Starke is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Starke is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Starke, reviewed by campers like you.
One of Florida's first state parks, the park was developed on a 600-acre site by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s. The extraordinary craftsmanship of the CCC is still evident today.
Gold Head has three campground loops, Sandhill, Turkey Oak and Lakeview. The park's 73 campsites accommodate tents, trailers and motorized campers. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring/grill and potable water.
A centralized dump station is available for use, and 20- and 30-amp electrical service is available at all campsites except for sites 57 and 60-67 in the Lakeview campground loop. Sites 16-18, 58 and 59 feature 50-amp service in addition to 20- and 30-amp service.
Each campground has its own bathhouse facility with hot showers. The Lakeview bathhouse is fully accessible and sites 58 and 59 are the closest, with paved sidewalks leading from the sites directly to the bathhouse.
Well-behaved domestic pets are welcome in the campgrounds but are not allowed inside the bathhouses. View our park pet policy for more information.
A coin-operated washer and dryer are available at the Sandhill and Lakeview bathhouses.
Two primitive campsites are located within the southern end of the park just off the Florida National Scenic Trail. These sites include a picnic table, fire ring and a common pavilion.
Three primitive group campsites are available for organized youth and adult groups. An organized group is six or more people camping together who are members of or sponsored by a recognized community organization such as a church, benevolent society or civic service club.
$20 / night
Located on the Santa Fe River in High Springs Florida, Ginnie Springs is one of the clearest springs in Florida. The 72-degree water is perfect for river tubing, swimming, snorkeling, scuba and cave diving. Visitors to Ginnie Springs Outdoors can enjoy camping (wilderness sites or sites with electricity), an overnight rental cottage, picnicking, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, canoeing, kayaking, river tubing and volleyball.
$20 - $25 / night
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.
Escape the chill of winter at the family-oriented, sun-drenched Starke KOA in the Gainesville area The campground offers extra-long Pull-Thru RV Sites with concrete patios. Beautiful Supersites with large patios, firepit, and grill. Rustic cabins and Studio cabins. Splash in the pool, shoot hoops, throw horseshoes, or find a quiet spot in the clubhouse to read a book or challenge a friend to a board game. There's even free wireless internet! Fun weekend activities with our family oriented Activities Director. Nearby, Crosby and Sampson lakes offer great boating - and you may even get a gator glimpse. Contact us today!
$34 - $58 / night
Salt Springs Recreation Area is one the recreational jewels of the Ocala National Forest, with a spectacular natural mineral spring that gives the area its name. Plenty of outdoor activities keep campers and day-use visitors busy, including swimming in the springs, fishing, snorkeling, hiking and boating. Salt Springs is located between the St. Johns and Ocklawaha Rivers, 35 miles east of Ocala, Florida. The 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 natural springs, nearby Lake George and many surrounding rivers and streams provide ample opportunity for water recreation. Anglers can try a good fishing spot on Salt Springs Run, downstream of the swimming area, boat ramp and marina. Boat rentals are nearby. For those who wish to explore on land, the facility has basketball courts and a horseshoe pit. Hikers have easy access to the Bear Swamp Trail and a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.
The natural springs, nearby Lake George and many surrounding rivers and streams provide ample opportunity for water recreation. Anglers can try a good fishing spot on Salt Springs Run, downstream of the swimming area, boat ramp and marina. Boat rentals are nearby. For those who wish to explore on land, the facility has basketball courts and a horseshoe pit. Hikers have easy access to the Bear Swamp Trail and a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.
The semi-tropical region gives the campground a mixture of pines and palms, with lush greenery and warm temperatures. Within the recreation area, a natural spring rises from cracks deep within the earth. The presence of potassium, magnesium and sodium salts give the waters a slight salinity - hence the name Salt Springs.
Salt Springs is very close to Lake George, a great fishing destination.
$34 - $65 / night
Ocean Pond hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually. The two-mile wide lake has a shallow, sandy beach and facilities for fishing, picnicking, hiking, restrooms, fire rings and picnic tables. Ocean Pond is a favorite for boaters and skiing enthusiasts. A public boat launch and a 67-site campground attracts visitors from many parts of the country. The early bird gets the worm! Come early for lakeshore camping. Nineteen sites have electric and water hook-ups, 27 have water hook ups and there are twenty primitive sites. Water and electric are paved spurs with a 50-foot capacity. Each site has a lantern post, picnic table, fire ring and convenient access to bathrooms and hot showers. Campers can enjoy the boat launch and swimming area. If you are interested in day-use activities, the Olustee Beach has full bathrooms with showers, beach, boat launch, fishing pier, trails and picnic areas. The Great Florida Birding Trail and the Florida National Scenic Trail pass through the campground. Motor boats and trailers can be kept in the boat trailer parking across from the boat ramp. Ocean Pond is just four miles away from the Olustee Battlefield Park, site of Florida's only Civil War battle in 1864. The Olustee Battle Festival and Re-enactmentis held annually in Lake City. The campground is located approximately 1 hour from the First Coast Atlantic beaches and a short half-hour to multiple State Parks, local springs and caves.
This drive-up primitive campground has ten tent sites. A Clivus mulching toilet system is available behind site 5. A communal, 2-table pavilion, grills, and a campfire ring with benches is located across from site 6.
No electric hook-ups.
No potable water.
Pets must be on a leash.
Hunting occurs during scheduled hunt seasons, as listed at http://myfwc.com/hunting/wma-brochures/. Trail users should wear day-glo orange during hunt seasons.
Wildlife proof all food
Forest is open for day use visitors from 1.5 hours before sunrise until 1.5 hours after sunset.
Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.$9 - $10 / night
A 64-site campground offers 26 primitive tent sites and 38 sites with power and water hookups. A dump station, picnic pavilions and boat ramps are located in the campground.
The 9,500-acre Rodman Reservoir is perennially rated in the Top 10 Trophy Bass Lakes in Florida by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
The 67-site Rodman Campground is located approximately 9 miles southwest of Palatka off State Route 19 on Rodman Dam Road.
The Rodman Reservoir provides a diverse and extensive habitat for not only trophy fish but numerous avian species as well. Many endangered and threatened species of wading birds, waterfowl, bald eagles and others use the reservoir, particularly during the cooler months. There are also numerous alligators, turtles and even manatees that inhabit and travel through the reservoir seasonally.
The campground and reservoir were originally created during the 1960s-era Cross Florida Barge Canal project. The mammoth public works project was started in 1964 when President Lyndon B. Johnson flew into Palatka and started the project with a ground-breaking explosion at the nearby Rodeheaver’s Boys Ranch.
Almost 50 years later, the nearby Kirkpatrick Dam still remains intact, impounding the Ocklawaha River and maintaining the reservoir. A political and environmental battle continues since the reservoir was first flooded in November of 1968 of whether to maintain and manage Rodman as it is, or to remove significant portions of the earthen dam and restore the “Free Flowing Ocklawaha River."
$12 - $22 / night
Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park is the newest addition to Florida State Parks!
The park contains a collection of natural springs, including a large second magnitude spring that produces an average of 44 million gallons of water per day. This spring, known as Gilchrist Blue, has outstanding water clarity and discharges water through a shallow spring run about one-quarter mile to the Santa Fe River. The other named springs on-site are Little Blue Spring, Naked Spring, Kiefer Spring and Johnson Spring.
The most significant ecological habitats within the park include the spring run stream and floodplain communities. The main spring run is renowned for its support of a diversity of wildlife species including turtles, fish and invertebrates.
Paddling, snorkeling and swimming are all popular at the main springhead and spring run. Pavilions are available and a concession stand provides food and beverage service. Other popular activities include hiking, nature study and picnicking.
The park features 23 campsites: 16 sites for RV/tent camping (30 amp available) and seven tent-only camping.
For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
One of Florida's first state parks, the park was developed on a 600-acre site by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s. The extraordinary craftsmanship of the CCC is still evident today.
Gold Head has three campground loops, Sandhill, Turkey Oak and Lakeview. The park's 73 campsites accommodate tents, trailers and motorized campers. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring/grill and potable water.
A centralized dump station is available for use, and 20- and 30-amp electrical service is available at all campsites except for sites 57 and 60-67 in the Lakeview campground loop. Sites 16-18, 58 and 59 feature 50-amp service in addition to 20- and 30-amp service.
Each campground has its own bathhouse facility with hot showers. The Lakeview bathhouse is fully accessible and sites 58 and 59 are the closest, with paved sidewalks leading from the sites directly to the bathhouse.
Well-behaved domestic pets are welcome in the campgrounds but are not allowed inside the bathhouses. View our park pet policy for more information.
A coin-operated washer and dryer are available at the Sandhill and Lakeview bathhouses.
Two primitive campsites are located within the southern end of the park just off the Florida National Scenic Trail. These sites include a picnic table, fire ring and a common pavilion.
Three primitive group campsites are available for organized youth and adult groups. An organized group is six or more people camping together who are members of or sponsored by a recognized community organization such as a church, benevolent society or civic service club.
$20 / night
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.
Escape the chill of winter at the family-oriented, sun-drenched Starke KOA in the Gainesville area The campground offers extra-long Pull-Thru RV Sites with concrete patios. Beautiful Supersites with large patios, firepit, and grill. Rustic cabins and Studio cabins. Splash in the pool, shoot hoops, throw horseshoes, or find a quiet spot in the clubhouse to read a book or challenge a friend to a board game. There's even free wireless internet! Fun weekend activities with our family oriented Activities Director. Nearby, Crosby and Sampson lakes offer great boating - and you may even get a gator glimpse. Contact us today!
$34 - $58 / night
Salt Springs Recreation Area is one the recreational jewels of the Ocala National Forest, with a spectacular natural mineral spring that gives the area its name. Plenty of outdoor activities keep campers and day-use visitors busy, including swimming in the springs, fishing, snorkeling, hiking and boating. Salt Springs is located between the St. Johns and Ocklawaha Rivers, 35 miles east of Ocala, Florida. The 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 natural springs, nearby Lake George and many surrounding rivers and streams provide ample opportunity for water recreation. Anglers can try a good fishing spot on Salt Springs Run, downstream of the swimming area, boat ramp and marina. Boat rentals are nearby. For those who wish to explore on land, the facility has basketball courts and a horseshoe pit. Hikers have easy access to the Bear Swamp Trail and a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.
The natural springs, nearby Lake George and many surrounding rivers and streams provide ample opportunity for water recreation. Anglers can try a good fishing spot on Salt Springs Run, downstream of the swimming area, boat ramp and marina. Boat rentals are nearby. For those who wish to explore on land, the facility has basketball courts and a horseshoe pit. Hikers have easy access to the Bear Swamp Trail and a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail.
The semi-tropical region gives the campground a mixture of pines and palms, with lush greenery and warm temperatures. Within the recreation area, a natural spring rises from cracks deep within the earth. The presence of potassium, magnesium and sodium salts give the waters a slight salinity - hence the name Salt Springs.
Salt Springs is very close to Lake George, a great fishing destination.
$34 - $65 / night
Ocean Pond hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually. The two-mile wide lake has a shallow, sandy beach and facilities for fishing, picnicking, hiking, restrooms, fire rings and picnic tables. Ocean Pond is a favorite for boaters and skiing enthusiasts. A public boat launch and a 67-site campground attracts visitors from many parts of the country. The early bird gets the worm! Come early for lakeshore camping. Nineteen sites have electric and water hook-ups, 27 have water hook ups and there are twenty primitive sites. Water and electric are paved spurs with a 50-foot capacity. Each site has a lantern post, picnic table, fire ring and convenient access to bathrooms and hot showers. Campers can enjoy the boat launch and swimming area. If you are interested in day-use activities, the Olustee Beach has full bathrooms with showers, beach, boat launch, fishing pier, trails and picnic areas. The Great Florida Birding Trail and the Florida National Scenic Trail pass through the campground. Motor boats and trailers can be kept in the boat trailer parking across from the boat ramp. Ocean Pond is just four miles away from the Olustee Battlefield Park, site of Florida's only Civil War battle in 1864. The Olustee Battle Festival and Re-enactmentis held annually in Lake City. The campground is located approximately 1 hour from the First Coast Atlantic beaches and a short half-hour to multiple State Parks, local springs and caves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Starke, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Starke, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 167 campgrounds and RV parks near Starke, FL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Starke, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Starke, FL is Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Starke, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Starke, FL.
What parks are near Starke, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Starke, FL that allow camping, notably Osceola National Forest and Ocala National Forest.
