Silver Springs State Park and the surrounding Belleview area offer diverse camping options beyond traditional tent sites. Located in central Florida where the elevation rarely exceeds 100 feet, this region maintains year-round accessibility with winter temperatures typically ranging between 50-70°F. The limestone bedrock creates natural springs with consistent 72°F water temperatures, making this area particularly suitable for fall through spring camping when humidity levels drop.
What to do
Glass-bottom boat tours: Silver Springs State Park Campground offers the renowned glass-bottom boat tours where you can view the underwater ecosystem. "Full facilities. Extensive trails. River access. Beautiful forest. What's not to love," notes Bob S. who gave the park five stars.
Kayaking crystal waters: Paddle through clear spring waters with visibility extending 20+ feet down. "Get out & enjoy this park... some of the BEST kayaking & beauty on the planet, I promise. Super duper time here," shares Rebecca E..
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse ecosystems with various wildlife viewing opportunities. "From glass bottom boat tours to kayaking to camping Wildlife. Hiking food. alligators monkeys Birds beautiful Springs and River. Definitely a top 10," according to noah R. about nearby Paynes Prairie Preserve.
What campers like
Spacious camping sites: Most campgrounds feature large, well-separated sites. "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.
Dark sky stargazing: Some campgrounds limit artificial lighting, creating optimal conditions for astronomy. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room," reports Joe R. about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Natural swimming spots: Kane K. describes Idlewild Lodge: "Found this beautiful quiet little resort while taking an airboat tour. The owners are simply amazing. They went the extra mile to make sure everything was perfect for our stay."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during winter months. "Two days before travel were able to get 2 nights in a pull thru site w full hook up. Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors," notes Jody O..
Pet restrictions: Some trails prohibit 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," warns Denise.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Belleview, Florida, the Grateful Hammock offers unique accommodations. "This campground is located on Private property, and is gorgeous! If you find it and come, please be respectful and Bear aware. It's a small community and we are grateful for it," shares Alicia B..
Tips for camping with families
Educational ranger programs: Many parks offer educational opportunities for children. "Just a beautiful state park, with that old Florida feel. 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," explains Carlos R..
Free water recreation: Some facilities offer complimentary equipment. "Amazing staff and owners, free to use kayaks and water sports, my son learned how to ride a bicycle for the first time today with one of their bicycles! The lake was really a joy to swim on, the kids were in it all day," reports Dayanis P. about Lake Waldena Resort.
Child-friendly hiking: Look for shorter trails with educational components. "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," cautions Lindsey H..
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "Large and beautiful. Wonderful large private sites," states John R. about Silver Springs State Park.
Amenities variations: RV parks offer different hookup options. "It was quite a relief to be able to secure reservations for both the beginning and end of my trip. My first night was relaxing and fortunately I slept reasonably well before starting out before dawn on a solo backpacking adventure on the FT. The facilities were much nicer than I expected and all of my questions were answered at the entrance gate," shares Charlie M..
Extended-stay considerations: Many parks cater to seasonal campers. "We weren't expecting a lot when we pulled in. You pass the lots with the seasonal campers & mobile homes- some were nicely kept & others not so much. We found the office & lake area & it's great! The boats & kayaks are free for campers. You just have to sign one out at the office," explains Cynthia K. about Lake Waldena Resort.
