Top Tent Camping near Gainesville, FL

If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Gainesville, look no further. Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Gainesville, including sites, reviews, and tips. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Gainesville, FL (18)

    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground

    1.

    Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground

    10 Reviews
    21 Photos
    98 Saves
    Middleburg, Florida

    This drive-up primitive campground has ten tent sites. A Clivus mulching toilet system is available behind site 5. A communal, 2-table pavilion, grills, and a campfire ring with benches is located across from site 6.

    No electric hook-ups.
    No potable water.
    Pets must be on a leash.
    Hunting occurs during scheduled hunt seasons, as listed at http://myfwc.com/hunting/wma-brochures/. Trail users should wear day-glo orange during hunt seasons.
    Wildlife proof all food
    Forest is open for day use visitors from 1.5 hours before sunrise until 1.5 hours after sunset.
    Alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $9 - $10 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chowenwaw Park - Treehouse Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chowenwaw Park - Treehouse Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chowenwaw Park - Treehouse Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chowenwaw Park - Treehouse Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chowenwaw Park - Treehouse Point
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Chowenwaw Park - Treehouse Point

    2.

    Camp Chowenwaw Park - Treehouse Point

    9 Reviews
    82 Photos
    81 Saves
    Green Cove Springs, Florida

    Cabins and tent sites are accessed by walking trails. Push carts available to transport gear. Visitors are responsible for bringing their own linens, cookware, and dishes. Camping-style mattresses provided in cabins and treehouses. RV or car camping is not permitted in the park.

    Camp Chowenwaw (Cho’-wen-waw), is a beautiful 150-acre site at the mouth of Black Creek, near its confluence with the St. Johns River. The Girl Scout Council of Duval County operated the site as a camp for over 70 years. The original cabins and the Big Cabin were built with federal aid using logs cut on site. The camp opened on July 1, 1933. Camp Chowenwaw has played an important role in the lives of three generations of young women in Northeast Florida. Thousands of campers have stayed at the Camp; many have gone on to be leaders in our community. In 2006, Clay County purchased the camp from the Girl Scouts of Gateway Council with assistance from Florida Communities Trust using Florida Forever funds. It is now a public park offering a variety of recreation including trails, camping and overnight cabins, nature programs, fishing pier, canoe launch, picnicking, swimming pool, museum, playground, and meeting rooms. The Park is managed as a conservation, historic preservation, and outdoor recreation area.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • No image available

      4.

      Bowman's Landing

      1 Review
      28 Saves
      Fort White, Florida

      We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River.

      We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances:

      Ginnie Springs - 6 miles

      Blue Springs - 9 miles

      Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles

      Gainesville - 38 miles

      Rum 138 - 8 miles

      Lake City - 27 miles

      White Springs - 38 miles

      Branford - 13 miles

      High Springs - 12 miles

      Dollar General - 3 miles

      Publix - 15 miles

      Bobs River Place - 20 miles

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Trash

      $45 - $105 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Lake Delancy East NF Campground

      5.

      Lake Delancy East NF Campground

      3 Reviews
      1 Photo
      23 Saves
      Salt Springs, Florida

      Lake area campground with 29 campsites along the eastern shore of Lake Delancy in the Big Scrub.

      • Fires
      • Tents
      • Picnic Table
      • Toilets
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Creek Ravine
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Creek Ravine
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Creek Ravine
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Creek Ravine
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Creek Ravine
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Creek Ravine

      6.

      Black Creek Ravine

      1 Review
      6 Photos
      36 Saves
      Middleburg, Florida

      Trail Guide: https://www.sjrwmd.com/static/lands/trailguides/blackcreekravinestrail.pdf

      St. Johns River Water Management District lands are natural, wild and scenic places. While camping on district lands, you may have an opportunity to see various wildlife, sit under the stars, listen to a soft evening breeze rustling tree leaves and experience Florida much as some of the earliest settlers did.

      However, be prepared to rough it. Only primitive tent camping is allowed on district lands and only at designated locations. No travel trailers, campers or RVs are allowed. Most properties offer no amenities such as rentals, restrooms, potable water or shelters.

      Many of the campsites are in remote areas and can be reached only by hiking, bicycling, boating or horseback riding.

      Campers should use the designated campfire rings for fires and should carry out all garbage with them when they leave. Check the notices section of this website for updates on any current burn bans.

      First come/first serve and reservable camping sites are available at most district properties.

      Reservable campsites require a reservation and permit from the district. Campers must make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance.

      All camping is limited to a maximum of seven days per visit and you may camp no more than 30 days on a property per year.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Picnic Table
      Camper-submitted photo from Bayard Conservation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Bayard Conservation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Bayard Conservation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Bayard Conservation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Bayard Conservation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Bayard Conservation Area

      7.

      Bayard Conservation Area

      3 Reviews
      17 Photos
      162 Saves
      Green Cove Springs, Florida

      This conservation area’s importance is magnified by its closeness to the St. Johns River and the Jacksonville metropolitan area. Its riverine bottomland hardwoods, pine flatwoods and sandhill communities protect approximately seven miles of the St. Johns River, which borders the east side of the property. In addition, the property provides storage of flood waters and preserves water and natural resources in the Lower St. Johns River Basin.

      One of the special highlights of this property is its two campsites within area 1 in the northern section of the property. Both are special spots. The Hammock campground is tucked back into the flatwoods with an ephemeral stream directly to the east of the camp site. The Riverside campsite is located directly along the St. Johns River with fantastic views of the cypress trees that flank the banks of the river. The Riverside campsite and the trail leading to it can be wet due to seasonal flooding.

      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Equestrian
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • 8.

      Wildflower Ranch

      Be the first to review!
      6 Photos
      4 Saves
      Bronson, Florida

      Wildflower Ranch is situated on 20 acres and offers two private tent campsites and one private cabin. We are dog friendly, and have fencing around the entire property. Campers have a flushing toilet and potable water available.

      Wildflower Ranch is close to dozens of crystal clear natural springs and rivers, bike trails, hiking trails, state parks, and more. We are ideally located in North Central Florida, so many of your Florida outdoor bucket list adventures are within reach.

      Grab eggs from the coop and produce from the garden to enjoy in the morning with breakfast. Go for a nearby adventure on or in the water in the afternoon, and come back to enjoy the starry night sky. Thanks to our rural setting, we have some of the darkest skies in Florida.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Equestrian

      $25 - $35 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
      Camper-submitted photo from Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
      Camper-submitted photo from Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
      Camper-submitted photo from Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
      Camper-submitted photo from Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
      Camper-submitted photo from Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail

      9.

      Adams Tract — Suwannee River Wilderness Trail

      2 Reviews
      14 Photos
      27 Saves
      O'brien, Florida

      Adams Tract is just a few miles upriver from Troy Spring State Park. It is located within a Suwanee River Water Management District Tract and provides ample hiking trails to explore throughout a longleaf pine community. There are some open, treeless areas of the camp that are ideal for stargazing with the nearest city lights miles away.

      From Adams Tract, a 9.3 mile paddle will bring you to Branford.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      Camper-submitted photo from Shanty Pond Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Shanty Pond Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Shanty Pond Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Shanty Pond Campground

      10.

      Shanty Pond Campground

      2 Reviews
      4 Photos
      11 Saves
      Salt Springs, Florida

      Shanty Pond is a campground in the heart of a longleaf pine eco system, located south of Salt Springs off SR 19. A favorite of equestrians and hunters, it is seasonally open from October 15 through April 15.

      • Tents
      • Trash
      • Picnic Table
      • Toilets
    Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews In Gainesville

    826 Reviews of 18 Gainesville Campgrounds


    • Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs RV Park
      July 22, 2024

      Silver Springs RV Park

      A great place to stay

      My wife and I decided last year to full time RV. We were already living in Ocala and we wanted to remain in the area. We discovered Silver Springs RV and are so glad we did. Everyone here, especially the staff, was so welcoming and friendly. SSRV is definitely going to be home for a long time.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
      July 6, 2024

      Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

      Pretty and quiet

      This campground is really dark, quiet and pretty. The bathhouse was always clean. You can smell the well water in the bathhouse. Brings me back to my childhood memories. We rode our bikes to the observation tower, but we were not lucky enough to see any bison or wild horses. Still nice to see the open prairie. We had a big rainstorm and the back of our site did become a lake, but it was gone overnight. The bugs lit us up all hours, so make sure you different bug sprays.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Edge RV Park
      July 1, 2024

      Rivers Edge RV Park

      Hidden Camping Gem Truly On The River’s Edge

      One thing’s for certain, this camping outpost located just outside the itty bitty village of Georgetown couldn’t be any closer to the mighty St. Johns River, which if you don’t know, is one of the largest and most prolific fishing rivers in all of Florida. Should you find yourself in north-central Florida and / or near Lake George and looking for a spot to call ‘home for the night’ (or many as it might be) then you’ll definitely want to plan a stay here at Rivers Edge RV Park, which is a little know campground jewel in the rough, but be sure to reach out well in advance, as with only 50 or so slots, this place books up quick.

      Apart from the very close proximity to St. Johns River – so close that Rivers Edge RV Park actually offers up boat launch and slips exclusively for its guests, so if you have a boat, whether with motor or not (like those of us towing canoes and kayaks), be sure to call ahead and enquire about available boat slips – this is one very pristine, well-kept and easily organized campground. There’s a decent amount of top-grade amenities including spartan-clean restrooms, shower & laundry facilities with brand new washers & dryers, propane refueling station, a pup playground, trash stations and waterfront nature walk path.

      What I appreciated most was that Rivers Edge RV Park offers up a distinct tent area, which places mi tent-pitchin’ bredren in our own canvassed-erected environ that is actually the closest camping option to the St. Johns River here. As for the RV or 5th Wheel crowd, the standard hook-ups are offered here including 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage back-in and pull-through sites with concrete patios. Complimentary WiFi is offered everywhere and actually isn’t too bad (although our ability to stream was slow). Most sites offer up picnic tables and fire-rings and there are community offerings like a riverside pavilion (also with another set of restrooms and showers), lawn games, horseshoes, pickleball court and enough space for a good game of jarts or frisbee.

      As for the campground itself, you’ll access Rivers Edge RV Park simply by following Road 309 and just as this small country road bends making way for Drayton Island, you’ll want to turn in heading westerly, wherein you’ll be greeted by the main office where you’ll check in at the office immediately on the right. The layout for the campground is a simple loop, about the size of a junior football field with sites #1-28 on the right and the other sites through #54 on the interior of the loop. Should you not have a tent or an RV, no worries, the very good folks at Rivers Edge even have a handful of cabins that they’ll rent you. Overall, I found the pricing to be VERY affordable here – no matter what type of camping you might be interested in.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Rivers Edge RV Park offers up firewood for sale for a decent price, which I always like to flag, because if you don’t need to find additional space to haul firewood with you, it frees up space for other things, right?; (2) If you’ve got kids and need a much bigger space to let them run around, nearby this campground is a very nice kid’s playground as well as a soccer field; (3) For anyone wanting a bit of an off-the-grid adventure, just south of Rivers Edge is the Drayton Island Ferry (just take your second right after the US post office), where you can cross the channel over to Drayton Island for some decent off-the-trail biking & biking as well as zip-lining, which you can access on the far western side of the island at Grands Island Resort, which is a very cool camping outpost in its own right; and (4) Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your roto-molded Cordova cooler or mini-onboard fridge, you’ll only find meager options near you that include Mel’s River Pub Italian Grille & Liquor Store that offers up a very diverse menu featuring pasta, sandwiches and pizzas, The Oaks Golf Club Café serving up glorified bar fare such as burgers, po-boys, wings, fried baskets, tacos & quesadillas and southern comfort food or Renegades on the River, which is actually another campground, but offers up a super-cool restaurant featuring pizzas, wings, peel & eat shrimp and fried foodstuffs like pickles and gator bites as well as a Tiki Hut pouring some mighty strong Daquiris and Mai Tais.

      Happy Camping!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
      July 1, 2024

      Rodman Campground

      Hidden Gem for Primitive Camping Solitude w/ Amenities & Reservoir Access

      Maybe it was that the light was falling at just the right time as I moseyed into Rodman Campground a good hour or so before dusk became official here just due south of Palatka, the Sunshine State’s ‘Unofficial Farmer’s Market’ and a pretty decent stretch from the endless miles of pristine white sand beaches on the Atlantic Coast or the overwhelming non-stop entertainment options of a city built on 'Mouse Magic.’ Whatever it was, there’s something that struck us as incredibly special about this particular campground outpost. I think what we left with was a surreal understanding that no matter what you come packing with, you’re gonna have just one helluva amazing camping experience here at Rodman Campground.

      This place is perfect for both the RV tribe as well as mi tent-pitching community. And I don’t often get to say that. As for the campground itself, while there’s 64 sites to choose from in all, there’s basically 3 distinct areas that you should be aware of. The first area is what I would call the VIP RV Lots, given its proximity to the Rodman Reservoir, while I’m not an RV enthusiast, but this spot feels like you’ve hit ‘the jackpot’ as it’s a single lane with 6 or so sites on either side and provides you with direct and easy access to a very well-maintained restroom and shower facility. The second area is exclusively carved out for my tribe – those that are packing their experience with them and like to unroll their version of protection from the elements while staring straight up at the blessed star-crossed sky while completely surrounded by the thick of nature and tall needle-like trees. And while Rodman Campground calls this the ‘primitive campground,’ I’ll affectionately refer to it as ‘Pitch-A-Tent Heaven.’ Admittedly, I’ve never set up camp so close to RVs that still made me feel like one with nature. The third and final campground option here at Rodman is what I will characterize as ‘RV Pavement Parking Lot Hell,’ where if you have an RV (and can’t get into the VIP RV spot, then, well, you’ll be parking yourself here, but hopefully the freshly poured flat concrete will turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

      Regardless of the camping neighborhood that you end up arriving at, Rodman Campground will impress upon you what an amazing place it is, first and foremost, by offering up what is, no doubt, some of the best FL SP staff you will ever encounter – they are friendly, helpful and incredibly proud of this patch of land that they call home. Secondly, the Rodman Reservoir offers nothing short of AMAZING kayak and canoe adventures. The amenities are pretty top notch: back-in and pull-through RV sites with full-hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage), scattered picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills, paved bicycle paths (and miles of additional pavement via Rodman Dam Road, boating within the 9K acre Rodman Preserve, designated dump stations, five reservable pavilions and an excellent boat ramp, freshwater fishing (license required), 5.1 miles of trail hiking (actually part of the Florida National Scenic Trail that runs adjacent to Rodman Campground, picnicking at waterfront pavilions (need to be reserved). If you’re a wild nature enthusiast, you’re in luck, because here at Rodman Campground, you’ll easily be able to spot: bald eagle, foxes, wild turkey, white-tailed deer, hawks and owls, osprey and the American alligator.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If I was an RV’er (and let’s be clear, I’m not) and I was looking to book a spot here at Rodman Campground, I would absolutely be looking at the VIP RV Lots wherein I would chose any of the spots that are backed up against the wilderness (that would be on the west), which offer a greater degree of connectivity with nature (and thus additional privacy) where, in particular, I would book one of these amazing sites: #2, #5, #9, #10 and #12. While the other sites in this spot aren’t bad, they just don’t offer the amount of privacy that these other 5 sites do; (2) For mi tent-pitching bredren, while almost all of these camp sites offer you a pristine au naturale experience (apart from the few sites that are front-facing (#14-17; #38) you’ll want to prioritize any other site (#18-37) as best you can; (3) If you come bringing your boat, please be aware that there’s submerged logs and other underwater obstructions to be aware of, so motor with caution!; (4) When you get tired of staring down the bottom of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or the emptiness of your on-board fridge, and want to try out some of the local fare, then look no further than Hog Wild Country Café back in Interlachen (no, we’re not in Switzerland, but if you head back NW, you’ll find this spot on County Road 310) where all the traditional BBQ plates are being served (smoked brisket, smoked turkey, smoked pork, OK, smoked EVERYTHING) along with killer southern sides like mac-n-cheese, potato salad, slaw and, my favorite, Vidalia onion rings!; and (5) If you come hauling watercraft, you’ll have no shortage of great launches here at Rodman Campground, but if you are looking to dip your canoe or kayak in some different places, I would highly recommend Marjorie Harris Carr (just follow the Kenwood Boat Ram Road till it reaches a parking circle, from which you’ll easily see the boat launch) or over across the reservoir as well as just heading a bit further west to Rodman Recreation Area where you can drop in there or over at the Rodman Dam Kayak Launch, which has tons of tributaries to navigate.

      Happy Camping!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
      June 26, 2024

      Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

      Immersed in Nature.

      Quiet, lots of wildlife (wild horses, bison, alligators, deer, birds, turtles); plenty of hiking and biking trails with beautiful sunsets on the lake. Restroom facilities are showing some age but clean.  Walk-in tent sites are pretty close to the Restrooms.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Santos Trailhead & Campground
      June 24, 2024

      Santos Trailhead & Campground

      Very nice

      This campground is the perfect size. Our site had shade about 95% of the day! We had the perfect size of an area behind our RV. Loved hearing all of the birds chirping. You can hear traffic since it’s right off of the highway. There are plenty of trees around. The bathroom was very clean. It’s nice and dark at night!! We did the hike to see the historical part of the Island. That was neat to read about. We also took the biking trail to say we went above i75 on the bridge. That was a round trip of 15.5 miles, if anyone is interested. It’s a really nice campground, especially if like doing trails and biking.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Pond Campground
      June 23, 2024

      Ocean Pond Campground

      Ocean Pond Spot 9

      Nice quite campground. Well maintain. Clean bathrooms and working laundry machines (1 each) 1.75 for wash and 1.75 for dry. Lake and beach access are nice and maintained.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Jacket RV Resort
      June 22, 2024

      Yellow Jacket RV Resort

      Interesting place

      The office staff is very helpful and nice.

      The location itself is pretty remote and not close to many amenities. The sites are pretty difficult to get into based on the layout. I would not recommend this place to a newbie as it is nearly impossible to get into a lot of these sites without having nearby sites empty to use their space. I struggled even with the adjacent sites being empty. The sites are close together, but the staff does a good job spreading out their reservations. We booked a riverview site, but there is a good amount of marsh between our site and the river, so the view is not that impressive. The single digit sites have a better river view than double digits. The site is pretty level, and I do like that it is rock/gravel and not dirt. The hookups are at the front of the site, which requires you to have an additional 25 feet of hose and power. The staff does warn you prior to arrival of this, so we were well prepared. Wifi is good within the campground, but I couldn't get the cable to work. There is a boat slip and boat rentals available on-site. There is also a pool and hot tub ( the hot tub was not functional during our visit). Good amount of shade within the entire campground, which is nice in the summer months. Depending on what you are looking for, this campground may or may not be for you.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
      June 21, 2024

      Silver Springs State Park Campground

      Amazing kayaking & trails

      Campground is basic, very few sewer spots but there is a dump station. Big rig friendly, several pull thru spots, easy paved entry, gravel sites, I think all are 50/30. Plenty of space between sites. Clean bathroom, washer/dryer, soda machine. Very dark at night which I love. No lights except the bath house. Dog poo bag stations. Very friendly staff (Melinda & John, camp hosts were amazing) 1 mile from amazing kayaking. Great, woodsy hiking trails. Maybe 3 miles to Publix/Wawa.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground
      June 14, 2024

      Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground

      Be prepared for cramped buddy sites

      Site# 54 Check in: 1pm Check out: 11am Full hook- up Easy to level Gravel back-in (Most, if not all sites are Buddy sites - so be prepared to face a neighbor you do not know. -We were literally looking at each other for ten weeks - with us having two dogs and neighbors having three dogs-complete bark fest). We were so close our awnings would not go out all the way or we would touch.

      Lot is Shaded with lots of trees. Not a big lot since you have to share space with your neighbor

      • No concrete patio - no picnic table but had a fire ring

      Located in the middle of nowhere- Dollar General is four miles away and Walmart is 11 miles (doesn’t seem far but on all back roads, it takes a while) Closest highway (75) is 45 miles away & I-90 is an hour

      Zero WiFi or Zero cell service (1 tiny bar but not enough to do a basic internet search) - once we purchased Starlink ($599), we were able to stream. No Cable TV- limited channels No Outdoor kitchen No Outdoor community sinks to clean big pots

      They do not pickup garbage at site daily, Must walk to garbage dumpster - not too far

      Allowed to ride personal golf carts Not Able to rent golf carts or pedal bikes from them Golf cart not really needed- smaller campground Indoor heated Swimming pool Natural Spring within park but due to rain & flooding of the Suwannee River over the ten weeks we were there, we were unable to access the spring or experience kayaking or the few amenities of the park. Very disappointing.
      Had a Playground No Bocce ball, shuffleboard, There was basketball court and volleyball court.

      Good general store with basics No Activity Center for kids Unsure if there are activities for kids (there were not from January-March). There is not a snack bar/restaurant . Not a Game room, putt putt, or jumping pad for kids No Workout room

      Streets are gravel/sand -not great for riding bikes in campground Great places to ride bikes outside of campground (not near this campground) though- look for Nature Coast State Trail

      Lots of cabin and tent space Individual bathrooms with own sink, shower, toilet & clean

      Laundry machines (one washer & one dryer) per bathhouse- only two bath houses

      Dog area - not fenced in - they have a huge field behind the campground that they keep the outside mowed & is a great place to walk dogs

      There were not bugs/flies initially but as it has started warming up, it has slowly gotten worse

      There were trails to hike off of the campground.

      The most disappointing aspect is that they were selling presidential hats in the general store. One - politics and recreation don’t go together and two- if you’re going to sell one candidate but not the other, you’re a biased business

    • Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
      June 10, 2024

      Silver Springs State Park Campground

      Beautiful campground

      Loved this campground. We had sites 22 & 24. Site 22 has lots of sun; site 24 was full shade all day. I thought site 20 was the best. All campsites are very roomy. Bring your paddleboard or kayak. We drove to Silver Springs park and put in. Lazy river ride for 2 miles where we got out at the River trail. If you do this, bring your kayak wheels as it is a 1 mile walk back to the campground (or 1/2 mile to the River Trail trailhead). Then went to pick up truck where we started. Highly recommend this campground. There are also lots of trails to hike, but it was so hot when we were there we did not do any but the river trail.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Fish Camp
      June 9, 2024

      Twin Lakes Fish Camp

      Fishing Bliss in Swamp-Like Single Lane Camping Outpost

      Like the opening for 'Waterboy' (starring Adam Sandler), when you first rock up to Twin Lakes Fish Camp, somehow you feel as though you are visiting family in the very deep south with the likes of Bobby Bocher (pronounced BOO-Shay) greeting you upon arrival with a dilapidated golf cart eager to show you around this fairly minuscule one lane, dead-end campground that is more swamp outpost than pine forested campground. While definitely geared more towards the slightly semi-permanent resident than the overnight camping crowd, you’ll find a mixture of heavily seasoned RV trailers that don’t look as though they’ve moved anywhere in the past several years(or decades) along with a small handful of cabin rentals. Sure, there are a few spots here and there that you might park a 5th wheeler, RV or even see a pitched tent, but those spots are far and few between, if available at all.

      As you make your way down this single lane refuge, on the right, you’ll notice fairly tightly packed together RVs or 5th wheelers lining the tree-ensconced periphery, where on the left you’ll spot sites that have a bit more space to them and with less crowded confines. Also on the left, you’ll easily notice a decent inlet that is perfect should you be towing any form of small watercraft with you, be that a kayak, canoe or even small engine boat. As you make your way down this single lane, pass the river inlet boat parking structure on your left, you’ll spot the 4-5 cabins that are for rent before making your way to the very end of the lane, which you’ll discover the manager’s office on the right. It’s here where you’ll check in. Just beyond this spot is where the waterline begins, albeit for the first 20 or 30 yards, completely encased by Spanish moss of every variety hanging from ancient Oaks, Palmettos and the odd Pine. For dramatic effect, there’s even a partially sunken house boat (or two) in the rather shallow waters just off this small inlet, where you can easily walk on and cast a line or two from.

      With regards to amenities, apart from the swamp-like, down-home feel to this place, you’ll encounter fully-furnished cabins equipped with Direct TV, a small general store (that was closed when we visited), a tackle shop, WiFi (albeit incredibly weak), a recreation room (that didn’t have much but incredibly well-worn paperback books and a single fold-up table accompanied by the prerequisite ashtray), TV, scattered fire pits, covered picnic pavilion, small laundry room (that was closed while we were there), horseshoe pit, restrooms (that were anything but clean), full hook-ups with 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage as well as a designated dump station and a fish cleaning station alongside that fishing boat parking structure.

      If you can get past the overall dilapidated condition of this place that transports you to a swamp-like wonderland, the upside is that Twin Lakes Fish Camp places you smack dab right in the heart of some pretty amazing fishing country. With Twin Lakes situated between Lochloosa and Orange Lakes, it’s the mouth of the famous Cross Creek that will return you right back here to Twin Lakes Fish Camp. Nearby, there’s the very quaint town of Micanopy, where you can load up on sundries and groceries as well as, if need be, travel further afield to either Gainesville to the north or Ocala to the south for many more dining and entertainment options.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Rather than stay here, what I would HIGHLY recommend, whether you have an RV or are looking to pitch your tent, is to instead, seek another location for your camping adventures. If it were me, I would double-back to Paynes Prairie SP and book a spot there and simply come here to Twin Lakes Fish Camp to disembark on a fishing odyssey. Remember, it’s always important to note and differentiate a place that might be nice to visit versus a site that you want to call home for the night!; (2) Should you want to rent a 'jon boat', kayak, canoe or sumptknocker, you can easily do that here for $35/ day (and something tells me, you could probably talk the owner down a bit); (3) This place is fairly economical at $35 per night / $175 per week / $375 per month, but I would definitely recommend you look at the photos I’ve posted as well as do a bit of research on-line before booking anything here; (4) When you grow weary of cooking up ‘franks& beans’ for your next meal, and want to check out some local fare, just down the road is a very nice, quaint and actually somewhat upscale joint called The Yearling that serves up low-country delights like fried green tomatoes, fried gator bites and conch fritters in addition to main entrees like blackened red fish or shrimp & grits; and (5) While you won’t find any decent hiking in or around Twin Lakes Fish Camp, if you double-back to Paynes Prairie SP, you’ll find a ton of really great paths to both hike & bike.

      Happy Camping!

    • Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Trav-L-Park RV Resort
      June 5, 2024

      Holiday Trav-L-Park RV Resort

      Short overnight stay

      Easy to find, close to I-75 Freeway. Older RV park with many permanent sites. Pull through, full hook ups with cable TV. Not too quiet but building on East side blocks much of the Freewaynoise. Large shade trees. Intermixed temp and permanent sites. Didn't see a store nor sites showers and restrooms. Pool is closed. Looks permanent.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
      May 9, 2024

      Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park

      Great Park, but mind the ticks!

      This is the second time that we've been back to the state park and we love it more every time. Bath houses are clean, lots of wooded spaces, plenty of trails for biking or hiking. Appreciated the history of the old town which is within walking distance of the campsites. We also enjoyed the geological mystery of a river vanishing before our eyes!

      There are signs at the bathhouse about ticks. Take heed of them! I am sure we are in the height of season, but it was really bad if you went on any of the trails. Thankful the dog is on tick meds!

      We cycled from OLeno to Ichetukee Springs. 30 miles round trip! Next time we will leave early, bring swim gear and enjoy a float trip in that area.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
      May 5, 2024

      Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

      Great park!!!

      This is now my top 2 in parks for camping. The tent only spots are nice and secluded. You do have to walk maybe 100-200 ft from your car to the campsite. I was in site #24. Nice and open with a lot of trees for protection. Great fire pit. No power or water at this site… site #25 has those. The whole grounds were well kept and the trails were easy. At the observation tower you can see a lot of the prairie and if you’re lucky you can see wild horses.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
      April 25, 2024

      Silver Springs State Park Campground

      Amazing Place

      This campground is nice the sites are nice sized and level. The campground is not located at the head springs where the glass bottom boats are and kayak rentals. This makes it even better. The campground is quiet. It's a 15 minute drive to the head springs. 

      We had our own Kayaks so we put in at the head springs and paddled down to the campground. It's a 2 to 2 1/2 hour trip or more because of all the beautiful landscape and the wildlife. At the campground exit to get out of the river you have to have wheels to transport the kayaks back to the parking lot. It's about a 1 mile hike pulling the kayak.

      You can also do a longer trip an paddle further to Rays Wayside. It's less busy paddling that part of the river. You will need to leave a vehicle parked at Rays Wayside to get back to the headsprings. There is a company for $10 per person that will pick you up there and brings you back. Silver Springs charges $55 per person. 

      I was in site 53 and there are trails you can hike from behind many of the campsites. There is a cracker house village and a great museum with artifacts and giant skeletons of big creatures. Lots of fossils and arrowheads. The Museum is only open on weekends.

      The bath houses are very clean and if cold out nice hot heaters. There is a washer and dryer at the bath houses too.

      They sell firewood and ice at the campground. You use a QR code scanner to purchase it. The wood is nice and burns like wood should.

      I went to Silver springs as a kid and always thought of it as a tourist trap. I never had a desire to camp there yet I will say I have changed my mind and have already booked for next year. 

      Florida residents have a one month booking advantage which started this past January. If your a Florida senior resident you get 1/2 off the price. The campsite hang tag gets you into the headspring for free. 

      The park is nice I will visit again.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Ocala Sun RV Resort
      April 25, 2024

      Ocala Sun RV Resort

      Great campsite!

      After hours check in was EASY and we were able to call and speak with someone at 5:30pm. Friendly and kind hosts who care about their camp and their guests. The dog park was amazing! The cite was grass pull through but spacious! I loved the feel of this place.

    • Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
      April 12, 2024

      Rodman Campground

      Great and Busy Campground

      This campground has a ton of campsites and is fairly busy with people camping. It’s in some sparse woods and isolated enough to give that camping feel. There’s some great fishing places nearby, and the woods offer up firewood if you didn’t bring your own. Overall, a great place to camp!



    Guide to Gainesville

    Camping near Gainesville, FL, offers a mix of beautiful nature, fun activities, and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

    What to do

    • Swimming and Wildlife Watching: At Alexander Springs Recreation Area, you can enjoy the beautiful springs and spot turtles, otters, and fish while swimming. One visitor mentioned, "The spring is walking distance from the campground - we saw turtles, otters, and many fish while swimming in the spring."

    • Kayaking and Canoeing: Ginnie Springs Outdoors is perfect for those who love water sports. A reviewer said, "This is clearly one of the best natural springs in all of Florida complete with 250 wooded acres of pure Florida wilderness."

    • Hiking and Biking: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offers great trails for hiking and biking. One camper noted, "Great trails and walking. BRING BUG SPRAY."

    What campers like

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Silver Springs State Park Campground remarked, "The bathhouses are very clean and if cold out nice hot heaters."
    • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds, like O'Leno State Park, offer roomy sites. A camper shared, "The sites were nice, forested, and reasonably spaced out."
    • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Salt Springs Recreation Area, one reviewer said, "The staff and guests were all so friendly and helpful."

    What you should know

    • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have poor cell reception. A camper at Manatee Springs State Park Campground noted, "No cell coverage period. You'll get 1 bar to tease you and think you can do something."
    • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. A visitor at Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park mentioned, "This campground is fun but is very busy and has a lot of golf cart traffic until about 10:30 at night."
    • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for rain and bugs. A camper at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground advised, "The bugs lit us up all hours, so make sure you bring different bug sprays."

    Tips for camping with families

    • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. Ginnie Springs Outdoors is great for group camping and swimming, as one reviewer said, "A perfect spot to camp and swim with your friends!!!"
    • Plan for Wildlife Encounters: Kids will love seeing wildlife. At Manatee Springs State Park Campground, a camper shared, "Some of the wildlife seemed especially comfortable in the campsites."
    • Pack Games and Activities: Bring along games for downtime. A visitor at Salt Springs Recreation Area suggested, "There’s only one walking trail, but that gave us a chance to just relax."

    Tips from RVers

    • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Rainbow Springs State Park Campground noted, "Sites are a little small. More tent campers than RV."
    • Look for Full Hookups: If you need amenities, check for campgrounds with full hookups. At Silver Springs State Park Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Big rig friendly, several pull-thru spots, easy paved entry."
    • Plan for Dump Stations: Ensure you know where the dump stations are located. A camper at O'Leno State Park said, "Dump Station: Yes."

    Camping near Gainesville, FL, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gainesville, FL?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gainesville, FL is Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

      TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Gainesville, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.