The best camping near Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ichetucknee Springs State Park adventure.

Hit the spring-fed waters of the Ichetucknee River at this North Florida gem.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Ichetucknee Springs State Park

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Free to Be Acres

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

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

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Glenn Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents125 acres · Fort White, FL

The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of three spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow or Magnolia Sink). Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1844), Magnolia sink is also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.

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Camp Gilchrist

1 site · Tent10 acres · Spring Ridge, FL

Camp Gilchrist is located in heart of Springs Country in North Florida. Ginnie Springs and several other local springs are just minutes away. Come visit and explore nature with us! Pitch your tent and relax. You can enjoy beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and star gazing in an open field. Enjoy wildflowers throughout the Florida blooming seasons. Find blackberries, mushrooms, and other edible foraged goods. For optimum peace and privacy, there is currently 1 campsite on our 10 acres. There are several recreational activities in the area including hiking, swimming in natural springs, fishing, kayaking, wildlife watching, and more!

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Tranquility Woods

5 sites · Tents4 acres · Fort White, FL

Discover serenity on this enchanting 4-acre property tucked away at the end of a tranquil road, offering a peaceful and rejuvenating escape. Embrace the beauty of nature as you observe the graceful deer that freely roam the grounds. Surrounding this haven are stunning springs for refreshing swims, and an array of hiking and biking trails beckon adventure enthusiasts. For those seeking a night under the stars, we provide four tent sites, each situated on mostly flat ground, perfect for camper vans to park and set up camp. To enhance your comfort, amenities include a convenient porta potty and a refreshing shower, ensuring that your stay is both delightful and revitalizing. Welcome to your haven of tranquility, where nature's beauty awaits at every turn.

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The Bird Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · O'brien, FL

The Bird Ranch is 4 acres of peaceful nature. We have 3 pioneer sites (2 with fire pits), one RV hook-up (power and water), and a cabin to choose from. We never really know what wildlife is wondering around or when they might pop up. Rest assure though; there are always birds singing, crickets chirping, frogs croaking, owls hooting, and we can even hear the neighboring pigs, chickens, cows, goats and dogs carry on. I will take all that over city noise any day of the week! The property has trails, an open field for games, and plenty of day outings to do. There are 2 natural springs (Royal and Little River) off the Suwannee River that are within a 10-minute drive. Branford Springs and Troy Springs are within 20 minutes. You can float down the Ichetucknee River on an innertube, catch a local rodeo just down Hwy 129 or take a 3 hour round trip bike ride. Cedar Key is a quiet little town with cute shops and restaurants. They roll up the streets after sunset; but what a beautiful sunset! There are also a few horseback riding ranches within 20 minutes from the property and if you're really adventurous and want to ride a camel; Lonesome Chicken Camel Ranch is less than an hour away.

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4A River Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

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

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Green Fairy Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

All are welcome to the Green Fairy Camp in Ft. White, Florida, a rustic haven nestled in the world's capital of freshwater springs. High and dry. Our RV spot boasts easy pull-through access within a fenced-in private acre, blending nearby adventure with glamping. Our cozy 10 X 16ft barn is thoughtfully equipped with 5G Wifi, a ceiling fan, portable AC and heater, compact kitchen, futon couch, clean bathroom, and an inviting outdoor shower on the deck. Onsite 2-person sleeper camper available to rent. Our spacious spot provides 50amp/30amp and easy-to-access water hook ups. Convenient black and gray water disposal is available just a short drive away for a nominal $15 fee. Green Fairy Camp's prime location is a mere 6-minute drive from the South Entrance of Ichetucknee Springs State Park, featuring a General Store and Grill. It's a favorite for kayaking, paddling, or tubing down the crystal-clear spring river. Ten minutes away, the North Entrance offers a refreshing swim in the head spring. At Green Fairy Camp, we invite you to embrace the good vibes of the great outdoors during your stay!

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Bowman's Landing

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Fort White, FL

We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River. We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances: Ginnie Springs - 6 miles Blue Springs - 9 miles Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles Gainesville - 38 miles Rum 138 - 8 miles Lake City - 27 miles White Springs - 38 miles Branford - 13 miles High Springs - 12 miles Dollar General - 3 miles Publix - 15 miles Bobs River Place - 20 miles

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Wildflower Pond

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Alachua, FL

Welcome to a sweet and soulful little piece of the woodlands. Tucked in on 4.5 acres, this spot is a secluded, enchanting piece of old Florida. Pitch a tent in one of our four designated camping sites, tie a hammock, gaze at the koi and other fish, or relax on the embankment. Check out what's growing in the seasonal garden and if you’d like to to visit our horses, KuneKune pigs, dairy goats, birds and local mascot, Nacho the Donkey, please book a private tour with us. Florida's gem-colored, healing spring waters are just a 20 minutes up the way and local retreat centers and yoga studios dot the area. Gator fans? Head into Gainesville for a game and to visit the University of Florida. Mostly, enjoy. We look forward to hosting you! To note for all guests: We suggest arriving before dark so as to make set up easy and comfortable. We do not require a formal check-in and encourage being self-reliable in set up of primitive campsites. (For something with more structure and a space already set up, check out our Aframe cabin.) We do have water, a composting toilet, sink, and groundtemp shower for your use and ease.

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Spacious Oak Hammock

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · High Springs, FL

Only a 5 Minute drive to High Springs Historic District and 20 Minutes to Gainesville. Enjoy peacefulness with a 30 amp electric/water site on this dead end road that abuts O’Leno State Park. It is common to see wildlife on this and the surrounding properties. Located only 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers. Learn more about this land: Located 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers.

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The Junction

8 sites · RVs, Tents88 acres · Fort White, FL

Discover the beauty of our property featuring longhorn cows, picturesque trails, a serene lake with a rope swing, a floating dock for relaxation, fishing opportunities, campfires, and more. Conveniently located just a mile from the North entrance of Ichetucknee State Park. Which is a natural spring fed river.

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Our Place Rental Property

5 sites · RVs1 acre · Lake City, FL

Do you have a RV? We have 2 - 50amp 230-volt connections for motor homes with Waste & water hook up on site! if you need 115 power, we suggest bringing your 230v to 115v power adapters. We are 20 minutes to anything fun or shopping but secluded in the country, The area is a no outlet area 1 way in 1 way out. We are just starting out renting space and are in the process of making property improvements every month to our place property for RV owners and campers to enjoy. We also have a 2bed 2 bath trailer completely renovated and ready to rent. visit Airbnb and look for our place in lake city Florida We also have Picnic tables BBQ Grills and Fire pits on Property and more coming soon. Please call me 15 minutes prior to arrival for instructions. Check is between 2pm and before the sun goes down. we do not allow campers to come after dark to check in.

The best camping near Ichetucknee Springs State Park guide

Overview

About

Eight springs add a refreshing burst of 72-degree, crystal-clear waters to the Ichetucknee River as it meanders through Ichetucknee Springs State Park, creating a natural lazy river. Recreational opportunities at this national natural landmark center around these waters, including canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and tubing. Are you brave enough to scuba dive to the cave in Blue Hole Spring? Though the river and Florida springs are focal points, the hiking trails are not to be missed, as they cross through varied landscapes, including cypress floodplains and sandhills. Ichetucknee Springs State Park doesn’t have a campground onsite, but others can be found closeby.

Photo of Ichetucknee Springs used with permission from The Florida Guidebook.

Notable campgrounds

Ichetucknee Springs State Park doesn’t have a campground onsite, but these public options are nearby:

Best for state park lovers: Combine your visit to Ichetucknee Springs State Park with another Florida state park with a stay at O’Leno State Park’s Magnolia Campground.
Best for hammocking: O’Leno State Park’s Dogwood Campground has 15 designated hammock campsites, in addition to sites for tents and RVs.
Best for serenity: Go off-grid with a site at Hog Pen Landing Campground in Osceola National Forest.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Reservations for state park campgrounds may be made through the Florida State Parks website or by calling 800-326-3521.
Florida residents can make state park campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance. Some parks fill quickly.
Walk-in registrations are accepted.
O’Leno State Park has 61 campsites with water and electric hookups.
Larger vehicles may have difficulty navigating roadways and campsites at O’Leno State Park.

When to go

North Florida experiences hot and humid summers, with the potential for frequent rains and thunderstorms. The spring waters remain a constant 72 degrees year round, which is refreshing on even the hottest summer days. Cooler temperatures are found throughout the fall and spring, making them delightful times for hiking. For the best chance to see manatees, visit in winter. You’ll find pleasant temperatures during the day, reaching highs in the 60s and 70s before dipping into the 30s and 40s overnight. Freezes are rare.

Know before you go

Paddling and tubing rentals are available in the park or from vendors nearby. Or, bring your own.
Tram services are located onsite to transport tubers and paddlers from their take-out point back to their launch.
Launch areas for tubing and paddling, including Midpoint Launch and Dampier’s Landing, have daily limits. Arrive early for the best accessibility.
You will share this natural swimming hole with tons of wildlife, including alligators, otters, turtles, and more.
Picnic tables and grills are available.
Venture to the Suwannee River or Santa Fe River to experience more of North Florida’s rich waterways.