Are you an equestrian lover who prefers a more rustic experience when you visit Ocala National Forest? Equestrian camping is the best way to experience nature. You're sure to find the perfect site for your Florida horse camping excursion.
Wekiwa Springs Camping offers slopes of gently rolling hills supporting longleaf pine among other specialty plants is the Sandhill habitat where the 60 spacious campsites are located. Each wooded site has water and electrical hook-up, a fire ring with grill and a picnic table. Some sites also have sewer hook-ups and a dump station is located at the campground.
Accessible camp sites can be requested at the time of reservation. Two accessible restrooms with showers are located in the camping area.
Firewood is available at the ranger station. Well behaved pets are allowed in the campground in accordance with our Pet Policy.
$24 / night
Welcome to Santos Trailhead & Campground, a fantastic spot near Ocala, FL, that's perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors. This place is a haven for hikers and mountain bikers, with trails that are practically at your doorstep. The campground itself is small but mighty, offering roomy sites with gravel pads, 50-amp electric hookups, and water.
One of the standout features here is the cleanliness. Visitors consistently rave about the spotless restrooms and showers, which are a big plus after a long day on the trails. Speaking of trails, the biking and hiking options are top-notch. You can hit the trails right from your campsite, and there's even a nearby bike shop if you need to rent some gear or pick up a few snacks.
Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. And if you enjoy a campfire, you're in luck—fires are allowed, and you can even buy firewood on-site.
For those who like a bit of convenience, the campground is reservable, making it easy to plan your stay. There's also a diner nearby that caters to cyclists, though you might want to check their hours to avoid missing out.
Overall, Santos Trailhead & Campground offers a great mix of amenities and natural beauty, making it a fantastic base for exploring the trails and enjoying some quality time outdoors. Whether you're here for a night or a week, you're bound to have a memorable stay.
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. This place has it all—great trails, abundant wildlife, and a variety of camping options. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking your RV, or looking for a bit of glamping, you'll find a spot that suits your needs.
One of the standout features here is the wildlife. Visitors often spot wild horses, bison, and a plethora of bird species. The observation tower offers a panoramic view of the prairie, and if you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these majestic animals. The La Chua Trail is another must-see, especially if you're into gator watching.
The campsites themselves are well-maintained and spacious, with plenty of shade from the dense woods. Some sites come with electric and water hookups, while others are more primitive, perfect for those who prefer a more rustic experience. The bathrooms and showers are clean, and there's even a sanitary dump station for RVs.
For those who love hiking, the park offers numerous trails that range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The trails are well-marked and provide a great way to explore the diverse ecosystems within the park. There's also a boat launch if you're into fishing or just want to paddle around the lake.
Don't forget to bring bug spray—trust me, you'll need it. And if you're planning to visit in the fall or winter, a little extra warmth for the bathrooms wouldn't hurt. But overall, this campground is a top-notch destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
Special Notice Effective September 13, 2022, the following roads and recreational facilities are closed due to excessive rainfall and unsafe ground conditions:
• Mud Spring • Mud Spring Trail • Fire Tower Recreation Area • Education Trail • Indian Pond Road • John’s Landing Campground • Orange Point Campground
Forest staff will continue to monitor the situation regularly and reopen the roads and facilities once it is safe to do so. Please avoid these areas until the closure is lifted.
Welaka State Forest is located along the east bank of the historic St. Johns River. The Florida Forest Service maintains the integrity of the forest's natural systems while allowing limited outdoor recreation use and environmental education. In 1935, under the Federal Resettlement Administration, the United States government started the Welaka Forestry and Wildlife Conservation Project on a state of Florida fish hatchery site. The Welaka property was later transferred to the University of Florida as the “University of Florida Conservation Reserve, Welaka” for the study of forestry and wildlife. In 1992 the lease was transferred from the University of Florida to the Florida Forest Service to manage as a state forest.
$10 - $15 / night
Doe Lake is a group campsite with a variety of activities. Centered around a historic lodge with a large group kitchen, it's an ideal place for major outdoor gatherings of up to 250 people. The site is a favorite among equestrian groups, but can also accommodate weddings and other social events. For reservations or refund request please call (877) 444-6777
Equestrian camping, canoeing, boating and fishing are some of the popular activities around Doe Lake, and can be enjoyed exclusively by visitors with a group reservation. Campers can launch a canoe or low-powered boat and drop a line in the middle of Doe Lake for an afternoon of fishing.
Equestrian camping, canoeing, boating and fishing are some of the popular activities around Doe Lake, and can be enjoyed exclusively by visitors with a group reservation. Campers can launch a canoe or low-powered boat and drop a line in the middle of Doe Lake for an afternoon of fishing.
Located in north central Florida, the Ocala National Forest spans four counties and 383,000 acres. It is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River and protects the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest. The camping area sits beneath a shady grove of oaks and pines overlooking Doe Lake, and the dining hall sits atop a grassy hill with a view of the water.
The Ocala National Forest is notable for its extensive off-road trail system catering to both ATV enthusiasts and Jeeps, as well as being a traditional destination for deer hunters. These opportunities are available in designated areas throughout the forest.
$350 / night
Bulow RV Resort is the perfect location for those who appreciate an unspoiled Florida environment. Nestled on the banks of Bulow Creek, many of our guests enjoy boating, fishing, hiking and cycling. With direct access to Bulow Creek or a short drive to the Intracoastal Waterway, Bulow RV Resort is a water lover's paradise. Staying at an Encore Flagler Beach-Palm Coast RV resort gives you incredible access to a number of outdoor recreational activities in Flagler Beach, Daytona Beach and St. Augustine - including six golf courses nearby. Closer to home, Bulow RV Resort guests enjoy a small-town feeling in our community, complete with an on-site shop, bar and activities center. You'll feel right at home among your friendly neighbors. A water lover's paradise at a Flagler Beach, Palm Coast RV resort Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Bulow RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
Tent Camping Only (No RV's). Tent Camping is allowed at designated campsites in the Princess Place Preserve.
Princess Place Preserve, with its rich history and 1500 pristine acres, attracts nature enthusiasts from near and far. It provides a glimpse of old Florida. Visitors can take in its splendor while on one of the many hiking trails, fishing the salt marshes along the Matanzas River and Pellicer Creek, or camping out under the stars. The preserve is a popular spot for horse enthusiasts, with an equestrian campsite and plenty of trails that make it is easy to embrace nature while enjoying a ride.
This beautiful 1,500-acre preserve is situated in the northern part of Flagler County. It was purchased by Henry Cutting in 1886 and passed on to his widow Angela Mills Cutting Worden, who eventually married Boris Scherbatoff, an exiled Russian prince. Angela assumed the title of princess and it was then that the once named "Cherokee Grove" came to be known as "Princess Place." The original lodge, built by Henry Cutting, stills stands as Flagler County's oldest intact structure. It is also home to Florida's very first in-ground swimming pool.
Hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Sunday. There are Lodge tours Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. on a first come first serve basis. There is no reservations for the tours, simply meet the Rangers at the Lodge at 2pm. Camping check-in is from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Ranger Station. For more information about camping or pavilion rentals, call Parks and Recreation at 386-313-4020.
$20 / night
Welcome to Ross Prairie Campground, a cozy spot near Dunnellon, Florida. This place is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of tranquility and outdoor activities. With only 14 sites, it offers a more intimate camping experience. The sites are well-spaced, providing a good amount of privacy, and are large enough to accommodate both tents and RVs.
One of the standout features here is the access to numerous trails. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or horseback riding, you'll find plenty of paths to explore. The trails are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making them a hit among visitors. If you're bringing your horse, there's even a horse trailer park available.
The campground is equipped with essential amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, and clean bathrooms with showers. The sanitary dump and sewer hookups are also available for RV campers. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just remember, no alcohol is allowed on the premises.
Despite its proximity to the road, which can bring some traffic noise, the campground remains a peaceful retreat. The bathroom facilities are newly remodeled and kept in excellent condition. If you're looking for a bit of adventure, it's a short drive to Crystal River or Ocala, offering more activities and sights to see.
Overall, Ross Prairie Campground is a great spot for a quick getaway or a longer stay. The friendly camp hosts and the clean, well-maintained facilities make it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're here for the trails or just to unwind, you'll find this campground a welcoming place to stay.
This 1,137-acre site is located at the north end of Lake Yale. The major feature is a 600-acre shallow marsh. Approximately 61% of the property is comprised of forested and herbaceous wetlands (692.2 acres) with the remaining 39% consisting of uplands (444.5 acres). The upland community types found on the Preserve include unimproved pasture, shrub/brushland, mesic hammocks, xeric hammocks and pine flatwoods. Wildlife include sandhill cranes, gopher tortoises, pocket gophers, ring-neck ducks, foxes and scrub jays.
Hiking, biking or horseback riding on the Sawgrass Island Preserve allows the visitor an opportunity to experience a natural area far away from the urbanized environment. There are two primitive camping sites located on the Hammock Trial. They consist of a fire ring, picnic table and a post to hang your lantern. There is no water source, so water must be carried in. Camping is available by permit only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Ocala National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Ocala National Forest is Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Ocala National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 33 equestrian camping locations near Ocala National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
