Best Campgrounds near Hawthorne, FL

Camping opportunities near Hawthorne, Florida range from established state park campgrounds to rustic fish camps along the region's abundant waterways. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground offers sites for tents, RVs, and glamping experiences, while Salt Springs Recreation Area approximately 25 miles east provides cabin rentals alongside traditional camping. The area features multiple campgrounds with lake access, including those on Crescent Lake, Lake George, and Newnans Lake, offering varying levels of amenities from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV accommodations.

Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though Florida's summer heat and humidity make spring and fall particularly popular seasons for outdoor recreation. Water-based activities dominate the camping experience, with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming at many locations. Facilities vary significantly between sites, with some offering electric hookups, shower facilities, and boat ramps while others provide more primitive experiences. Travelers should note that during peak seasons, especially holidays and weekends, reservations are strongly recommended at the more developed campgrounds. A visitor commented that "located in the Ocala National Forest in Central Florida, this is one of the better campgrounds we have ever visited" when describing Salt Springs Recreation Area.

The natural springs represent major highlights for campers in the region, with crystal-clear 72-degree water year-round at spots like Salt Springs. Several campgrounds provide direct access to the St. Johns River and its connected lakes, making them popular with anglers and boaters. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with campers reporting sightings of herons, egrets, and occasionally alligators from a safe distance. Tent campers will find shaded sites under live oak trees draped with Spanish moss at several campgrounds, creating what one reviewer described as "a true Real Florida" camping experience. RV campers have numerous options with full hookups, particularly at establishments like Lake Oklawaha RV Park, which offers 353 sites and amenities including a camp store and picnic tables at each site.

Best Camping Sites Near Hawthorne, Florida (252)

    1. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

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

    $18 / night

    "Very close to the University of Florida. Nice campground recently renovated."

    "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."

    2. Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins

    32 Reviews
    Keystone Heights, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 473-4701

    $20 - $100 / night

    "The Florida State Trail passes through the park and is well marked. The ravines section is my favorite area in the park. In the greener months, it feels like a rain forest."

    "The Florida Trail is my favorite part of my visits. The cabin we stayed in was small but nice. The ravines are gorgeous. You can access it with a vehicle, but you must walk down many stairs."

    3. Rodman Campground

    27 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 326-2846

    $12 - $22 / night

    "Sites 1-39 are not near the Florida Trail but it was not a bad walk to the other side of the campground to get to the trail. Would stay again."

    "This peaceful campground provides a serene setting surrounded by towering pines and lush Florida foliage."

    4. Salt Springs Recreation Area

    57 Reviews
    Salt Springs, FL
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 685-2048

    $37 - $69 / night

    "There are no laundry facilities but if you exit park and drive left there is a laundromat, local food, dollar store, bait tackle."

    "Located in the center of the state, you’ll have near equal access to both the Atlantic Ocean to the east as well as the Gulf shores to the west."

    5. Lake Oklawaha RV Park

    8 Reviews
    Interlachen, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 546-5500

    $58400 - $120000 / night

    "Neat trails and plan to return for summer and warmer weather and will bring atvs. Pet friendly. Seen a black bear roaming at night. John the firewood guy brought wood around for $10 in evening."

    "Pluses:

    • everything was really clean,
    • there is a pool available,
    • spacious dining hall,
    • you have freedom to pick your own spot
    • stunning lake view
    • nice nature trail"

    6. Silver Springs State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Ocala, FL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 236-7148

    $24 - $110 / night

    "We rode our bikes around the campground and were amazed as almost all the sites were huge! Live oak trees with Spanish moss...this campground is truly the "Real Florida"."

    "Silver Springs Silver Springs SP Beautiful Florida campground with 60 sites, many pullthrus. The sites are huge with lots of space and privacy. Lush surroundings."

    7. Camp Seminole Springs

    3 Reviews
    Interlachen, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 329-1440

    $37 / night

    "heart-shaped spring, one will find the rustic Great Lodge where guests can come and mingle with each other, enjoy a relaxing conversation and a drink on the veranda or just sit and watch the activity in and around"

    "Beautiful nature trails and very calm and relaxing environment. Grounds are well kept and our host Perry was helpful and very friendly."

    8. Sportsman's Cove Resort

    5 Reviews
    Micanopy, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 591-1435

    $39 - $50 / night

    "A perfect place to enjoy fishing, wildlife and the Florida Birding Trail. Clean Restrooms, friendly stuff."

    "The park is in a great area Mcintosh and Micanopy are historical towns with great walk, and bike ability. Right in Orange Lake yoy can kayak. They have rentals for 10.00."

    9. Ocala North RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Reddick, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 591-1723

    "They have a little dog park, walking trails, off property is a nice bike ride, huge swimming pool, activities, laundry room and friendly people. At night the stars are amazing."

    "Stopped here on the way north to get out of the Florida Keys. Stayed 2 nights and used the laundry(wash was 1.50 per load, and 25 cents per 18min for drying). It was very affordable."

    10. Cooper Lake RV Community

    2 Reviews
    Interlachen, FL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 983-1478

    $45 - $55 / night

    "This RV parking pad is located in north central Florida, just due southwest of Palatka (a.k.a. the Sunshine’s State Farmer’s Market) where you’ll find southern charm hanging from more than the moss off"

    "Quiet, friendly park away from the hustle & bustle.  Close to St. Augustine, Gainesville, and Ocala. New owners so renovations and upgrades are at the top of their list. We will be back!"

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Recent Reviews near Hawthorne, FL

1046 Reviews of 252 Hawthorne Campgrounds


  • ENRIQUE T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Wonderful Summer Spot

    Friendly and professional hostesses, clean bathrooms and sites are very spacious and private. The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable. Just watch for coons stealing your food.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Awesomeness

    Let me start by saying park.is very clean and well maintained. Sites are big with gravel, fire pits, grill dining tabels and did I say clean. Silver springs is beautiful, go on the boat...

  • Jerri K.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Black Creek Ravine

    Very nice

    Was a very nice and quiet place to camp

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Gateway Fish Camp

    Laid-Back Old Florida Waterfront Hideaway

    Tucked along the shores of The St. Johns River flowing southward to Lake George, Gateway Fish Camp feels like stepping back into a gentler, quieter version of Florida where fishing poles outnumber smartphones. This little slice of Old Florida charm has a down-home, relaxed atmosphere that’s equal parts rustic and welcoming. The first thing you’ll notice is the water – calm, wide-open lake views that practically beg you to sit (although as there's actually no chairs, I would encourage you to bring your own) a spell on the dock and watch the sun do its magic at either end of the day. Just follow the sandy ‘streets’ or road pathways covered in shade down to the main office.

    The campground here is small and unpretentious (that is my kind word for it at least), offering both pull-in and back-in RV sites, although if I’m honest, there’s a handful of RVs that looked like they’ve been here for a while and have no pretensions of leaving anytime soon. Is the place a bit disheveled and in need of a fresh coat of paint and a good bit of gardening manicure?  Yes.  Expect electric hookups, basic water access, and a layout that’s easy enough to navigate without fancy maneuvering. Restrooms (albeit primitive) are serviceable and clean, and the overall vibe is one of practicality rather than polish. Pet owners will be glad to know furry friends are welcome, and the pace of life here makes it easy to wander with them. It’s not luxury camping, but it’s honest, comfortable, and refreshingly straightforward.

    What really makes Gateway shine is its direct access to Lake George, a dream come true for anglers, kayakers, and birdwatchers. You can drop a line for bass, launch a kayak from the dock, or just sit by the water and spot ospreys circling overhead. Crescent City itself is a short drive away for groceries, gas, or a diner breakfast, but the lake and surrounding marshes provide the real entertainment. This is the kind of place where the sound of boat motors mixes with bird calls and nobody seems in a hurry.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you can, snag a campsite close to the water’s edge – you’ll get front-row seats to sunrise and a constant cool breeze; (2) For a memorable local meal, head over to 3 Bananas Restaurant right on Crescent Lake in Crescent City. Their blackened fish sandwich is as good as the view from the deck; (3) If you are a tent camper like me, you’ll want to take note that this place only has primitive bathrooms, so either bring your own, otherwise, you’ll be hiking to the nearest Publix or Dollar General; (4) Kayakers will love paddling out toward the lake’s eastern shoreline. And if you don’t have a kayak, fret not, the good folks here at Gateway Fish Camp will rent you 1 of the 2 that they have. Early morning trips often reward you with glimpses of herons, egrets, and even the occasional alligator – all from a safe distance, of course!; and (5) Apart from having direct access to Lake George (and nearby access to Crescent Lake), one of the very big upsides to being here at Gateway Fish Camp is the direct access to Fort Gates Ferry, which docks here and for a small fee will transport you to the other side of the St. Johns River, saving you substantial amount of time driving around this body of water.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Bass World Lodge & Marina

    Backwater Bayou Fishing Hole

    Located so close to the St. Johns River that if you were any closer to it, you’d be swimming in it! For those anglers that are looking for no frills accommodations – whether those be from the confines of your own RV or 5th Wheel… or in the event that you need to rent a place for the night – then Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up one of the 4-5 RV slots it has or by renting you one of its basic cabin rentals (up to 10 people can be accommodated). Fishing is coveted in these parts that will place you on the northernmost tip of Lake George in the very itty bitty enclave of Georgetown, which if you want to discover what Old Florida looks like, then just stop on by here for a spell.

    Given the weather conditions in this part of Central Florida, you can check-in to Bass World Lodge & Marina year-round and within minutes of getting set up, you’ll easily have access to the St. Johns in no time by leveraging one of 2 boathouses that sit adjacent to the property here. If you’ve got angling on your mind, you’ll have no problems casting for big- and small-mouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, pickerel, bluegill, lake trout, landlocked salmon, yellow perch, bluegill, panfish, northern pike and even American eel. While on the lake, you can enjoy all sorts of watersports like waterskiing, tubing, paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding, canoeing, boating and even gator hunting (permit required).

    Amenities include: 2 individual boat houses, fish cleaning stations complete with running water, boat slips for rent, non-ethanol fuel, FHU’s offering water, sewage & electric, bait & tackle, community grills, makeshift car rim fire pits, fish cleaning stations, lakefront seats & benches, fishing pier, boat docking, boat rentals, scattered card tables, assorted dock seating and on-site market with souvenirs, cold beverages, beer, ice, snacks and all the fishing gear you can swing your fishing pole at. There’s even a guide you can hire here to show you around the nearby fishing holes.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While brackish, somewhat darker-than-usual waters makes for just mediocre (at best) swimming accommodations, you’re in luck if coming here as nearby, there are gorgeous springs like Silver Springs, Juniper Springs and Alexander Springs, which all 3 will offer crystal-clear snorkeling and swimming options unlike you’ve ever experienced; (2) Because Georgetown is tiny, there’s barely any restaurant options, although we were able to find nearby a few really good spots like Idle Awhile for Cajun Fried Pickles & Blackened Haddock chased down by Rum Runners, Fatboy’s Saloon for Peel & Eat Shrimp, Hawg Burners with iced Tall Boys and Renegades on the River serving up Gator Tail and the best Shepherd’s Pie on the St. Johns – all within reach of a proper Tiki Bar where the Mai Tais pour freely; (3) This RV outpost on the St. Johns River has been up and running by the same family for 3 decades, so when it comes to knowledge of where to cast your line or how to get to a secluded area and away from the crowds, you can ask any one of the family here for some spartan tips and recommendations; (4) IMHO the best RV spots are those closest to the inside loop (#6 and #7), while if you are wanting to rent a cabin, I actually rate those a bit further away from the main office / riverfront, where it is quietest (#3 - #5); and (5) If you’ve come without a boat to get on the water, no worries, Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up Pontoon and Bass Boat rentals, which at $175 - $315 per day is incredibly affordable.

    Happy Camping!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground

    Two days before travel were able to get 2 nights in a pull thru site w full hook up. Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors. I am a native Floridian and this is the real deal. This is a quiet park w a lot of nature. Good for a slow-paced break.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Santos Trailhead & Campground

    Van Camping

    Very nice small campground. Best asset is the access to hiking and biking. Miles of trails.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    Great spot

    Very narrow trails but really easy access, you will leave with some new pinstripes

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Stagecoach RV Park

    Stagecoach

    Very clean . 20 min away from Downtown


Guide to Hawthorne

Tent and RV camping options around Hawthorne, Florida provide varying wilderness experiences with many sites situated near cypress-lined waterways. The Ocala National Forest, located 25-30 miles from Hawthorne, serves as the camping hub of the region with multiple campgrounds situated near natural springs that maintain a constant 72-degree water temperature year-round. Winter months (November through March) typically offer the most comfortable camping conditions with temperatures ranging from 40-70°F and significantly lower humidity than summer.

What to do

Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground, campers can explore eight hiking trails suitable for various activity levels. "Many opportunities to spot wildlife close by. Buffalo, deer, eagles, alligators, owls....Visit Sweetwater," notes camper Jenn B. The park's observation tower provides elevated viewing of the prairie landscape.

Spring swimming: Natural springs offer pristine swimming conditions regardless of season. At Salt Springs Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy crystal clear water within walking distance from campsites. "The spring is a short walk from the campground or a quick bike ride," reports Miranda R., who found the experience "Beautiful & Relaxing."

Paddling excursions: The region's lakes and rivers provide excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities. "Canoes for rental available in Park," mentions Brenda S. about Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins. Several campgrounds have direct lake or river access for paddlers.

Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds provide fishing opportunities in freshwater lakes and rivers. "Road our bikes to the springs, and they were spectacular!" shares Lauren W. about Salt Springs Recreation Area, noting the stream-side site location that facilitated easy fishing access.

What campers like

Private, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature well-spaced sites with natural screening. "Very woodsy, plenty of walking trails, even a spring to take a dip in," describes Kim M. about Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. Sites there provide adequate separation for privacy while maintaining access to amenities.

Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting of campgrounds near Hawthorne provides exceptional night sky viewing. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room," writes Joe R. about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.

Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive reviews from visitors. "The bathhouse was clean and well kept. Good size campsites with fire ring, picnic table, water and electricity," notes Gina E. about her family camping experience at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch.

Lake views: Waterfront camping provides scenic vistas and direct water access. "Great place to stay. Layed back atmosphere. Small campground right on a lake. The lake is natural and undisturbed," reports Shawn about Sportsman's Cove Resort, highlighting the undeveloped nature of the waterways.

What you should know

Pet restrictions on trails: Dog owners should research trail access before arriving. "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," warns Denise about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.

Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from neighboring recreation areas. At Rodman Campground, Jeff E. cautions, "IF there is an 'ALL HOURS WEEKEND' at the nearby Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort (right across the river), then the trails remain open 24 hours and you will not have any tranquility or relaxation all night."

Reservation planning: Popular campgrounds require advance booking, particularly during winter months. "It's challenging to get a reservation for the campgrounds but worth it if you can," explains Issa F. about Paynes Prairie. Many campgrounds show full occupancy 3-6 months in advance during peak season.

Weather variability: Summer brings heat and insects while winter offers more comfortable conditions. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter," reports Dan X. about Paynes Prairie, summarizing the seasonal camping conditions in central Florida.

Tips for camping with families

Ranger programs: Educational opportunities enhance family camping experiences. "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 State Park.

Swimming options: Natural springs provide family-friendly swimming spots with consistent water temperatures. "We went camping with the family and dog. The bathhouse was clean and well kept," reports Gina E. about Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park, which features a swimming area.

Wildlife education: Campgrounds with diverse wildlife offer learning experiences for children. "Lovely Park with lots of wildlife!! La Chua trail was beautiful and we saw lots of gators," writes Lindsey H. about her family's experience at Paynes Prairie.

First-time camping spots: Several campgrounds accommodate novice campers well. "Our visit was awesome. Got 2 sites and had more family start camping with us. Kids loved the scenery for hiking and pictures," says Joseph A. about his experience at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park.

Tips from RVers

Site selection guidance: Some campgrounds have reservation systems that require specific site requests. "We ended up deep in the ocala national forest. Make sure you look at a map before you go. Once you reach the forest you will lose all reception on phones," advises Tammy P. about Lake Oklawaha RV Park.

Leveling requirements: RV sites may require adjustment for comfortable parking. "Sites have paved pads but most are not level. Wifi very spotty. Springs are nice," notes Sue G. about Salt Springs Recreation Area, providing practical information for RVers.

Connectivity challenges: Internet and cellular service varies significantly between campgrounds. "No wifi def off the grid adventure," reports Tammy P. about Lake Oklawaha RV Park, while others mention spotty service throughout the region, particularly in forested areas.

Site spacing: RV campgrounds offer varying degrees of separation between sites. "We were in 51 with trees out our windows for a view. H2O, elec., and sewer. Good boat ramp for lake. We will be back!" shares Larry M. about his experience at Salt Springs Recreation Area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Hawthorne, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Hawthorne, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 252 campgrounds and RV parks near Hawthorne, FL and 7 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Hawthorne, FL?

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

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hawthorne, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Hawthorne, FL.

What parks are near Hawthorne, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Hawthorne, FL that allow camping, notably National Forests in Florida and Ocala National Forest.