Spring-fed swimming areas define camping sites near Bronson, Florida, with consistent 72-degree water temperatures year-round. The region sits at elevations between 40-60 feet above sea level, creating a mix of pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks surrounding the natural springs. Camping options typically feature basic to full hookup sites with varying degrees of privacy and amenity access.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at boardwalks: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground offers extensive wildlife observation opportunities along elevated walkways. "We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," notes one visitor. The park features eight different trails suitable for various activities.
Scuba and snorkeling: Devil's Den Spring provides unique underwater exploration in a prehistoric natural spring. "Beautiful campground with nice bathrooms. They have scuba lessons in pool if you have never dived. They also rent the equipment for both scuba and snorkeling," explains a camper. The spring maintains clear visibility with consistent temperatures.
River activities: Suwannee River Bend RV Park offers direct river access for paddling excursions. "You can kyack, canoe boat the Suwannee river full of springs, where you can snorkel swim and even dive," reports one visitor. The location sits across from Fanning Springs, providing additional swimming options within a short distance.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Black Prong Equestrian Village offers spacious camping areas with buffer zones. "Massive RV pad, full hookups, Golf Cart, plus privacy between you and your neighbor," writes one camper. The sites accommodate both equestrian and non-equestrian visitors.
Natural spring swimming: Hart Springs Park provides substantial swimming areas connected to natural springs. "The spring has an over bridge and concrete steps that lead down into the springs. Plenty of shade and Pavilions with grills close to the springs," mentions a visitor. A half-mile boardwalk connects the swimming area to the Suwannee River.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. At Manatee Springs, one camper observed, "Bathrooms ample and clean," while another at Rainbow Springs noted, "We have stayed at sites 50, which is a long pull through site, and at site 18 which was quite private. We enjoyed both locations."
What you should know
Campground layouts vary: Site configurations range from wooded to open fields. At Rainbow Springs State Park Campground, "The parks dept just redid this campground in 2009. All sites, tent and RV have gravel so if tent camping make sure you bring a solid footprint or ground tarp."
Seasonal fluctuations: Spring and summer bring higher visitor counts, especially at swimming areas. One visitor to Hart Springs noted, "It seems pretty quiet in the evenings and everyone is very friendly that we have seen. No issues of any kind."
Pet restrictions: Policies vary significantly between parks. At Ginnie Springs, a visitor warned, "Had to leave because they don't allow pets," while Paynes Prairie restricts dogs on certain trails: "All of the things they advertise - bison, horses, wildlife - are all on trails where pets are not allowed."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for different ages: Manatee Springs State Park Campground offers varied water experiences. "Nice Hikes and Boardwalk... Boardwalk was really cool and long and we saw a couple of manatees," reports one visitor. The park includes both swimming and wildlife viewing options suitable for different age groups.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs and wildlife viewing. At Paynes Prairie, "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."
Safety considerations: Springs maintain consistent temperatures but require supervision. One camper at Devil's Den noted, "There is a minimum age limit. Snorkeling and diving only. You cannot go down unless you have a mask and they watch you."
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Level sites with adequate space improve the camping experience. At Williston Crossings RV Resort, a visitor observed, "Sites are large and level. Hookups are well located and organized."
Extended stay amenities: Longer-term campers benefit from additional facilities. At Suwannee River Bend, "Staff: respectful, informative and available. Sites: Clean; limestone gravel with concrete patios on most; premium waterfront sites with decks; newer hookups; big rig friendly with many pull through sites, lots of trees."
Connectivity considerations: Internet access varies by location. One camper at Hart Springs reported, "WiFi connection is quite good and you are able to stream Netflix and Prime tv," while at Suwannee River Bend, "WiFi is sketchy at best, and cell service wasn't great, but it's there."
