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Equestrian Camping near Dunnellon, FL

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    Ross Prairie Campground near Dunnellon features multiple equestrian camping options with direct access to extensive horse trails. The campground offers pull-through sites that accommodate RVs with horse trailers, designated areas for horses at each site, and connections to the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenways trail system. Sites are well-spaced with a mix of sun and shade trees, providing ample room for both camping and horse equipment. Trails extend for miles through varied Florida terrain, allowing riders to explore prairie landscapes and wooded sections. Many campers report the facilities are consistently clean and well-maintained, with a camp host available to assist visitors.

    The Cross Florida Greenway trail network provides extensive riding opportunities from Shangri-La Trailhead and Campground, another equestrian-friendly option in the area. These trails feature sandy sections ideal for horseback riding, with some routes crossing over Interstate 75 and connecting to hills suitable for varied riding experiences. Both Ross Prairie and Shangri-La provide access to water for horses via natural creeks along the trails during summer months. Bearhead Hammock in nearby Withlacoochee State Forest offers primitive campsites with individual horse corrals at each site, making it convenient for overnight stays with horses. The sandy trails throughout the region require appropriate hoof protection during extended rides, and riders should watch for wildlife including occasional rattlesnakes on trails. Most equestrian camping areas maintain separate parking for horse trailers and designated areas for tying horses.

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    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Dunnellon (24)

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      1. Ross Prairie Campground

      4.2(12)9mi from Dunnellon14 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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"

      "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!"

      from $22 / night

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      2. Holder Mine Campground

      4.5(20)18mi from Dunnellon27 sitesRVs, Tents

      "I had site 1, which sites 1 and 2 are next to the entrance gate. It was fairly quiet at night. There was a few times I heard loud vehicles gojng down the road but not enough to complain about."

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

      from $23 / night

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      3. Potts Preserve

      4.2(9)14mi from DunnellonRVs, Tents

      "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."

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      4. Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground

      4.6(7)12mi from Dunnellon24 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $18 / night

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      5. Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground (North Hooty Point Road)

      4.3(6)14mi from DunnellonRVs, Tents

      "There is a designated area to leave vehicles, and the sites on the river are walk in only. The area is open, but you can no longer pull your vehicle in next to your campsite. "

      "Hands-down my new favorite camping spot in Florida. Free, primitive, private, secluded. Pet-friendly, hammock friendly, boat friendly, fire friendly, & more."

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      6. Santos Trailhead & Campground

      4.5(17)22mi from Dunnellon24 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $22 / night

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      7. Bearhead Hammock Primitive Campsites — Withlacoochee State Forest

      4.0(2)6mi from Dunnellon3 sitesRVs, Tents

      "There are 3 sites here, all a nice distance away from each other. Has a park like feel, lots of grass and trees."

      from $9 / night

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      8. Goethe Trailhead Ranch Campground

      3.7(3)13mi from Dunnellon4 sitesRVs, Cabins

      "I can't even explain how nice it was to come to a place that wasn't near a roaring highway, airport, train etc. I haven't slept that well in years. The pool was fabulous and very nicely kept."

      "We picked a spot overlooking the back horse field and what an amazing view! The morning sunrise is beautiful and the evening the sky disappears into the earth."

      from $10 - $95 / night

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      9. Tillis Hill Equestrian Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

      4.1(7)21mi from Dunnellon73 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      from $9 - $23 / night

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      10. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

      4.7(34)34mi from Dunnellon45 sitesRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "There is a picnic table & a fir pit the fire pit was a little to close to the camper to have a fire. It is a very quiet and woodsy campground."

      "Stayed at site 31 which is probably the furthest walk from parking but the most private. We saw wild bison, wild turkeys, deer, snakes, and several different species of birds."

      from $18 / night

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    Recent Equestrian Camping Photos near Dunnellon, FL

    15 Photos of 24 Dunnellon Campgrounds

    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Dunnellon, FL

    207 Reviews of 24 Dunnellon Campgrounds

    • Kathie E.
      Feb. 9, 2022

      Ross Prairie Campground

      Clean little campground

      This little campground is a nice little campground. 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 trails for hiking, biking, horse back riding, and walking. Down sides are noise from rt 200, some sites are compact, and it lacks shade. We would definitely consider staying here again if we were in the area.

    • Bran P.
      Jul. 18, 2016

      Ross Prairie Campground

      Smaller but Quiet Campground Stay

      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! Definitely quieter here. Hike the Ross Prairie Loop, a 3.5 mile trail that is part wooded and part prairie.

    • 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!

    • 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.

    • Rich S.
      Sep. 25, 2018

      Santos Trailhead & Campground

      Perfect Little Spot for a Getaway

      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. We stayed in site #3, which was tucked into the wood line and somewhat private. Easy access to all the mountain bike trails, the paved Greenway trail, and the Florida Trail. All the trails and paths are located within the park. Restrooms were fairly clean, and the showers had hot water. We would come back here in a heartbeat.

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

      Lake Panasoffkee

      Love love love

      This place was PERFECT. 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. Beautiful trees for shade but room to get some solar too. All areas have a super nice fire pit and picnic table. The bathrooms have flush toilets and running water. There is non-potable water spigots throughout the campground and there are miles and miles worth of trails for biking, hiking, or horseback riding. There is a host on site who was extremely kind. dumpster up at the entrance to toss any trash you may have. 2-3 bars of 5G AT&T. Felt super safe all times of the day. Right in between two towns so can easily get groceries or gas with a 15 minute drive.

    • B M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 4, 2020

      Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

      Relaxing campground

      We stayed in site #38 it's a shaded site with water & electric. There is a picnic table & a fir pit the fire pit was a little to close to the camper to have a fire. It is a very quiet and woodsy campground. There isn't much real close by so grocery before you get there.  There are some hikes in the park that are good you can see wild horses near the lookout tower sometimes and along the paths.  There is a dump station onsite.

      There are several places to go observe the wetlands, shorebirds and gators can be seen. If you drive to North Paynes Prairie you will see lots of Gators, Bison and wild horses and certain times of the year White Pelicans. The trail along the lake & creeks are loaded with gator once you head to the back lookout tower you will see Bison & Wild Horses. We counted 150 gators in a mile & a half. If you google horse stomping gator in Paynes Prairie you will see a great video. 

      On the way to the North Prairie you pass Sweetwater preserve it's loaded with all kinds of birds from Woodstorks, Herons, Egrets, Hawks, Ibis and Sora's. You can spend hours there watching the birds. There are some gators but nothing like North Prairie.

      Watched the sunset for the picnic area on the lake.

    • Tracy L H.
      Dec. 31, 2019

      Sawgrass Island Preserve

      Old Florida!

      Sawgrass Island Preserve is a unique piece of property.  I love hiking on the north side of the property it looks so much like Old Florida.  I like to go across the causeway and down the Bog Button Trail and over to the Hammock Trail and along the Cactus Trail and down around the ponds and back out the Bent Pine Trail.  This is around a five mile hike and can be stretched out by doing the North Loop Trail also .  I have seen several whitetail deer, sandhill cranes, lots of other birds, quail, and some turkeys while hiking.  I also saw a black bear up a tree in the marsh.  It is a hidden gem for sure.  The south side is nice but gets super sandy in places due to horseback riders.  And if you have horses the preserve allows riders and even has a spot or two with water for the horses and some picnic areas with hitching post to tie off horse and have some time to eat.  Some trails are narrow and give the feel of actually walking in, in the woods!  I haven't camped there but they have two primitive campsites on the Hammock Trail near the marsh with a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern post.  There is also a horse campsite along the Cactus Trail down near the ponds and there is an open pole barn with two roomy stalls for horses and picnic tables and a fire ring with benches.  Also room to pitch tent under barn too.  There is no water available at any of the campsites.  Could be a fun adventure waiting in Old Florida.  There is a camping application to fill out on line at www.lcwa.org and a  small fee, but if everything checks out ok at the end of the stay after a Ranger has had a chance to check out the site your fee is refunded.

    • Doug E.
      Dec. 18, 2020

      Tillis Hill Equestrian Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

      Great quite spot

      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. It can be very ruff during certain times of the year.

      The main camping area is large. The sites themselves are spacious. The sites have water, and power hook up. There is 1 main dump area with 2 dump stations. The bathhouse is clean and has hot water and showers.

      If you own a horse these campgrounds have a stable to house your animals while you stay. I believe there are 2 trails just for horseback riding. Speaking of animals no other animals are allowed because of the horses.

      If you enjoy hiking, biking, or off roading. There is 2,600 acres of off-road trails for motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle enthusiasts. During the day you may hear some of the “off roaders” come thought the camping area to use the bathhouse as it is the the closest thing to use. Also keep in mind during certain times a year you will hear gun fire because of the near by hunting areas. Nothing crazy though.

      Other then the above list things at the camping area there is no other entertainment, playgrounds... etc. So what you bring is what you got.

      We have enjoyed our time here and have been a few times now. If you lucky enough to stay during clear night skies...all the stars light up the area and it is very nice.

    Guide to Dunnellon

    Equestrian camping near Dunnellon, Florida offers terrain ranging from sandy paths to shaded hammocks across the Withlacoochee State Forest and Cross Florida Greenway systems. Campsites typically sit at elevations between 40-75 feet above sea level, providing access to trails through pine flatwoods, oak hammocks, and prairie landscapes. Winter temperatures average 45-65°F, making December through March the peak season for horseback riding with minimal insect activity.

    What to do

    Hiking nearby trails: The Ross Prairie Loop Trail extends 3.5 miles through wooded sections and prairie landscapes. "Hike the Ross Prairie Loop, a 3.5 mile trail that is part wooded and part prairie," notes Bran P. about Ross Prairie Campground.

    Swimming in springs: Manatee Springs State Park offers cold, clear waters with designated swimming areas, including a shallow section for children. "Beautiful clear spring with swimming area, including area for kids. Two nice boardwalks. Nature trails," writes janet H. about Manatee Springs State Park Campground.

    Wildlife viewing: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park provides observation points for spotting wild horses, bison, and numerous bird species. "We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," reports Brenda S. about visiting Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.

    What campers like

    Quiet camping environment: The smaller, less crowded campgrounds provide peaceful stays away from urban noise. "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! Definitely quieter here," says Bran P. about Ross Prairie Campground.

    Dark night skies: Rural locations offer excellent stargazing conditions with minimal light pollution. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room," notes Joe R. about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.

    Proximity to multiple trail systems: Campers appreciate the direct access to hiking, biking, and horse trails without needing to drive. "Very clean and quiet area. Trails available for hikes, bikes, horses and even 4x4 vehicles," reports Karyn B. about Holder Mine Campground.

    What you should know

    Seasonal water availability: During summer months, natural creeks along horse trails provide water sources, but these can dry up in winter. "Small camp area, its wide open. Good bathrooms. Good for a weekend stay," mentions Nate D. about Tillis Hill Equestrian Campground.

    Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly between campgrounds and can be minimal in more remote locations. "Poor / spotty cell service in park, but there's free wifi at the concession stand," notes Laura M. about Manatee Springs State Park.

    Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds include unpaved sections requiring cautious driving, especially after rain. "The road to the campground is hard packed gravel but we traveled slowly and had no issues," explains David K. about Holder Mine Campground.

    Tips for camping with families

    Kid-friendly water features: Select campgrounds with swimming areas that offer gradual entry points and shallow sections. "Manatee Springs, Chiefland, Florida Beautiful clear spring with swimming area, including area for kids," recommends janet H. about Manatee Springs State Park.

    Wildlife education opportunities: Schedule visits around ranger-led programs that focus on local animals. "Visitor's Center very helpful with information. Saw wild horses in the prairie," shares Lauren W. about Paynes Prairie.

    Accessible nature viewing: Boardwalks provide easy wildlife viewing for all ages and abilities. "Boardwalk was really cool and long and we saw a couple of manatees," reports Laura M. from Manatee Springs State Park.

    Tips from RVers

    Site selection strategy: Choose sites away from main roads for less dust and noise. "I suggest a site as far from the road as possible, 3 seemed like the best site to me," advises Darlene W. about Santos Trailhead & Campground.

    Dump station availability: Not all facilities maintain operational dump stations year-round. "The dump station is no longer in use so you have to use the bath house or dump elsewhere," warns Todd L. about Holder Mine Campground.

    Site leveling challenges: Some older campgrounds have developed uneven pads over time. "Some sites are a challenge to level, seems the park was built some time ago and the Earth's shifting has made some uneven," explains Robert M. about Tillis Hill Equestrian Campground.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Dunnellon, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Dunnellon, FL is Ross Prairie Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 12 reviews.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 24 equestrian camping locations near Dunnellon, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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