Chiefland's campgrounds offer varied terrain from riverfront sites to oak-shaded areas throughout Levy County. Winter temperatures average 65-75°F during the day, dropping to 40-50°F at night, with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F. Natural springs maintain a constant 72°F year-round, creating unique camping environments with distinctive water access options.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Hart Springs Park: A half-mile boardwalk along the springs and Suwannee River provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "We have see owls hawks and other large wildlife," reports one camper at Hart Springs Park. The park includes multiple swimming areas with year-round 72-degree water.
Kayaking at Yellow Jacket RV Resort: Direct Suwannee River access with boat slips and rentals available on-site. "The docks on the Suwannee River were beautiful. Will definitely be back with paddle boards or kayaks," notes a visitor at Yellow Jacket RV Resort. Boat-in camping options available for those traveling by water.
Winter manatee viewing: Cedar Key area becomes a manatee gathering spot during colder months. At Encore Crystal Isles, campers mention, "Close to Three Sisters Springs where you can kayak with the Manatees." Consider weekday visits to avoid crowds during peak manatee season.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently praise the bathhouse conditions at several Chiefland area rv campgrounds. "The bathrooms are new and very well kept," notes a reviewer at Hart Springs Park. Another adds that "the laundry and bathhouse are impeccable" at Strawberry Fields for RVers.
Spacious sites at Williston Crossings: Located 20 minutes east of Chiefland, this RV resort receives praise for site dimensions. "Sites are large and level. Hookups are well located and organized," writes a visitor at Williston Crossings RV Resort. Most sites accommodate larger rigs with room for slide-outs.
Rural tranquility: Smaller campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from highway noise. "Located in the country and off the beaten path, be sure to have everything you need before you arrive. All sites are beautiful," states a camper at Camping out in Country, noting the "absolute peace and quiet except for the occasional sounds of farm animals and crickets."
What you should know
Variable site access: Many campgrounds near Chiefland require careful navigation. "The sites are pretty difficult to get into based on the layout. I would not recommend this place to a newbie as it is nearly impossible to get into a lot of these sites without having nearby sites empty to use their space," warns a Yellow Jacket visitor.
Seasonal rate fluctuations: Prices increase significantly during winter months when northern visitors arrive. At Cedar Key RV Resort, located 30 minutes southwest of Chiefland, campers note the park fills with "some full timers, and lots of snowbirds" during winter months.
Insects can be intense: Especially during warmer months, biting insects are prevalent throughout the area. "People who are not familiar with this area should know the bugs are ferocious and a screen house is highly recommended," advises one camper about Crystal Isles.
Tips for camping with families
Springs offer natural kid-friendly swimming: The consistent 72° temperature makes spring swimming areas comfortable year-round. "Hart Springs gets pretty busy during the hot months but still worth the visit! Very nice large shower stalls with hot water and a store if you forgot to bring anything or just need a snack after burning so much energy," notes a family camper.
Kids' activities vary widely by campground: Some parks offer dedicated play areas and splash pads. "This park has a splash pad, volleyball and basketball court," mentions a Hart Springs Park visitor, while another reports Crystal Isles has "a great pool, playground, kids play area."
Bring entertainment for remote locations: Cell service and internet access remain spotty throughout the region. At Camping out in Country, a reviewer notes "barely any cell signal, wifi provided," indicating the need for offline activities for children during longer stays.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations require planning: At several campgrounds around Chiefland, Florida, utility connections have unusual placement. "The hookups are at the front of the site, which requires you to have an additional 25 feet of hose and power," notes a Yellow Jacket RV Resort visitor who appreciated that "the staff does warn you prior to arrival of this, so we were well prepared."
Concrete pads preferred during rainy season: Several campgrounds offer varied pad surfaces. "We loved the concrete pad. Made it very easy to set up one night," reports an RVer at Crystal Isles. This becomes especially important during Florida's frequent afternoon thunderstorms when grass or dirt sites can become muddy.
Site selection matters for shade: Most Chiefland area campgrounds have limited tree cover. "Wish there were trees for some shade," mentions a Strawberry Fields for RVers visitor. Request shaded sites when booking during summer months when temperatures regularly reach 90°F.
