PERMANENTLY CLOSED - This hike-in campground operated seasonally from October through April within Ocala National Forest. The US Forest Service managed the site with basic amenities including toilets, picnic tables, and trash service. RVs up to 25 feet could access the area, though rough road conditions required careful navigation.
Located near a lake with open terrain, the campground attracted visitors willing to rough it in a more primitive setting. One reviewer noted the presence of bears in the area, emphasizing the need for proper food storage and wildlife precautions. The seasonal closure during summer months aligned with Florida's hot, humid weather patterns when forest fire risk typically increases.
Description
Shanty Pond is a campground in the heart of a longleaf pine eco system, located south of Salt Springs off SR 19. A favorite of equestrians and hunters, it is seasonally open from October 15 through April 15.
Map & DirectionsShanty Pond Campground is located in Florida near Salt Springs
Directions
The turnoff for Shanty Pond is 1.8 miles south of the junction of SR 19 and SR 314 in Salt Springs, along SR 19. Watch for the sign directing you onto FR 65 on the right.
Coordinates
29.33497373 N
81.7267914 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/17/26
AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/17/26
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
Drive Time
- 38 min from Ocala, FL
- 59 min from Gainesville, FL
- 1 hr 2 min from Wildwood, FL
- 1 hr 6 min from Deltona, FL
