Equestrian Camping near Belleview, FL

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    Santos Trailhead & Campground accommodates both equestrians and their horses with spacious sites designed for trailers and corrals for horses. The campground features water and electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site, with clean shower facilities nearby. Trails connect directly to the Cross Florida Greenway, offering miles of sandy trails ideal for horseback riding. The campground's layout allows for easy trailer maneuvering, with most sites providing ample room for both living quarters and horse trailers.

    Located within the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, Ross Prairie Campground offers another excellent option for horse enthusiasts with dedicated equestrian sites. The campground provides access to nearly 20 miles of equestrian trails that wind through pine forests and open prairie. Horse stalls are available on a first-come basis, with water spigots positioned throughout the grounds for equine hydration. Riders particularly appreciate the sandy trails that provide good footing for horses year-round. Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground, situated nearby, offers additional horse-friendly camping with trail access that crosses over Interstate 75 via dedicated equestrian bridges. Reservations are recommended, especially during winter months when northern riders migrate to Florida's milder climate.

    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Belleview (36)

      1. Santos Trailhead & Campground

      4.5(17)3mi from Belleview24 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      "With camping along the edge in the woods and also in the field with some trees. Lots of open tent camping also. The bathrooms are huge and modern and super nice."

      from $22 / night

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      2. Ross Prairie Campground

      4.2(12)14mi from Belleview14 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Has both hiking (me sure you have a map, because trail is poorly marked) and equestrian trails."

      "All sites are close to bathroom with showers. Quiet campground. Walking trails within campground and horse back trails!"

      from $22 / night

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      3. Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground

      4.6(7)11mi from Belleview24 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      "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."

      from $18 / night

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      4. Potts Preserve

      4.2(9)17mi from BelleviewRVs, Tents

      "It’s primitive/equestrian camping and Hooty Point is far better in my opinion because it has water access for fishing."

      "You can park outside the gate off of North Hooty point. Oak hammock is on north Dee River Rd and has regular spot that is left at the outhouse a ways, and nearby for if you bring a horse."

      5. Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground (North Hooty Point Road)

      4.3(6)17mi from BelleviewRVs, Tents

      "There is a designated area to leave vehicles, and the sites on the river are walk in only. The area is open, but you can no longer pull your vehicle in next to your campsite. "

      "Hands-down my new favorite camping spot in Florida. Free, primitive, private, secluded. Pet-friendly, hammock friendly, boat friendly, fire friendly, & more."

      6. Blackwater Joe’s

      4.0(1)9mi from BelleviewRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Not too bad of a spot, somewhat close to home. For the times I don’t wanna go to far but still wanna go camping this was the perfect spot."

      from $15 - $40 / night

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      7. The Grand Oaks RV Resort

      5.0(2)13mi from BelleviewRVs, Cabins

      "Not to mention all the beautiful horses on the property my dog is in love with this place!"

      "Parts of the CG have a few trees, particularly near the entrance where ours was, but most sites deeper in the CG are open."

      8. Holder Mine Campground

      4.5(20)26mi from Belleview27 sitesRVs, Tents

      "I had site 1, which sites 1 and 2 are next to the entrance gate. It was fairly quiet at night. There was a few times I heard loud vehicles gojng down the road but not enough to complain about."

      "Trails available for hikes, bikes, horses and even 4x4 vehicles. Bath house clean and very hot water"

      from $23 / night

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      9. Lake Panasoffkee

      4.9(7)20mi from BelleviewRVs, Tents

      "There was a big open field where basically all equestrian campers parked at since it was near the horse stalls. There’s also more shaded camp spots towards the back which is where I ended up."

      "This time around, there were no equestrian campers so everyone is aiming for the shady spots in the primitive area."

      10. Lake Panasoffkee

      5.0(2)14mi from BelleviewRVs, Tents

      "Just pick a place you want to set up, drive in and park.  Nice trails to hike. Clean bathrooms. Lot's of places to park with full-sun for solar.  They do have non-potable water."

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    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Belleview, FL

    269 Reviews of 36 Belleview Campgrounds


    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Dec. 1, 2021

      World Equestrian RV Resort

      First Class Horse Camping

      If you are watching, training or riding world-class horses and find yourself here at World Equestrian RV Resort, you'll experience brand-spanking-new facilities, complete with its very own petrol station. It’s a mall-like parking lane maze of slots designed exclusively for the RV camping lot– so sorry fellow tent campers, you’ll have to keep looking for higher ground. For the RV’ers out there, you’ll be pleased with the new sticker smell of this place, complete with all of the standard water, electric and sewar hook-ups. There’s decent space between you and your neighbors, although there is zero privacy in this greenery-free parking lot. If you’re hauling horses, then you’ll have plenty of space, but the place is incredibly high maintenance when it comes to cleaning up after yourself(or your mares!). That said, it’s a stone’s throw to the World Equestrian Center, so what this place lacks in ambiance and nature, its proximity, newness and ease of navigation make it an attractable location to stay in. 

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 1, 2023

      Welaka State Forest

      Solemn Equestrian Campground Experience

      As you approach Welaka State Forest, it feels as though you’ve arrived ‘at the end of the line,’ and not in a bad sense either. Here, you’ll feel as though you’ve escaped the crowds, left the commercial world only to discover a truly pristine natural jewel. You’ll be overwhelmed by the incredibly loud silence and solitude of this far-reaching outpost and the moment that you’ve crossed the threshold (or the gravel road) entering Welaka State Forest, you’ll be incredibly grateful for the wide open expanse of the place and the communion with nature that it provides. 

      Just due south of Welaka – where there’s a minute scattering of local eateries and distractions, this spot is fairly off the ‘beaten path,’ a good half hour south of Palatka in central Florida, along the banks of the historic St. Johns River. This federal turned state park was founded in 1935 (under the Federal Resettlement Administration) and today is both a major conservation area as well as fish hatchery for the State of Florida. In all, there’s 4 miles of river frontage area on the east bank of Little Lake George, making for some decent kayaking and canoeing, although most of this is fairly difficult to navigate as it’s swamp-like, where overgrown Cypress and Pine trees provide a very thick canopy of forested shade throughout. 

      If you’ve got horses en towe, then you have hit the ‘lottery of equestrian campgrounds’ as Welaka State Forest is perhaps the most perfect place to camp if you’ve brought your four-legged steeds and looking for a place that offers up nearly 20 miles of equestrian trails for plenty of galloping, including the 6-mile Sandhill Horse Trail (part of the Florida Trailtrotter Program: www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/State-Forest-Recreation/Recreational-Activities/Horseback-Riding/Trailtrotter-Program)..) The campground here at Welaka State Park is made for you horse-loving outdoor enthusiasts and provides 2 – I repeat that 2 – 24 stall horse-ready stables, show horse stage, training area, along with 6 primitive campsites along with 5 full hook-up RV drive-through sites. 

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you are looking to get some hiking in, there’s 2 decent trails (both integrated into the Florida forest Service’s ‘Trailwalker Hiking Program’ with the first, Spring Trail, offering a short 2-mile loop that ends in Mud Springs and the second, John’s Landing Trail, offering either a 3.5 or 4 mile loop; (2) Not interested in hiking? Not a problem, you can follow the scenic Indian Pond Road from the comfort of your own vehicle. Near here there are 2 primitive campsites that you can rent that places you right on the St. John’s River; and (3) While this SP doesn’t have much to offer apart from encounters with nature, if you find yourself missing civilization, in less than a 5 minute drive, you can join a sweltering crowd at either Shrimp R Us or, for amazing river-front gnashing, check out Welaka Lodge & Resort (for more details on this particular campground, check out my review on The Dyrt on this site). 

      Happy Camping!

    • Kathie E.
      Apr. 3, 2022

      Lake Louisa State Park Campground

      Beautiful Lake Louisa

      Lake Louisa is located on the edge of the Orlando metropolitan region. Close to Disney but accessible to other area attractions and communities, if that's what you are lookimg to do.

      We needed a break from life so we went to chill and hang out in the park. What a beautiful park it is. Miles of trails, a small beach, 3 lakes for fishing and kayaking, and 2 fishing piers. They also have equestrian facilities for horseback riding. Including a stable where you can sign up to join a ride.

      The park's campground is compact with 2 very clean bathhouse, a small camp store, and 60 sites. The sites are nicely setup with lots of privacy. There are a few sites with both 50 amp electric and sewer service. One issue, especially in the summer, is the lack of shade so make sure you bring your own shade structures and a fan. In addition to traditional sites, the park has glamping tents, eco tents, primitive tent sites, equestrian sites, cabins, and a youth group area.

      The park is really beautiful. The riolling hills, pine forests, and pretty lakes. The wild flowers are also very pretty.

      We've been to many of Florida's state parks and this is among our new favorites. Just love it! Enjoy!

    • Abby M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 29, 2021

      Green Swamp — West Tract

      Nice free spot

      Stayed at Ashley campground, which is free with a reservation through Southwest Florida water management. They provide a Lock code for you to enter upon entering so there’s always a locked gate during your stay. The sites are very well-kept and I’ll have a firing and covered picnic table. The sites are a little close as there are not a lot of trees for privacy but overall a really nice camp spot. Has two vault toilets which were relatively clean. Mixture of equestrian campers and non-equestrian campers. Barely any cell service so wasn’t ideal for my work situation and had to go into town. 1-2 bars of 4G via AT&T.

    • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 7, 2026

      The Griffin Ranch

      Old-Florida Charm Meets Ranch-Life Calm

      Arriving to Griffin Ranch just outside Fort McCoy feels like stepping into a page of classic Florida history, where 30+ acres of shaded woods, ponds, pastures and trails invite you to slow down long before you ever unpack your bags. The ranch’s cabins, Airstream camper and cottage rentals, each with antique-inspired interiors, set the tone for a timeless, unhurried stay. The accommodations are rustic in the very best way: solidly built, thoughtfully equipped spaces that feel cozy rather than pretentious, and the hosts are genuinely welcoming, making you feel like part of the ranch family rather than just a guest. During our visit, we watched the kids wander out toward the pasture at sunset, chasing fireflies and laughing at the horses’ gentle nickers, while the sun dipped behind the trees in that golden light only old pastures seem to have. While this isn’t a ‘back-to-barebones’ campground in the primitive sense, it is more of a cabin-centric ranch stay than a full-service campground, so if you’re coming with a big RV or tent setup in mind, you’ll want to book one of the on-site cabins instead of relying on typical campsites. The best lodging options are the cabins tucked deeper into the woods or near the ponds, which offer the most serenity and EZ access to the ranch trails and wildlife watching. Nearby you can easily stock up on supplies in Fort McCoy or make short drives to local eats like Rocco’s Italian or a long list of options in nearby Gainesville.  Also, the closeness to Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs makes this a great base for exploration. We’d recommend Griffin Ranch for families who appreciate quiet evenings under ancient oaks, authentic old-Florida ranch character, space for kids and pets to run wild and host hospitality that turns a simple stay into lasting memories. This place is one part history, one part nature retreat and entirely welcoming.

    • Rich S.
      Sep. 25, 2018

      Santos Trailhead & Campground

      Perfect Little Spot for a Getaway

      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. Easy access to all the mountain bike trails, the paved Greenway trail, and the Florida Trail. All the trails and paths are located within the park. Restrooms were fairly clean, and the showers had hot water. We would come back here in a heartbeat.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Mar. 8, 2025

      Clarcona Horse Park

      Getty Up! @ This Not-So-Standard RV Parking Lot

      If you’ve got one of those incredibly large mobile homes on wheels, then this particular RV location just off of Highway 414 near Hiawassee may just be the perfect spot for you. OK, there were a few tents here, but you could tell this place was really built for the mobile campers in mind. With 28 ample slanted, elongated parking lanes for your parking pleasure, all of the sites come equipped with the typical 30 / 50 amp electrical hook-ups, waste disposal and water connections. The bathrooms and shower facilities are clean and fairly well-maintained.

      There’s the standard picnic table, garbage receptacles and even a community BBQ. The hosts are incredibly nice and offer pricing by the night, week and month. Overall, the community is inviting and friendly and there’s at times some planned activities, with most of those featuring horse shows and competitions of some sort, throughout the week (check with the front desk). While there’s not a ton of amenities to pick and choose from, this location does come with grills, park and shelter as well as all the free glimpses of horses being trained. Of course, should you be here with your noble steed, there’s some 22 miles worth of paths to gallup. Near this RV parking lot, you do have access to Lake Apopka.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) The real draw to this particular campground is the massive equestrian infrastructure that exists as the fulcrum, so if you are camping, this can be a very nice distraction, in case you come here with the principle idea of racing / showing your horses, then this CG is ideal – and less so if you don’t have a horse and don’t want to camp alongside what could be considered a bit of a circus (especially on show days); (2) Should you grow tired of whipping up franks & beans again for supper and you wanna check out some local fare, you’re going to have to drive a bit north to South Apopka where there’s joints like The Nauti Lobstah, Verona Café, Lechonera Latina and Wings-N-Things; (3) In the event that you need to load up on supplies, there’s both a Sam’s Club and Walmart Supercenter due NE of here; and (4) For some really great hiking & biking, of course, there’s the West Orange Trail, but if you are looking for something a bit different and less trodden, then check out Oakland Nature Preserve, which sits south of Lake Apopka.

       Happy Camping!

    • Abby M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 29, 2021

      Lake Panasoffkee

      Love love love

      This place was PERFECT. There was a big open field where basically all equestrian campers parked at since it was near the horse stalls. There’s also more shaded camp spots towards the back which is where I ended up. Beautiful trees for shade but room to get some solar too. All areas have a super nice fire pit and picnic table. The bathrooms have flush toilets and running water. There is non-potable water spigots throughout the campground and there are miles and miles worth of trails for biking, hiking, or horseback riding. There is a host on site who was extremely kind. dumpster up at the entrance to toss any trash you may have. 2-3 bars of 5G AT&T. Felt super safe all times of the day. Right in between two towns so can easily get groceries or gas with a 15 minute drive.

    • Tracy L H.
      Dec. 31, 2019

      Sawgrass Island Preserve

      Old Florida!

      Sawgrass Island Preserve is a unique piece of property.  I love hiking on the north side of the property it looks so much like Old Florida.  I like to go across the causeway and down the Bog Button Trail and over to the Hammock Trail and along the Cactus Trail and down around the ponds and back out the Bent Pine Trail.  This is around a five mile hike and can be stretched out by doing the North Loop Trail also .  I have seen several whitetail deer, sandhill cranes, lots of other birds, quail, and some turkeys while hiking.  I also saw a black bear up a tree in the marsh.  It is a hidden gem for sure.  The south side is nice but gets super sandy in places due to horseback riders.  And if you have horses the preserve allows riders and even has a spot or two with water for the horses and some picnic areas with hitching post to tie off horse and have some time to eat.  Some trails are narrow and give the feel of actually walking in, in the woods!  I haven't camped there but they have two primitive campsites on the Hammock Trail near the marsh with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post.  There is also a horse campsite along the Cactus Trail down near the ponds and there is an open pole barn with two roomy stalls for horses and picnic tables and a fire ring with benches.  Also room to pitch tent under barn too.  There is no water available at any of the campsites.  Could be a fun adventure waiting in Old Florida.  There is a camping application to fill out on line at www.lcwa.org and a  small fee, but if everything checks out ok at the end of the stay after a Ranger has had a chance to check out the site your fee is refunded.


    Guide to Belleview

    The area surrounding Belleview, Florida features a mix of pine forests, open prairie, and river access points at elevations ranging from 60 to 100 feet above sea level. This region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional cold snaps. Sandy soil conditions throughout the region create firm footing for horses year-round regardless of rainfall patterns.

    What to do

    Trail exploration: 3.5-mile loop hike at Ross Prairie Campground provides varied terrain. "The Ross Prairie Loop, a 3.5 mile trail that is part wooded and part prairie" offers an accessible hiking option as noted by camper Bran P.

    Mountain biking: 30+ miles of trails at Santos Trailhead & Campground provide technical riding options. "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," reports David G.

    Kayaking and fishing: River access points at Potts Preserve allow water-based recreation. "There are four or five spots and you can boat right into these spots! However the downside is they are flooded some of the year," explains Gail W. The riverside primitive camping area includes "a kayak launch area. Spots have fire rings and a couple have picnic tables," according to Todd M.

    What campers like

    Spacious sites with privacy: Campgrounds in the region provide ample room between sites. "The sites, especially around the outside loop, are spaced nicely and private," notes Darlene W. about Ross Prairie Campground.

    Clean facilities: Bathrooms and shower facilities receive positive reviews throughout the area. "Bathrooms are huge and modern and super nice," David G. mentions about Santos Trailhead. At Holder Mine, "Clean and well maintained campground, including the restroom/shower with very hot water," reports David K.

    Wildlife viewing: Campers can observe native Florida wildlife. "The sounds of coyotes at night spooked our dog, but we got through the night with some comforting and cuddles," shares Shayna B. about her stay at Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground.

    What you should know

    Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking. "You need a permit, but it's free," explains Ethan B. about Lake Panasoffkee. For smaller campgrounds like Holder Mine, you should "plan well ahead of time" as noted by Mary H.

    Road noise concerns: Certain campgrounds experience highway sounds. At Ross Prairie, "the road noise is bad. I suggest a site as far from the road as possible, 3 seemed like the best site to me," advises Darlene W. Similarly, Elizabeth G. notes "the only problem for me was a little road noise" at Lake Panasoffkee.

    Seasonal considerations: Florida weather impacts camping conditions. During summer months, campers should seek shade. At Lake Panasoffkee, "There are open sites for solar and shaded spots" according to Allison H., providing options for different seasons.

    Tips for camping with families

    Wildlife education opportunities: Children can observe various animal species. "I went for my birthday and we had an amazing time... The sounds of horse ringing in the morning was hilarious and fun," shares Shayna B. from her Shangri-La Trailhead experience.

    Cave exploration: Older children may enjoy geological features. At Holder Mine Campground, fellow campers "showed us a great trail you can hike on that brings you to some awesome caves, yes in Florida, that you could explore in," reports Kim S.

    Gate access considerations: Some campgrounds have restricted entry times. At Santos, "Owners gave us the code to lock the gates since they close them at 7:30pm," mentions N P., which families should note for planning evening activities.

    Tips from RVers

    Pull-through site availability: Multiple horse campgrounds near Belleview, Florida feature convenient access. "All sites are pull thru for you rvers out there!" notes Bran P. about Ross Prairie Campground.

    Dump station limitations: RVers should plan for waste management. At Holder Mine, "The dump station is no longer in use so you have to use the bath house or dump elsewhere," cautions Todd L.

    Site surface considerations: Concrete pads provide level parking at several locations. "All sites have fire pit with grill, picnic table and level cement pad," reports Mary H. about Holder Mine, making setup easier for larger rigs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Belleview, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Belleview, FL is Santos Trailhead & Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 17 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Belleview, FL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 36 equestrian camping locations near Belleview, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.