Discover the best campgrounds near Ocala, Florida with swimming

United States
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Florida
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Ocala

96% (3185 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Ocala

Star Hosts in Ocala

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(8)

Wilderness VP87

1 site · RV1 acre · Silver Springs, FL

Lot 87 is a 1/10 acre pull through site with ~70 feet of concrete and room to park two vehicles. Water, sewer, and 30/50amp power on site. An 8X12 shed complete with full size modern WASHER and DRYER, residential size refrigerator, a utility sink and even a real porcelain FLUSHING TOILET ready for your use! The shed only has cold water... Just down the street from Ocala and Silver Springs State Park, in the Village Park portion of Wilderness RV Resort. Wilderness is a lovely community of RV lot owners and tenants with palm trees, manicured lots, and many amenities: a bath house, a gym and sauna/steam room, swimming pool and hot tub, big dog park, and a hiking trail... all nestled right on the shore of the beautiful and famous Ocklawaha River. Quick and easy shopping for typical requirements just down the road in Ocala or Silver Springs. Silver Springs State Park is less than 6 miles away and offers glass bottom boat tours of the famous springs or if you have your own kayak/canoe you can paddle from there right to Wilderness RV Resort - 6 miles of beautiful clear water and Florida jungle with manatee, gators, birds, otters, and even monkeys! The entire trip is with the current! Like bicycling? The Cross Florida Greenway (Santos Trail System) is about 15 miles away and offers 32 miles of paved path for road cyclist and easily over 50 miles of world class mountain bike trails for anyone from beginner to expert skill level. The Florida Horse Park is in the Greenway too, and is great for polo matches and all types of horse shows. The World Equestrian Center is in Ocala - also great for horse shows and has a couple nice restaurants. Ocala is sweet!

J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

1 site · RV1 acre · Silver Springs, FL

Beautiful high and dry corner lot with privacy hedge and full hook ups in the highly sought after Wilderness RV Resort. Our property is nestled within the tranquil Ocala National Forest, complete with tons of resort amenities! Did we mention our resort is located on a portion of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Highway! Come Explore the Local Area! The Florida freshwater springs are a natural and tropical central Florida paradise with pristine crystal clear waters. Enjoy the wide array of wildlife the Ocala National Forest and the Florida freshwater springs offer! Our property is located just minutes from Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Alexander Springs! Do you love the "Lake Life?" Central Florida is known for their beautiful lakes such as Lake George and Lake Kerr! Love to canoe or kayak? There are tons of canoe runs throughout this area of central Florida. In fact, you can canoe or kayak on the Ocklawaha River with direct river access from the resort! Love mountain biking? Check out the Santos Trailhead which offers over 30 miles of mountain bike trails with three levels of difficulty! One visit to Santos Trailhead and you'll see why so many people say that these are the BEST bike trails in Florida! Explore a Bit Farther! From our property's location and with a short drive, you can easily access the following towns and/or cities: Orlando - 1.5 hour drive Daytona Beach - 1 hour drive Gainesville - 30 minute drive Crystal River - 1 hour drive The Villages - 45 minute drive Enjoy the many amenities that Wilderness RV Resort offers: * Community Pool and Hot Tub * Full Hook Up Service * Direct Access to the Ocklawaha River (canoe/kayak rentals through resort) * Direct Access to Florida Greenway Hiking Trail * Clubhouse/Lodge * On Site Restaurant * On Site Candy Shop (w/ Whoopie Pies) * Laundry Facility * Bathhouse * Recreation Room (Ping Pong, Pool, Darts) * Private Mail Box

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SC Campgrounds

29 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Astatula, FL

Welcome to SC Campgrounds, , a peaceful 80 acre homestead turned into a serene activity campground located just outside Orlando, FL. Our campground offers a wide range of accommodations, including several camp sites with power, water, restrooms and cozy campers with central A/C and Heat. But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your camping experience. On the estate there is a putt putt course, canoes, pirate ship, swimming pool, ATV trails, and much. And for a unique outdoor movie experience, we offer a projector screen with any movie of your choice - just imagine enjoying your favorite film under the stars! 🎥 Each campsite comes with electricity, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Our campgrounds are very pet friendly as long as you have friendly pets. So what are you waiting for? Come join us at the SC Campgrounds for an unforgettable camping experience filled with nature, farm animals, and plenty of extras to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Please note:::::: Requirement as of 2/19/24 All campers and guests must present a valid ID upon check it.

Camp Seminole Springs

100 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Fort Mc Coy, FL

Bring your mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks and fishing gear. We have it all here at Seminole Springs. We are open for tent camping. Limited number of campsites with Tents on them in a variety of sizes available. First come, First serve. These sites will have a slight upcharge. When you book, if you want to upgrade and reserve one of these sites, let us know and we will accommodate you. We also have 3 units inside the lodge for the people who need just a step up from glamping, but not quite the whole hotel experience. These are beautiful comfortable rooms with half baths in the rooms. The showers are located in the lodge bathhouse. WE have the Jungle themed room, the Equestrian themed room and the Honeymoon Suite. Each unit comes equipped with its own hot tub. (To book any of these units, just send us a message and we will reserve it for you. The prices for these units are different than that campsite and glamping site prices.) The Grist Mill is also available for rent too! This is a very romantic, yet rustic getaway equipped with a half bath as well. Very secluded and private overlooking the spring on one side and the water fall on the other. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and at night the sound of the waterfall will lull you to sleep. The shower is located in the Lodge bathhouse. (To book this unit you must send a message to us and we will reserve it for you. The price is different than the campsites but we will go over that with you) WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR YOUR EVENT: TAKING BOOKINGS FOR WEDDINGS, CAR SHOWS, MUSIC EVENTS, ETC. LET US KNOW! NOTE: TURN AT CAMP SEMINOLE SPRINGS SIGN ON HIGHWAY 21. Your GPS may tell you to turn at the wrong St. Make sure that you are turning at 244th...Your GPS may tell you to turn at 243rd Street (where the Orange Market it) which is a dead end street. Just go a little bit further until you see the sign for Camp Seminole Spring. Bring bug spray and sun screen. If you need something, don't worry! There is a Dollar General, a gas station and a small cafe within walking distance. We have 38 acres of camping sites nature trails for hiking and mountain biking. Guests can park right on their site, or they have the option of parking and hiking into the woods to set up their site a bit more remote and off the beaten path. This is rustic camping. We have a bathhouse located at the campsites with showers. The bathhouse at the Great Lodge will be ready by Fall 2022. Whereas we do have garbage cans, we prefer that anything you bring into the property, you bring out with you. We allow campfires. Don't be surprised if you see a monkey or two in the trees... The fishing is amazing in these parts, so if you are an angler, come and visit. We have .75 miles of frontage on the Orange Creek. The creek flows into Lake Ocklawaha which just so happens to be one of the best bass fishing lakes in the USA. In fact, ten-pound bass are not uncommon from the Lake Ocklawaha River in the winter. Recently (2020), a 17.2-pound bass was caught there. The combined Ocklawaha and St. Johns drainage basin is possibly the most significant river-estuary waterway of Florida. This water system is of legendary reputation among anglers of largemouth bass who seek 10 pound plus trophy fish. Conveniently located between Ocala and Gainesville in the heart of Orange Springs, Florida, Camp Seminole Spring is perfectly located for the traveler who wants to really connect with nature. It appears to be ‘off the beaten path’, yet it is close enough to civilization so that even the most seasoned camper can make a quick run to store should he or she need something not found in nature. Camp Seminole Spring is mid-way (approx.. 22 miles) between Ocala and Gainesville, Florida, which are two thriving cities in this area of Florida. Ocala, the ‘horse capital of the world’ showcases a brand new multi-billion-dollar equestrian center which draws people from all over the world. This scenic property has an artesian spring which pushes out 1.6 million gallons of water per day rated among the top three percent of water in the world with an 8.4 natural pH. This water fills the pond and then continues on to flow into Orange Creek. Camp Seminole Springs was established in the 1940’s as a honeymoon resort and campground. The founders built a heart-shaped ‘pond-spring’ which is filled with the crystal-clear water pushed out from the spring where guests can lounge by the beach or gaze down into the bottom through the glass-like water or take a refreshing swim. At the top of the hill overlooking the heart-shaped spring, one will find the rustic Great Lodge where guests can come and mingle with each other, enjoy a relaxing conversation and a drink on the veranda or just sit and watch the activity in and around the spring.

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PermOcala

8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Ocala, FL

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

12 top campgrounds near Ocala with swimming

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Camp Seminole Springs

100 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Fort Mc Coy, FL

Bring your mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks and fishing gear. We have it all here at Seminole Springs. We are open for tent camping. Limited number of campsites with Tents on them in a variety of sizes available. First come, First serve. These sites will have a slight upcharge. When you book, if you want to upgrade and reserve one of these sites, let us know and we will accommodate you. We also have 3 units inside the lodge for the people who need just a step up from glamping, but not quite the whole hotel experience. These are beautiful comfortable rooms with half baths in the rooms. The showers are located in the lodge bathhouse. WE have the Jungle themed room, the Equestrian themed room and the Honeymoon Suite. Each unit comes equipped with its own hot tub. (To book any of these units, just send us a message and we will reserve it for you. The prices for these units are different than that campsite and glamping site prices.) The Grist Mill is also available for rent too! This is a very romantic, yet rustic getaway equipped with a half bath as well. Very secluded and private overlooking the spring on one side and the water fall on the other. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and at night the sound of the waterfall will lull you to sleep. The shower is located in the Lodge bathhouse. (To book this unit you must send a message to us and we will reserve it for you. The price is different than the campsites but we will go over that with you) WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR YOUR EVENT: TAKING BOOKINGS FOR WEDDINGS, CAR SHOWS, MUSIC EVENTS, ETC. LET US KNOW! NOTE: TURN AT CAMP SEMINOLE SPRINGS SIGN ON HIGHWAY 21. Your GPS may tell you to turn at the wrong St. Make sure that you are turning at 244th...Your GPS may tell you to turn at 243rd Street (where the Orange Market it) which is a dead end street. Just go a little bit further until you see the sign for Camp Seminole Spring. Bring bug spray and sun screen. If you need something, don't worry! There is a Dollar General, a gas station and a small cafe within walking distance. We have 38 acres of camping sites nature trails for hiking and mountain biking. Guests can park right on their site, or they have the option of parking and hiking into the woods to set up their site a bit more remote and off the beaten path. This is rustic camping. We have a bathhouse located at the campsites with showers. The bathhouse at the Great Lodge will be ready by Fall 2022. Whereas we do have garbage cans, we prefer that anything you bring into the property, you bring out with you. We allow campfires. Don't be surprised if you see a monkey or two in the trees... The fishing is amazing in these parts, so if you are an angler, come and visit. We have .75 miles of frontage on the Orange Creek. The creek flows into Lake Ocklawaha which just so happens to be one of the best bass fishing lakes in the USA. In fact, ten-pound bass are not uncommon from the Lake Ocklawaha River in the winter. Recently (2020), a 17.2-pound bass was caught there. The combined Ocklawaha and St. Johns drainage basin is possibly the most significant river-estuary waterway of Florida. This water system is of legendary reputation among anglers of largemouth bass who seek 10 pound plus trophy fish. Conveniently located between Ocala and Gainesville in the heart of Orange Springs, Florida, Camp Seminole Spring is perfectly located for the traveler who wants to really connect with nature. It appears to be ‘off the beaten path’, yet it is close enough to civilization so that even the most seasoned camper can make a quick run to store should he or she need something not found in nature. Camp Seminole Spring is mid-way (approx.. 22 miles) between Ocala and Gainesville, Florida, which are two thriving cities in this area of Florida. Ocala, the ‘horse capital of the world’ showcases a brand new multi-billion-dollar equestrian center which draws people from all over the world. This scenic property has an artesian spring which pushes out 1.6 million gallons of water per day rated among the top three percent of water in the world with an 8.4 natural pH. This water fills the pond and then continues on to flow into Orange Creek. Camp Seminole Springs was established in the 1940’s as a honeymoon resort and campground. The founders built a heart-shaped ‘pond-spring’ which is filled with the crystal-clear water pushed out from the spring where guests can lounge by the beach or gaze down into the bottom through the glass-like water or take a refreshing swim. At the top of the hill overlooking the heart-shaped spring, one will find the rustic Great Lodge where guests can come and mingle with each other, enjoy a relaxing conversation and a drink on the veranda or just sit and watch the activity in and around the spring.

Wilderness VP87

1 site · RV1 acre · Silver Springs, FL

Lot 87 is a 1/10 acre pull through site with ~70 feet of concrete and room to park two vehicles. Water, sewer, and 30/50amp power on site. An 8X12 shed complete with full size modern WASHER and DRYER, residential size refrigerator, a utility sink and even a real porcelain FLUSHING TOILET ready for your use! The shed only has cold water... Just down the street from Ocala and Silver Springs State Park, in the Village Park portion of Wilderness RV Resort. Wilderness is a lovely community of RV lot owners and tenants with palm trees, manicured lots, and many amenities: a bath house, a gym and sauna/steam room, swimming pool and hot tub, big dog park, and a hiking trail... all nestled right on the shore of the beautiful and famous Ocklawaha River. Quick and easy shopping for typical requirements just down the road in Ocala or Silver Springs. Silver Springs State Park is less than 6 miles away and offers glass bottom boat tours of the famous springs or if you have your own kayak/canoe you can paddle from there right to Wilderness RV Resort - 6 miles of beautiful clear water and Florida jungle with manatee, gators, birds, otters, and even monkeys! The entire trip is with the current! Like bicycling? The Cross Florida Greenway (Santos Trail System) is about 15 miles away and offers 32 miles of paved path for road cyclist and easily over 50 miles of world class mountain bike trails for anyone from beginner to expert skill level. The Florida Horse Park is in the Greenway too, and is great for polo matches and all types of horse shows. The World Equestrian Center is in Ocala - also great for horse shows and has a couple nice restaurants. Ocala is sweet!

J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

1 site · RV1 acre · Silver Springs, FL

Beautiful high and dry corner lot with privacy hedge and full hook ups in the highly sought after Wilderness RV Resort. Our property is nestled within the tranquil Ocala National Forest, complete with tons of resort amenities! Did we mention our resort is located on a portion of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Highway! Come Explore the Local Area! The Florida freshwater springs are a natural and tropical central Florida paradise with pristine crystal clear waters. Enjoy the wide array of wildlife the Ocala National Forest and the Florida freshwater springs offer! Our property is located just minutes from Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Alexander Springs! Do you love the "Lake Life?" Central Florida is known for their beautiful lakes such as Lake George and Lake Kerr! Love to canoe or kayak? There are tons of canoe runs throughout this area of central Florida. In fact, you can canoe or kayak on the Ocklawaha River with direct river access from the resort! Love mountain biking? Check out the Santos Trailhead which offers over 30 miles of mountain bike trails with three levels of difficulty! One visit to Santos Trailhead and you'll see why so many people say that these are the BEST bike trails in Florida! Explore a Bit Farther! From our property's location and with a short drive, you can easily access the following towns and/or cities: Orlando - 1.5 hour drive Daytona Beach - 1 hour drive Gainesville - 30 minute drive Crystal River - 1 hour drive The Villages - 45 minute drive Enjoy the many amenities that Wilderness RV Resort offers: * Community Pool and Hot Tub * Full Hook Up Service * Direct Access to the Ocklawaha River (canoe/kayak rentals through resort) * Direct Access to Florida Greenway Hiking Trail * Clubhouse/Lodge * On Site Restaurant * On Site Candy Shop (w/ Whoopie Pies) * Laundry Facility * Bathhouse * Recreation Room (Ping Pong, Pool, Darts) * Private Mail Box

SC Campgrounds

29 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Astatula, FL

Welcome to SC Campgrounds, , a peaceful 80 acre homestead turned into a serene activity campground located just outside Orlando, FL. Our campground offers a wide range of accommodations, including several camp sites with power, water, restrooms and cozy campers with central A/C and Heat. But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your camping experience. On the estate there is a putt putt course, canoes, pirate ship, swimming pool, ATV trails, and much. And for a unique outdoor movie experience, we offer a projector screen with any movie of your choice - just imagine enjoying your favorite film under the stars! 🎥 Each campsite comes with electricity, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Our campgrounds are very pet friendly as long as you have friendly pets. So what are you waiting for? Come join us at the SC Campgrounds for an unforgettable camping experience filled with nature, farm animals, and plenty of extras to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Please note:::::: Requirement as of 2/19/24 All campers and guests must present a valid ID upon check it.

PermOcala

8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Ocala, FL

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

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Smokey Acres

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Brooksville, FL

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

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Higher Ground "The Barn"

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Lecanto, FL

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

HandS hipcamp

6 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Fort Mc Coy, FL

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.

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Enchanted Oaks Camp & Farm

6 sites · Lodging10 acres · Ocala, FL

Welcome to Enchanted Oaks Farm and Camp site. We are an 8.5 acre farm in Ocala Florida, that offers unique glamping experiences. Activities in the area include: -Rainbow River Canoe and Kayak (40 minute drive)-K.P. Hole County Park (40 minute drive)-Disney (1 hr 10 minute drive)-Ocala National Forest (30-50 minute drive)-Juniper Springs Swimming Area (1 hr drive)-Ocala Drive-in (30 minute drive)-Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring (52 minute drive)-The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park (29 minute drive)-Silver Springs State Park (40 mintue drive)Hi Y’all, I’m Cassie Peech. I own and operate Enchanted Oaks Farm and Cassie Peech and Company (a wedding and events company based out of Orlando, Jax, and Tampa).We are from a tiny Kentucky town (2000 people), and love to show people our southern hospitality. We originally bought the farm to host weddings but we figured we would give hosting a try and we love it!!

Crystal River Paradise Camp

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Crystal River, FL

Monthly reduced rates for RV's available! NEW! This property is close to everything! Precious lighting turns the property into a virtual lightshow at dusk! Crystal River Famous Fishing, Beautiful crystal-clear springs for diving, swimming and tubing. Manatees and abundant wildlife. RV's and campers alike will enjoy creature comforts of fast Internet, Water hookup, Firewood, Toilet, 30 AMP, Electricity and Sewer. You will have access to a gas grill, horseshoes, spring fed pond stocked with bass, canoe, and a fire pit on the deck already stocked with propane. There are three wood-burning firepits on the campsite with one being a chimenea to roast marshmallows and hot dogs! Firewood and starter log provided and subsequent firewood for sale. Gazebo with table and chairs and a beautiful outdoor shower with views of mossy oak trees! The outdoor shower is a must. For CAMPERS! I do provide a camping toilet with bags for disposal along with hand sanitizer. Water is available from the hose on the deck. Tea and morning coffee will be provided. You are literally 1 mile from 2 parks with hiking trails (7-mile loop) to view all types of wildlife including alligators, birds, fox and deer. Kayaking spots are abundant. Historic Downtown offers a variety of bars and restaurants as well as local artist crafts. There is something for everyone. PS My backyard paradise is much more beautiful than my photographs. FREE WIFI!

Pure Paradise Lebanon station

25 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Inglis, FL

Learn more about this land:Beautiful area with waterfalls observation Tower 23 beautiful acres to roam plenty of fishing and water sports in the area as well as other activities , tent and self-contained camping starting at $25 per night full hookup $50 per night

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Nature's hug campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Dunnellon, FL

Hello! We live in the boonies of Dunnellon florida. Rigs 45 ft or under are recommended. We are 2 hrs from disney and daytona beach. Close by activities include beautiful golf courses, zip linning ,horse back riding, the villages and more! We are currently putting in rv hookups but do have portable water access as well as a hose for hook up limited one. Bring your kids,pets, horse ,atvs and enjoy a great time with your family at nature's hug campground! Car rental available

Available this weekend

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Marci's Magical Lakefront Oasis

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Ocklawaha , FL

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 to incredible 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.

Camp Seminole Springs

100 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Fort Mc Coy, FL

Bring your mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks and fishing gear. We have it all here at Seminole Springs. We are open for tent camping. Limited number of campsites with Tents on them in a variety of sizes available. First come, First serve. These sites will have a slight upcharge. When you book, if you want to upgrade and reserve one of these sites, let us know and we will accommodate you. We also have 3 units inside the lodge for the people who need just a step up from glamping, but not quite the whole hotel experience. These are beautiful comfortable rooms with half baths in the rooms. The showers are located in the lodge bathhouse. WE have the Jungle themed room, the Equestrian themed room and the Honeymoon Suite. Each unit comes equipped with its own hot tub. (To book any of these units, just send us a message and we will reserve it for you. The prices for these units are different than that campsite and glamping site prices.) The Grist Mill is also available for rent too! This is a very romantic, yet rustic getaway equipped with a half bath as well. Very secluded and private overlooking the spring on one side and the water fall on the other. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and at night the sound of the waterfall will lull you to sleep. The shower is located in the Lodge bathhouse. (To book this unit you must send a message to us and we will reserve it for you. The price is different than the campsites but we will go over that with you) WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR YOUR EVENT: TAKING BOOKINGS FOR WEDDINGS, CAR SHOWS, MUSIC EVENTS, ETC. LET US KNOW! NOTE: TURN AT CAMP SEMINOLE SPRINGS SIGN ON HIGHWAY 21. Your GPS may tell you to turn at the wrong St. Make sure that you are turning at 244th...Your GPS may tell you to turn at 243rd Street (where the Orange Market it) which is a dead end street. Just go a little bit further until you see the sign for Camp Seminole Spring. Bring bug spray and sun screen. If you need something, don't worry! There is a Dollar General, a gas station and a small cafe within walking distance. We have 38 acres of camping sites nature trails for hiking and mountain biking. Guests can park right on their site, or they have the option of parking and hiking into the woods to set up their site a bit more remote and off the beaten path. This is rustic camping. We have a bathhouse located at the campsites with showers. The bathhouse at the Great Lodge will be ready by Fall 2022. Whereas we do have garbage cans, we prefer that anything you bring into the property, you bring out with you. We allow campfires. Don't be surprised if you see a monkey or two in the trees... The fishing is amazing in these parts, so if you are an angler, come and visit. We have .75 miles of frontage on the Orange Creek. The creek flows into Lake Ocklawaha which just so happens to be one of the best bass fishing lakes in the USA. In fact, ten-pound bass are not uncommon from the Lake Ocklawaha River in the winter. Recently (2020), a 17.2-pound bass was caught there. The combined Ocklawaha and St. Johns drainage basin is possibly the most significant river-estuary waterway of Florida. This water system is of legendary reputation among anglers of largemouth bass who seek 10 pound plus trophy fish. Conveniently located between Ocala and Gainesville in the heart of Orange Springs, Florida, Camp Seminole Spring is perfectly located for the traveler who wants to really connect with nature. It appears to be ‘off the beaten path’, yet it is close enough to civilization so that even the most seasoned camper can make a quick run to store should he or she need something not found in nature. Camp Seminole Spring is mid-way (approx.. 22 miles) between Ocala and Gainesville, Florida, which are two thriving cities in this area of Florida. Ocala, the ‘horse capital of the world’ showcases a brand new multi-billion-dollar equestrian center which draws people from all over the world. This scenic property has an artesian spring which pushes out 1.6 million gallons of water per day rated among the top three percent of water in the world with an 8.4 natural pH. This water fills the pond and then continues on to flow into Orange Creek. Camp Seminole Springs was established in the 1940’s as a honeymoon resort and campground. The founders built a heart-shaped ‘pond-spring’ which is filled with the crystal-clear water pushed out from the spring where guests can lounge by the beach or gaze down into the bottom through the glass-like water or take a refreshing swim. At the top of the hill overlooking the heart-shaped spring, one will find the rustic Great Lodge where guests can come and mingle with each other, enjoy a relaxing conversation and a drink on the veranda or just sit and watch the activity in and around the spring.

SC Campgrounds

29 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Astatula, FL

Welcome to SC Campgrounds, , a peaceful 80 acre homestead turned into a serene activity campground located just outside Orlando, FL. Our campground offers a wide range of accommodations, including several camp sites with power, water, restrooms and cozy campers with central A/C and Heat. But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your camping experience. On the estate there is a putt putt course, canoes, pirate ship, swimming pool, ATV trails, and much. And for a unique outdoor movie experience, we offer a projector screen with any movie of your choice - just imagine enjoying your favorite film under the stars! 🎥 Each campsite comes with electricity, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Our campgrounds are very pet friendly as long as you have friendly pets. So what are you waiting for? Come join us at the SC Campgrounds for an unforgettable camping experience filled with nature, farm animals, and plenty of extras to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Please note:::::: Requirement as of 2/19/24 All campers and guests must present a valid ID upon check it.

Higher Ground "The Barn"

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Lecanto, FL

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

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Rainbow River "Peek" Vans & Tents

1 site · Tent1 acre · Dunnellon, FL

An elevated camp site next to a pole barn that overlooks a Florida hammock and a peek at the Rainbow River. This is not a commercial campground.Sorry, no dogs due to wildlife.No RVs (Tents, Truck Tents and Vans Only)Located in the heart of Dunnellon near the Rainbow River Site: 25ft long by 14ft Wide. Water, Sewer, 30amp; Electric. Not on the water but walking distance. This property is shared with the owner. campsite is separated from owner's house with a pole barn. This is not a waterfront site. You are not camping on the water, however, Rainbow River Peek is named because you can get a peek of the river from the site. You can bike to the river in about two minutes. This is a small, narrow (14ft wide) but quiet area, a few hundred feet from The Rainbow River. Located on a dead-end street. It is partially surrounded by Florida foliage next to a pole barn. 30 amp plug, Sewer, Water and 110 electric outlet and outdoor sink is on the site. The Rainbow River is a gorgeous river that is walking distance from the site. There is a beach, free boat launch, free kayak launch, tiki bars with live entertainment, antique shops, restaurants and a Publix/Aldi/Discount Grocery all within biking and walking distance. EXTRAS: Just like most campgrounds, check-in is after 3 and checkout, before 1 for cleanup between reservations. However, those times are negotiable if no arrival or departures those days. I am not a campground with multiple sites. When you cancel last minute you're hurting my biz as well as those that could've booked. No last minute cancellations! LOCAL STUFF TO LOOK UP Suggested Restaurants: (Hipcamp doesn't allow websites on here) Gruff's Grill and Bar, River Run, Swampy's (water front), Blue Gator (waterfront), Go For Donuts, Baskin Robbins, Dunkin' Donuts, Sonic, Burger King, Mc Donald's, Taco Bell and more. Shops: Antique shops nearby and Grumble House is a must visit! Grocery: Publix, Save A Lot, Winn Dixie, Aldi Laundromat: A few blocks from campsite Tours: Singing River Tours. $20 per person for a 1.5 hour ride on the river in a large, covered pontoon barge. Walking distance to board boat. Captain Bob's Airboat Tours, $50 per person. Walking distance to board boat. Boat Rentals - Rent a jon boat with a motor up to a pontoon boat at Blue Gator Tiki Bar & Grill. Walking distance from the RV site. Biking: This little town offers many sidewalks to bicycle on as well as a beautiful park along the Rainbow River called Blue Run Park Beach: Dunnellon City Beach (Chaplain A. Dinkins, III Memorial Park) is less than half a mile from the RV site. It offers picnic tables, restroom, a pier and beach for swimming on the Rainbow River. Pets are not allowed.

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J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

1 site · RV1 acre · Silver Springs, FL

Beautiful high and dry corner lot with privacy hedge and full hook ups in the highly sought after Wilderness RV Resort. Our property is nestled within the tranquil Ocala National Forest, complete with tons of resort amenities! Did we mention our resort is located on a portion of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Highway! Come Explore the Local Area! The Florida freshwater springs are a natural and tropical central Florida paradise with pristine crystal clear waters. Enjoy the wide array of wildlife the Ocala National Forest and the Florida freshwater springs offer! Our property is located just minutes from Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Alexander Springs! Do you love the "Lake Life?" Central Florida is known for their beautiful lakes such as Lake George and Lake Kerr! Love to canoe or kayak? There are tons of canoe runs throughout this area of central Florida. In fact, you can canoe or kayak on the Ocklawaha River with direct river access from the resort! Love mountain biking? Check out the Santos Trailhead which offers over 30 miles of mountain bike trails with three levels of difficulty! One visit to Santos Trailhead and you'll see why so many people say that these are the BEST bike trails in Florida! Explore a Bit Farther! From our property's location and with a short drive, you can easily access the following towns and/or cities: Orlando - 1.5 hour drive Daytona Beach - 1 hour drive Gainesville - 30 minute drive Crystal River - 1 hour drive The Villages - 45 minute drive Enjoy the many amenities that Wilderness RV Resort offers: * Community Pool and Hot Tub * Full Hook Up Service * Direct Access to the Ocklawaha River (canoe/kayak rentals through resort) * Direct Access to Florida Greenway Hiking Trail * Clubhouse/Lodge * On Site Restaurant * On Site Candy Shop (w/ Whoopie Pies) * Laundry Facility * Bathhouse * Recreation Room (Ping Pong, Pool, Darts) * Private Mail Box

Wilderness VP87

1 site · RV1 acre · Silver Springs, FL

Lot 87 is a 1/10 acre pull through site with ~70 feet of concrete and room to park two vehicles. Water, sewer, and 30/50amp power on site. An 8X12 shed complete with full size modern WASHER and DRYER, residential size refrigerator, a utility sink and even a real porcelain FLUSHING TOILET ready for your use! The shed only has cold water... Just down the street from Ocala and Silver Springs State Park, in the Village Park portion of Wilderness RV Resort. Wilderness is a lovely community of RV lot owners and tenants with palm trees, manicured lots, and many amenities: a bath house, a gym and sauna/steam room, swimming pool and hot tub, big dog park, and a hiking trail... all nestled right on the shore of the beautiful and famous Ocklawaha River. Quick and easy shopping for typical requirements just down the road in Ocala or Silver Springs. Silver Springs State Park is less than 6 miles away and offers glass bottom boat tours of the famous springs or if you have your own kayak/canoe you can paddle from there right to Wilderness RV Resort - 6 miles of beautiful clear water and Florida jungle with manatee, gators, birds, otters, and even monkeys! The entire trip is with the current! Like bicycling? The Cross Florida Greenway (Santos Trail System) is about 15 miles away and offers 32 miles of paved path for road cyclist and easily over 50 miles of world class mountain bike trails for anyone from beginner to expert skill level. The Florida Horse Park is in the Greenway too, and is great for polo matches and all types of horse shows. The World Equestrian Center is in Ocala - also great for horse shows and has a couple nice restaurants. Ocala is sweet!

Camp Seminole Springs

100 sites · RVs, Tents38 acres · Fort Mc Coy, FL

Bring your mountain bikes, canoes, kayaks and fishing gear. We have it all here at Seminole Springs. We are open for tent camping. Limited number of campsites with Tents on them in a variety of sizes available. First come, First serve. These sites will have a slight upcharge. When you book, if you want to upgrade and reserve one of these sites, let us know and we will accommodate you. We also have 3 units inside the lodge for the people who need just a step up from glamping, but not quite the whole hotel experience. These are beautiful comfortable rooms with half baths in the rooms. The showers are located in the lodge bathhouse. WE have the Jungle themed room, the Equestrian themed room and the Honeymoon Suite. Each unit comes equipped with its own hot tub. (To book any of these units, just send us a message and we will reserve it for you. The prices for these units are different than that campsite and glamping site prices.) The Grist Mill is also available for rent too! This is a very romantic, yet rustic getaway equipped with a half bath as well. Very secluded and private overlooking the spring on one side and the water fall on the other. Sit outside on the deck and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and at night the sound of the waterfall will lull you to sleep. The shower is located in the Lodge bathhouse. (To book this unit you must send a message to us and we will reserve it for you. The price is different than the campsites but we will go over that with you) WE ARE ALSO AVAILABLE FOR YOUR EVENT: TAKING BOOKINGS FOR WEDDINGS, CAR SHOWS, MUSIC EVENTS, ETC. LET US KNOW! NOTE: TURN AT CAMP SEMINOLE SPRINGS SIGN ON HIGHWAY 21. Your GPS may tell you to turn at the wrong St. Make sure that you are turning at 244th...Your GPS may tell you to turn at 243rd Street (where the Orange Market it) which is a dead end street. Just go a little bit further until you see the sign for Camp Seminole Spring. Bring bug spray and sun screen. If you need something, don't worry! There is a Dollar General, a gas station and a small cafe within walking distance. We have 38 acres of camping sites nature trails for hiking and mountain biking. Guests can park right on their site, or they have the option of parking and hiking into the woods to set up their site a bit more remote and off the beaten path. This is rustic camping. We have a bathhouse located at the campsites with showers. The bathhouse at the Great Lodge will be ready by Fall 2022. Whereas we do have garbage cans, we prefer that anything you bring into the property, you bring out with you. We allow campfires. Don't be surprised if you see a monkey or two in the trees... The fishing is amazing in these parts, so if you are an angler, come and visit. We have .75 miles of frontage on the Orange Creek. The creek flows into Lake Ocklawaha which just so happens to be one of the best bass fishing lakes in the USA. In fact, ten-pound bass are not uncommon from the Lake Ocklawaha River in the winter. Recently (2020), a 17.2-pound bass was caught there. The combined Ocklawaha and St. Johns drainage basin is possibly the most significant river-estuary waterway of Florida. This water system is of legendary reputation among anglers of largemouth bass who seek 10 pound plus trophy fish. Conveniently located between Ocala and Gainesville in the heart of Orange Springs, Florida, Camp Seminole Spring is perfectly located for the traveler who wants to really connect with nature. It appears to be ‘off the beaten path’, yet it is close enough to civilization so that even the most seasoned camper can make a quick run to store should he or she need something not found in nature. Camp Seminole Spring is mid-way (approx.. 22 miles) between Ocala and Gainesville, Florida, which are two thriving cities in this area of Florida. Ocala, the ‘horse capital of the world’ showcases a brand new multi-billion-dollar equestrian center which draws people from all over the world. This scenic property has an artesian spring which pushes out 1.6 million gallons of water per day rated among the top three percent of water in the world with an 8.4 natural pH. This water fills the pond and then continues on to flow into Orange Creek. Camp Seminole Springs was established in the 1940’s as a honeymoon resort and campground. The founders built a heart-shaped ‘pond-spring’ which is filled with the crystal-clear water pushed out from the spring where guests can lounge by the beach or gaze down into the bottom through the glass-like water or take a refreshing swim. At the top of the hill overlooking the heart-shaped spring, one will find the rustic Great Lodge where guests can come and mingle with each other, enjoy a relaxing conversation and a drink on the veranda or just sit and watch the activity in and around the spring.

PermOcala

8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Ocala, FL

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

SC Campgrounds

29 sites · Lodging, Tents80 acres · Astatula, FL

Welcome to SC Campgrounds, , a peaceful 80 acre homestead turned into a serene activity campground located just outside Orlando, FL. Our campground offers a wide range of accommodations, including several camp sites with power, water, restrooms and cozy campers with central A/C and Heat. But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your camping experience. On the estate there is a putt putt course, canoes, pirate ship, swimming pool, ATV trails, and much. And for a unique outdoor movie experience, we offer a projector screen with any movie of your choice - just imagine enjoying your favorite film under the stars! 🎥 Each campsite comes with electricity, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Our campgrounds are very pet friendly as long as you have friendly pets. So what are you waiting for? Come join us at the SC Campgrounds for an unforgettable camping experience filled with nature, farm animals, and plenty of extras to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Please note:::::: Requirement as of 2/19/24 All campers and guests must present a valid ID upon check it.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Rainbow Springs State Park

Dunnellon, Florida

83%

(58)

Ocala National Forest

Silver Springs Shores, Florida

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Silver Springs State Park

Ocala, Florida

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Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park

Keystone Heights, Florida

Camping near Ocala with swimming guide

Overview

For a nature getaway from Gainesville or Orlando, Ocala can't be beat. Known as "the horse capital of the world," it’s a popular spot for equestrian adventure camping. But it’s also close to major natural wonders of subtropical Central Florida: crystal-clear spring waters, forests of pine and palms, cypress swamps with gators, and an incredible diversity of local and migratory birds on the Atlantic Flyway. Ocala-area waterways like Silver Springs State Park and Crystal River put campers up close with manatees, while mountain biking and hiking trails through Ocala’s hilly terrain are a welcome change from Southern Florida’s flatlands. Ocala is also an RV camping hot spot for big rigs, with many RV sites offering full hookups, restrooms, clubhouses, and wifi.

Where to go

Ocala Area

Numerous ranches offering horseback riding and beginner lessons dot Ocala and the surrounding area. But if you prefer a two-wheeled steed, Ocala has incredible Sunshine State mountain biking at Santos Trails and along the Cross Florida Greenway. Local bike rental shops can equip you to explore these forest trail systems.

Silver Springs State Park

Just six miles east of downtown Ocala lies Silver Springs State Park, one of Florida's best-known springs. Here, translucent, turquoise water bubbles up from underground limestone aquifers to form the Silver River. Campers can travel these waters by kayak or glass-bottom boat to see manatees, freshwater fish, and alligators, but don’t forget to look up for a chance to spot wild rhesus macaque monkeys in the trees. Opt for a tent site or a cabin within the park to be set near trailheads.

Crystal River

A 7-mile river west of Ocala, Crystal River is fed by water from 30 different springs. At the head of the river in certain Kings Bay areas, you can swim with the manatees—hit the town of Crystal River for snorkeling and kayaking outfitters.

Ocala National Forest

Ocala National Forest is one of the great protected swaths of wild forest in Florida, containing numerous lakes, springs, and hiking trails winding through sand pine scrub. Kayaking and canoeing tours and the Florida Trail are popular ways to explore, while public campsites in Juniper Springs Recreation Area and Salt Springs Recreation Area are solid options for spending the night.

When to go

Although Ocala is a year-round camping destination, winters are more pleasant than summers—they’re less hot, less humid, and less rainy. The tradeoff is that Ocala and its popular attractions can be more crowded during this time. Summer is doable, but high heat and humidity mean you may be more comfortable in an RV park, a cabin with air conditioning, or at a campground with a swimming pool.