Silver Springs State Park and the surrounding Anthony area offer yurt camping and cabin options amid natural Florida landscapes and freshwater springs. Located in Central Florida at approximately 70 feet above sea level, this region features year-round warm temperatures with summer highs averaging 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. The area's limestone foundation creates crystal-clear spring systems that maintain a constant 72°F temperature.
What to do
Kayaking Crystal River: Only 90 minutes from Anthony, Crystal River allows close wildlife encounters. "Nearby there is an awesome rock beach, Manatees, and a walking path through wetlands," notes a visitor at Encore Crystal Isles, highlighting the natural attractions beyond the immediate Anthony area.
Hiking prairie trails: Paynes Prairie Preserve offers multiple trail systems with wildlife viewing opportunities. "This park has 8 trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators," reports one camper at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
Birding Orange Lake: The wetlands around Orange Lake provide excellent bird watching opportunities. "A perfect place to enjoy fishing, wildlife and the Florida Birding Trail," mentions one visitor to Sportsman's Cove Resort, noting the area's inclusion on official birding routes.
What campers like
Large, private sites: The spacious campsites at Silver Springs State Park provide ample room between neighbors. "Wonderful large private sites. Showers, laundry, store, restaurants and glass bottom boats and canoe, kayak rentals. Equestrian section also," says John R. about Silver Springs State Park Campground.
Free water activities: Several resorts include complimentary water equipment. "The boats & kayaks are free for campers. You just have to sign one out at the office," reports a visitor to Lake Waldena Resort, adding that they have "a large pavilion & 2 wooden docks- one with a covered seating area."
Outdoor creative space: Yurt camping near Anthony provides unique gathering environments. "Artists and musicians are highly encouraged to visit. You'll wish you came sooner," notes a camper at Grateful Hammock, which offers yurts and cabin accommodations with artistic elements.
What you should know
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Many campgrounds fill with long-term residents during winter. "This is a 55+ RV park. But we saw families with children here. They have sites for the camper to stay a few nights or sites for staying here permanently," explains a visitor to Silver Springs RV Park.
Bug preparation: Florida's climate means insect activity year-round. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter," warns a Paynes Prairie visitor, suggesting bug spray as an essential item.
Pet restrictions: Not all trails allow dogs. "The biggest disappointment for this state park is that all of the things they advertise (and I was looking forward to) - bison, horses, wildlife - are all on trails where pets are not allowed," cautions one Paynes Prairie visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Glass-bottom boat tours: Children enjoy seeing underwater life without getting wet. "The glass bottom boat tour is an absolute must, we had such a wonderful time and the boat captain had lots of interesting information. We have a 4 year old and a 10 year old and they both really enjoyed the boat tour also," shares a visitor from Silver Springs State Park.
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Look for resorts with dedicated children's areas. "They have a great pool, hot tub, clubhouse area... Kids play area, Ice Cream Stand, Food trucks sometimes, Volleyball," mentions a camper at Encore Crystal Isles.
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led activities provide learning experiences. "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," notes a visitor to Paynes Prairie.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on size and location preferences. "Some RV sites are a challenge to get into, some are larger. They prioritize based on the size of your rig mostly," advises an RV camper at Encore Crystal Isles.
Full hookup availability: Most parks near Anthony offer complete services. "We had a really nice extended stay here. The lots are very spacious and well kept," reports an RVer staying at Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort, noting the quality of the facilities.
Arrival timing: Early check-in may require planning. "We were able to get 2 nights in a pull thru site w full hook up. Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors," shares an RV camper who made reservations just days before arrival at Silver Springs State Park.
