Camping near Gainesville, Florida offers opportunities to explore numerous springs, trails, and outdoor recreation areas. Located in north-central Florida, the region features a mix of freshwater springs that maintain a consistent 72-degree temperature year-round. Seasonal travelers should note that winter months (November through February) bring milder temperatures while summer camping requires preparation for high humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Spring swimming and tubing: Hart Springs Park provides one of the largest swimming areas in the region. "The springs here are gorgeous and the swimming area is large. We came in the winter and it was a bit cold to swim, but there are plenty of boardwalks around the rec side of the park to tour the sights," notes one camper at Hart Springs Park.
Kayaking and fishing: Multiple campgrounds offer water access for paddling and fishing opportunities. "Campground is directly in Orange Lake with a dock available. Fishing permitted off dock and from shore," reports a visitor at Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort.
Biking on local trails: Several campgrounds connect to regional biking trails. "If you're bringing a bicycle or just want to run or walk, you can use the O'Leno to Ichetucknee Trail in either direction," explains a reviewer at Moonshine Acres RV Park who appreciated the easy cycling access to nearby springs.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain updated amenities. "New heated saline pool opened last February. They are expanding with 200 more sites set to open in the late summer," mentioned a long-term visitor at Ocala North RV Park.
Secure camping environments: Security features at certain parks provide peace of mind. "Gainesville RV Park gets HIGH points for offering up a highly secured RV camping outpost – upon arrival, you will be greeted by a well-fortified sliding gate that only guests will be able to access with a respective key code," notes a reviewer who appreciated the controlled access.
Golf and recreational amenities: Many campgrounds feature additional activities beyond camping. A visitor to Williston Crossings RV Resort shared: "Amenities include a large heated pool, hot tub, grist mill and activities," making it suitable for extended stays.
What you should know
Cell service varies significantly: Coverage depends on location and carrier. "I have a Pepwave Max Transit CAT18 modem paired up with a Parsec Husky Pro 7-in-1 4x4 MIMO antenna mounted on our travel trailer... Verizon: 9.40ms down, 5.03mbs up, 39ms ping. AT&T: 8.51mbs down, 5.53mbs up, 43ms ping," reported one technically-minded camper detailing connectivity at Ocala North RV Park.
Limited grocery options: Plan for food supplies based on campground location. A reviewer at Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort noted: "Have to drive 20 to 30 minutes North or South to get to a grocery store," highlighting the importance of provisioning before arrival.
Seasonal crowd fluctuations: Springs get busy during peak times. "Plan to arrive early at the springs. Busiest day is Saturday," advises a camper who visited Moonshine Acres RV Park, referring to nearby Ichetucknee Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with children's amenities: Some parks offer specific facilities for younger campers. "Pool house is fantastic and very nice for entertaining on rainy days. Love the gravel pads. Pulled 41 ft fifth wheel and had plenty of room," noted a family staying at Moonshine Acres RV Park.
Consider tent camping restrictions: Not all RV parks accommodate tent camping. "The Dyrt info needs to be updated however. No tents, no pop-ups allowed. We are a Ford Transit Conversion Camper built in 2022 and we're allowed a short stay only," warns a camper who discovered policy limitations at Ocala North RV Park.
Check swimming area features: Springs offer safe swimming options. "The spring has an over bridge and concrete steps that lead down into the springs. Plenty of shade and Pavilions with grills close to the springs, playground, bathrooms and camp store. This park also has a splash pad," shared a visitor to Hart Springs Park.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and access: Consider rig size when selecting sites. "Sites were great and well maintained even though they were crushed gravel. Facilities (bathrooms, game room, and general store) were very nice and clean," observed an RVer about Moonshine Acres RV Park's accommodations.
Utility connections: Power capabilities vary between campgrounds. "Sites are large and level. Hookups are well located and organized," stated an RV owner at Williston Crossings RV Resort, highlighting the convenience of well-planned utility placement.
Management responsiveness: Staff support varies by location. "If you do happen to have any concerns or issues, the staff and management team are EXTREMELY RESPONSIVE and will even follow up to ensure issues have been resolved and your family is enjoying the stay," reported a satisfied guest at Moonshine Acres RV Park.