiful private lake and peaceful setting along with some of our farm animals, fresh chicken eggs and nature. There are plenty of fun destination places like The Florida Greenway (Santos trailhead) which boasts of some of the best and most beautiful hiking, biking and horseback riding around! There are also great restaurants nearby or far depending on your preferences and length of stay. We will do our very best to accommodate your needs to help make your stay as memorable and enjoyable as possible. We do have reduced rates for campers who want to extend their stay to one month or more.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Misty Morning Acres

2. Misty Morning Acres

100%

(35)

8mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

Located in Summerfield, North Central Florida, just a 1/2 mile north of The Villages, our little gem is a charming non-working hobby farm nestled on 2.75 acres. The property features a six-stall center aisle horse barn-occasionally home to a visiting horse, a chicken paddock, 4 friendly goats, and a welcoming Airbnb guest house on site. We have Equestrian Accommodations. Prior approval is required. Horse owners are welcome to stay with their horses for an additional fee. While close to nightly entertainment, shopping, and dining, our peaceful setting feels a world away. Centrally located, we're within 30 minutes of local attractions and just about an hour from Disney and Orlando. When outdoor adventure calls, Santos Recreation Area State Park is the perfect spot for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The park offers both paved and unpaved trails, along with some of the best mountain biking trails in Florida. Bike rentals are available on-site to make your outing easy and fun. For a relaxing day on the water, Silver Springs State Park is just 20 miles away. Paddle through crystal-clear waters by canoe or kayak or experience the famous glass- bottom boat tours and catch a glimpse of the underwater world teeming with wildlife. Whether you're seeking adventure or serenity, our little corner of Central Florida has something special for everyone. Horses are welcomed for an extra fee, self-care and prior arrangements made. Trails Heads are only 25 mins away. PLEASE NOTE: This is a NON- SMOKING, NON-VAPING property. For health and sanitation reasons, human waste may not be placed in trash bins. Please dispose of it at an approved facility. Thanks for keeping our campsite clean! Disclaimer: By booking and entering this property, guests acknowledge that they do so at their own risk. The host is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, or illnesses that occur while on the premises including those resulting from interactions with animals, farm equipment, or natural features. Guests accept full responsibility for their own safety, as well as that of their children and visitors during their stay. Guests are encouraged to obtain travel insurance to protect themselves against such events.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Marci's Magical Lakefront Oasis

3. Marci's Magical Lakefront Oasis

93%

(204)

11mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Beautiful spot overlooking Lake Weir in The Ocala National Forest. Watch the otters play and count the many different birds that make this lake their home. Treat yourself sunsets every night as the sun disappears into the water and enjoy the awesome reflection of the moon as it sets on the lake. (Check the moonrise/moonset tables to see if there is a visible moon during your intended stay - it really is an incredible sight). We have an amazing outdoor shower, with hot and cold running water, overlooking the lake. The extra large soaking bathtub is available for your use for $20 per stay if there are not other campers at the time due to us only having one bathroom available. Great for relaxing, bathing kids, or a very romantic evening. Canoe, stand up paddle board and kayak available for your use at no charge. You can paddle to nearby Gator Joe's which is an awesome spot on the lake for great food, drinks, and live music. Electric and water hookup (garden hose) both sites. RV 30 amp electric hookup, as well as regular 15 amp electric hookup on hilltop site. Many trees on the property makes it tricky for large vehicles to maneuver, therefor we have a limit of 25 feet including tow vehicle. Dockside site has 15 amp hookup. We do have an adapter to connect to 30 amp hookup. It is closer to the house and bathroom than site 2 and has more shade and easy access to the dock. Pontoon boat rentals are available down the road. Being on the lake we do have mosquitos but they are mostly an issue at dusk and dawn for about an hour but we are out in nature so insect encounters of all kinds are to be expected. If there is a nice breeze, which is often the case, you can enjoy the sunset from the rocker loveseat at the edge of our dock. We also have citronella torches available for rent. We also offer a large bundle of firewood for $10. Campers MUST check in by 10 pm. We recommend arriving during daylight whenever possible. It is important you understand that our property is not in the wilderness. We are NOT a commercial campground. We have a couple of acres in a residential area and there are homes near the campsite. That being said, you will have complete privacy at your campsites as the two sites are on opposite ends of the property and you will not see me at all other than when you check in, unless you desire to do so. Both campsites face the lake however, and you may see some fisherman out there from time to time, but I guarantee you will see much more wildlife than people. Each site has its own fire pit. Our guests love this place because of the lake, the incredible sunsets and moonsets over the lake, and all the incredible wildlife we have here, as you can see from the reviews. Well behaved pets are welcome off leash as long as they are supervised and don't bother other campers. They are not allowed on the porches. Please pick up any mess that is in the path of foot traffic. There is a $20 pet fee per pet per stay. Add it under extras. Pet sitting is available for an additional charge. I'm a professional photographer with 30 years of experience. Please inquire if you are interested in having your portrait made at this incredible location. We are 20 minutes from world famous Silver Springs, 20 minutes from Ocala Drive-In Movie Theater that usually shows great films for both kids and adults, and 20 minutes from the Santos Trailhead that offers world class biking and hiking paths. Unfortunately, I cannot do anything about the people that come here that have not read the description, expecting a wilderness campground and choose to leave a negative review based on that but everyone that has read the description has loved it here and many return.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

HandS Homestead Hipcamp

4. HandS Homestead Hipcamp

98%

(111)

14mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: We are on 3 private wooded acres just minutes outside of Ocala Natl. Forest and Silver Springs State Park. Plenty of wildlife and activities in the surrounding areas along with natural hiking trails, canoe and kayak launch sites and 15 minutes from shopping stores. We offer cookouts, yard games, tents and privacy. Our property is secured with a locked gate so your vehicle and belongings are always safe. We also offer transportation to nearby venues so you don't have to find parking for your vehicle, guided nature trail hikes, meals cooked and ready for you after a day of adventure, tent rentals, firewood and much more. We require 24 hours notice on all bookings. All extras are paid for when services are performed.

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Touch of Heaven Camper

5. Touch of Heaven Camper

100%

(21)

15mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

Our quaint little camper in our humble abode is a beautiful place to come get away from the hustle and bustle. Camper sleeps 2 and has a full size bed and table that turns into a bed as well if separate sleeping arrangements are needed. Camper also provides a bathroom, mini fridge, microwave, and kitchen with stovetop. Come enjoy a remote farm with beautiful scenery and awesome activities nearby for nature lovers, water sportsman, and or horse lovers. Our chickens, goats, and pigs will be your friendly neighbors during your stay.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Shannon Trails bring your horses

6. Shannon Trails bring your horses

98%

(40)

15mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Come enjoy the Greenway, 70k acres of trails abut the back of the property. Just a few miles to Rainbow River, and 14 miles from WEC Whether it’s hiking, biking, bird watching, or horseback riding, (stalls are available) you will blend with nature. Camp underneath the canopy of trees or hook up to our RV sites, cabins also available, choose your level of comfort. 😊

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Pegasus Landing Farm

7. Pegasus Landing Farm

100%

(21)

16mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

Pegasus Landing is a farm in Ocala Florida. Located just a few miles from the World Equestrian Center and 8 miles West of Ocala, Florida in a farm preservation area. No noisy highways. Peaceful surroundings and quiet nights. The farm has horses, a donkey, and goats which are friendly for children to visit. RV sites are flat with 50-Amp electric, water, sewer, and WIFI. Numerous popular attractions are nearby. For example, Rainbow Springs, Silver Springs, The World Equestrian Center, Devils Den Springs and Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens.

Pets

Full hookups

Primitive Island on Withlacoochee

8. Primitive Island on Withlacoochee

100%

(22)

18mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

Primitive Island is an island located directly on the Withlacoochee River across from Halpata Tastanaki Preserve. This is a BOAT ACCESS ONLY tent/hammock primitive site. Nearby you will see lots of wildlife. There are multiple springs you can visit while you paddle. The river offers great fishing including bass, bluegill, stumpknockers and blue catfish and those are just some of the fish that live here. Great for kids as they can fish right from the campsite! The river also offers a gorgeous paddling route which includes Nichols spring, Big Blue Spring, Gum Slough and the rainbow river.

Pets

Campfires

Picnic table

LAZY K RANCH SOUTH

9. LAZY K RANCH SOUTH

98%

(79)

20mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 26 sites · Tents, RVs

150 Acres of paradise in Central Florida Situated with 3000 feet on lake Griffin with access via a private inlet . Lazy k Campground is Surrounded with horses, cattle, wild turkey and amazing wildlife! We offer a inlet into beautiful lake Griffin. Lake Griffin is one of the biggest lakes in the harris chain of lakes Known for trophy bass fishing, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, speckled perch, and catfish. Anglers visit from around the world to experience the trophy bass! Slip you boat or kayak in our new boat ramp in the park or fish from the waters edge! Add in amazing wildlife including osprey, bald eagle, blue heron, anhinga, ibis, and river otter lake Griffin is a majestic experience. Lazy k ranch south also offers a agricultural experience in the heart of Central Florida ! We are working hard to put together a unique stay on the ranch for the cowboy in us all . Learn what farm life is all about if you choose from our herd of zebu cows , Brahman cattle, goats , horses and a host of other farm animals all surrounded by grand live oaks. Camp under the stars in our beautiful park with boat ramp into lake griffin. A unique experience to enjoy the best of both worlds all in one trip. We are here to take you back to a simpler way of life. Lazy k ranch south will be your escape into life as it should be time and time again. Lazy K Ranch south is Close to everything from restaurants, shopping, entertainment and outdoor adventures but tucked away and surrounded by nature and privacy. Enjoy one of the horses out grazing, pet our friendly goats and mascot calf mila always ready to get bottle fed . Come spend the day or week and enjoy everything Lazy k ranch south has to offer. Bathroom with shower, kitchen, lounge area with tv and wifi located by the ranch house. Lazy k ranch south will be your go to Florida destination . We promise. Make lazy ranch south your camping destination.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Grass Campers Country Cow Farm

10. Grass Campers Country Cow Farm

97%

(17)

20mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 70 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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 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. At the property itself you can visit with the cows, relax in the shade or hang out in our covered entertainment space. 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 3700 sq ft 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 and running water. 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, 15 minutes from Blue Highway Pizza, 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 ** sites also include a bag of grain to feed the cows

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

Idlewild Lodge and RV Park

11. Idlewild Lodge and RV Park

99%

(94)

20mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 17 sites · RVs, Lodging

Idlewild Lodge and RV Park is located on the spring-fed waters of Lake Panasoffkee and built on 3 acres with 10 cabins and 10 RV pads. While peaceful and quaint, Idlewild offers all the comforts of home accompanied with plentiful amenities. Positioned as a boutique lodge, groups may find it ideal to host private events and families will find the amenities to be entertaining while also serving as a unique, but truly “Floridian,” nature experience. Located on the western perimeter of Lake Panasoffkee, Idlewild sits across a 9,911 acre state park preserving Lake Panasoffkee's vast floodplain forest, natural springs, pine flat-woods, freshwater marshes and oak scrub forest. Recognizing the beauty Lake Pan has to offer, the current owners revitalized Idlewild in 2022 welcoming residents and tourists alike to enjoy the natural beauty and fishing opportunities. In addition to cabin renovations and paved RV sites, Idlewild now features premium amenities including pontoon boat rentals, bait and tackle, a boat launch, boat slips, vending, recreational area, laundry machines, an on-site café, pool-side cabanas, and the most spectacular views of Lake Pan while sitting around the gas-fired fire pit. Idlewild is also host to Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures. Swamp Fever guests can sign up for the interactive alligator experience and ride an airboat deep into the shallow waters of Lake Pan's forest where snakes, turtles, cranes, and gators are aplenty.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

12. Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

93%

(61)

20mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

When you are here you are family. Hi, I'm Danielle. My Mom, JoAnn, founded Black Horse Ranch in 2017. "You're family here" is something she said all the time to people who came to stay, and it is truly at the heart of our ranch. Black Horse is a place to enjoy nature, camping, campfires, and good company, in a place that feels like home. The property is a beautiful campground nestled into a nook of the Ocala National Forest. We are surrounded on 3 sides by forest, and you can ride or hike straight from any of the many trailheads on property! We offer 30 and 50amp sites, there is a bath house with full bathrooms and laundry, a Community Kitchen you are welcome to use, a screened in Pavilion for meals or hanging out, a POOL! (yes you read that right!) and a Clubhouse with couches, games and all! We have a few rentals (a cabin and RV) and we are working on getting more. We do have wifi on the property, and we also offer golf cart rentals. If you have horses, you'll love coming to Black Horse. We are surrounded by countless trails through the forest with the trail heads sitting right on property, two barns for horses, many outdoor stalls and paddocks, wash racks, and an extra large riding arena. There is world class fishing nearby at the St. John's River and we are right near many beautiful springs - which, if you have never spent time in a natural spring you will absolutely want to check that out! Kayaking, tubing, swimming galore in crystal clear waters. We are a 20 minute drive from the Villages which offers shopping, dining, and activities, as well as 20 minutes to historic Mount Dora which is a beautiful artsy downtown village. We are 1 hour from Daytona & New Smyrna, 1 hour from Orlando (Disney anyone?). There is plenty to do on the ranch and nearby the ranch. You will have a blast. We'll see you by the campfire!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

13. Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

98%

(347)

21mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Rainbowscape

14. Rainbowscape

100%

(13)

21mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

5 minutes away from rainbow springs.2025 Rv accommodates 6 people . Main bedroom 2, sofa bed 1, table bed 1, bunk beds 2, 2 tubes available for use at the rainbow spring tubing ride. Some fire wood is provided more can be purchased at the local Walmart or publix. Due to people not cleaning after their dogs, dogs arent allowed anymore.

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

Matos Farm

15. Matos Farm

100%

(11)

22mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Matos Farm at HippieCamp, your peaceful country retreat nestled in the heart of Wildwood, Florida. Our dream has always been to create a place where people can unplug, unwind, and reconnect—with nature, with themselves, and with the simple joys of farm life. Spread across 10 acres and surrounded by over 100 acres of serene cattle pastures, Matos Farm is a sanctuary for anyone looking to breathe fresh air, gaze at uninterrupted sunsets, and find peace in the natural rhythm of rural living. Here, you’ll wake up to the soft clucking of chickens and fall asleep to the gentle hoots of owls. It's the kind of place where you can slow down, start a morning with a warm cup of coffee by the firepit, and end your day watching the sun dip below a horizon lined with grazing cows. Whether you're lighting a bonfire under the stars, wandering through our 4-acre woods with your kids, or bottle-feeding our sweet Jersey calves, every moment invites you to experience life more simply—and more fully. Even though we’re tucked away in the countryside, convenience is just around the corner. We’re only 6 minutes from a 7eleven, Publix, CVS pharmacy, Macdonald's, coffewhops and restaurants. Plus, we have quick and easy golf cart access to The Villages, making it the perfect base for families who want to stay close to visiting grandparents while still enjoying an adventurous and rustic stay. At Matos Farm, it’s not just about the animals or the land—it’s about the feeling. It’s the calm you find when your feet touch the dirt, the laughter shared around a fire, and the joy of watching your children run wild through the woods, their imaginations leading the way. Whether you’re looking for a weekend reset or a longer escape, we’d love to share our little piece of heaven with you. Come stay, explore, and breathe a little deeper. Welcome to HippieCamp at Matos Farm.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

End of the Rainbow Resort

16. End of the Rainbow Resort

98%

(65)

23mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 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

The Olde salt Springs Camp

17. The Olde salt Springs Camp

97%

(16)

25mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

This rustic 2 bedroom with 1 outside bathroom cabin is on one acre in the woods. 10 mins from fishing,swimming,boating, and lots of adventures. Take a break from reality and visit this cabin. This unit is also close to a park for kids, town grocery store and restaurants. This unit has a full size refrigerator and electric cookware but no oven/stove.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Golden Oaks Farm

18. Golden Oaks Farm

100%

(109)

25mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 2 sites

It is 16 acres we grow gourmet mushrooms on the farm and also have a small vineyard. Our property is surrounded by the Ocala National Forest which is great for riding trails in a jeep, 4x4, dirt bike or hiking the Florida Trail. Salt Springs is also home of the famous Salt Springs recreation area which features one of the most beautiful springs in florida. There are several rivers and lakes close by for fishing and water sports.

Pets

Full hookups

Lazy Longhorn

19. Lazy Longhorn

98%

(43)

25mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 2 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

Enchanted Oak Paradise

20. Enchanted Oak Paradise

98%

(21)

26mi from Historic Santos Recreation Area · 1 site

We have been campers for 10 years and know how hard it can be to find a site nowadays. That is why we decided to share our slice of paradise with you. We hope that you too can enjoy the peaceful serenity we find when we come to this enchanted oak paradise. Learn more about this land: Spend a night, the weekend, or stay even longer under our spectacular centuries old live oak canopy in a quiet countryside neighborhood. The weatherman might say it’s 95° out but under these trees you’d never know. 3 acres of cleared flat live oak forest will invite you to kick back, relax, and let your cares drift away. Plenty of room to drive in, around, then pick your favorite vantage point. Florida has so much to offer so why not camp where your “what to do” options are endless. Our property is located in Morriston, just off 41 in a quiet residential neighborhood with wide, well paved and maintained roads. Acreage is not fully fenced so drive up into the yard as you see fit while respecting these priceless old oaks. At this time we have potable water via a well system on site at 3 locations throughout the property but no electric or sewer is available yet. If you are planning to run a generator it must be turned off during quiet hours (11pm-7am) unless it is quiet enough not to disturb the neighbors. Dump stations can be found at the multiple truck stops off i75.

Water hookup

Pets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Christopher

3 days ago

33 ft Class A

1 night at Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

We arrived late due to our own scheduling issue and had to leave early the next morning for a medical appointment in The Villages. The communication with Danielle was outstanding with practically immediate response and she was very accommodating with our schedule and needs. She gave us a group of sites to choose from, and we were easily able to get in and setup in the dark due to our late arrival. We didn't see much but what we did see was very well kept and had a lot of nice touches of decor that made the whole place really inviting. We will definitely be back for a visit and will spend more time to check out all that this place has to offer.

Jennifer

2 weeks ago

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Black Horse Resort Ranch Campground

We love loved the site! Very beautiful and relaxing! The kids loved petting the horses!

Site, park camper alongside the pavilion.

Greg

2 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Misty Morning Acres

We arrived at Misty Morning Acres (MMA) in the pouring rain (much needed but not right then) and Louise and Michelle greeted us with smiles. They guided us right to our spot next to the pavilion. The location is close to everything you could need. We attended a concert at Savannah Center and MMA was a great option so we could stay in our camper and bring our pup. We won’t hesitate to stay at MMA if we find ourselves in that part of the state.

Aaron

3 weeks ago

34 ft travel trailer

With pets

6 nights at Lazy Longhorn

This site was an absolute gem from start to finish. The owners were incredibly friendly and truly went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable throughout our stay. Our kids had an unforgettable time—especially getting up close with the cows and enjoying a fun, personal tour of the farm. It’s the kind of place that leaves you already planning your return before you’ve even packed up.

stephen

April 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to LAZY K RANCH SOUTH

I had a great experience during bike fest this year and couldn’t have been more happy at the location that I picked. They are very accommodating and the grounds are well kept. I would absolutely stay again.

Jeannie

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

This is a unique experience and my 4 year old loved it! The camper was cozy and perfect for myself, son and our dog. The grounds are well kept, incredible outdoor shower and super friendly hosts! 12/10 experience.

Dan

April 2026

21 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Shannon Trails bring your horses

This was our 2nd visit to Anne's property and everything was just as good as our 1st visit. Anne is a great host and very hospitable. I'm sure we'll be back again for another visit.

Ashley

April 2026

Tent

With pets

3 nights at HandS Homestead Hipcamp

This was our first 3 day camping trip together with 4 dogs and we loved it! We were the only guests so we were able to choke on site. Ultimately we loved site 5! It was remote and private allowing us to have more space for our dogs. Beth and Mike are both so very kind and responsive. They have a super sweet, beautiful, and well behaved 3 year old dog, Johnny, who you may see! He’s a lover! Beth and Mike helped us out by lending us a table because we forgot ours. They also provide transportation to drop off locations where you park your car at the end of the spring and they will take you to the start. Very helpful! Just let them know! For those not from Florida, one thing to remember is we also experience droughts and aren’t allowed to have fires. So keep that in mind if you’re relying on your fire to cook food. Hopefully you also have propane set ups. If not, let Mike know and he will offer to cook for you. Great people! Private area! Wonderful experience!

Trenton

April 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Primitive Island on Withlacoochee

I absolutely loved this campsite, and I wish there were more sites right on the river just like this one. For starters, it is a very easy, scenic float down from the Spruce boat ramp. I traveled by kayak and loved that it had its own little cove next to the site that made for perfect boat parking. Just as described, it had a nice fire pit, a charcoal grill, a picnic table and 4 benches. There was also a cable for a dog run, and about 3-4 solar-powered motion lights installed around the perimeter of the campsite. It is located near an elbow in the river with gives the view a nice panoramic feel. It is high enough off the water and has enough cypress knobs around it that I wasn’t concerned about alligators coming up near the camp. And, it was covered with a nice, mature tree canopy providing shade over the entire area. I had plans to roll out early the next day, but it was such a nice and peaceful spot, I ended up just hanging out there most to the next day.

paula l

April 2026

2 nights at Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

It was a very comfortable and pleasant cabin. Everything needed for a short or long term stay. Bring only clothes and groceries. The cabin was quaint, decorated nicely. I sat by the fire with my morning coffee. It was great.

Kate

April 2026

1 night at Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

We loved it so much we had to come back after our trip to relax here before we headed back home. It is such a comfy and homey place <3

Kymberlie

April 2026

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Primitive Island on Withlacoochee

Awesome place on the river! The dog tie off was a plus!! Thank you!

Jacoy

April 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Marci's Magical Lakefront Oasis

Great views! Lake was gorgeous! Birds everywhere and so calming. Great fire pit as well! Thank you so very much!

Allister

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

Sweet little spot that feels very private even though there were other campers around. The layout of the campground is very intentional and thoughtful. Fresh eggs, outdoor shower, and pre-built fire were excellent touches, as others have said. I was worried their might be competition for the toilet or shower, but it was never an issue.

Robert

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Shannon Trails bring your horses

Need property off of main drag near dunnellon and the river, great spot to be close yet far, the property had more than we needed we loved our stay, quaint little cabin had everything we needed :)

Tony

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Touch of Heaven Camper

Touch of Heaven Camper, one of the best stays we have had on Hipcamp! Host and family are amazing down to earth friendly and top notch in hospitality! We had a great stay with Crystal and her family, and all the animals on the property! We will be staying again hopefully soon in the future! Can't say enough good things about this place! Thank you kindly for having us there!

Sabrina

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Touch of Heaven Camper

Crystal was so welcoming and the camper was perfect. We had a wonderful stay!

Kate

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Serene Forested Blueberry Farm

It was amazing! Their directions were clear, the amenities were perfect, and we had a perfect little camping time! I am recommending this to all of my friends!

Jeri

April 2026

With kids

3 nights at Rainbowscape

Very close to Rainbow Springs, they had tubes for us to borrow. Nice fire pit, bring wood. Towels and bedding provided, basic kitchen supplies. We were cooking a meal so brought our own measuring cups/spoons, colander, pot, frying pan etc. Great A/C and hot water, no WIFI. Table and chairs outside, private setting but you can hear the road noise from the highway. Plenty of room for family of 4. Can recommend!

Juneau

April 2026

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Matos Farm

Wow. I really loved it here - to the point I can’t wait to come back! You’re in someone’s back yard, but it doesn’t feel like it - nestled between a border of tall trees, pastures, and cows. It’s very private, has outdoor plumbing with a working toilet and shower, and dog friendly. Samuel and his wife are generous and accommodating and made my stay super easy, comfortable, and safe (which was of high importance as a woman camping alone). There’s ample firewood and area to roam, and you’re not too far from places to eat, shop, or get gas - even though it feels like you could be in the middle of nowhere. Everything is less than 7 minutes away! A few tips for first timers: • Make a left onto samuel’s property when you see the brick wall on the right. • Bring your own toilet paper, soap, wet wipes. • Take a walk at sunrise!!

Historic Santos Recreation Area camping guide

Overview

About

For adventurers keen on blending history with recreation, camping near the Historic Santos Recreation Area is sure to be an educational and enjoyable experience. Located on the site of a historic African-American community, this area stands as a testament to the resilience and legacy of the original settlers, many of whom were displaced in the mid-1930s for the Great Depression era's Cross Florida Ship Canal project. This ambitious project, funded under President Franklin Roosevelt, aimed to provide employment during challenging times. At its zenith, it successfully employed around 8,000 workers, leaving an indelible mark on the region's history. Modern-day visitors to the Historic Santos Recreation Area can enjoy a plethora of amenities. The multi-use sports field, situated near the former historic Negro League baseball field, beckons sports enthusiasts. Additionally, a basketball court, numerous picnic pavilions, and a restroom equipped with potable water ensure that visitors have all they need for a comfortable day out. A highlight of the year is the annual celebration of Historic Santos on the last Saturday of February. This event sees residents of Historic Santos, along with park service staff, come together in a joyous commemoration of the area's rich history and enduring spirit. In essence, camping near the Historic Santos Recreation Area is not just about enjoying the great outdoors; it's about connecting with a piece of history, understanding the stories of those who came before, and appreciating the community's enduring spirit.

When to go

The best time to visit Historic Santos Recreation Area is during the cooler months from November to March, when the Florida heat is more bearable. Summers can be hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms common. The park is open year-round, offering a serene escape any day of the week.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast before your visit, as Florida's climate can be unpredictable.
Accessible amenities are available, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the park's offerings.
Pets are welcome but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times.
Remember to bring water and stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.
Explore the historic site and learn about the community that once thrived here.