Camping opportunities near Citra, Florida range from rustic tent sites to comfortable cabin accommodations across several state parks and private campgrounds. Located in north-central Florida at approximately 80 feet above sea level, the Citra region experiences humid subtropical weather with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F and winter lows around 50°F. Rainfall concentrations occur between June and September, often affecting trail conditions during these months.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Eight distinct trails at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park provide opportunities to observe native wildlife. "This park has 8 trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," notes reviewer Brenda S.
Participate in water activities: Kayaking at Silver Springs State Park offers a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty. "Kayaking here is awesome. Try not to go during a tourist time. The cabins are very large. Fireplaces. Larger bedrooms..." shares Marlene V. who visited the park.
Try glass bottom boat tours: These tours at Silver Springs showcase the crystal-clear spring waters and underwater ecosystems. A visitor named Carlos R. explains, "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."
Observe wildlife: The region offers exceptional bird watching and wildlife viewing opportunities. "A perfect place to enjoy fishing, wildlife and the Florida Birding Trail. Clean Restrooms, friendly stuff," reports a camper who stayed at Sportsman's Cove Resort.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds in the Citra area offer well-spaced camping spots. "Wonderful large private sites. Showers, laundry, store, restaurants and glass bottom boats and canoe, kayak rentals. Equestrian section also," writes John R. about Silver Springs State Park Campground.
Lake access: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for fishing and boating. According to Ramona C., "We enjoyed our stay. Very quiet. Nice place to bird watch or fish," regarding her experience at Sportsman's Cove Resort.
Dark skies for stargazing: The rural setting creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. Joe R. notes about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground, "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."
Authentic Florida experience: Many campers appreciate the natural, undeveloped feel of the region. One reviewer described Dogwood Campground as having an "Old Florida Feeling" and another noted the "natural and undisturbed" state of Orange Lake at Sportsman's Cove.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer months bring intense heat and humidity with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter. All kinds of little critters in the woods and access to hikes and many gators," warns Dan X. about camping at Paynes Prairie.
Pet restrictions: Not all trails allow pets. A Paynes Prairie camper cautions, "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."
Yurt camping options: Paynes Prairie offers yurt accommodations for those interested in glamping near Citra, Florida. These structures provide a comfortable middle ground between tent and cabin camping with protection from insects and weather extremes.
Cell service limitations: Some campgrounds have limited connectivity. Rebecca H. mentions about Sportsman's Cove Resort, "The park is in a great area Mcintosh and Micanopy are historical towns with great walk, and bike ability. Right in Orange Lake you can kayak. They have rentals for 10.00. Nice people new owners a little run down but they are working on it. Terrible phone service."
Tips for camping with families
Boat tours for all ages: Glass bottom boat tours at Silver Springs accommodate children of various ages. "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 family who visited Silver Springs State Park Campground.
Free water activities: Some campgrounds provide complimentary water equipment. At Lake Waldena Resort, "Amazing staff and owners, free to use kayaks and water sports, my son learned how to ride a bicycle for the first time today with one of their bicycles! The lake was really a joy to swim on, the kids were in it all day."
Educational opportunities: Ranger-led programs offer learning experiences for children. A visitor to Paynes Prairie states, "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."
Bug preparation: Pack insect repellent, especially during warmer months. Lauren W. recalls her stay at Paynes Prairie: "Nice campground. Clean and well maintained. Very shady site, but tons of mosquitoes. We went in late October."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Some RV sites offer more space than others. A visitor to Silver Springs RV Park notes, "This is a 55+ RV park. But we saw families with children here. They have sites for the camper to stay a few nights or sites for staying here permanently. The bathhouse is very nice and spacious."
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer complete utility connections. "Two days before travel were able to get 2 nights in a pull thru site w full hook up. Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors," mentions Jody O. about Silver Springs State Park.
Paved sites: Some locations offer concrete pads for easier setup. Cynthia K. reports about Lake Waldena Resort: "We had site 3, which is labeled as a prime site. We had a concrete pad, but the other sites did not. There were 4 sites with water & electric only."
Seasonal considerations: Winter months bring increased occupancy from snowbirds. One reviewer mentioned, "If you're in your 70 to 80s and love golf and golf carts this park's for you. Alot of full time permanent older folks living onsite," when describing Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort.
