North central Florida's freshwater springs create a unique camping landscape around Alachua, with water temperatures consistently holding at 72°F year-round regardless of season. The region sits at elevations below 200 feet, contributing to its flat terrain and multiple natural spring formations. During summer months, afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently between June and September, affecting hiking trail conditions and sometimes creating brief flooding at campsites near Alachua, Florida.
What to do
Spring diving and snorkeling: Devil's Den Spring offers unique prehistoric diving experiences in a limestone cave with crystal clear waters. "The spring was an amazing experience. The campground was maintained but the bathroom needed to be attended to. Overall, great experience!" notes Tom H. who visited Devil's Den Spring.
Wildlife viewing: Keep an eye out for the resident animal population at Travelers Campground. The campground integrates an animal rescue on-site. "An animal rescue is woven between the park and around the outside in such a thoughtful and beautiful way. I wish there was more info on this as you can tell it was very well thought out," shares Jessica J. about her stay at Travelers Campground.
Hiking trails: O'Leno State Park features elevation changes unusual for Florida. "Older Florida park with roots in the CCC and Forestry Service. Large park with hiking, bike and equestrian trails. Along the Santa Fe River there is a suspension bridge, old buildings and a small museum," reports Chris A. after camping at Magnolia Campground.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park provides exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room," says Joe R. who stayed at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Heated pool: Many campgrounds offer swimming holes, but Travelers Campground maintains a heated pool for year-round use. "I love how the pool is heated during the colder temperatures!" notes Anthony J., highlighting an option for winter campers when spring waters might feel too cold.
Multiple spring access: Several campers appreciate the proximity to multiple springs from a single basecamp. "Moonshine Acres is located 5 mins from the gates of Ichetucknee State Park," explains Roxane W. about Moonshine Acres RV Park, noting its strategic location for exploring different springs.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Prime spots at popular springs fill quickly, especially in cooler months. "You can only make reservations in one area of the park with the water and electric hook ups. All others are first come, first serve. You simply drive around til you find an available site and claim your own piece of paradise," explains Perry J. about Ginnie Springs.
Spring atmosphere varies: The vibe at each spring differs considerably. "Ginnie Springs is an absolute blast! The float is gorgeous and the springs are clear and the perfect temperature all year round. My only advice would be do not bring small children to Ginnie. It is more like a huge party with plenty of drunken antics all day and all night," warns April L.
Pet restrictions: Some springs have strict pet policies. "Had to leave because they don't allow pets," reports Danyel P. about Ginnie Springs, giving it a 1-star review despite the location's beauty. Check each campground's pet policies before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Campground size considerations: Smaller campgrounds can offer a more controlled environment. "Smaller campground but very spacious. Sites were great and well maintained even though they were crushed gravel. Facilities (bathrooms, game room, and general store) were very nice and clean," explains Mike H. about Moonshine Acres.
Facilities for rainy days: Moonshine Acres provides indoor entertainment options. "Pool house is fantastic and very nice for entertaining on rainy days. Love the gravel pads. Pulled 41 ft fifth wheel and had plenty of room," notes Brooke at Moonshine Acres.
Educational opportunities: O'Leno State Park offers ranger-led programs. "Lovely Park with lots of wildlife!! La Chua trail was beautiful and we saw lots of gators. We did the Ranger led hike which was really nice, my 5 year old struggled to keep up with the Ranger and there are decent elevation changes," shares Lindsey H.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Campsite utilities aren't always conveniently placed. "We stayed in site 1 and it could see the spring from our RV. The staff was friendly and the park host was so full of information. One note: site 1 in particular requires a looooooong hose. The hookups are all over the place and we couldn't even use water because of that," cautions Ashlee R. about Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park.
Site width variations: High Springs RV Resort offers varying site widths. "The sites all felt a bit narrow and it appears that there are a number of full-timers living there," notes Stephen G. who gave the campground 4 stars despite this limitation.
Cell service considerations: Internet connections vary widely. "Not sure who said the internet coverage was good. It SUCKS. The campground is down a hill off the side of the interstate. Any signal probably just floats right by above you. Couldn't even connect to check email," explains Dean J. about Travelers Campground.
