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Best Campgrounds near Dunnellon, FL

1,092 Reviews

State parks and forests surrounding Dunnellon, Florida feature diverse camping options centered around the area's natural springs and waterways. Rainbow Springs State Park Campground offers both tent and RV sites with water and electric hookups, situated along the crystal-clear Rainbow River. Ross Prairie Campground, part of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenways, provides a smaller, quieter experience with approximately 15 pull-through sites. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access the Withlacoochee State Forest's campgrounds and the more primitive options at Potts Preserve. The region's camping landscape ranges from full-service RV resorts to basic tent sites, with many locations providing river or spring access.

Reservations are essential for most developed campgrounds, particularly during winter months when temperatures remain mild and snowbirds flock to central Florida. Road access varies significantly between locations, with state park campgrounds featuring paved roads while forest service areas may require higher clearance vehicles. As one camper noted, "The primitive camping is tucked back away from most of the RVs and has a bathhouse with very hot water. Each site is spaced properly so not each person is too close." Summer brings intense heat and humidity along with afternoon thunderstorms, while winter temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing. Cell service is generally available at developed campgrounds but becomes spotty in more remote areas.

Water activities dominate the camping experience near Dunnellon, with the Rainbow River serving as a central attraction. "Spent the day kayaking in April on the Rainbow River. It was an easy kayak paddle upstream as the current is not overpowering," reported one visitor. Many campgrounds provide direct water access for swimming, fishing, or paddling. The area's oak hammocks with Spanish moss create naturally shaded campsites that campers frequently praise. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, particularly at dusk when, according to one regular visitor, "different animals or birds appear." Road noise affects some campgrounds, particularly those near Highway 200, prompting experienced campers to request sites farther from main roads. Most developed campgrounds offer clean facilities with hot showers, while primitive sites typically provide basic amenities like fire rings and picnic tables.

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Best Camping Sites Near Dunnellon, Florida (309)

    1. Rainbow Springs State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Dunnellon, FL
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 465-8550

    $30 / night

    "Took a day trip while visiting friends that live in Gainesville to Dunnellon. Was an easy drive. Spent the day kayaking in April on the Rainbow River. We rented kayaks for a reasonable price."

    "The primitive camping is tucked back away from most of the RVs and has a bathhouse with very hot water/ toilets and hot hand dryers. Each site is spaced properly so not each person is too close."

    2. Ross Prairie Campground

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

    $22 / night

    "Located near Dunnellon, FL and is part of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenways. Smaller campground - 15ish sites. All sites are pull thru for you rvers out there!"

    "Pluses are everything is super clean, the camp hosts are amazing, its easy to get to, great access to Ocala or Dunnellon, all sites are pullthrough, ground is small and quiet, 50 amp, and access to great"

    3. Encore Crystal Isles

    22 Reviews
    Crystal River, FL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Excellent park, great attractions nearby! We have tried to come here each year. It is a larger park, with many residents or longer term or leave the rig weekenders."

    "We had a spot on the lake which was very nice. The staff is super nice. When we arrived someone was parked in our spot but they were not around."

    4. Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Crystal River, FL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 564-9350

    $40 - $63 / night

    "Great spot with amenities and close to everything we want to do. Just make sure you don't get a site along the road."

    "Site 127A was so close to us that our picnic table was beside their septic hose. Would stay here again just in an inner site."

    5. Holder Mine Campground

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

    $23 / night

    "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!"

    "There is no real divider between campsites next to you or straight across. BUT for someone who likes ot be a little more secluded, I still did enjoy our time here."

    6. Potts Preserve

    9 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    14 miles
    Website

    "It is part of the Southwest Florida Water Management District Conservation Lands. Youtube Video Review: https://youtu.be/_n8q3ib0kPo"

    "It’s a huge open space with entrances to walking trails and beautiful views of the river. The back-country area has an outhouse."

    7. Sandy Oaks RV Resort

    4 Reviews
    Holder, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 465-7233

    8. Silver Springs State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Ocala, FL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 236-7148

    $24 - $110 / night

    "We rode our bikes around the campground and were amazed as almost all the sites were huge! Live oak trees with Spanish moss...this campground is truly the "Real Florida"."

    "Silver Springs Silver Springs SP Beautiful Florida campground with 60 sites, many pullthrus. The sites are huge with lots of space and privacy. Lush surroundings."

    9. Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground

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

    $18 / night

    "Easy access to hiking and riding trials. Short drive into both Belview and Ocala."

    "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."

    10. Quail Roost RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Inglis, FL
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 563-0404

    $50 / night

    "The park is centrally located to many of the attractions including Weeki Wachee, Silver Springs, Homosassa State Park and others."

    "Lots of biking, hiking, kayaking opportunities nearby. Manatee watching center of the world just 9 miles away. Management is friendly and helpful, residents very nice."

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Recent Camping Photos near Dunnellon, FL

279 Photos of 309 Dunnellon Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Dunnellon, FL

1092 Reviews of 309 Dunnellon Campgrounds

  • J
    Jan. 10, 2026

    Whimcycle Trail Resort At Santos

    Great Commimication, Large Sites

    Beth was super responsive to questions I had before arrival. Easy access to large, flat, dirt/grass sites with hookups. I usually stay at Santos State Park nearby for lower cost, but this was available with less notice and a pleasant surprise. No Verizon service, so bring Starlink or AT&T. Will def consider WhimCycle again.

  • Sherry The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 8, 2026

    Davenport Landing

    Small

    Small area, close camping so No privacy, I you are nearby the water, First come first serve spots, has walking trail in the area. Beware of Bears.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Cedar Key RV Resort

    Glitz RV Camping by the Gulf

    If Cedar Blessings (the other RV resort across the street) feels like staying with family, Cedar Key RV Resort feels like checking into a coastal boutique resort that just happens to welcome RVs, sitting directly across the road and making the contrast immediately clear the moment you pull in. This is a well-planned, modern RV resort with paved roads, manicured landscaping, tidy concrete pads and a noticeable emphasis on presentation, from the entrance signage to the neatly spaced sites that feel intentional and polished. Amenities lean firmly into the resort category, with a sparkling pool, clubhouse and communal spaces like fully functional kitchen, living room w/ TV and an endless lineup of books, board games and DVDs all designed for socializing rather than solitude, making it especially appealing for snowbirds and longer-stay guests who enjoy a bit of buzz and structure. One evening, after a full day of salty air and sightseeing, we let the boys run laps around the pool deck while we sat back watching the sun melt into the Gulf, the kind of low-stress moment that reminds you why amenities matter when traveling as a family. From what we saw, the best sites are those closer to the interior of the resort, where you’re a short walk to the pool and clubhouse but buffered from any road noise. We recommend Cedar Key RV Resort for families and couples who enjoy a more upscale, social camping experience with creature comforts front and center, and who don’t mind trading a little rustic charm for convenience, polish, and that unmistakable resort feel.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Lake Delancy West Campground

    Full-Throttle Campground Fun

    There’s a real sense of forest solitude when you turn off the pavement and roll into Lake Delancy West Campground, a wooded public campground tucked beside the lake’s quiet west shore and surrounded by massive oak and towering pine trees. This is a beautifully natural setting with EZ access to water play, fishing, hiking and woodsy exploration with the campground layout being simple and open with shaded tent sites and roomy RV spots that make you feel like you’re out in the woods rather than in a parking lot. That said, this peace doesn’t come without its lively side: the area is also a popular ride zone for off-highway vehicles (OHVs) during the day, which means you’ll often hear ATVs revving and roaring through the forest corridors nearby before things calm down at night, giving this campground an energy that’s a mix of wilderness quiet and outdoor playground bustle. The best sites are those closer to the lake’s edge where you can sit with a morning coffee and catch the light on the water before traffic stirs, although if silence is a priority you’ll want to plan your day’s adventures around the heavier daytime OHV hours. We’d recommend Lake Delancy West for families who appreciate lakeside access, plenty of outdoor recreation, and don’t mind a bit of daytime horsepower mixed in with their bird calls, but keep in mind that the lively noise from trail riders can be part of the experience if you’re here earlier in the day.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost & Resort

    Coastal Creek Vibes Connected to the Ocklawaha

    Pulling into Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost near Fort McCoy feels like arriving somewhere that doesn’t rush you, where the tall trees and wide river channels invite the kind of slow, unhurried breathing that only a riverside campground can. Nestled along the banks of the Ocklawaha River with direct access to the Silver River and Salt Springs Run, this place sets you up in a mix of shady tent sites and roomy RV spots that make it EZ to wake up to the sound of birds and fall asleep to nothing more than whispering water and occasional night critters exploring nearby. There’s a real sense of connection to the landscape here, with picnic spots and fishing docks near the river’s edge, canoe and kayak launches right inside the campground and the big new bathhouse and restroom facilities that strike the right balance of clean and rustic. One evening the boys and I packed some snacks, launched our canoe at the campground’s dock, and drifted out toward a bend in the river where we watched small ripples on the water as turtles bobbed up to greet us. This simple, shared moment became our favorite memory of the whole trip. From what we saw, the best sites are the ones tucked closest to the riverbank (which only tent campers can stay at) where you can hear the slow-moving river at night and step right out into the kayak without any fuss, which makes waking up here feel a bit like being handed a secret you didn’t know you were searching for. We would recommend Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost for families who enjoy water-based play, peaceful scenery and active days on a river for paddling, fishing, swimming or exploring, combined with campground facilities that feel thoughtfully placed and welcoming rather than too polished or commercial.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    The Griffin Ranch

    Old-Florida Charm Meets Ranch-Life Calm

    Arriving to Griffin Ranch just outside Fort McCoy feels like stepping into a page of classic Florida history, where 30+ acres of shaded woods, ponds, pastures and trails invite you to slow down long before you ever unpack your bags. The ranch’s cabins, Airstream camper and cottage rentals, each with antique-inspired interiors, set the tone for a timeless, unhurried stay. The accommodations are rustic in the very best way: solidly built, thoughtfully equipped spaces that feel cozy rather than pretentious, and the hosts are genuinely welcoming, making you feel like part of the ranch family rather than just a guest. During our visit, we watched the kids wander out toward the pasture at sunset, chasing fireflies and laughing at the horses’ gentle nickers, while the sun dipped behind the trees in that golden light only old pastures seem to have. While this isn’t a ‘back-to-barebones’ campground in the primitive sense, it is more of a cabin-centric ranch stay than a full-service campground, so if you’re coming with a big RV or tent setup in mind, you’ll want to book one of the on-site cabins instead of relying on typical campsites. The best lodging options are the cabins tucked deeper into the woods or near the ponds, which offer the most serenity and EZ access to the ranch trails and wildlife watching. Nearby you can easily stock up on supplies in Fort McCoy or make short drives to local eats like Rocco’s Italian or a long list of options in nearby Gainesville.  Also, the closeness to Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs makes this a great base for exploration. We’d recommend Griffin Ranch for families who appreciate quiet evenings under ancient oaks, authentic old-Florida ranch character, space for kids and pets to run wild and host hospitality that turns a simple stay into lasting memories. This place is one part history, one part nature retreat and entirely welcoming.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Bass Champions Lodging and Rv

    Rustic Lakeside Hideaway Near Salt Springs

    We pulled into Bass Champions in Salt Springs expecting a simple outpost nestled near the lake, and while there were only two or three basic RV spots (which led our family to choose one of the cozy cabins instead), that choice turned out to be just right for our slow, Florida nature weekend. The setting along the oaks along with the quick and EZ access to nearby Lake Kerr and Salt Springs created that gentle, deep breath you hope for when camping away from the city. The layout here is understated and peaceful, with a handful of modest, but well-kept cabins and just a few RV pads tucked into shade trees, and though the RV spaces are limited, the cabins felt welcoming, clean and full of a relaxing vibe that instantly put us in vacation mode. It was a delight to find a bustling farmer’s market on Saturday morning right next to the property where the boys wandered with us between stalls filled with colorful produce, homemade treats and friendly locals, followed by lunch at a nearby local diner where the boys declared the burgers ‘epic.’ Later in the afternoon we drove over to Salt Springs itself, splashing in the clear, cool water and watching turtles bask on logs while dragonflies zigged and zagged overhead, a memory I know the boys won’t forget. The best cabins are the ones furthest from the nearby Salt Springs Highway, where noise is at the lowest. We’d absolutely recommend Bass Champions for families who value peaceful charm near Salt Springs and Lake Kerr, the joy of small community experiences and EZ access to swimming, paddling and nature exploration with just enough local activity to make each day feel full without ever feeling rushed.

  • Blue B.
    Jan. 3, 2026

    Encore Southern Palms

    Nice

    It's a nice spot to stay for a short period of time, Mount Dora is close and we come during there art festival and it's a nice place to spend the day, there's also the water plane airport on the lake.

Guide to Dunnellon

Dunnellon's camping options lie within the subtropical climate zone of central Florida, where the limestone terrain creates natural springs with constant 72-degree water temperatures. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 45 feet above sea level and features several waterways including the Rainbow and Withlacoochee Rivers. Campground access varies from well-maintained state park roads to more challenging forest service routes requiring higher clearance vehicles.

What to do

Kayaking at headsprings: Visitors at Silver Springs State Park Campground can paddle to the iconic headsprings. "If you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or just floating down river on a tube in addition to camping, this is your spot. We have stayed at sites 50, which is a long pull through site, and at site 18 which was quite private," notes one camper.

Trail riding: Located near the Cross Florida Greenways, Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground offers extensive horse trails. "Sandy trails for horses, watch out for rattle snakes. Trail go on for miles and has a huge sand hill near by to ride horses on and cross over i75," advises a regular visitor.

Manatee viewing: The Crystal River area, approximately 25 minutes from Dunnellon, is ideal for wildlife observation. "Manatee watching center of the world just 9 miles away," explains one visitor to Quail Roost RV Park. The best viewing occurs between November and March when water temperatures drop and manatees gather in the warmer springs.

What campers like

Clean facilities: Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park receives praise for its well-maintained grounds. "We loved our time here. There is so much room at all the sites. Great amenities and actives. Great for active walkers," shares one camper, highlighting the spaciousness compared to other parks in the region.

Privacy between sites: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds near Dunnellon. At Ross Prairie Campground, campers appreciate the thoughtful spacing: "Lots of space between sites. Lots of Hike, bike horse trails are very nice and easy to navigate. Very clean bathroom/showers."

Natural surroundings: The oak hammock ecosystem creates ideal camping conditions. At Holder Mine Campground, "Each site has a spacious level concrete pad and plenty of shade trees. Clean and well maintained campground, including the restroom/shower with very hot water."

What you should know

Gate access: Several campgrounds require entrance codes after hours. At Ross Prairie Campground, "Gate access during closed hours for the public. Campground visitors get access code upon check in. Owners show you your site."

Road noise considerations: When booking, request sites away from major roads. One camper notes, "The only negative is that it's not far from the raid, you can hear the traffic and it's somewhat busy." This applies to several campgrounds in the area, particularly those near Highway 200.

Reservation timing: Advanced planning is crucial, especially for winter camping. "Love this campground though it can be hard to get in between the snowbirds and tubing season," warns a visitor to Rainbow Springs State Park Campground.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly water activities: Rainbow Springs offers excellent options for families with children. "Great for kayaking, swimming and snorkeling! Kids have a lot of fun!" reports one parent about the spring-fed waters that maintain a consistent 72-degree temperature year-round.

Bathroom facilities: When camping with children, reliable facilities become essential. Potts Preserve offers basic but functional options: "Nice campground. Probably about 4 or 5 sites in total. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table, and is semi covered from nearby campers."

Educational opportunities: Glass-bottom boat tours provide educational entertainment. "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."

Tips from RVers

Site selection: For RV camping near Dunnellon, consider site dimensions carefully. "When making reservations make sure to book towards the center of the park. We were in site 129A. The road noise was constant and loud. Site 127A was so close to us that our picnic table was beside their septic hose."

Hookup availability: Full hookups are available at several parks in the area but vary by site. "All sites are pull thru for you rvers out there! Definitely quieter here," notes a camper at Ross Prairie, which offers electric and water at all sites plus a dump station.

Dump station access: Some parks have eliminated dump stations. "The dump station is no longer in use so you have to use the bath house or dump elsewhere," reports a camper at Holder Mine Campground, highlighting the importance of planning waste management when visiting the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV parks in Dunnellon, FL and what amenities do they offer?

Dunnellon and the surrounding area have several RV-friendly options with diverse amenities. Cedars Lake MH & RV Park in nearby Old Homosassa offers charming sites around a small pond under oak canopies, with friendly management and a welcoming atmosphere. Salt Springs Recreation Area in the Ocala National Forest provides over 150 sites with one area offering complete hookups including 50-amp service, water, and sewer. Additional RV options include Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park near Crystal River, Sandy Oaks RV Resort near Beverly Hills, and Quail Roost RV Park, all offering standard amenities like water hookups and being big-rig friendly.

Can you camp near Rainbow River in Dunnellon and what activities are available?

Rainbow Springs State Park Campground offers excellent camping directly near Rainbow River with both RV sites and primitive camping options. The campground features hot showers, clean bathhouses, and properly spaced sites. The main attraction is access to Rainbow River for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Kayak rentals are available at reasonable prices. The river flows south and is crystal clear, making it perfect for spotting fish and wildlife. Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest is another option in the region, located on Silver Lake which is part of the Withlacoochee River system, offering additional water recreation opportunities.

What campgrounds are available in and around Dunnellon, Florida?

The Dunnellon area offers several excellent camping options. Ross Prairie Campground is a quiet, smaller campground with about 15 pull-through sites that's part of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenways. It features clean facilities, friendly camp hosts, and access to hiking and biking trails. Hog Island Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest offers a peaceful setting on the eastern bank of the Withlacoochee River. Other options include Crooked River Campground within Withlacoochee State Forest, Florida Sand Music Ranch in nearby Brooksville, and Santos Trailhead & Campground in Ocala which provides spacious, shaded sites despite being near populated areas.

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