Santos Trailhead & Campground serves as the hub for equestrian activities within the Cross Florida Greenway, located 4 miles south of Anthony, Florida. The campground sits at an elevation of approximately 80 feet above sea level in an area characterized by sandy soil and oak hammocks. Winter temperatures typically range from 45-70°F, while summer months can reach 95°F with high humidity and afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Mountain biking on Santos trails: Access over 30 miles of purpose-built mountain biking trails directly from the campground. "The attraction here is the biking. It's an international destination for mountain biking! While there are no mountains in Florida, there are many man made ramps and jumps and turns. It's remarkable to see," notes David G. from Santos Trailhead & Campground.
Horseback riding on Greenway trails: Explore sandy paths that extend for miles through diverse terrain. "Sandy trails for horses, watch out for rattle snakes. Trail go on for miles and has a huge sand hill near by to ride horses on and cross over i75," advises Jennifer L. from Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground.
Wildlife observation at Paynes Prairie: Visit this preserve 45 minutes from Anthony to see diverse Florida wildlife. "Many opportunities to spot wildlife close by. The camp is frequented by college students. Bathrooms are clean. Plenty of hiking to be found. Buffalo, deer, eagles, alligators, owls....Visit Sweetwater," recommends Jenn B.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites that provide some seclusion. "Although in a populated area of Ocala, this campground is positioned in the trees and makes you feel like you are miles from civilization. The sites are spacious and most are shaded. We stayed in site #3, which was tucked into the wood line and somewhat private," shares Rich S. from Santos Trailhead & Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained restrooms and shower facilities. "Clean campground. Gate access during closed hours for the public. Campground visitors get access code upon check in. Owners show you your site. All sites are close to bathroom with showers," notes Amanda A. from Ross Prairie Campground.
Trail connectivity: The extensive network of interconnected trails allows for multi-day adventures. "Has equestrian area and post at each hotel site. Most sites are well shaded. A good number of sites looked hammock friendly, but be sure you have the 2 inch straps. Easy access to hiking and riding trials," explains AJ G.
What you should know
Gate access restrictions: Many horse campgrounds near Anthony enforce strict gate closure times. "Great little spot for sleeping over in our van after the Ocala drive-in. Owners gave us the code to lock the gates since they close them at 7:30pm," reports N P.
Weather considerations: Florida's climate affects camping comfort significantly. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter. All kinds of little critters in the woods and access to hikes and many gators," warns Dan X. from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Venomous snakes are present on trails, requiring caution. "I came for a night since it was close to other parks I wanted to visit, but I do think I'll come back and have my father in law bring his horse with next time. The sounds of coyotes at night spooked our dog, but we got through the night with some comforting and cuddles," shares one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger-led activities: Take advantage of educational programs. "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," mentions Lindsey H.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise disturbances. "Nice campground. Not very shady at all. If you love to use awesome bike trails, this is the place! Extremely noisy with trains running through all night, of course, blowing their whistles!" cautions Lauren W.
Pet restrictions: Not all trails allow dogs, which can limit family activities. "We spent one night at Payne's Prairie in mid February, site 46. 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," explains Denise from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Plan your check-in according to gate schedules. "This little campground is a nice little campground. Pluses are everything is super clean, the camp hosts are amazing, its easy to get to, great access to Ocala or Dunnellon, all sites are pullthrough, 50 amp, and access to great trails for hiking, biking, horse back riding, and walking," recommends Kathie E. from Ross Prairie Campground.
Site selection for shade: Choose sites carefully to avoid full sun exposure. "Only 14 spaces, so very small, but nice. Lots of space between sites. Lots of Hike, bike horse trails are very nice and easy to navigate. Very clean bathroom/showers. The only negative is that it's not far from the raid, you can hear the traffic and it's somewhat busy," advises carmi G.
Road conditions: Access roads to some horse campgrounds can be challenging. "Great group campsite. The forest road getting in is very rough and pot holes. But luckily it is a short drive into the camp. They were only a couple of electric hook ups and a few water Spigots around the camp," reports Diane D. from Doe Lake Group Site.
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