Campgrounds surrounding Citra, Florida offer diverse camping experiences beyond traditional sites. The area sits at a modest elevation of 70 feet above sea level in north-central Florida's lake country. Winter temperatures typically range from 45°F to 70°F, while summer brings consistent 90°F+ days with high humidity levels. Most camping areas remain accessible year-round with paved roads leading to established facilities.
What to do
Kayaking the Ocklawaha River: Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost & Resort provides river access with canoe and kayak rentals. "This is a friendly campground with canoe/kayak rentals and a shuttle service. The tent area is near the river and very wooded--lots of places to hang a hammock or pitch a tent, and has drive-in access," notes one visitor at Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost & Resort.
Glass-bottom boat tours: Silver Springs State Park offers unique underwater viewing. "The glass bottom boat tour is an absolute must, we had such a wonderful time and the boat captain had lots of interesting information. We have a 4 year old and a 10 year old and they both really enjoyed the boat tour also," shares one camper at Silver Springs State Park Campground.
Wildlife observation: Multiple trails allow viewing diverse Florida species. "We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," reports a visitor at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
What campers like
Dark skies for stargazing: Several campgrounds offer minimal light pollution. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room. The location is great for visiting the prairie and easy access to Gainesville," notes one camper about Paynes Prairie.
Natural springs: Consistent 72°F water temperatures year-round. "While there are many natural springs throughout north central Florida, Salt Springs is considered by many to be one of the best preserved and well-maintained springs throughout the state as well as being the 'main attraction' here in the Ocala National Forest," explains a visitor at Salt Springs Recreation Area.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect to the Florida National Scenic Trail. "It was quite a relief to be able to secure reservations for both the beginning and end of my trip... After my six night foray, I returned to spend two more nights just enjoying the park and resting my muscles. What a scenic setting for a campground!" shares a backpacker at Silver Springs State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter brings more campers, with some sites booking months in advance. "This park has 8 trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding... Not their fault (the state sets pricing) but primitive campsites are the same price as reserved ones with hookups, $18," notes a visitor at Paynes Prairie Preserve.
Pet restrictions: Not all trails allow dogs. "The biggest disappointment for this state park is that all of the things they advertise (and I was looking forward to) - bison, horses, wildlife - are all on trails where pets are not allowed. We did one of the only trails you can take your dog on (the Lake Trail) and drove over to the ecopassage observation boardwalk site," explains one camper at Paynes Prairie.
Noise considerations: Check nearby events when booking. "If there is an 'ALL HOURS WEEKEND' at the nearby Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort (right across the river), then the trails remain open 24 hours and you will not have any tranquility or relaxation all night," advises a camper at Rodman Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Spring swimming access: Natural springs provide safe swimming options. "The campground has large spots and are easy to back into. There was no reservation required. The spring is a short walk from the campground or a quick bike ride," shares a family at Salt Springs Recreation Area.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife programs enhance children's experiences. "Lovely Park with lots of wildlife!! La Chua trail was beautiful and we saw lots of gators. 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," notes a family with young children at Paynes Prairie.
Cabin accommodations: Some parks offer cabins as alternatives to tenting. "The cabins are very large. Fireplaces. Larger bedrooms..." mentions a visitor about Silver Springs State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy. "Our stay at the campground was unfortunately cut short due to uncooperative weather, but we enjoyed our time there. The sites are roomy but fairly private or very private depending on the site, and well-kept with a fire ring and picnic table," notes an RV camper at Rodman Campground.
Full hookup availability: Check specifics when booking. "The campground has a ton of campsites and is fairly busy with people camping. It's in some sparse woods and isolated enough to give that camping feel. There's some great fishing places nearby, and the woods offer up firewood if you didn't bring your own," shares a visitor at Sportsman's Cove Resort.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies significantly. "Nice people new owners a little run down but they are working on it. Terrible phone service," warns an RVer about Sportsman's Cove Resort.
