The best camping in Manatee Springs State Park, FL

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96% (12)

Enjoy a wealth of recreation at one of Florida’s largest springs.  

The best camping in Manatee Springs State Park, FL

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
On site kayak rentals

2. Manatee Springs Glamping

90%
(10)
0.1mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Chiefland, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night
Site #1 in foreground

3. Paradise Park and River Retreat

100%
(142)
2.8mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Old Town, FL
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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Los Pollitos Family Farm

5. Los Pollitos Family Farm

100%
(28)
3.6mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Chiefland, FL
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
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$30
 / night
The treehouse!

8. Treehouse Cabin Retreat - Florida

98%
(184)
13mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Old Town, FL
Welcome to the Treehouse Cabin Retreat located near the Suwannee River in Old Town, Florida! If you like camping, you will love this getaway. Our unique Treehouse (one queen bed on main floor plus small single bed in the loft) plus Rustic Cabin rental (1 bedroom with 1 queen bed, loft with double bed) brings you back to nature for relaxation and unplugging. Located just minutes from the Suwannee River with wonderful, clear, freshwater springs that are great for paddling and swimming. Just escape and relax among the trees, play outdoor games and have a campfire, or visit nearby springs, parks and rivers. Enjoy an outdoor shower under the stars. Warm up next to the campfire and create new memories. Old Town is a small town, 20 minutes north of Chiefland, 45 minutes northeast of Cedar Key and 45 minutes northwest of Gainesville. We allow a maximum of 7 people and 2 cars. Our retreat is designed to bring peace and simplicity, it’s a place to disconnect and breathe again. It helps us to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature and as a family. We believe everyone needs time away to breathe, that’s why we are sharing our little piece of nature with you. Trade the cell phone for a book on insect ID (there are plenty of bugs, this is the woods!) Relax in the hammock and look at how bright the stars are. Sit on the deck of the treehouse and enjoy the view of the treetops. Enjoy a refreshing outdoor shower. Breathe.... So disconnect from your busy lifestyle and plan a stay at our Tree House Cabin Retreat where you can relax and leave it all behind. Featured on the DIY Network-Tree House Guys. Find us on Facebook and Instagram as well. Rewrite the "roots" of your life! PLEASE NOTE, we allow up to 2 dogs with fees paid. PLEASE ADD THIS AS AN EXTRA AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. Be sure to read the Treehouse Retreat Rules and let us know if you have questions. This covers what's allowed, not allowed, expectations, things to be aware of, what you should plan to bring, etc. **Please note some of the photos are uploaded by past guests and some of the items pictured may have changed, been replaced, upgraded, etc. Feel free to reach out with any specific questions.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$175
 / night
Sunrise at a camp site.

10. Caceres Organic Blueberry Farms

95%
(272)
15mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Old Town, FL
Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 500 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of stores with our blueberries. We also have an active u-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.Learn more about this land:Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 600 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of other stores with our blueberries. We also have an active we-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$22
 / night
Big Oak Farm  Dog And Horse Camping

11. Big Oak Farm Dog And Horse Camping

97%
(15)
23mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
Wildflower Ranch

12. Wildflower Ranch

100%
(15)
24mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bronson, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Cabins On The Corner - Steinhatchee

17. Cabins On The Corner - Steinhatchee

100%
(15)
27mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Steinhatchee, FL
**NOVEMBER HAPPENINGS** Sips and Sunsets is back! Join us for a day of live music and support the local businesses in Steinhatchee. Fishing has heated up in the Gulf! Don't miss your chance to spend a weekend on the water! Most of our restaurants will cook your catch! Whether you are looking for an off shore trip with one of our local captains or you are a weekend warrior - Cabins On The Corner can accommodate your stay. We offer free boat parking at the campground. Do you prefer quiet evenings by a campfire? Would you rather do some hiking or kayaking at the numerous Springs? Do you want to visit The Steinhatchee Falls? If you answered yes to even one of these questions - then Cabins On The Corner in Steinhatchee is the perfect location for your stay. We offer three Amish built log cabins at our RV Campground. Each cabin has a front porch, one bedroom with queen size bed and a set of bunk beds in the living area. Two burner stove top, full size microwave and refrigerator. Full size bathroom with large walk-in shower. Fully furnished with towels and linens as well as dishes, cooking utensils and coffee pot. Smart TV with Dish Network. Wi-Fi is included. The Campground is fenced and gated and we are pet friendly. There is a laundry facility on site for the guests. There is a fire pit if you want to relax. In the summer we have a cowboy pool to cool off after a long day on the water. Steinhatchee is located in Taylor County Florida along the Gulf of America. Inshore and offshore fishing is year-round. Scallop season is June 15 to Labor Day. More than 20 springs are located within 45 minutes of Steinhatchee. Too numerous to count are the Florida Wildlife Management areas that are accessible by car and allow for bird watching and animal siting of deer and wild boar. Steinhatchee River is a kayaking, fishing and paddle boarding experience. The local restaurants/Marinas are within five minutes of the campground. Live music is available at the restaurants.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$99
 / night
The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

18. The Hatch Bend Hideaway RV Place

97%
(19)
27mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 1 site · RV · Branford, FL
The Hatch Bend Hideaway “A Private 2-Acre Oasis on the Historic Suwannee River!” Calling all RV and travel trailer adventurers! Escape to The Hatch Bend Hideaway, where breathtaking sunsets, serene river views, and outdoor fun await—just for you. Nestled along the Suwannee River in Hatch Bend, Lafayette County (near Branford, FL), this exclusive two-acre, tree-lined retreat is a full hook-up destination designed for RVers and outdoor enthusiasts. What to Expect: • • Convenient RV Set-Up: Easy one-way drive-through parking with full hook-ups, including 50-amp electrical, fresh water, and septic connections. • Private Riverfront: Relax on 200 feet of pristine, private Suwannee River frontage. • Outdoor Adventures: Bring your water toys and enjoy boating, fishing, tubing, paddling, snorkeling, or skiing. Visit eight nearby natural freshwater springs that stay a refreshing 72°F year-round. Amenities: • Exclusive 2-acre property with private access • Pet-friendly grounds • Coal BBQ grill and a fire-safe fire pit • Horseshoe pits for fun and games • On-site firewood (split your own) • Garbage barrel pick-up for your convenience • Nearby boat ramp (2 miles) and local groceries/restaurants (8 miles) • Local guided river and springs tours available Location Highlights: • Centrally located: 30 miles from Live Oak, Lake City, and High Springs • Just 55 miles northwest of Gainesville and 8 miles from Branford For the Adventure-Seeker or the Serenity-Lover, The Hatch Bend Hideaway invites you to experience North Florida’s last wild river in its untouched beauty. Reserve your private slice of nature today!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Entrance to the Cattle Pasture

19. 5D Cattle Ranch

100%
(18)
28mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 3 sites · RVs · Alachua, FL
Learn more about this land: Come camp with us on a cattle farm at 5D Ranch. Large spacious area with electric, sewer and water hookup. We welcome vehicle and RV campers. Enjoy watching the cattle on the neighboring fields and our beautiful Alachua sunsets! Campsite is just outside the cattle fields. Downtown High Springs, restaurants, shops and a variety of Natural springs and parks only 15 minutes away, including Poe Sprints, Gilchrist Blue Springs, Gennie Spings. We live just next door and will be available to answer any questions you may have. You may see in us in the mornings and afternoons feeding the cattle and horses. We request you respect our property and the animals on the farm. Please no loud music. We dont recommend tent campers as you may easily hear farm animal noises at night. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have and hope to see you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$56
 / night
Our fully stocked fishing pond in the back of our property.  ( Please note catch and release only)  There is also table and chairs next to it if you want to sit and relax.

20. Serenity Oasis

100%
(21)
29mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Steinhatchee, FL
We purchased our 3.39 acres two years ago and all that was on it was a RV and lots of pine trees, palmettos, woods and a small pond in the front of the property.  Over those two years we have turned it into our little piece of heaven.  We've added two more RV hookups which our son parked his camper on one.  We built a fully furnished cook shed and on the back side of it we have an enclosed fish cleaning area.  The cook shed also has an enclosed eating area.  In addition, we build a full size bath house / laundry room for the convenience of our campers.  We cleared out the back of our property and had a large fish pond dug and it is actually spring fed.  We have stocked it with all kinds of fish.  We have a dock that goes out to the pond and you can stand and feed the fish.  If you like to fish you can catch and release.  There is also a table and chairs out next to it if you want to sit and relax.Learn more about this land:Quiet 3.39 acres with a RV hookup, two ponds, a separate bathhouse/laundry room on the premises in addition to a cook shed with grills and cookers (propane included) along with fish cleaning station. We have a fire pit available to use (wood included). We're located approximately a mile from the boat ramp and Roy's restaurant where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. Keaton Beach is just 17 miles from us which has a nice little beach and beautiful scenery.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
96% (12)

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

Camper favorites near Manatee Springs State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Manatee Springs Glamping

90%
(10)
0.1mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 2 sites · Lodging · Chiefland, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$100
 / night

Paradise Park and River Retreat

100%
(142)
2.8mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Old Town, FL
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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night

Los Pollitos Family Farm

100%
(28)
3.6mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 2 sites · RVs · Chiefland, FL
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
Toilets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$30
 / night

Treehouse Cabin Retreat - Florida

98%
(184)
13mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Old Town, FL
Welcome to the Treehouse Cabin Retreat located near the Suwannee River in Old Town, Florida! If you like camping, you will love this getaway. Our unique Treehouse (one queen bed on main floor plus small single bed in the loft) plus Rustic Cabin rental (1 bedroom with 1 queen bed, loft with double bed) brings you back to nature for relaxation and unplugging. Located just minutes from the Suwannee River with wonderful, clear, freshwater springs that are great for paddling and swimming. Just escape and relax among the trees, play outdoor games and have a campfire, or visit nearby springs, parks and rivers. Enjoy an outdoor shower under the stars. Warm up next to the campfire and create new memories. Old Town is a small town, 20 minutes north of Chiefland, 45 minutes northeast of Cedar Key and 45 minutes northwest of Gainesville. We allow a maximum of 7 people and 2 cars. Our retreat is designed to bring peace and simplicity, it’s a place to disconnect and breathe again. It helps us to rejuvenate and reconnect with nature and as a family. We believe everyone needs time away to breathe, that’s why we are sharing our little piece of nature with you. Trade the cell phone for a book on insect ID (there are plenty of bugs, this is the woods!) Relax in the hammock and look at how bright the stars are. Sit on the deck of the treehouse and enjoy the view of the treetops. Enjoy a refreshing outdoor shower. Breathe.... So disconnect from your busy lifestyle and plan a stay at our Tree House Cabin Retreat where you can relax and leave it all behind. Featured on the DIY Network-Tree House Guys. Find us on Facebook and Instagram as well. Rewrite the "roots" of your life! PLEASE NOTE, we allow up to 2 dogs with fees paid. PLEASE ADD THIS AS AN EXTRA AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. Be sure to read the Treehouse Retreat Rules and let us know if you have questions. This covers what's allowed, not allowed, expectations, things to be aware of, what you should plan to bring, etc. **Please note some of the photos are uploaded by past guests and some of the items pictured may have changed, been replaced, upgraded, etc. Feel free to reach out with any specific questions.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$175
 / night

Caceres Organic Blueberry Farms

95%
(272)
15mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Old Town, FL
Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 500 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of stores with our blueberries. We also have an active u-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.Learn more about this land:Caceres Organic Blueberry & Turmeric Farms is nestled in the heart of the Suwannee River Water Basin, home to some some of the most beautiful freshwater springs in the world. We have been a WWOOF host since 2011. Over 600 organic volunteers from around the world have lived and worked at the farm so we are used to creating an atmosphere of community and sustainable living.  We have cleared tent camping lots for Hip Campers in front of the on-property lake with easy access to swimming and fishing. There are two solar shower stalls with hot water powered by the sun. It is specifically built to overlook the main blueberry field and peach grove. Stunning views at sunset. An outhouse / composting toilet is currently under construction with the rain water collection system now complete. In the meantime a portable toilet is provided.  A potable water station is available and built from re-purposed materials and wood harvested locally. We are a working farm. We supply every Lucky's Market location with fresh turmeric and a host of other stores with our blueberries. We also have an active we-pick program during the blueberry and peach harvests (late March to early June) that is available to Hip Campers. There are multiple springs within 30 miles in various directions - some of them of First Magnitude volume. Ichetucknee Springs offers excellent river rafting. Ginnie Springs offers world class underwater cave diving -PADI license required. Manatee Springs and Fanning Springs consistently offer up close sightings of Manatees without the crowds of Crystal River. There is also a boat launch on the Suwannee River just minutes from the farm for boating, skiing and fishing. Bob's River Place is minutes away.The Gulf of Mexico is just 40 miles away. Scalloping season begins June 15 this year and runs to September. Oyster season lasts all winter. The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park is 50 miles away and hosts several large music festivals from Spring to Fall including Hullaween on October 23-25.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$22
 / night

Big Oak Farm Dog And Horse Camping

97%
(15)
23mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 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.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night

Wildflower Ranch

100%
(15)
24mi from Manatee Springs State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bronson, FL
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night

Other options near Manatee Springs State Park

The best camping in Manatee Springs State Park, FL guide

Overview

About

Stroll the boardwalk in Florida’s Manatee Springs State Park to take in sights of “trees with knees” in the namesake first-magnitude spring, which pumps out as much as 150 million gallons of water a day. The clear waters of the spring run eventually join the tea-stained Suwannee River, offering scenic spots for kayaking, swimming, and fishing along the way. You might even spot cave divers–-or join them! During cool weather, manatees visit the park. Over eight miles of biking and hiking trails meander through cypress swamps and around sinkhole ponds. A camping area offers sites for tents and RVs. Glamping rentals are also available.

Notable Campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Reservations for may be made on the Florida State Parks website or by phoning 800-326-3521.
  2. Florida residents can make campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
  3. Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.
  4. Most sites have water and electric hookups, with select sites offering full hookups.
  5. A dump station is available.
  6. Campers with RVs longer than 40 feet may be limited to select sites or may not find accessible sites. Check with the campground for full details.

When to go

The best time to visit for manatee sightings is winter, when the spring waters attract these popular sea cows. Winters are generally pleasant and good for outdoor recreation year round, with daily highs in the 60s and 70s. While lows may dip into the 30s, freezing temperatures are rare. The rest of the year offers nice weather in fall and spring, while summer is often hot and humid, with the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms.

Know before you go

  • Recreational opportunities include snorkeling, scuba diving, wildlife viewing, cave diving, paddling, and more.
  • The park’s trail system connects to the greater 32-mile Nature Coast State Trail.
  • Park ranger programs are free and offered seasonably.
  • Though swimming in the clear spring waters is generally considered safe since alligators prefer murkier waters, alligator sightings are not out of the question in the waters and in other areas of the park.
  • Take a kayak tour from Fanning Springs State Park to Manatee State Park along the Suwannee River to explore more of the region’s flora and fauna.
  • The boardwalk and swimming area may close when the Suwannee River floods.
96%
12 ratings · 3 reviews