Georgetown, Florida campsites cluster around a 9,000-acre reservoir and natural springs, with water temperatures that remain a constant 72°F year-round. Most campgrounds in this region of the Ocala National Forest sit at elevations between 40-100 feet, creating relatively flat terrain with sandy soil that drains quickly after rainfall. Dispersed camping options exist with varying degrees of accessibility, from marked forest roads to more remote locations requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Paddle the springs: At Alexander Springs Recreation Area, kayak the spring-fed waterways. "The springs are amazing. Camping facilities are nice. Would be 5 stars if they had some sites with electric hookups. Outside of that a great place for tent camping," notes Daniel S.
Hike forest trails: Several campgrounds connect to the Florida National Scenic Trail. At Hopkins Prairie Campground, you can access trail sections with minimal elevation changes. "Good walking trails & dog friendly!" says Jaime G., while Ryan A. mentions "Close access to trails."
Boat fishing: The St. Johns River and Rodman Reservoir offer prime bass fishing. "Fishing opportunities abound at Rodman Campground with easy water access," reports Jeff E. "Its proximity to the Ocklawaha River and Rodman Reservoir allows campers to enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide optimal wildlife spotting. "We saw deer at dusk meandering through the woods," notes Jeff E. about Rodman Campground. At Hopkins Prairie, visitors report seeing "bat houses" and prairie wildlife from campsite vantage points.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: The crystal-clear springs remain 72°F year-round. "The spring head is located right in the swimming area, it's bigger than any swim area at a spring that I have ever been too," writes Gabby C. about Alexander Springs. Nicole D. adds, "The spring is spectacular! Natural open spring with lots of plant & animals to see in the water & around the park."
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds offer generous site spacing. "The campsite was much bigger than I expected. There were other people near by, but very quiet night," reports Desirae L. about Salt Springs Recreation Area. At Hopkins Prairie, Jaime G. notes, "Pretty much all of the sites are shady and most have good privacy between them, especially the sites that face out onto the prairie."
River access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water access. Lauren W. describes her site at Renegades on the River: "All are paver sites, it's not a large park but is well taken care of with a store, restaurant and a large tiki bar right on the river." Mike K. adds, "This is a top notch RV park/marina... has a full service restaurant with a very nice tiki bar right on the river."
Solitude options: For those seeking quieter camping, several dispersed sites exist. "We had no one around and nice and cool in the forest," reports Ethan B. about Davenport Landing.
What you should know
Off-the-grid preparation: Many campgrounds have minimal services. "Please note there isn't much close by, so stop at the grocery and get fuel before you turn off 17," advises AnnMarie E. about Welaka State Forest. For Davenport Landing, Frank E. notes it's "primitive, no reservations, gets some traffic visiting historic site."
Varying site conditions: Campsite quality varies considerably. "Sites have paved pads but most are not level. Wifi very spotty," reports Sue G. about Salt Springs Recreation Area. At Alexander Springs, Gabby C. explains, "The sites are 'semiprivate' with our neighbors being able to see right though to us but it is what it is."
Weekend crowds: Popular springs become crowded on weekends. At Juniper Springs, Rebecca E. advises, "AVOID SPRING & SUMMER WEEKENDS AT ALL COSTS or you will feel like you are at an amusement park waiting to get on a ride."
Noise concerns: Neighboring recreation areas can impact quiet camping. At Rodman Campground, Jeff E. warns, "IF there is an 'ALL HOURS WEEKEND' at the nearby Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort, then the trails remain open 24 hours and you will not have any tranquility or relaxation all night."
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming spots: Alexander Springs offers gradual entry points ideal for children. "The springs/swimming area is really beautiful! Huge with room for lots of people, deep diving areas, shallows children's areas," notes Zanny M. about Juniper Springs.
Kid-friendly sites: Some campgrounds offer more family amenities than others. "Large sites, fire ring, picnic table, water and electric," reports Jeff E. about sites at Rodman Campground. For more amenities, Pine Island RV & Marina includes "Camp Store, Bait Shop, Wine & Beer Bar, Kayak Rentals, Recently Remodeled Bathrooms & Shower Facilities, On-Site Laundry."
Wildlife education: Make wildlife spotting an educational activity. A reviewer at Hopkins Prairie mentions "a large bat house" that children can observe at dusk. At Salt Springs, Desirae L. notes being "just a short walk" from the springs, making it easy for families with small children.
Avoid holiday weekends: For quieter family camping, avoid peak periods. "The campground is immersed in the beauty of the Ocala National Forest, offering a tranquil environment for relaxation and exploration," notes Jeff E., but adds that holiday weekends can be crowded with boats and ATVs.
Tips from RVers
Best hookup options: Salt Springs Recreation Area provides the most reliable services. Stuart K. explains it "features 106 back-in and pull-through slots available for those camping with RVs, 5th Wheelers and/or trailers complete with FHUs offering up 30/50 amp electric, water and sewage, making this the largest CG of any in the Ocala National Forest and the only one with FHUs."
Solar considerations: Tree cover affects solar charging. About Juniper Springs, Lisa O. shares: "I have solar panels which did their job for a few days but I was pretty low on battery when I left. The tree coverage wasn't too extensive but it rained one day and was cloudy."
Site selection strategy: At Salt Springs, Stuart K. recommends: "While all RV-centered CGs tend to line up parking pad slots so close together you'll wonder whether or not you are a sardine, the spaces here are actually nice and spacious although there's not a ton of trees or brush within the center or between sites."
Riverfront access: For direct water views, Kenneth R. recommends Renegades on the River: "Very clean well managed campground. People here are very friendly and helpful. Pull through, back in and buddy sites are available. Great access to the lake."
