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Top-Rated Camping near Branford, Florida

805 Reviews

Branford, Florida provides access to several campgrounds along the Suwannee River corridor, with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities and cabin rentals. Ellie Ray's RV Resort & Lounge in Branford offers waterfront camping with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Other nearby options include Hart Springs Park in Bell and Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort in Mayo, both offering mixed-use campgrounds with varying levels of amenities. The region's camping areas are characterized by natural springs, river access points, and shaded sites beneath Spanish moss-draped oak trees.

The Suwannee River watershed experiences significant seasonal fluctuations that affect camping conditions, particularly during Florida's rainy season when water levels can rise rapidly. "Hart Springs is a county park in Gilchrist County in Bell, FL. It's our go-to place near some of our favorite Florida springs when they are not available," noted one camper, highlighting the importance of having backup options when water conditions change. Many developed campgrounds in the area require reservations, especially during winter months when snowbirds migrate south. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, while spring and fall offer more moderate weather. Mosquitoes and biting insects are prevalent near water sources, particularly at dawn and dusk, making proper preparation essential for comfort.

The natural springs represent the primary draw for many visitors to developed campgrounds in this region. Ginnie Springs, described by one reviewer as "an absolutely wonderful spring in Florida where you can swim, scuba dive, and snorkel," exemplifies the crystal-clear waters that attract campers. Several campgrounds provide direct access to spring-fed swimming areas with consistent 72-degree water temperatures year-round. Campers frequently mention the boardwalks and trails that connect camping areas to springs and the Suwannee River. While some campgrounds maintain a family-friendly atmosphere with strict rules including alcohol prohibitions, others like Ginnie Springs have developed reputations as party destinations, particularly on weekends and during college breaks. Most Branford campgrounds provide basic amenities including showers, restrooms, and picnic tables, with varying levels of privacy between sites.

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Best Camping Sites Near Branford, Florida (162)

    1. Ginnie Springs Outdoors

    55 Reviews
    Fort White, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 454-7188

    $45 - $60 / night

    "This is clearly one of the best natural springs in all of Florida complete with 250 wooded acres of pure Florida wilderness."

    "Favorite springs in Florida and one of my favorite places to camp and spend a few days in Florida or the country in general. Awesomely maintained, plenty of sites."

    2. Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park

    41 Reviews
    Fort White, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 454-1853

    $18 / night

    "The campsites are spacious, well shaded, and with in easy walking distance to the Bathhouse/Restrooms. The facilities are kept clean and neat."

    "You know, like quintessential state or national park imagery where you would expect to see“Smoky The Bear” around the next bend."

    3. Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort

    20 Reviews
    Mayo, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 294-2510

    $30 - $70 / night

    "My sites didn’t have great level spots for a tent but it was right next to the spring and close to the river for fishing which is why we came."

    "We stayed at site 105 (full hook-up, $45 per night) and it was perfect 👌 Neighbors only on one side, close to pool and a short walk to Convict Spring."

    4. Ellie Ray's RV Resort & Lounge

    12 Reviews
    Branford, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 935-9518

    "Speaking of NYE they had a Motley Crew cover band, social distancing and masks are not a thing in this part of Florida, like the posters from the health department don't even mention masks, so if COVID"

    "Bathrooms within walking distance. Pool and hot tub are great."

    5. Moonshine Acres RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Fort White, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (833) 744-6378

    $50 - $65 / night

    "The main factor in deciding to stay here was the distance to Ichetucknee Springs. It's 3 miles from the south entrance and 4 miles from the north entrance."

    "A but of a drive for groceries, which is no biggie. Close to springs which was what attracted us to this spot."

    6. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground

    22 Reviews
    High Springs, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 454-1369

    "This spring is one of the newer State parks in Florida. The bathrooms need updating. The sites are small. The electrical boxes are limited to amp hookup. The spring is AMAZING!!!"

    "While quite a few of the natural springs you’ll find here in Florida contain a Disneyworld-like level of crowds and subsequent infrastructure, here at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, you’ll discover"

    7. Ichetucknee Family Canoe and Cabins

    11 Reviews
    Fort White, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 497-2150

    $20 / night

    "So the layout is basically one small dirt road loop with rv parking/primitive camping around the center as well as cabins around the outside."

    "The place is a nice hole in the wall on the side of the road, just past the north entrance of the Springs."

    8. Hart Springs Park

    20 Reviews
    Fanning Springs, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 463-3444

    $35 - $250 / night

    "It’s our go to place near some of our favorite Florida Springs when they are not available. This park is clean and well maintained with a swimming pool."

    "Large sites with beautiful Florida nature trails. We were camping here in March and we were not able to enjoy the springs because they were having a brown out."

    9. Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort and Campground

    8 Reviews
    Mayo, FL
    13 miles
    Website

    $25 - $220 / night

    "With close proximity to several springs, we’ll definitely return."

    "Fishing, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, boating, bike riding, walking, and some activities that they have at the place."

    10. 4A River Camp

    3 Reviews
    Fort White, FL
    8 miles
    +1 (813) 786-7580

    $50 / night

    "This single spot with water and electric sits next to a private home. It is VERY well kept and hosts are just wonderful. What a wonderful location if you love water sports."

    "The hosts were kind and friendly, keep in mind this is pretty close to their home but still somewhat private. The camp toilet works in a pinch and the hot shower works great."

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Recent Reviews near Branford, FL

805 Reviews of 162 Branford Campgrounds

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 24, 2026

    Osceola National Forest Ocean Pond Campground

    The campground and staff is nice, but.....

    I have driven by this campground literally hundreds of times and never knew it was there. It is in a pretty setting in the forest on a sizable lake.

    There are 3 separate sections that vary in hookups and costs, the first is primitive, the second has water hookup only, and lastly is the section with electric and water hookup.

    No sites (except hosts sites) have sewer, but there is a nice dump station that is free to campers.

    Check-in at the office is not available, you need to choose your site, scan the QR code on the post using the Recreation.Gov app and pay online.  

    BE AWARE:

      If you check-in before 2:00pm the app will charge you for the prior day.

      The app charges a ridiculous $10 service fee for each reservation. We wanted to stay  additional days but since it would also mean a 2nd $10 service fee we declined.

      BLM America the Beautiful pass holders receive a discount, but not the usual 50%.

    At the time of our stay pricing was:

        Electric + water sites:  $30 a night ($22 for pass holders)

        Water only sites:  $20 ($12 for passholders)

        Primitive sites:  $12 ($8 for pass holders)

    There are a very small number of sites (approx. 6) that are reservable.

    Overall we enjoyed our stay, the staff on-site were super helpful and friendly, we would definitely return, but wanted to provide some transparency on some of the less desirable aspects of this location.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 19, 2026

    Osceola National Forest Landing Group Area

    Waterfront Bliss Amongst the Pines for Your Crew

    The Landing Group Area sits along Ocean Pond within Osceola National Forest, offering a group camp experience with a brilliant lakefront view and direct water access, where for the unbelievable price of $100 / night, you can easily pack at least a dozen (if not 20) tents along with room to roll-up 3-4 RVs with water & electric hook-ups. Like seriously, this feels like a camping tailgate party destination if ever there was one! First impressions: tall pines and cypress draped in Spanish moss line the sandy loops. You’ll see a modest private beach head, excellent sized pavilion with half a dozen picnic tables, picnic shelters and a wide-open access to the water with enough room for a half dozen fold-up chairs, 2-3 kayaks and a dozen fishing poles.

    The amenities are generous for a group area. You’ll find electric and water hookups for a few RVs (up to ~40 ft), potable water, bathhouse facilities with hot showers and flush toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, a proper large group-sized grill and a pavilion large enough for gatherings like a men’s group or a small reunion. The site accommodates up to 50 overnight guests and 75 day-users. The lodge is meant for group outings, family reunions, church retreats, or company events. The best part? You will have this place all to yourself (well, your entire group) with no other nearby sites or fellow campers to deal with.

    One of the strong draws is Ocean Pond itself (which, let's be clear, is neither a pond nor the ocean). It offers boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing where you can cast your lines for bluegill, crappie, catfish and more from the shore or via boat launch. The private beach is a relaxing spot to wade or chill in the shallows. The surrounding forest hosts wildlife sightings where you can expect to see wading birds like herons and egrets, turtles, maybe an otter or two, and plenty of swamp and marsh edge life.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a few: (1) Reserve well ahead as this group site books quickly for weekends and special events; (2) Use the pavilion early for meals or shade as your group dinners will go smoother there versus in the wide-open where, because it’s Florida, you could encounter tropical rains at anytime; (3) Bring lots of extension cords as there’s only a few outlets in the pavilion and your hookup site, which likely is one of the 4 RV slots, may be some distance from the pavilion or where you set up your tent; (4) Launch your canoe or kayak from the sandy beach area for calm paddling early in the morning as the current picks up with small, but still formidable waves to contend with later in the day; (5) Plan meals to use the large grill and fire pits as they’re built to serve crowds and the largesse of these cooking amenities should be used to full effect and are perfect sized, considering the large group you have gathered around you; (6) Pack bug spray as mosquitoes love dusk near the pond edges; and (7) Consider arriving by daylight so you can assign your group to the best spots before dark.

    Happy Camping!

  • Sandra L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 8, 2026

    Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park

    Beautiful historic park

    After exploring the museum, enjoying the nature trails, enjoy some fishing, or bird watching along the river. See where the river sinks( ends) and look for the turtles in the water. The campsites are shaded, level and qell kept. Bathrooms are clean, handicapped accessable, and conviently located. Pets welcome, families welcome. Big rigs may find the campground roads tight, but there are multiple sites available for big rigs. Be aware there are trees along the roads, so be aware of any lower branches.

  • Brooke W.
    Jan. 6, 2026

    Heritage Oaks RV Resort

    A BLAST for the entire family!

    I really enjoyed my time at the campground—it truly felt like there was something for everyone. I spent time playing basketball and pickleball, and it was great having so many ways to stay active. There was also a playground and a volleyball court, which added to the fun. When it was time to relax, I loved hanging out in the outdoor lounge, grabbing food from the food trucks, or stopping by the clubhouse for coffee. The pool and spa were perfect for unwinding, and the arcade was a fun way to pass the time—the kids absolutely loved it. Everything was incredibly clean, especially the showers and bathrooms, which made a big difference. Having an on-site laundry room was very convenient, and the spacious sites made the campground feel comfortable rather than crowded. The firepits were perfect in the evenings, and the pet area was a great touch for our fur baby. One of my favorite features was the gated entry with secure access codes, which made the campground feel safe and secure—especially with kids playing throughout the grounds. Overall, it felt more like a resort than a campground, and I would definitely stay here again.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 4, 2026

    Ocean Pond Campground

    Nice CG & Staff, with some issues.....

    Drove thru the forest literally hundreds of times on I-10 and never knew the campground was there. Nice smaller campground.

    Our site was #10.

    All but about 5-6 sites are first come first serve. You find a vacant site then you must load the Recreation.Gov app to reserve it.

    The campgorund is separated into 3 sections, one the sites have electric and water, these can be difficult to get during busy weekends and holidays. The second has sites with only water hookups (some fully shaded). Finally there are "privative" sites that have no hookups. These are in a heavily wooded area and would be risky to attempt to get in there with anything other than a tent or camper under 20 feet.

    Here is a list of my personal Pro's and Con's:

    Pros: 

      Good sized sites

      Pretty location (Lake front with ramp).

      Off the beaten path

      Spotless restrooms& showers 

      Pleasant Staff 

      Easy access Dump Station w/water

    Cons: 

    $10 reservation service fee.

    BLM pass holder discount less than the normal 50% 

    Most sites are First-Come-First-Serve and must be reserved upon arrival using the Recreation.Gov APP, not the website.

    Checking in before 2:00 p.m. local time will result in them charging you for the previous day.

    Be aware if you need sun exposure for your solar charging many are heavily shaded.  

    On busy nights/weekends sites with Electric are in high demand and may not be available. You can try taking one of the water only sites for a single night then see it you can get into one with electric ones the next morning after someone checks out.

    We originally stayed 4 nights and wanted to extend it by 1-2 nights but since that meant another $10 service fee, we declined.

    Site fees:

    Electric & Water  $30  ($22 w/pass)

    Water only   $20  ($12 w/pass)

    Primitive $12   ($8 w/pass)

  • Will P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 27, 2025

    West Tower Hunt Camp

    Easy to find, easy to park, great spot

    Several well marked, well maintained, and easy to pull into to spots. At&t 5g, 2 to 3 bars. Several others out here camping, but everything is spread out. There are toilets available, and they are clean. Once you pull into the parking space below the tower, you will see some dirt/sand roads. You need to head down those to find the spots. I wouldn't bring a trailer down, but my full sized 4x4 truck had no issues and no pinstripes added. Most spots have a picnic table and a firering. Amazing this spot is free.

  • Jack D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 20, 2025

    Ocean Pond Campground

    Beautiful peaceful campground with great hosts

    Showed up late one night in December and easily found a water only hookup site not directly next to anyone. Plenty of primitive sites were open still and a few electric. Camp hosts were awesome and did regular rounds through the grounds with their dog. Bathrooms and showers were clean and water was hot. Beautiful sunset views over the lake. Dump station free for campers with fresh water spigot. Multiple dumpsters and spacious level sites.

  • Emily G.
    Dec. 17, 2025

    Ms. Lynn's Old Pavilion RV Park

    Sunset will take your breath away!

    Ms. Lynn’s Old Pavilion is a peaceful, tranquil place to relax and take in beautiful sunsets. Being able to back our rig up to the water felt like a true luxury and brought a sense of calm to our entire stay. Even while recovering from Hurricane Helene, the park and its community are rebuilding with care and resilience, which made our time there even more meaningful. I highly recommend staying here, whether you’re passing through or planning a longer visit. You won’t be disappointed.

    We will defiantly be back!

Guide to Branford

Camping sites near Branford, Florida center around the confluence of the Santa Fe and Suwannee Rivers, creating a network of clear springs and river access points in north-central Florida. The region sits at approximately 40-60 feet above sea level with sandy soil that affects campsite conditions, especially during Florida's frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through September. Tent and primitive campers should plan for sandy tent pads at most established campgrounds in the area.

What to do

Spring hopping by kayak or canoe: The Santa Fe and Suwannee Rivers connect multiple springs accessible by watercraft. At Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort, "They offer a service of Dropping you off up the river with a canoe, so that you don't have to paddle too hard to go back to camp. If you can, stop along the little entrances and find amazing little springs along the way," according to camper Thais G.

Cave diving for certified divers: Several springs offer underwater cave systems. Hart Springs allows cave diving for those with proper certification. "The spring gets packed with tubers, floaters, coolers, kayaks, canoes, scuba divers and every other human powered vessel," notes Perry J. about water activities in the area.

Fishing along river banks: The Suwannee River offers numerous fishing spots. At Ellie Ray's RV Resort, "We could hear the large fishes jumping out of the water and managed to see a few," reports Thais G., highlighting the active fishing opportunities directly from riverfront campsites.

What campers like

Easy spring access: Many campgrounds provide direct water access. At 4A River Camp, Jeanene A. notes, "What a wonderful location if you love water sports. EASY access to both the Sante Fe River and the Ichetucknee (right around the river bend). This site sits 1/2 mile from the confluence."

Nature trails along waterways: Boardwalks and trails connect many camping areas to water features. Hart Springs offers "a beautiful ½ a mile-long boardwalk along the springs and the Suwannee River," according to Brenda S., making wildlife viewing accessible even for non-swimmers.

Community activities at campgrounds: Several resorts organize unique social events. One camper at Moonshine Acres RV Park appreciated "the rec hall was fun with games and juke box," while Suwannee River Rendezvous features "chicken poop bingo, pigeon races and trivia/karaoke" according to Tina S.

What you should know

Water levels affect camping conditions: River and spring conditions change seasonally. Christina notes at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, "There is a long dirt road to get in but was very manageable. Same with the sites (sand) which made us a bit nervous looking at it that we would get stuck, but no issues. Did have some issues trying to level."

Limited cell coverage: Many campgrounds have spotty service. Some campgrounds offer WiFi but with limitations. Laura F. warns, "Wifi is bad, like real bad but you are in the woods. Had enough on my mifi to stream Dinner and a Movie for NYE."

Bring supplies: Most camping areas are in rural locations. "There is one gas station within a few miles and that is it. Bring everything you need or eat bar food," advises Laura F. about staying at Suwannee River Rendezvous.

Tips for camping with families

Morning spring swimming: Visit springs early for quieter experiences. Perry J. advises, "What most people don't realize is that if you get to the spring EARLY in the morning you can have it mostly to yourself and that includes the spring run and river too!"

Kid-friendly park amenities: Several parks offer playgrounds and splash pads. Hart Springs includes "a playground, bathrooms and camp store. This park also has a splash pad, volleyball and basketball court," notes Brenda S., creating options beyond swimming.

Age-appropriate water areas: Consider which springs work best for children. Regarding Ichetucknee Family Canoe and Cabins, Miguel says, "With the state park close by, you can go tubing, kayaking or just for a swim. The office has pool tables and games for kids to enjoy."

Tips from RVers

RV site selection: Campgrounds offer varied site types and quality. At O'Leno State Park, "The Dogwood campground sites are well spaced out with sand, electric, sand, water, picnic table and sand. Some of the sites are more suitable for group camping," notes Shelly S.

Hookup location challenges: Many older campgrounds have unusual utility placement. Ashlee R. warns, "Site 1 in particular requires a looooooong hose. The hookups are all over the place and we couldn't even use water because of that."

Bring leveling equipment: Sandy sites often present leveling challenges. "Did have some issues trying to level," reports Christina about Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, a common issue throughout the region's sandy soil conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find RV rentals in Branford, Florida?

While Branford itself is a smaller town, you can find RV rentals at several nearby locations. Ellie Ray's RV Resort & Lounge near Branford offers RV rentals with riverside accommodations. Many campers also find rental options in Gainesville, about 45 minutes away, where Santa Fe Palms RV Resort can provide information on local rental services. Additionally, check online RV rental marketplaces that deliver to campgrounds in the Branford area or contact local RV dealerships in nearby cities like Lake City and Gainesville for rental availability.

What RV campgrounds are available near Branford, Florida?

The Branford area offers several excellent RV camping options. Hart Springs Park in nearby Bell features clean, well-maintained sites with access to beautiful springs, swimming areas, and nature trails. Suwannee River State Park Campground provides riverside camping with hiking trails within easy walking distance. Other nearby options include Camping out in Country, which offers large, shaded sites with fire pits and clean facilities, and Suwannee River Rendezvous Resort for those seeking full hookups and river access.

What activities can I enjoy while RV camping in Branford, Florida?

The Branford area offers abundant water-based recreation centered around the Suwannee River. At Kate's Fish Camp, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park provides numerous trails and a swimming hole on the Santa Fe River. The region's natural springs are perfect for swimming during summer months, with many springs maintaining a refreshing 72-degree temperature year-round. Other popular activities include hiking nature trails, wildlife viewing, photography, and stargazing. Many campgrounds host seasonal events, and the area's small towns offer local shops and dining experiences.

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