Best Equestrian Camping near Lake Panasoffkee, FL

Lake Panasoffkee in central Florida offers free equestrian camping with permit-required reservations. The campground includes horse corrals, primitive campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and access to miles of riding trails through the Withlacoochee State Forest. Campers can choose between open field camping near the horse stalls or more shaded spots toward the back of the property. Clean bathrooms with flush toilets and running water are available, along with non-potable water spigots throughout the camping areas. The campground can accommodate large rigs and horse trailers with ample parking space in a big open field designated for equestrian campers. Sites remain accessible year-round with both sunny and shaded options available for different camping preferences. A campground host is typically on site to assist visitors.

Equestrian trails at Lake Panasoffkee connect to the extensive network within the surrounding water management district, offering miles of terrain for riders of all skill levels. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for day rides directly from the campground. Approximately 15 minutes from nearby towns, the location allows campers to easily access supplies while enjoying a secluded forest setting. Tillis Hill Equestrian Campground in Withlacoochee State Forest provides another nearby option with electric hookups, water connections, and toilet facilities for horse owners. Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, though farther away near Orlando, offers premium equestrian facilities including horse corrals, full-service camping amenities, and trail riding opportunities. Most equestrian campsites in the region require advance reservations, even for free camping areas, with permits obtained online through water management district websites.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Lake Panasoffkee, Florida (38)

    1. Lake Panasoffkee

    7 Reviews
    Lake Panasoffkee, FL
    2 miles
    Website

    "There was a big open field where basically all equestrian campers parked at since it was near the horse stalls. There’s also more shaded camp spots towards the back which is where I ended up."

    "This time around, there were no equestrian campers so everyone is aiming for the shady spots in the primitive area."

    2. Holder Mine Campground

    19 Reviews
    Inverness, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    $23 / night

    "Trails available for hikes, bikes, horses and even 4x4 vehicles. Bath house clean and very hot water"

    "Best thing about this place is the surrounding area: lots of (walking only) trails but my favorite, the seemingly endless off roading sandy Jeep trails throughout this forest state park - lovely!"

    3. Potts Preserve

    9 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    13 miles
    Website

    "It’s primitive/equestrian camping and Hooty Point is far better in my opinion because it has water access for fishing."

    "You can park outside the gate off of North Hooty point. Oak hammock is on north Dee River Rd and has regular spot that is left at the outhouse a ways, and nearby for if you bring a horse."

    4. Thousand Palms Resort

    3 Reviews
    Lake Panasoffkee, FL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 748-2237

    $61 - $72 / night

    "Our original goal was to cycle on the Withlacoochee Trail, an area favorite of ours. We discovered that it had been closed due to the pandemic like many other parks."

    "I stayed here for the first time for 3 days as a break from driving up to the mountains. Well worth it! If you, become a member of TRA you'll be happy"

    5. Lake Panasoffkee

    2 Reviews
    Lake Panasoffkee, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 796-7211

    "Just pick a place you want to set up, drive in and park.  Nice trails to hike. Clean bathrooms. Lot's of places to park with full-sun for solar.  They do have non-potable water."

    6. Santos Trailhead & Campground

    17 Reviews
    Belleview, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 369-2693

    $22 / night

    "Although in a populated area of Ocala, this campground is positioned in the trees and makes you feel like you are miles from civilization. The sites are spacious and most are shaded."

    "With camping along the edge in the woods and also in the field with some trees. Lots of open tent camping also. The bathrooms are huge and modern and super nice."

    7. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    129 Reviews
    Windermere, FL
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 939-2267

    $56 - $201 / night

    "Lake is great to sit by or take a boat. Have to rent it from them, unable you take your own. They have nightly campfires that are Disney themed, Chipmunks."

    "From water park to horse rides to lots of evening activities, plenty to do here without going to any theme parks. Skip the Bingo and enjoy everything else!!!"

    8. Ross Prairie Campground

    12 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 732-2606

    $22 / night

    "Has both hiking (me sure you have a map, because trail is poorly marked) and equestrian trails."

    "All sites are close to bathroom with showers. Quiet campground. Walking trails within campground and horse back trails!"

    9. Tillis Hill Equestrian Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    7 Reviews
    Floral City, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    $9 - $23 / night

    "Overall, a great place to get away from city lights, noise, etc. It is about 1-1 1/2 miles off main road. Be mindful and take your time on the dirt road leading to the campgrounds."

    "The "right" road is a 1 1/2 mile drive(see reservations) on for the most part, smooth limestone. 20-30-50 power and fresh water at sites. We have a 34' class A and had no issues with trees."

    10. Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 347-1163

    $18 / night

    "Has equestrian area and post at each hotel site. Most sites are well shaded. A good number of sites looked hammock friendly, but be sure you have the 2 inch straps."

    "I came for a night since it was close to other parks I wanted to visit, but I do think I’ll come back and have my father in law bring his horse with next time."

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Lake Panasoffkee, FL

427 Reviews of 38 Lake Panasoffkee Campgrounds


  • Perry J.
    May. 30, 2020

    Thousand Palms Resort

    An Oasis

    We made a quick trip up to this park during the lockdown. Let me say first that this is not a camp ground by my definition, rather an RV Park. At the time of our visit all National, State and County campgrounds were closed.

    That said, we had an excellent time. The residents including the staff were really nice and welcoming. This park is well run. After check in somebody accompanies you to your site and does not leave until you are all hooked up.

    We were a little out of place in our small camper (Airstream Basecamp) among the seasonal and permanent residents in large rigs and permanent modular homes sites, but that added to the fun. The park has a small store and is convenient to many local activities.

    Our original goal was to cycle on the Withlacoochee Trail, an area favorite of ours. We discovered that it had been closed due to the pandemic like many other parks. Why this trail was closed is beyond me but there you go. We explored the local area on bikes and discovered Lake Panasoffkee and the Lake Pano Lodge (pics attached).

    As an added bonus, they put is right next to the pool which was open. It was like an Oasis because most public pools had been closed and remain so. Everybody was so "normal" at this park going about their lives without drama is was really great. 

    This park also has river access, boat ramp and launch so we had a great paddle on the Withlacoochee. Oh, forgot to mention that Thousand Palms has by far THE NICEST BATHROOM we have ever found on our travels adjacent to the community pool.

    We will return when we want to play in this area even if we can find state or federal camping because it's such a unique experience for us to stay in an RV park and be welcomed like family.

    Love this place.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 9, 2018

    Colt Creek State Park Campground

    A Brand New Place For Adventure

    Colt Creek State Park is one of the newest parks in the Florida State Park System. Their RV/Tent Campground just recently opened in early 2018. RV spots are spacious. There is not a lot of privacy between spots but cover will grow in in time. Most sites are in full sun most of the day. Tent camping areas are on grass not gravel. very nice dump and wash area at gate to campground. They also offer equestrian, group, and primitive camping at this location. The equestrian camp is well used and quite large with standard amenities for horses and campers. There are 2 primitive sites along a 10 mile loop trail. Group site does not have a pavilion but does have port o lets ( no water or electric). There are 4 lakes ( no swimming) on the property kayak/canoe rentals, nice fishing ares and a dock. Lots of wildlife. Great for biking as well.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 1, 2021

    World Equestrian RV Resort

    First Class Horse Camping

    If you are watching, training or riding world-class horses and find yourself here at World Equestrian RV Resort, you'll experience brand-spanking-new facilities, complete with its very own petrol station. It’s a mall-like parking lane maze of slots designed exclusively for the RV camping lot– so sorry fellow tent campers, you’ll have to keep looking for higher ground. For the RV’ers out there, you’ll be pleased with the new sticker smell of this place, complete with all of the standard water, electric and sewar hook-ups. There’s decent space between you and your neighbors, although there is zero privacy in this greenery-free parking lot. If you’re hauling horses, then you’ll have plenty of space, but the place is incredibly high maintenance when it comes to cleaning up after yourself(or your mares!). That said, it’s a stone’s throw to the World Equestrian Center, so what this place lacks in ambiance and nature, its proximity, newness and ease of navigation make it an attractable location to stay in. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Elliott B.
    Jul. 11, 2017

    Oak Ridge Primitive Campground

    Nicely maintained and secluded

    This campground is an excellently maintained recreation area part of the [SouthWest Florida Water Management District](http://SouthWest Florida Water Management District). With the OakRidge campground being wonder part of the Lower Hillsborough Preserve just outside Tampa, FL.

    The campground here is huge as you can use it either as a primitive site or an equestrian site. Although it's nice and open you actually have a ton of tree coverage. You can get the combination for the lock when you make your reservation (required) or just hike yourself in from the large lot off Highway 568 "Morris Bridge road" which is only about 3/4 of a mile.

    While hiking in I came across several deer and some gopher tortoise.

    This campground has 3 "sites", with tables and fire rings, and one nice pavilion. There is a good water pump (non-potable) which you'll need to boil or treat and an actual clean ADA toilet on site.

    You then have access to miles and miles of trails and can really enjoy yourself out here.

  • Elliott B.
    Jul. 16, 2017

    Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve

    One of the largest contiguous recreation areas in Hillsborough County

    The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve is one of the largest contiguous recreation areas in Hillsborough County.

    There are lots of different parks and areas all contained within the Preserve with all park sites managed by the Hillsborough County Conservation and Environmental Lands Management Department.

    You can only camp within 2 of these areas, the Oak Ridge Equestrian Area and at Dead River Park.

    Other parks and trails are located at the Wilderness Park Off Road Loop Trail System, Flatwoods Park, and the Jefferson Equestrian Area. The Morris Bridge Park, Trout Creek Park, and John B. Sargeant Park, offer day use areas and boat/canoe launch ramps.

    The multiple purposes of the LHWP are easily overlooked while enjoying the natural beauty of this suburban woodland. Here one can paddle waters of the Hillsborough River amongst wading birds, turtles, alligators, lilies and cypress swamps; explore over 60 miles of forest trails; fish from riverside boardwalks; or enjoy a relaxing picnic or cookout.

    Adjoining the Wilderness Preserve is the 3,000-acre Hillsborough River State Park, which in itself is an area of beauty and tranquility known as the Seventeen Runs of the Hillsborough River. This park also has wonderful camping.

    Camping

    Dead River Park

    · Camping fee.

    · Campsite available to youth groups by reservation only. Minimum of 6 and maximum of 30 campers allowed. Groups must have their own insurance.

    · A 0.25-mile hiking trail for use by campers located adjacent to campground.

    · Bathhouse and picnic facilities provided.

    The Oak Ridge Equestrian Area has 2 different campgrounds.

    The Oak Ridge Primitive Campgrounds and the Washburn Primitive Campground

    · Camping free.

    · Campsite available by reservation only and is required and must be displayed or available at campground

    · Over 16-miles of equestrian/hiking trail for use by campers located throughout the campground.

    · Sites have picnic tables, fire rings and/or grills and there are ADA portapotty and non-potable water available.

    · The Oak Ridge Campground also has a pavilion

  • Kathie E.
    Apr. 3, 2022

    Lake Louisa State Park Campground

    Beautiful Lake Louisa

    Lake Louisa is located on the edge of the Orlando metropolitan region. Close to Disney but accessible to other area attractions and communities, if that's what you are lookimg to do.

    We needed a break from life so we went to chill and hang out in the park. What a beautiful park it is. Miles of trails, a small beach, 3 lakes for fishing and kayaking, and 2 fishing piers. They also have equestrian facilities for horseback riding. Including a stable where you can sign up to join a ride.

    The park's campground is compact with 2 very clean bathhouse, a small camp store, and 60 sites. The sites are nicely setup with lots of privacy. There are a few sites with both 50 amp electric and sewer service. One issue, especially in the summer, is the lack of shade so make sure you bring your own shade structures and a fan. In addition to traditional sites, the park has glamping tents, eco tents, primitive tent sites, equestrian sites, cabins, and a youth group area.

    The park is really beautiful. The riolling hills, pine forests, and pretty lakes. The wild flowers are also very pretty.

    We've been to many of Florida's state parks and this is among our new favorites. Just love it! Enjoy!

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2017

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    Anything but stark...

    Part of the Starkey Wilderness Preservethis location is full of multi use trails, has primitive cabin rentals (no electric) and tent camping available. Front country (car camping) and back country camping (hike in only). There are specific equestrian camping sites as well.

    Cabins are pretty close to each other. All sites need to be reserved.Tent, cabin, shelter and pavilion reservations: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, (727) 834-3247. Picnic tables and fire pits are provided. Pavilions are also available to rent and they take reservations for large groups as well.

    We chose car camping for our visit to check the place out. A favorite for hiking and biking. This place has gotten busier as development has been growing steadily over the years. Many of the trails are without shade and the recent fire season hit the back part of the tract pretty hard (Spring 2017) but you would not see any signs of this unless you hiked out the furthest trails from entrance.

    Bring your bikes, hiking shoes, horses, or telescopes. Birders bring your binoculars! Over 150 species call Starkey home either full or part time. There is something here for everyone.

    As always in Florida bring bug spray, sunblock, hat, and please leave no trace!

  • Steve S.
    Jul. 6, 2016

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    Hidden gem in Florida

    Great get away in west-central Florida as a day trip or long weekend stay.

    We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer. The park has separate primitive tent, car-camping (tent) and cabin campgrounds near the entrance of the park along with over 50 miles of biking, hiking, nature as well as equestrian trails to enjoy. Not to mention several parking areas throughout with playgrounds and an educational center make this a favorite for families to just get away.

    Reservations can be made for camping up to 90 days in advance either online or at the park. We noticed several rangers and volunteers performing various tasks to improve the parks appearance. Will definitely be returning!

  • Abby M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 29, 2021

    Green Swamp — West Tract

    Nice free spot

    Stayed at Ashley campground, which is free with a reservation through Southwest Florida water management. They provide a Lock code for you to enter upon entering so there’s always a locked gate during your stay. The sites are very well-kept and I’ll have a firing and covered picnic table. The sites are a little close as there are not a lot of trees for privacy but overall a really nice camp spot. Has two vault toilets which were relatively clean. Mixture of equestrian campers and non-equestrian campers. Barely any cell service so wasn’t ideal for my work situation and had to go into town. 1-2 bars of 4G via AT&T.


Guide to Lake Panasoffkee

Horse camping in Florida offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and equestrian-friendly amenities, making it a perfect getaway for horse lovers.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

  • The Holder Mine Campground features spacious, paved sites with electric and water hookups, ensuring comfort for both horses and riders.
  • At Santos Trailhead & Campground, equestrians can enjoy clean facilities and ample shade, making it a pleasant stop for both horses and their owners.
  • Ross Prairie Campground offers large, well-spaced sites with electric hookups, perfect for accommodating horse trailers and providing a comfortable stay.

Equestrian campgrounds include scenic trails

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Campers at Lake Panasoffkee can enjoy fishing and hiking, with plenty of trails to explore after a day of riding.
  • Thousand Palms Resort offers access to local activities such as biking and nature walks, making it a well-rounded destination for horse campers.
  • Boondock Properties provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and exploration, with opportunities for fishing and hiking nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Lake Panasoffkee, FL is Lake Panasoffkee with a 4.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 38 equestrian camping locations near Lake Panasoffkee, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.