Best Campgrounds near Hawthorne, FL

This quiet camp is affordable and has complete hookups and canoe rentals. The hosts are very attentive and helpful. All the National Forest camps were full and the Outpost usually has an opening. This is old rural Florida, no glitz. We did a full day trip on the River. Lots of birds, alligators and very quiet and remote. GPS was misleading. The camp is located on the north side of the high bridge over the Oklawaha River on route 316.

Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room. The location is great for visiting the prairie and easy access to Gainesville.

Owners very nice, excellent walking and exploring near pathed walking trail. I tried Verizon, T mobile and AT&T for Internet all sucked. My starlink mini was slow and dropped often they have a lot of shade. Worse part we paid $46 a night water and electricity no sewage but we out in van to explore the town and the owners re rented out spots out! Big hassle but it was an honest mistake they offered other spots but being internet was so bad we thought we had the best spots they refunded us.

Situated in Ocala, this park offers a wonderful get away for bicycling, horseback riding, or hiking Great trails The park itself is open with few trees but an amazing host. Some long timers reside here.

If you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or just floating down river on a tube in addition to camping, this is your spot. We have stayed at sites 50, which is a long pull through site, and at site 18 which was quite private. We enjoyed both locations. Both times we rented canoes or kayaks and paddled upstream to the headspring. Such a gorgeous river. To see all of the campsites visit https://www.youtube.com/@MapleCamps Make sure to have your gate code at the ready, the gate is unmanned, and it's right off the main road as soon as you turn in. There is only room for one Rv/travel trailer between the gate and the road, so there is nowhere to pull over to the side. Be ready. Not far away there are also some more cycling trails and hiking trails. So plenty to do in the area when you want to wanter away from your campsite.  Here's a blog about Rainbow Springs Campground: https://maplecamps.wixsite.com/blog

We were looking for a place to overnight during the wknd. Office was closed but several residents came to our rescue. They made us feel so welcome. We parked on the overflow (water/30amp hook-up) with views over the lake. Rate was 45$ plus tax at time of our stay (2025)

Older Florida park with roots in the CCC and Forestry Service. Large park with hiking, bike and equestrian trails. Along the Santa Fe River there is a swimming hole, suspension bridge, old buildings and a small museum. Magnolia loop would be the best loop for RVs, but spots can be had. Facilities are clean, albeit old. Camping loops and pads are hard sand. Sites vary in size and level. Separation between sits is not bad but suffered in hurricane damage. Some sites appear a bit tight with overhanging trees.

We had the pleasure of visiting recently, and to my surprise this small campground exceeded my expectations! I traveled with two children, and they had a blast the entire time! This place had everything we needed and more. My daughter says her favorite part was fishing and swimming in the river. My son‘s favorite part was riding around on the provided bicycles and playing darts & cornhole by the communal fire pit. I was thoroughly impressed and will definitely be back. Not to mention, the camp hosts are unbelievably nice and did a fantastic job, keeping the campground clean.

Rodman Campground, nestled within the Ocala National Forest, offers a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. This peaceful campground provides a serene setting surrounded by towering pines and lush Florida foliage.

The campground is immersed in the beauty of the Ocala National Forest, offering a tranquil environment for relaxation and exploration.  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.  There are also several hiking and biking trails located nearby to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Ocala National Forest.

Bathrooms were clean (with hot showers) but were a bit of a hike if you camp riverfront (you can follow the road around or go through the woods up and over a pretty steep hill).  Site 61 had a picnic table, fire ring, water and electric and was right on the river with only an access road (5mph) between the campsite and riverfront.  Be advised, that you cannot access the river from the camp site, you must go to the boat ramp, there is a steep drop off and there are signs telling you there is no access.  But you can put up a camp chair and enjoy relaxing at the top of the riverbank.  We saw deer at dusk meandering through the woods.

Concerning the tranquil surroundings, a note of caution and something to definitely keep in mind when booking  ... 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.  We were there unfortunately on one of these weekends and there was loud music, dirt bikes,  ATVs and 4-Wheelers screaming through the entire night.  (24-Hour riding begins Friday 8:00am- Ends Sunday 5:00pm​... Gates and trails are open 24 hours during this period).  So be forewarned to check the schedules at Hog Waller before booking because you will hear the all night parties and roaring engines tearing up the mud pits.  This only detracts from Rodman when Hog Waller is in full swing but it's 1-2 weekends each month.  Also, if there is any type of fishing tournament going on, the boats on the river will wake you in a tent very early in the morning.  If you like getting up early and having a cup of coffee by the river and watching the bass boats go by then this is good fun, but don't think about being lazy and sleeping in (see video).

Overall, it's a really nice park in the wilds of Florida and we have already booked our next stay (but not riverfront and not during a Hog Waller 24 hour weekend).  We look forward to visiting during the week when everything is more "chill".

Located a hefty trek down a winding gravel road west of Route 19, you’ll have to maneuver around divots and potholes along this narrow gravel, dusty roadway for the better part of 2 miles before arriving to a small sign on the left-hand side of the road that indicates you’ve arrived at Davenport Recreational Area – so finding this place is relatively easy. Unless you make the unwise decision to turn into one of the small handful of options beforehand that would have you drive down a patch of road that likely you are not authorized to, my only advice would be not to exceed 15 MPH on this road as the poor condition of the road could do damage to a lower-lying vehicle. Once you come across the Davenport Recreational Area sign, take a right and slowly (as the road conditions worsen as you get off the main road) follow the narrow tire-rutted pathway to a fork, where on the right you’ll see TRAILHEAD marked on a tree to your right– here you want to turn left instead and follow the pathway to its conclusion, which is a round-about that you will have no other alternative but to stop and park your vehicle.

Here at literally ‘the end of the road,’ you’ll be greeted by a dozen or so medium-sized Magnolias that blot out the sun’s rays and cast an unusually spooky shadow on this area, made even more dramatic by all of the Spanish moss falling from the tree limbs of these magnificent trees. While the ground here is flat – welcome to Florida, where for the most part, that’s par for the course – but barren and comprised of a combination of dirt and sand silt, which isn’t so bad when it’s dry, but when there’s rain, we’re talking some pretty messy mud-like conditions. As for what you’ll find here at this natural cul-de-sac, there isn’t anything. Literally. No picnic tables. No fire ring. No stand-up grill. No potable(or for that matter, non-potable) water spigot. Nothing. There is what looks to be a small wooden sign that likely was filled with information at some point in time that might have educated you about your stay here, but even that had nothing on it, apart from a single hand-made sign above it, indicating: “You are trash, if you leave trash,” which I wholeheartedly agree with. In all, perhaps there’s 5-6 individual spots that you could make a campsite from.

If you are a true primitive camper who really wants NOTHING to complement or aid their outdoor survivalist experiment, then you have hit the primitive camping jackpot! Apart from the solid peace & quiet you’ll experience here, there’s an amazing little access point here to the Ocklawaha river that runs through this neck of the woods – which used to be a riverboat stop where steamboats would stop to fuel or disembark enroute to Silver Springs via the St. Johns which this tributary eventually connects to. Apart from being a scenic access point to the river, if you are looking to catch and eat your meals, then this will certainly be an added bonus. The steps down the ravine to the river basin are somewhat steep, but for anyone towing a light-weight kayak or paddleboard, me thinks you could likely manage to bring your watercraft down here and easily access emerald-green waters shouldered with an abundance of spade-shaped lily pads to grab some great oaring.

When we stopped by, there was a team of fisherman there – not camping, mind you – but having a great afternoon nonetheless of ‘hooking‘ em’ and according to these local anglers, the fishing was great. Apart from this and the shade that the mighty Magnolias provide, the only other amenity that exists out here are the few trails that you can jump on to get a bit of hiking in. One word of caution, from my fishermen friends, is to be on the look-out for ‘Coyo-Dogs’ (a cross between canine species where a dog mates with a coyote) and black bear, both of which have been known to frequent this area, especially at night.

Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) There’s a 1.2 mile interpretive hiking trail called Davenport Landing Trail that will take to you to the former steamboat landing, which makes for a medium-grade hike with some interesting history; (2) If you have an explorer’s mindset, you’ll be richly rewarded here as there is a small gravesite from the Civil War that you can find along with middens along the Ocklawaha River hiding traces of the Timucuan Indians that once populated this area; (3) For fellow arborists, in addition to finding these amazing Magnolias that seem to be especially planted here for you, additionally there’s sweetgum and red maple trees; and (4) You definitely want to keep your eyes peeled for alligators in this area, where while we didn’t see any right at the ravine’s base, we were told that plenty were sunbathing right around the bend in the river from where we were.

Happy Camping!

Formerly known as Water’s Edge Oak RV Park, this lakeside RV retreat has been completely refurbished under new ownership who have renamed this outdoor camping respite Old Florida RV Park, so do take note of these changes as of October, 2024. This RV resort, complete with just 34 FHU (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) slots that dot a small, simple single loop, sits right on Orange Lake. One of its great assets is the quick and EZ access you’ll have to this formidable fresh water lake that is very decent in size and is perfect for kayaking, canoeing and boating along with fishing where you’ll have no problem reeling in redear sunfish, large- and smallmouth bass, black crappie and bluegill. When we rocked up, all we needed to do was scan the QR code to book a slot for the night – while somewhat impersonal, it was incredibly convenient and EZ enough to find our slot and apart from meeting all of our neighbors, we never actually got to meet the owners as it seems as though they run this RV park on remote control.

This RV resort lives partially up to the name of ‘resort’ as there’s freshly minted Tiki huts throughout the property that look to be like they are in partial construction-mode, although when finished, these freestanding structures will definitely be a draw for those wanting to sip their Mai Tais under a straw-covered canopy. The road that leads you into this CG is perfectly smooth but wide enough only for a single vehicle moving in a one-way direction around the loop, where you’ll easily find diagonally-slotted pull-through (in the center) or back-in (on the exterior) RV sites complete with a perfectly paved adjoining patio decked out with brand new picnic tables. And while the interior of the RV resort is barren, exposing you to all of your soon-to-be-neighbors, the exterior perimeter is surrounded by a decent thick tree line along with brush and a new fence that encircles the property adding to the sense of safety and security here.

From an amenity’s standpoint, what exists now is very good, but apparently there are plans to develop a lot more, like an in-ground pool, pickleball courts, horse shoe rings, game room as well as kayak and canoe rentals along with offers of wildlife and fishing tours. There’s also the promise of a general store, full Tiki bar (open to the whole community), weekend food trucks and a community grilling area. There’s a lot of ‘Coming Soon’ amenities, so hopefully the good folks here at Old Florida RV Park make good on their plans, but those newly built Tiki Huts, which apparently will be offered only with the more premium sites (read: upcharge), are a good indication that all of these other amenities will be offered shortly. What is currently on-site is in either fairly excellent condition and / or brand-spanking new, like a facility that has an 8-seat movie theater, showers and restrooms, excellent boat ramp launch as well as a community fire pit.

Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Unfortunately, for mi tent-pitchin’ bredren, there are not sites that allow for you to set up for the night, so you’ll have to keep looking for higher ground; (2) Should you be in the mood to check out some local fare, there’s just a small smattering of offerings in the nearby hamlet of Citra with options like Phil’s Grille and Sweet Baby Cheese’s or you’ll have to head a bit further west to the tiny town of Orange Lake to feast on Eagles Nest Bar & Grill, Lupita’s Taqueria, Southern Cooking and Georgie’s Lakeside Restaurant; (3) If you haven’t tried your go at a spring here in Florida, you need to add this to your bucket list – and fortunate enough for you, Salt Springs, which is one of the best springs in all of Florida, is located just about 20 minutes away from Old Florida RV Resort, so bring your goggles and fins and head on over to Salt Springs where if you are lucky, you’ll find some friendly manatees to swim alongside.

Happy Camping!

If you either own an ATV or dream of combining 4-wheel muddin’ with overnight campin’ then you have hit the jackpot here with Hog Waller Mud Campground & ATV Resort. As my post from a bit more than a year ago provided quite a bit of detail on this campground, I’m following up on that review by sharing additional fotos as well as providing a topline update:

Highlights: (1) No shortage of mud-slinging fun for those ATV enthusiasts who want to spend all day long chasing trails with no end; (2) An incredibly unique and welcoming community of outdoor-motorcross enthusiasts; (3) Excellent topography to driving wild or hiking in the wild (but for the latter, make sure you wear bright orange); (4) Sites are spacious, flat and nicely shaded; (5) Despite being out in the boondocks, there’s an on-site restaurant and marketplace; (5) The restroom and shower facilities are actually pretty well-maintained and nicely outfitted.

Lowlights: (1) There is nothing nearby to either stock up on supplies or grab a bite to eat, apart from the Hog Wild Country Café/ BBQ joint just a few minutes west of here, so when you come here, bring everything with you that you’ll need; (2) Maybe it is understood when you come into this place, but to state the obvious, this entire place is buzzing with ATVs, motorbikes and lots of other contraptions that makes for a loud atmosphere, so if you want peace & quiet, particularly on the weekends, you don’t want to check-in here; and (3) On the weekends, in particular, it feels like things get a too party-centric, so the music gets louder and the drinks often get the best of people, resulting in either louder chatter or, in a few cases, fights breaking out (but, to be fair, there’s always a few off-duty sheriffs watching the place, so things get broken up real quick).

Happy Camping!

This very unassuming county-run wildlife area sits on 13,000+ acres of thick wilderness and wetlands offering a number of different hiking trails, like Outhouse Hammock Loop, which is medium-grade level hiking trail of slightly more than 5 miles. There’s a long-winding road to Little Lake George situated just due southeast of this CG with a handful of trail access points. Located just due south of tributaries flowing eastward from St. Johns River and Rodman Dam, if you are coming here to camp, this will be one of the more primitive offerings I’ve come across and offered to permitted hunters. There’s only about 5-6 designated camping spots here to choose from, all of which come with just a simple picnic table and makeshift fire ring. The land itself, for the most part, is fairly flat apart from the random tree roots and just about everywhere you might want to pitch a tent, there was substantial tree shade to block an otherwise unrelenting hot Florida sun.

 Driving south on Route 19, you’ll come across Caravelle Wildlife Area just after you pass over the county bridge crossing the Ocklawaha River, where within about a half mile, you’ll find this primitive camping outpost on the east side, but be careful as this place will sneak up on you if you’re not looking for it. While there’s no sign informing you of the upcoming wildlife area that you’re about to visit, there is a stucco-like gate (think ranch portico entrances out in the open wild west), where upon accessing, you can either turn left towards a semi-permanent covered structure (great, in the case of rain), and if you don’t, you’ll find yourself heading straight into someone’s private property (mind the signs) or taking a right and meandering down a long winding gravel road to nowhere, but will eventually open up to Little Lake George if not beforehand to Bear Creek.

Back at the open shed-like structure, you’ll discover that there’s a few signs and diagrams explaining the ‘gaming rules’ along with schedules sorted by seasons of the year. Over here, there’s also a potable water station, cleaning table and an odd hanging hook configuration that is for cleaning game that has been caught. There’s also a spray hose as well as what looks to be like a small open-air cleaning kitchen of sorts complete with countertops and lighting. Opposite this, there’s a kiosk that explains a bit more about the place you happen to be visiting. Beyond this, there’s not much more here. If you are a kayaker, you’ll find that there’s a great launch site just due south of here at Johnson Field Ramp which is just south of this location on Highway 19.

Happy Camping!

My family and I had an incredible experience at black prong. Massive RV pad, full hookups, Golf Cart, plus privacy between you and your neighbor. As an added bonus we were able to bring our horse for trail rides throughout the park. Tons of room and friendly staff. Highly recommend. (Didn’t use the pool or hot tub but they looked nice and well kept)

Had a great time at Seminole Springs Campground while visiting Ocala National Forest. check in was super easy and the hosts are fantastic. I will be staying here again.

Overall it’s not a bad campground but I have no plans to ever return.

The good: clean bathrooms with running, hot water; wild Florida flora; starry night skies. The spring run is one of my favorites. It’s difficult and technical and challenging and I just love it.

The bad: the worst part of my experience was other campers being loud after quiet hours and the camp host doing nothing about it. While most people kept it down after 10 (as stated in the rules) one group of partiers was up til 3am, blasting music and hootin’ and hollerin’. I know the park can’t control individual’s behavior but, again, the camp host was on site and did nothing about it. I talked to other campers the next day who all lamented at their lack of sleep because of this one group. It was so bad we only stayed one night. We left the next day after kayaking the run because our home in the city is quieter.

Also, there’s a general lack of information available for visitors. There are no maps available, for the campground or the run. I had to take a picture of an employee’s personal map of the grounds which ended up being inaccurate because it listed a shower facility that doesn’t actually exist. I asked the staff at the spring run for a map and they didn’t have one I could look at. I asked “how do I know I’m at the end of the run for pickup?” She said “it’s right after the bridge.” Which was true, but it’s not labeled in any kind of way so if I hadn’t asked, I would’ve just kept on paddling forever. Their website has limited information and the confirmation email I got after booking had incorrect information. It said to call if I’d arrive after hours starting in November, so I did, and was told that policy wasn’t in effect for a few weeks. None of these things are a big deal on their own but when they’re all together it becomes a pattern.

I stopped here to stay overnight on a Thursday as I was passing through. There was only one camper but did not know that until I left the next morning. It was quiet and felt secluded. The sites were close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site.

Very convenient campground to go for a hike along the florida trail and cool off in the gorgeous blue spring waters. It does get crowded so plan accordingly.

Very small and quiet place , great for beginners.
Host was great, bathrooms cleaned and hot showers. 15/20 minutes away plenty of amenities and shopping if necessary.