Equestrian enthusiasts seeking riding opportunities near Hastings, Florida can access several conservation areas and state forests within a 30-mile radius. The region features sandy soil trails ideal for horseback riding with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. Most equestrian campsites in this area require advance reservations year-round, with highest demand occurring during the cooler months of October through April.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, visitors can observe diverse wildlife including bison and wild horses. "We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," notes Brenda S. The park features eight different trails designed for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Paddling the waterways: Waterfront camping at Princess Place Preserve - Moody Campground provides direct water access. According to Louis B., "The Pelicer Creek is available for fishing. Bring a kayak." Sites are elevated to help keep the soil drier during rainfall, and each campsite includes its own water access point.
Trail system exploration: The region offers extensive trail networks through diverse ecosystems. "There are many hiking trails and horseback riding trails and a cool old house once owned by a princess," explains Scott S. Most trails close at sunset, so plan accordingly for day-use activities.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the waterfront access at several preserves. "What a beautiful and quiet place! The campsites are spacious, spread out and on the water," reports Justin W. about Princess Place Preserve. These sites offer both views and functional benefits for anglers and paddlers.
Night sky viewing: The relative distance from major cities provides good stargazing conditions. Joe R. notes that Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offers "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room."
Off-grid experience: Primitive camping options allow for more natural immersion. At Bayard Conservation Area, Nate D. found "Great riverside campsite. Hiked in about 3.3 miles, but OnX user beware, trust the trail's red marks, not the trail marked on most maps!" The site includes a fire pit with cooking grates and a picnic bench.
What you should know
Water requirements: Many sites have limited or non-potable water. At Princess Place Preserve - Moody Campground, Louis B. warns, "Keep in mind that there is no water available at the camping sites or the entire park for that matter. Potable or non-potable so you have to bring in all drinking water and water for washing dishes."
Wildlife encounters: Wild animals are common throughout the area. B H. notes at Welaka State Forest, "Would like to see the wild hog population controlled a bit more as we ran into a large group and saw the extensive damage the pigs left behind." This is consistent across many conservation areas.
Bathroom facilities: Restroom availability varies significantly between sites. For camping at Princess Place Preserve, Angie A. reports, "The shower house is a short walk and clean for a camp ground. There's also outhouses interspersed for a quicker convenience."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several preserves offer ranger-led programs suitable for children. "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," shares Lindsey H. about Paynes Prairie Preserve.
Off-peak visits: Weekday camping offers a more peaceful experience for families. One camper explains, "When I planned my trip to the Smokies, I left the last few days open... the park closes to the public at 6 pm, so that means you basically have the next three hours of daylight to roam the entire place by yourself!"
Site selection for comfort: Choose sites with natural shade where possible. At Etoniah Creek State Forest, Brian K. found "Six Sites have picnic tables, lots of room, fire ring with grate, bbq grills, a latrine nearby." Most sites have no electricity, so plan accordingly with battery packs.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Some conservation areas have challenging entry roads. At Trails End Outdoors RV Park & Cabins, Stuart K. notes you'll "follow a series of quick turns and curves on this slow-moving jagged gravel road, but no worries, the good folks of this campground outpost have cunningly placed a sign to guide you along your way."
Utility hookups: RV sites with full hookups are limited in the immediate area. All hook-up sites at Welaka State Forest include "electric and water hookup. The trailer in and out was easy even with a good sized rig (~30feet). Each spot had a picnic table and grill," according to B H.
Supply planning: Most equestrian camping areas are remote with limited services. Stuart K. advises, "Should you need just about anything while out this way camping, the small town of Interlachen should have you covered with a pharmacy, Ace Hardware, post office, Circle K gas station, CVS, Family Dollar store or groceries."
