Best Equestrian Camping near Gainesville, FL

Trails End Outdoors RV Park & Cabins offers extensive equestrian amenities for horse camping near Gainesville, Florida. The facility includes horse corrals for campers bringing their own horses, along with full hookup RV sites, cabins, and tent camping options. The campground provides standard amenities including drinking water, electric hookups with both 30-amp and 50-amp service, sewer connections, and facilities such as showers, toilets, and laundry. Wild horses and bison can be viewed in the surrounding prairie areas. The campground maintains clean facilities while offering direct access to local riding trails.

Located approximately 35 miles from Gainesville, the horse-friendly campground connects to bridle paths suitable for various skill levels. Many trails wind through diverse Florida landscapes including wetlands, prairies, and wooded areas where wildlife viewing opportunities abound. Horse owners should prepare for Florida's climate conditions, as mosquitoes can be numerous during warmer months, particularly around dusk. Trailer parking is available at designated areas with easy access to corrals and camping areas. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons, as equestrian sites are limited and in high demand. The surrounding trail system allows riders to observe native wildlife including alligators, various bird species, and occasionally wild horses that roam freely throughout the prairie ecosystem.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Gainesville, Florida (20)

    1. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Micanopy, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 466-3397

    $18 / night

    "From bison to wild horses and dont forget the alligators! Vast landscapes wetlands biking hiking and right outside Gainesville for fun and food. Rich in culture and history. Beautifully maintained."

    "Tons of trails to hike and see the wild horses and bison. There’s a boat launch to the lake with tons of fish. Very nice rangers. Super dark at night & was very quiet when I was there."

    2. Dogwood Campground — O'Leno State Park

    39 Reviews
    Fort White, FL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 454-1853

    $18 / night

    "There’s a good bit of distance between you and your neighbor which is always nice. The campsites have electricity and water and there is a dump station on-site. "

    "Older Florida park with roots in the CCC and Forestry Service. Large park with hiking, bike and equestrian trails."

    3. Collins Farm

    1 Review
    Micanopy, FL
    13 miles
    +1 (440) 396-6541

    $45 / night

    4. Manatee Springs State Park Campground

    69 Reviews
    Chiefland, FL
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 493-6072

    $20 / night

    "Easy access to the park and quick and painless check-in process with reservations. The main road in the campground is fine but the roads to the sites are gravel with potholes."

    "Step into a world of deer, manatee, and unknown river surprises at Manatee Springs State Park."

    5. Connors Family Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Florahome, FL
    23 miles
    +1 (423) 777-1247

    "You can do anything from buying an RV renting an RV a camper tent if you're not from around there bill will help you out overall great customer service"

    6. Santos Trailhead & Campground

    17 Reviews
    Belleview, FL
    43 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. Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp

    2 Reviews
    Florahome, FL
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 329-2552

    $9 / night

    "Located just about 20 minutes due northwest of Palatka – dubbed ‘Florida’s State Farmers Market’ where you will easily discover that this north central town is teeming with fresh agriculture every which"

    "Just off the Palatka-Lake Butler Bike trail. Campgrounds are About 4 miles in on bikeable hard roads. Six Sites have picnic tables, lots of room, fire ring with grate, bbq grills, a latrine nearby."

    8. Ross Prairie Campground

    12 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    45 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. Trails End Outdoors RV Park & Cabins

    1 Review
    Interlachen, FL
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 325-3008

    "But be forewarned, if you are driving just a bit faster than one ought to on Highway 20 just west of Palatka between the drive-by towns of Hollister and Interlachen, you might just miss this hidden gem"

    10. More Than Welcome

    2 Reviews
    Fort White, FL
    35 miles
    +1 (603) 331-1904

    $5 - $20 / night

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Gainesville, FL

195 Reviews of 20 Gainesville Campgrounds


  • noah R.
    Jul. 7, 2017

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    What North florida is.

    Beautiful campgrounds. More hiking and wildlife and history and wildlife. From bison to wild horses and dont forget the alligators! Vast landscapes wetlands biking hiking and right outside Gainesville for fun and food. Rich in culture and history. Beautifully maintained. Also a great stop off when traveling as its located in between north south east and west. A must for all ages.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2023

    Welaka State Forest

    Solemn Equestrian Campground Experience

    As you approach Welaka State Forest, it feels as though you’ve arrived ‘at the end of the line,’ and not in a bad sense either. Here, you’ll feel as though you’ve escaped the crowds, left the commercial world only to discover a truly pristine natural jewel. You’ll be overwhelmed by the incredibly loud silence and solitude of this far-reaching outpost and the moment that you’ve crossed the threshold (or the gravel road) entering Welaka State Forest, you’ll be incredibly grateful for the wide open expanse of the place and the communion with nature that it provides. 

    Just due south of Welaka – where there’s a minute scattering of local eateries and distractions, this spot is fairly off the ‘beaten path,’ a good half hour south of Palatka in central Florida, along the banks of the historic St. Johns River. This federal turned state park was founded in 1935 (under the Federal Resettlement Administration) and today is both a major conservation area as well as fish hatchery for the State of Florida. In all, there’s 4 miles of river frontage area on the east bank of Little Lake George, making for some decent kayaking and canoeing, although most of this is fairly difficult to navigate as it’s swamp-like, where overgrown Cypress and Pine trees provide a very thick canopy of forested shade throughout. 

    If you’ve got horses en towe, then you have hit the ‘lottery of equestrian campgrounds’ as Welaka State Forest is perhaps the most perfect place to camp if you’ve brought your four-legged steeds and looking for a place that offers up nearly 20 miles of equestrian trails for plenty of galloping, including the 6-mile Sandhill Horse Trail (part of the Florida Trailtrotter Program: www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/State-Forest-Recreation/Recreational-Activities/Horseback-Riding/Trailtrotter-Program)..) The campground here at Welaka State Park is made for you horse-loving outdoor enthusiasts and provides 2 – I repeat that 2 – 24 stall horse-ready stables, show horse stage, training area, along with 6 primitive campsites along with 5 full hook-up RV drive-through sites. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you are looking to get some hiking in, there’s 2 decent trails (both integrated into the Florida forest Service’s ‘Trailwalker Hiking Program’ with the first, Spring Trail, offering a short 2-mile loop that ends in Mud Springs and the second, John’s Landing Trail, offering either a 3.5 or 4 mile loop; (2) Not interested in hiking? Not a problem, you can follow the scenic Indian Pond Road from the comfort of your own vehicle. Near here there are 2 primitive campsites that you can rent that places you right on the St. John’s River; and (3) While this SP doesn’t have much to offer apart from encounters with nature, if you find yourself missing civilization, in less than a 5 minute drive, you can join a sweltering crowd at either Shrimp R Us or, for amazing river-front gnashing, check out Welaka Lodge & Resort (for more details on this particular campground, check out my review on The Dyrt on this site). 

    Happy Camping!

  • 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!

  • Amanda W.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 1, 2023

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Dense woods, trails, boat ramp

    I love these big, well shaded spots. 30 or 50 amp depending on the site. No sewer but there is a dump station. Water pressure at the site was a little low. The bathrooms & showers were clean with super hot water. Tons of trails to hike and see the wild horses and bison. There’s a boat launch to the lake with tons of fish. Very nice rangers. Super dark at night & was very quiet when I was there. Lots of wildlife. Close to Gainesville shopping.

  • Kristin T.
    Dec. 5, 2019

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Well Kept and Friendly Staff

    Definitely one of the more popular destinations in the area because of the buffalo and wild horses, so this park camping and RV parking gets a lot of attention from rangers. The facilities are very clean and staff are courteous, grounds are well-kept and events (like baby alligator educational sessions) are above-par.

    Not their fault (the state sets pricing) but primitive campsites are the same price as reserved ones with hookups, $18.

    There is plenty of hiking in the park, but it’s also close to other inexpensive trails around Gainesville.

  • Kathy L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 13, 2022

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Lovely state park & campground

    Beautiful park & campground. Sites were all lovely and well spaced out. Facilities were clean. Good walking trails right from campground. For distance bike riders, Gainesville bike club has good group rides (just sign up for a membership to join rides). Town of Micanopy is nearby and worth the visit. Gainesville also has a good lap pool and isn’t far. We’ve stayed here twice for a week each time and will definitely return.

  • 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.

  • Joe R.
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

    Dark skies!

    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.

  • 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.


Guide to Gainesville

Equestrian camping near Gainesville, Florida offers diverse terrain spanning from pine forests to wetland prairies. The area maintains a subtropical climate with temperatures averaging 85°F in summer months and 65°F in winter, making year-round camping feasible. Most horse-friendly campgrounds in the region provide access to trail systems that connect through protected conservation areas where wildlife viewing opportunities are common.

What to do

Wildlife viewing excursions: At Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground, campers can observe diverse species along eight designated trails. "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 Brenda S. The park maintains observation platforms strategically positioned for wildlife spotting.

Mountain biking adventures: The Santos Trailhead & Campground offers internationally recognized mountain biking trails with manufactured features. "It's an international destination for mountain biking! While there are no mountains in Florida, there are many man made ramps and jumps and turns. It's remarkable to see," explains David G. The trail system includes over 30 miles of routes categorized by difficulty level.

Horseback riding tours: Multiple trail networks connect between campgrounds in the area, particularly along the Cross Florida Greenway system. "The surrounding trail system allows riders to observe native wildlife including alligators, various bird species," with trails rated for various experience levels from beginner to advanced. Seasonal guided rides are available through local outfitters.

What campers like

Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules for restrooms and shower facilities. "Bathrooms are clean. Plenty of hiking to be found. Buffalo, deer, eagles, alligators, owls," reports Jenn B. about her experience at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.

Shaded campsites: Many campgrounds feature oak canopy coverage providing natural temperature regulation. "The sites are spacious and most are shaded. We stayed in site #3, which was tucked into the wood line and somewhat private," shares Rich S. about his stay at Santos Trailhead Campground. Site selection impacts shade availability, with summer temperatures making this a priority consideration.

Diverse trail access: O'Leno State Park provides direct trail connections from campsites. "There are several trails available for hiking and biking and a primitive campsite on Sweetwater Trail. Santa Fe River goes underground in this area and you can check it out along the trails, going in and coming out again," explains Shelly S. Trail maps are available at park offices.

What you should know

Mosquito presence: Florida's humid climate supports significant mosquito populations, particularly in wetland areas. "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 Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground. Long sleeves and insect repellent are recommended, especially during dawn and dusk hours.

Seasonal flooding: Low-lying areas experience periodic water level changes affecting trail accessibility. "The swimming area (WHAT!!) was closed when we visited due to high water levels," reports Shelly S. about O'Leno State Park. Water levels are typically highest during summer rainy season (June-September).

Limited cell service: Many campgrounds experience spotty connectivity due to rural locations. "Poor/spotty cell service in park, but there's free wifi at the concession stand," notes Laura M. about Manatee Springs State Park. Campground offices often post daily weather forecasts for those without reliable connectivity.

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly water features: Springs maintain consistent temperatures year-round for swimming. "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," advises Lindsey H. from her visit to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.

Educational programming: Ranger-led programs provide structured learning opportunities for children. "The facilities are very clean and staff are courteous, grounds are well-kept and events (like baby alligator educational sessions) are above-par," notes Kristin T. about Paynes Prairie. Program schedules are posted at visitor centers and typically run weekends during peak seasons.

Dog restrictions on trails: Ross Prairie Campground allows pets but with access limitations to certain areas. "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," cautions Denise about regional parks. Pet-friendly trails are clearly marked on maps available at entrance stations.

Tips from RVers

Electrical service variability: Campgrounds offer different amperage options with limited availability of higher-powered sites. "All sites are pull thru for you RVers out there! Definitely quieter here," notes Bran P. about Ross Prairie Campground. Reservation systems typically allow filtering by electrical service requirements.

Site terrain considerations: Sandy soil presents challenges for leveling and stability. "Campsites have fire ring and picnic tables. Sites have fire ring and picnic tables," notes Dave D. about Manatee Springs State Park. Wooden blocks or specialized levelers are recommended for stabilizing RVs on sandy terrain.

Off-season advantages: Lower occupancy during summer months provides more site options and privacy. "Only here two days. Nice little quick stop," mentions Karen about Ross Prairie Campground. Summer heat reduces visitor numbers despite being the traditional vacation season.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Gainesville, FL is Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 33 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 20 equestrian camping locations near Gainesville, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.