Withlacoochee State Forest's Mutual Mine Campground provides secure, secluded camping opportunities 15 minutes from Bushnell, Florida. The campground requires gate code access and features 13 campsites spaced around a former mine that now serves as a swimming hole. Most sites have electric hookups, water access, and fire rings, while the surrounding forest offers extensive trail networks for hiking, biking, and off-road motorcycle adventures.
What to do
Explore the Citrus Trail system: Withlacoochee State Forest contains over 40 miles of hiking paths with diverse terrain. The trails connect directly to camping areas, making day hikes convenient. "We hiked extensively in this tract and used Mutual Mine campground as one of our stop-overs. Very nice, open, flat areas to pitch tents and close to hiking trails," notes Alex M. from Mutual Mine Campground.
Off-road adventures: The forest trail system accommodates motorcycles and off-road vehicles in designated areas. "My group goes to this campground several times a year due to the location to home and for being able to play off road in the surrounding trail system. We ride up on our adventure motorcycles, setup camp then go play all day on the trails," reports Joe D. from Mutual Mine Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: The Withlacoochee River offers water recreation opportunities within short driving distance. "The river was an obstacle course but adventurous and challenging," describes Joanne W. at Withlacoochee River Park. The river features multiple access points and varying difficulty levels depending on water levels and recent rainfall.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many glamping options near Bushnell offer privacy and space between accommodations. "This was a great spot. We visited during the week and hardly had any neighbors. There is a gate code to get in which made me feel very safe and secure. Gorgeous trees throughout the sites and nice little paths to explore," shares Teala S. from Mutual Mine Campground.
Swimming access: Natural swimming areas provide relief from Florida heat. "The watering hole helped us stay cool and the camp host was very informative and friendly. Will definitely be back to visit when it's cooler," reports Jennifer T. about her family's experience at Mutual Mine Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse Florida wildlife. "We saw armadillos, turtles, large Ospreys, and a small gator by the fishing dock," notes a visitor to Withlacoochee River Park. Birdwatching opportunities abound throughout the region's parks and waterways.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat and insects can affect comfort levels. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. about camping at Hillsborough River State Park.
Bathroom facilities vary: Some glamping locations near Bushnell have limited facilities. "Bathrooms but no showers. Free potable water. You can also pull in a trailer but this is not a full-commercial type campground. More a cross between that and primitive camping…perfect for backpackers!!" explains Alex M. about Mutual Mine Campground.
Noise factors: Despite wilderness settings, some campgrounds experience noise. "Downside is no pets or alcohol, and weird gloomy roar of airboats or some other loud engine after dark nearby," mentions Chelsea C. about Mutual Mine Campground. Road noise can affect sites closer to highways in some locations.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites strategically: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly designated sites. "Campsite 12 was our favorite (we booked 5 sites total). It was a Family weekend for the books! Would absolutely recommend this campground," shares Jennifer T. about Mutual Mine Campground.
Swimming safety: While natural swimming areas offer recreation, supervision remains essential. "The pond seems clean enough for a swim," notes one reviewer about Mutual Mine's swimming hole, but families should bring life jackets for children and be aware of water conditions.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer learning experiences for children. Wekiwa Springs State Park provides nature programs. "We had an awesome time with our two grandchildren! The water was beautiful!" shares Lauren W., who appreciated the wheelchair-accessible features at the springs.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some glamping locations near Bushnell present challenges for larger vehicles. "There is not a lot of room in the loops to pull your rv into the spot. There is plenty of room between your rv and your neighbor next to you but not a lot of room across from your spot," explains Samantha O. about her experience at Disney's Fort Wilderness, which is within day-trip distance from Bushnell.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location. "You can rent Surrey's and golf carts to cruise the park which is a nice plus, although they are overpriced," mentions Jason D. about Hillsborough River State Park, located about an hour from Bushnell.
Dump station access: Not all parks provide on-site sewer connections. "The dump area was clean + had water hoses to clean your sewage hose out," reports a visitor to Withlacoochee River Park, describing an important amenity for RV travelers staying multiple nights.