Withlacoochee State Forest dominates the camping landscape around Bushnell, Florida, creating a natural oasis in this central region that sits at approximately 75 feet above sea level. The area's rich limestone soil supports diverse vegetation from cypress swamps to pine flatwoods, creating distinct habitats for wildlife viewing. Camping spots near Bushnell provide varied experiences depending on which section of the forest you're exploring, from riverside primitive sites to more developed recreation areas.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: The Withlacoochee River system offers excellent kayaking routes directly accessible from several campgrounds. At River Junction Campground, site 14 provides its own natural swimming area. As one camper notes, "We had a blast there stayed at campsite 14 it has its own private pool right in front of it with cold spring water it was an awesome experience."
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide prime viewing times for native species like deer, turkey, and various bird species. At Hog Island Campground, early risers have the best luck: "Get up early in the morning and take walk and you are sure to see some deer," reports one visitor. The campground also offers "great hiking trail and paddling on the Withlacoochee."
Hiking trails: Several marked trails wind through different sections of the forest, ranging from short nature walks to longer segments of the Florida National Scenic Trail. The 2-mile loop at Hog Island Nature Trail is particularly accessible for most skill levels. A visitor to Holder Mine Campground shared, "The people we met here showed us a great trail you can hike on that brings you to some awesome caves, yes in Florida, that you could explore in."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently appreciate the natural separation between campsites at certain forest locations. At Crooked River Campground, "The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore," wrote one family. Another noted, "Each campground has its primitive camp charm all come with a picnic table, parking spot, a wooden pole you can hang your garbage, and a water spout near by."
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being in more remote settings, many campgrounds maintain clean restrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to River Junction observed, "Bathrooms are decent and the showers have hot water," while another camper appreciated that "the restrooms in the loop were clean" at Cypress Glen Campground.
Abundant fishing opportunities: Many campsites provide direct access to quality fishing spots. "Good fishing" is frequently mentioned in reviews, with Lake Panasoffkee and the Withlacoochee River being particularly productive. One camper at Lake Panasoffkee Recreation Area enjoyed "getting to explore. The walk to the river from our site was so worth it. We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging, especially after rain. A camper at River Junction noted, "The road in called SW 113 ST was hardcore off road muddy driving. We pay for the sites so the road in could have been a lot less treacherous. Potholes all the way to the site."
Bathroom maintenance schedule: While facilities are generally clean, some campgrounds have irregular maintenance schedules. At Lake Panasoffkee, a visitor observed, "There was a new host this time and didn't keep up with the bathrooms as well as the previous host but it's still clean and has running water so can't complain!"
Seasonal wildlife challenges: Florida's ecosystem includes some seasonal annoyances. Beyond mosquitoes, spring brings an annual caterpillar season that affects camping conditions. A visitor to Sumter Oaks RV Park experienced this firsthand: "We stayed here mid March 2021, during the annual caterpillar season, which was certainly not the best nature has to offer, but luckily this only lasts a few weeks out of the year."
Reservation requirements changing: Several campgrounds have transitioned from first-come systems to reservation requirements. A visitor to Hog Island noted, "1-4 are walk up sites," while another camper at Cypress Glen stated, "they did away with walk ups now its reserve America and price went up."
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Many sites offer swimming and water play opportunities that kids especially enjoy. A visitor to River Junction explained, "We enjoyed the water and the trails in the area. The day time nature is great. Then at night we got to hear different creatures of the night."
Choose sites with exploration room: Some campsites offer more space for children to roam safely. A family at Crooked River stated, "We had site 74 and really enjoyed it. It was huge and secluded! Our kids were able to run around and be noisy and we weren't worried about annoying our neighbors."
Educational wildlife encounters: Schedule morning walks when wildlife is most active, bringing binoculars for better viewing. At Trails End RV Park, one visitor praised the "lots of trees, shade, fishing, nice facilities" that make it ideal for family activities.
Watch for poison ivy: While generally safe, some sites have natural hazards to teach children about. A family at Crooked River cautioned, "My only 'complaints' are that it flooded very quickly during the few thunderstorms we experienced and there was some poison ivy in an easy to run into area. Worth noting."
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Campgrounds in the area often have varied topography affecting RV setup. A visitor at Cypress Glen noted, "We booked site #50. The site was level for us because my trailer is small but some leveling would be required for bigger rig. Some of the outer loop sites Had steep drop offs."
Hookup limitations: Understand the specific hookups available at each campground before booking. A camper at Hog Island explained, "The only reason for not giving it 5 stars is the very reason we love it and that's because the hookups are water only and no electricity. This keeps the big rigs out and campers who want to bring their entire house with them."
Access challenges for larger rigs: Some forest campgrounds have narrow, winding access roads. At River Junction, a reviewer cautioned, "Be aware, it may be very difficult to get large RV's in the sites. The trip into the campground is very bumpy & narrow, with low hanging trees."
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds maintain operational dump stations. A visitor to Holder Mine Campground warned, "The dump station is no longer in use so you have to use the bath house or dump elsewhere but don't question Ms. Personality on it....trust me!"
