Best Camping near Alachua, FL

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Alachua, FL is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Alachua, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Discover great camping spots near Alachua, reviewed by campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Alachua, FL (192)

    Camper-submitted photo from Ginnie Springs Outdoors
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginnie Springs Outdoors
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginnie Springs Outdoors
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginnie Springs Outdoors
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginnie Springs Outdoors
    Camper-submitted photo from Ginnie Springs Outdoors

    1. Ginnie Springs Outdoors

    53 Reviews
    177 Photos
    503 Saves
    Fort White, Florida

    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.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 - $25 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park

    2. Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park

    38 Reviews
    140 Photos
    210 Saves
    Fort White, Florida

    DOG1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    3. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    176 Photos
    237 Saves
    Micanopy, Florida

    PPCG

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground

    4. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    131 Photos
    177 Saves
    High Springs, Florida

    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.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Springs State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Springs State Park Campground

    5. Manatee Springs State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    227 Photos
    385 Saves
    Chiefland, Florida

    MAG1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park

    6. Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park

    17 Reviews
    70 Photos
    111 Saves
    High Springs, Florida

    MAG1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring
    Camper-submitted photo from Devil's Den Spring

    8. Devil's Den Spring

    20 Reviews
    82 Photos
    237 Saves
    Williston, Florida

    We offer 4 cabins available for rental. All are identical in size and layout and sleep up to 4 people. Kitchen includes microwave, mini fridge, and sink. Admission to Devil's Den is separate.

    Must be 21 or older to book AND to stay on the cabin property!!

    We offer a vast R.V Park with 32 sites. Most sites offer 30/50 amp hook-ups, water, and sewer. Reservations are required. Admission to Devil's Den is separate. (Site rental does not include an RV.)

    Gaze at the stars and enjoy all of nature's wonderful sounds as you spend the night in our tent campground. Select sites have electric/water hook-ups. There are porta-potties on site in addition to our two bathroom/shower facilities.

    Campers must be over the age of 18, or with a parent.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park

    9. Moonshine Acres RV Park

    13 Reviews
    25 Photos
    67 Saves
    Fort White, Florida
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $50 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Travelers Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Travelers Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Travelers Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Travelers Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Travelers Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Travelers Campground

    10. Travelers Campground

    7 Reviews
    29 Photos
    31 Saves
    Alachua, Florida

    A turn off I-75 brings you to Travelers Campground, an Alachua FL RV Park!

    With the University of Florida only 25 minutes away – Traveler’s is a favorite for students, family, and football fans alike.

    Traveler’s is home to over a dozen rescue farm animals and exotic birds. While exploring our campground keep an eye out for macaws, pigs, horses, emus, donkeys, chickens, goats, cows and more. See our office staff for a souvenir scavenger hunt and animal snacks.

    It’s no secret we love animals so don’t leave the dogs at home. Bring them along to play in our spacious dog park and make use of several clean up stations across the park for your convenience.

    Alachua county is where nature and culture meet. Adventure-junkies can find 5 state parks and over 6 popular swimming holes all less than a half-hour away. Kayak the pristine Ichetucknee River or float around the popular Ginnie Springs. See wild bison and gigantic alligators at Payne’s Prairie Preserve.

    With updated amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi and Cable, a friendly and 24/7 helpful staff, and large pool with sunning deck, you will find Travelers Campground to be your home away from home. We have a spacious and well-designed park, we are pet-friendly and offer full-hookup 30 and 50 amp service. Conveniently located on Interstate 75 near Gainesville, Florida.

    Only a short drive away from the University of Florida on I-75 (exit 399), and its many fantastic venues including the Shands Cancer Center and the University of Florida Veterinary Hospital.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $69 - $99 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 192 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Alachua

Recent Reviews in Alachua

892 Reviews of 192 Alachua Campgrounds


  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground
    Nov. 15, 2024

    Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground

    Quiet and peaceful

    I stopped here to stay overnight on a Thursday as I was passing through. There was only one camper but did not know that until I left the next morning. It was quiet and felt secluded. The sites were close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Green Acres RV Park Florida LLC
    Nov. 12, 2024

    Green Acres RV Park Florida LLC

    Nice small campground

    It’s quiet, peaceful. Sites are large, fire rings, picnic tables, grass! Not well lit, no bath house, no propane, no pool. They have plenty of ideas though.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocala RV Camp Resort
    Oct. 22, 2024

    Ocala RV Camp Resort

    No tent camping allowed

    I called and was told they don’t allow any tent camping. Just an FYI. Was advised only the state parks in the area allow tent camping.

  • Joe R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Prong Equestrian Village
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Black Prong Equestrian Village

    Awesome Harvest Host partner!

    We stayed one night on a grass spot with harvest host. While we did not “pay,” we were still treated as royalty. The entire team was amazing. The grass spit was up front by all of the amenities. The other lots are beautiful and further back. The pool is gorgeous. They have bikes that you check out with the bracelets, and the restaurant was top notch with live music.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort
    Oct. 10, 2024

    Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

    Great Location Away

    First time, only been here a couple of days because of evacuation from Milton. Sites are nice size and some include a cabana. I suspect gets pretty busy during season. Strange there is no office.

  • Jeremy R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Island Oaks RV Resort

    We will be back. Many Times!

    We just purchased our 33’ Salem travel trailer and we used Island Oaks as our shakedown trip. Honestly, its going to be hard to top this first trip. My Wife and I traveled with our 2 young children and our pup. We never had to leave the park, they had EVERYTHING. Heated resort pool with tiki pool bar & music, beach front lake with a massive inflatable obstacle course, an on-site restaurant & ice cream shop, not to mention multiple fenced dog parks. I cant say enough positives about this place! I chose a pull through site and it had sewage, water, & electrical hook ups. They do offer free Wifi, however I would not rely on it, it was spotty at best. Dont think twice. Give this resort a try. It’s a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere!

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocala North RV Park
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Ocala North RV Park

    Great experience

    We stayed here for 3 weeks. Park staff made sure we had a shaded site in the front of the park. The park is very clean and well cared for. Staff is very attentive. Location is convenient to Gainesville or Ocala, and the park is next to a beautiful horse farm with curious, friendly horses. Great pool and fitness center. Very pet friendly!! We’ve already booked our next stay

  • Ashley W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort

    Sun Retreat Ocala Orange Lake RV Resort

    This is a beautiful large RV and golf resort. The grounds were clean and well maintained. There is a full 18 course golf course and putting green. There are also onsite golf cart rentals and a golf pro shop. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Bath houses were clean. Nice laundry facilities available. Campground is directly in Orange Lake with a dock available. Fishing permitted off dock and from shore. All roads were paved. There are both RVs and vacation rentals. Many things to do and lots of options for other recreation nearby. We came for spring break and would definitely visit again.

  • Danton T.
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs RV Park
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Silver Springs RV Park

    A great place to stay

    My wife and I decided last year to full time RV. We were already living in Ocala and we wanted to remain in the area. We discovered Silver Springs RV and are so glad we did. Everyone here, especially the staff, was so welcoming and friendly. SSRV is definitely going to be home for a long time.

  • Lorilee S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Pretty and quiet

    This campground is really dark, quiet and pretty. The bathhouse was always clean. You can smell the well water in the bathhouse. Brings me back to my childhood memories. We rode our bikes to the observation tower, but we were not lucky enough to see any bison or wild horses. Still nice to see the open prairie. We had a big rainstorm and the back of our site did become a lake, but it was gone overnight. The bugs lit us up all hours, so make sure you different bug sprays.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Rodman Campground

    Hidden Gem for Primitive Camping Solitude w/ Amenities & Reservoir Access

    Maybe it was that the light was falling at just the right time as I moseyed into Rodman Campground a good hour or so before dusk became official here just due south of Palatka, the Sunshine State’s ‘Unofficial Farmer’s Market’ and a pretty decent stretch from the endless miles of pristine white sand beaches on the Atlantic Coast or the overwhelming non-stop entertainment options of a city built on 'Mouse Magic.’ Whatever it was, there’s something that struck us as incredibly special about this particular campground outpost. I think what we left with was a surreal understanding that no matter what you come packing with, you’re gonna have just one helluva amazing camping experience here at Rodman Campground.

    This place is perfect for both the RV tribe as well as mi tent-pitching community. And I don’t often get to say that. As for the campground itself, while there’s 64 sites to choose from in all, there’s basically 3 distinct areas that you should be aware of. The first area is what I would call the VIP RV Lots, given its proximity to the Rodman Reservoir, while I’m not an RV enthusiast, but this spot feels like you’ve hit ‘the jackpot’ as it’s a single lane with 6 or so sites on either side and provides you with direct and easy access to a very well-maintained restroom and shower facility. The second area is exclusively carved out for my tribe – those that are packing their experience with them and like to unroll their version of protection from the elements while staring straight up at the blessed star-crossed sky while completely surrounded by the thick of nature and tall needle-like trees. And while Rodman Campground calls this the ‘primitive campground,’ I’ll affectionately refer to it as ‘Pitch-A-Tent Heaven.’ Admittedly, I’ve never set up camp so close to RVs that still made me feel like one with nature. The third and final campground option here at Rodman is what I will characterize as ‘RV Pavement Parking Lot Hell,’ where if you have an RV (and can’t get into the VIP RV spot, then, well, you’ll be parking yourself here, but hopefully the freshly poured flat concrete will turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

    Regardless of the camping neighborhood that you end up arriving at, Rodman Campground will impress upon you what an amazing place it is, first and foremost, by offering up what is, no doubt, some of the best FL SP staff you will ever encounter – they are friendly, helpful and incredibly proud of this patch of land that they call home. Secondly, the Rodman Reservoir offers nothing short of AMAZING kayak and canoe adventures. The amenities are pretty top notch: back-in and pull-through RV sites with full-hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage), scattered picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills, paved bicycle paths (and miles of additional pavement via Rodman Dam Road, boating within the 9K acre Rodman Preserve, designated dump stations, five reservable pavilions and an excellent boat ramp, freshwater fishing (license required), 5.1 miles of trail hiking (actually part of the Florida National Scenic Trail that runs adjacent to Rodman Campground, picnicking at waterfront pavilions (need to be reserved). If you’re a wild nature enthusiast, you’re in luck, because here at Rodman Campground, you’ll easily be able to spot: bald eagle, foxes, wild turkey, white-tailed deer, hawks and owls, osprey and the American alligator.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If I was an RV’er (and let’s be clear, I’m not) and I was looking to book a spot here at Rodman Campground, I would absolutely be looking at the VIP RV Lots wherein I would chose any of the spots that are backed up against the wilderness (that would be on the west), which offer a greater degree of connectivity with nature (and thus additional privacy) where, in particular, I would book one of these amazing sites: #2, #5, #9, #10 and #12. While the other sites in this spot aren’t bad, they just don’t offer the amount of privacy that these other 5 sites do; (2) For mi tent-pitching bredren, while almost all of these camp sites offer you a pristine au naturale experience (apart from the few sites that are front-facing (#14-17; #38) you’ll want to prioritize any other site (#18-37) as best you can; (3) If you come bringing your boat, please be aware that there’s submerged logs and other underwater obstructions to be aware of, so motor with caution!; (4) When you get tired of staring down the bottom of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or the emptiness of your on-board fridge, and want to try out some of the local fare, then look no further than Hog Wild Country Café back in Interlachen (no, we’re not in Switzerland, but if you head back NW, you’ll find this spot on County Road 310) where all the traditional BBQ plates are being served (smoked brisket, smoked turkey, smoked pork, OK, smoked EVERYTHING) along with killer southern sides like mac-n-cheese, potato salad, slaw and, my favorite, Vidalia onion rings!; and (5) If you come hauling watercraft, you’ll have no shortage of great launches here at Rodman Campground, but if you are looking to dip your canoe or kayak in some different places, I would highly recommend Marjorie Harris Carr (just follow the Kenwood Boat Ram Road till it reaches a parking circle, from which you’ll easily see the boat launch) or over across the reservoir as well as just heading a bit further west to Rodman Recreation Area where you can drop in there or over at the Rodman Dam Kayak Launch, which has tons of tributaries to navigate.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort

    Single-Lane RV Parking Strip w/ Direct Access to St. Johns River

    If you find yourself up in the northeastern corner pocket of the Sunshine State, and for some reason end-up here in Palatka (a.k.a. The Farmer’s Market of the entire State of Florida) and looking for a spot to park your mobile living room on solid ground, then Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort might just be the spot for you. Careful though, as there are only about 8 spots here to choose from (although this RV riverside stand is promising 40 more tree-lined RV slots in the near future), but all sites come with full hook-ups including 30 / 50 electrical, water and sewage. There are no picnic tables, BBQ grills or any other amenities to speak of, but you will have direct access to St. Johns River with an amazing boat launch. That’s about it.

    Other than the pavement that you will drive on upon entering this spot or the flat and level sandy locations that you will park upon, there’s not a whole lot to this particular place, although there is an incredibly nice restaurant / bar scenario called ‘The Lighthouse’ (formerly named ‘Captain’s Cove Bar’) which is a decent bar with all of the usuals on tap and on shelf. There’s food trucks and live music on the weekends, but bear in mind that your RV will be parked in the same spot as said food trucks along with all of the local parking traffic that overruns the parking lot you will find yourself in.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While there’s not much to offer in these parts, you are right near Palatka, which is kind of an overgrown town, that has a number of standard drive-by restaurants that you’ll expect (Chili’s … add every standard fast-food restaurant chain here), but there are a few hidden gems, of which, I highly recommend Corky’s Bell Seafood @ Gator Landing, which I would encourage you to try the fried whole catfish or the mahi-mahi served grilled or blackened; (2) Despite the bar offering here at Crystal Cove, which might keep you rooted because it’s just so dang easy and close, I would highly recommend a trip to Welatka Lodge Resort, which for a 25 minute ride south along the St. John's River will certainly impress; and (3) If you’re looking for a great slice of nature to discover and hike / fish / kayak / etc. then head on over to Etoniah State Forest, which is less than a 20 minute drive from Crystal Cove and there’s 4-5 amazing hiking trails to explore as well as Georges Lake with which to cast a line.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kate’s Fish Camp
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Kate’s Fish Camp

    Roadside Fish Camp Draped in Spanish Moss

    Typically up here in northern Florida, whether you are on the coast or further inland, when you hear or see the name ‘fish camp,’ depending upon where you are from (or honestly, where you're at), the name typically conjures up one or two images - a mossy covered waterside restaurant serving up some freshly caught fish, typically fried, and with a whole lot fo southern fixin’s like grits, black-eyed peas, fried okra and the like. Or, it’s a reference to an actual campground that just so happens to be located right alongside a nice stretch of water, which could be a massive river like St. Johns in these parts, or a smaller, meandering outlet that either connects to a larger body of water, say a lake, or even the ocean. So let’s set the record straight, when visiting this particular fish camp, we are definitely talking about the latter, rather than the former.

    Heading towards Gainesville recently, I came across Kate’s Fish Camp, very conveniently located in the the middle of nowhere, but altogether, sitting on a very nice bit of a water trail called Prairie Creek, which I was told, would eventually, through perseverance and timing your luck between low and high tide, have you arrive at the ocean, but I have to admit, I don’t know how that is even possible, as we were only able to make our way to Orange Lake, but hey, it was my first try. Maybe you will have more luck, or perhaps I got it wrong and at some point, you just need to strap your kayak or canoe on top of your vehicle and drive it closer to a ‘frackish’ inlet that will allow you to ultimately reach some salt water.

    As far as Kate’s Fish Camp go, the wonderful duo of Mike & Monica run this roadside camping rest stop and upon entry, you will marvel at just how intimate and compact the place is complete with substantial shade that blocks all of the harsh Floridian sunshine from otherwise roasting you in its humid inferno. The main office looks like something out of Duck Dynasty and is an old-schooled wooden single-story structure with restrooms and shower facilities (both pretty basic, but clean, albeit poorly lit) towards the front, and the entrance to the actual office on the rear-side, closer to the creek access point. On the subject of water access, let’s just say that while the meandering creek is definitely of interest and should be explored, the real find here is the nearby access to Newnans Lake, which just sits north of Kate’s Fish Camp and, unfortunately, requires a quick drive to Palm Point Park (around the corner from here) in order to access this body of water, but it’s totally worth it, especially if you have an engine-powered fishing boat and are looking to get out on the water to do some decent fishing.

    Back at the campground, here’s what you need to know. For starters, there’s about a dozen or so sites that are offered with each being pull-through ready. While this campground feels more geared towards the RV driving or 5th Wheel toting crowd, as a tent pitcher myself, this place is pretty OK from a tent camping standpoint. You’ll definitely appreciate all the shade that is offered here, as well as close proximity to the basic amenities (showers/ bathrooms) and river access. The picnic tables are pretty standard and there are scattered BBQs and fire rings. There’s also some pretty great WiFi here for those that need it. One of the huge upsides apart from direct river and bike path access is a number of really great hiking trails that you can explore both flora and fauna alike.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) One of the huge upsides to Kate’s Fish Camp is the direct access you’ll have to the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Bike Trail, which if you wanted to, could lead you all the way into Gainesville to enjoy the UF campus and surrounding area without having to put up with traffic; (2) While Kate’s Fish Camp boasts about providing you with DIRECT access to Newnan’s Lake, it was our experience that you could not access the lake directly and that eventually, you would have to return to camp, pack your kayak on your vehicle and drive a quarter mile to the actual boat launch in order to access the lake - I don’t know why they tell folks that they provide direct access; (3) For RVers you will want to take note that Kate’s doesn’t provide sewer hook-ups, just water and electric (20 / 30 / 50 amp) for all of their pull-through sites; (4) You should take note that this campground is literally located right next to a fairly busy 4-lane highway, so if P&Q is important to you, consider another location, otherwise, bring some earplugs!; (5) It’s Florida, it’s the summer, and unless you weren’t already aware of it, you’re landlocked here in the middle of the state, so what does that mean? Mosquitos and bugs, so yeah, come prepared (and don't complain about mosquitos - they are endemic to FL)!; (6) When you get tired of sifting through your on-board mini-fridge or toto-molded Cordova cooler to conjure up what your next meal is going to be, then check out nearby dining options such as Antonio’s Made In Italy, Georgie’s Lakeside or Eagles Nest - and of course, there’s all the generic restaurant-fare that you’ll find in nearby Gainesville, but I’ve tried to suggest some slightly off-the-beaten path joints. If you want an Instagram-worthy dining experience that also lives up to the hype when you bite into their succulent pies, then head on over to Satchel’s Pizza for their deep dish pizza and local brews.

    Happy Camping!

  • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Prong Equestrian Village
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Black Prong Equestrian Village

    Great Place

    Stayed here for 4 nights and really enjoyed it. Large paver sites with plenty of space. Beautiful horse farm setting. Pool and amenities were awesome. Can’t wait to come back!

  • Jeff E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
    Jun. 26, 2024

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Immersed in Nature.

    Quiet, lots of wildlife (wild horses, bison, alligators, deer, birds, turtles); plenty of hiking and biking trails with beautiful sunsets on the lake. Restroom facilities are showing some age but clean.  Walk-in tent sites are pretty close to the Restrooms.

  • Greg B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Pond Campground
    Jun. 23, 2024

    Ocean Pond Campground

    Ocean Pond Spot 9

    Nice quite campground. Well maintain. Clean bathrooms and working laundry machines (1 each) 1.75 for wash and 1.75 for dry. Lake and beach access are nice and maintained.

  • Josh W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Jacket RV Resort
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Yellow Jacket RV Resort

    Interesting place

    The office staff is very helpful and nice.

    The location itself is pretty remote and not close to many amenities. The sites are pretty difficult to get into based on the layout. I would not recommend this place to a newbie as it is nearly impossible to get into a lot of these sites without having nearby sites empty to use their space. I struggled even with the adjacent sites being empty. The sites are close together, but the staff does a good job spreading out their reservations. We booked a riverview site, but there is a good amount of marsh between our site and the river, so the view is not that impressive. The single digit sites have a better river view than double digits. The site is pretty level, and I do like that it is rock/gravel and not dirt. The hookups are at the front of the site, which requires you to have an additional 25 feet of hose and power. The staff does warn you prior to arrival of this, so we were well prepared. Wifi is good within the campground, but I couldn't get the cable to work. There is a boat slip and boat rentals available on-site. There is also a pool and hot tub ( the hot tub was not functional during our visit). Good amount of shade within the entire campground, which is nice in the summer months. Depending on what you are looking for, this campground may or may not be for you.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Amazing kayaking & trails

    Campground is basic, very few sewer spots but there is a dump station. Big rig friendly, several pull thru spots, easy paved entry, gravel sites, I think all are 50/30. Plenty of space between sites. Clean bathroom, washer/dryer, soda machine. Very dark at night which I love. No lights except the bath house. Dog poo bag stations. Very friendly staff (Melinda & John, camp hosts were amazing) 1 mile from amazing kayaking. Great, woodsy hiking trails. Maybe 3 miles to Publix/Wawa.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground

    Be prepared for cramped buddy sites

    Site# 54 Check in: 1pm Check out: 11am Full hook- up Easy to level Gravel back-in (Most, if not all sites are Buddy sites - so be prepared to face a neighbor you do not know. -We were literally looking at each other for ten weeks - with us having two dogs and neighbors having three dogs-complete bark fest). We were so close our awnings would not go out all the way or we would touch.

    Lot is Shaded with lots of trees. Not a big lot since you have to share space with your neighbor

    • No concrete patio - no picnic table but had a fire ring

    Located in the middle of nowhere- Dollar General is four miles away and Walmart is 11 miles (doesn’t seem far but on all back roads, it takes a while) Closest highway (75) is 45 miles away & I-90 is an hour

    Zero WiFi or Zero cell service (1 tiny bar but not enough to do a basic internet search) - once we purchased Starlink ($599), we were able to stream. No Cable TV- limited channels No Outdoor kitchen No Outdoor community sinks to clean big pots

    They do not pickup garbage at site daily, Must walk to garbage dumpster - not too far

    Allowed to ride personal golf carts Not Able to rent golf carts or pedal bikes from them Golf cart not really needed- smaller campground Indoor heated Swimming pool Natural Spring within park but due to rain & flooding of the Suwannee River over the ten weeks we were there, we were unable to access the spring or experience kayaking or the few amenities of the park. Very disappointing.
    Had a Playground No Bocce ball, shuffleboard, There was basketball court and volleyball court.

    Good general store with basics No Activity Center for kids Unsure if there are activities for kids (there were not from January-March). There is not a snack bar/restaurant . Not a Game room, putt putt, or jumping pad for kids No Workout room

    Streets are gravel/sand -not great for riding bikes in campground Great places to ride bikes outside of campground (not near this campground) though- look for Nature Coast State Trail

    Lots of cabin and tent space Individual bathrooms with own sink, shower, toilet & clean

    Laundry machines (one washer & one dryer) per bathhouse- only two bath houses

    Dog area - not fenced in - they have a huge field behind the campground that they keep the outside mowed & is a great place to walk dogs

    There were not bugs/flies initially but as it has started warming up, it has slowly gotten worse

    There were trails to hike off of the campground.

    The most disappointing aspect is that they were selling presidential hats in the general store. One - politics and recreation don’t go together and two- if you’re going to sell one candidate but not the other, you’re a biased business

  • VThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Island Oaks RV Resort

    Island oaks camping

    I have stay at Island Oaks several times and we love it We had some issue when first stayed but I chalked that up to a teaching lesson. Now I have 30 amp extension and a longer 50 amp power cord. Yes it is a dry county on Sunday but that’s only one day. You will not be disappointed to stay there. They also have live music on Saturday and so far it’s never been disappointing You will enjoy it.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
    Jun. 10, 2024

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground

    Loved this campground. We had sites 22 & 24. Site 22 has lots of sun; site 24 was full shade all day. I thought site 20 was the best. All campsites are very roomy. Bring your paddleboard or kayak. We drove to Silver Springs park and put in. Lazy river ride for 2 miles where we got out at the River trail. If you do this, bring your kayak wheels as it is a 1 mile walk back to the campground (or 1/2 mile to the River Trail trailhead). Then went to pick up truck where we started. Highly recommend this campground. There are also lots of trails to hike, but it was so hot when we were there we did not do any but the river trail.



Guide to Alachua

Camping near Alachua, Florida, offers a mix of natural beauty and outdoor fun. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.

What to do

  • Explore the Springs: Visit Ginnie Springs Outdoors for crystal-clear waters and a lazy river. One reviewer said, "This is clearly one of the best natural springs in all of Florida."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Manatee Springs State Park Campground, you can see manatees and other wildlife. A camper noted, "The springs are amazing and full of wildlife."
  • Hiking and Biking: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground has beautiful trails. One visitor mentioned, "The trails are absolutely gorgeous."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Salt Springs Recreation Area stated, "The bathhouse by us was always clean."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer sites with good spacing. A reviewer at Tomoka State Park Campground said, "Sites seem very private due to vegetation and trees."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. One camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground said, "The rangers were amazing and patrolled the campground on a regular basis."

What you should know

  • Cell Service: Some campgrounds have poor cell reception. A visitor at Manatee Springs State Park Campground noted, "No cell coverage period."
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One camper at Ginnie Springs Outdoors warned, "High alcohol and drug use and high crime rate at times."
  • Reservations: Some campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A review for Salt Springs Recreation Area mentioned, "There’s an $8 fee to make online reservations."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers many activities. One parent said, "There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy."
  • Plan for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in warmer months. A camper at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground advised, "BRING BUG SPRAY."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A visitor at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park mentioned, "A large camp store and food truck near front."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Fort Clinch State Park noted, "The roads in the campground are a little narrow so maneuvering a larger rig might take some time."
  • Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with dump station locations. One RV camper at Tomoka State Park Campground said, "There’s also a proper dump station located at the front of the loop."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A visitor at Salt Springs Recreation Area mentioned, "You’ll need to drive several miles into town to get quarters."

Camping near Alachua, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Alachua, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Alachua, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 192 campgrounds and RV parks near Alachua, FL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Alachua, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Alachua, FL is Ginnie Springs Outdoors with a 4.2-star rating from 53 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Alachua, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Alachua, FL.

  • What parks are near Alachua, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Alachua, FL that allow camping, notably Osceola National Forest and National Forests in Florida.