Equestrian camping near Hawthorne, Florida offers diverse trail systems through pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and prairie ecosystems. The area's central Florida location provides a warm subtropical climate with summers reaching 90°F and mild winters averaging 50-70°F. Most horseback riding trails in the region remain accessible year-round with sandy soil that drains well after typical afternoon thunderstorms during summer months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing on horseback trails: Etoniah Creek State Forest offers miles of equestrian trails through diverse ecosystems. "Located just about 20 minutes due northwest of Palatka... Etoniah Creek State Forest is a little known gem... that many folks will bypass enroute to Gainesville, without even noticing the secrets that this pine tree lined park paradise has to offer," writes Stuart K. The forest features multiple wildlife species including "white-tailed deer and a dozen or so different hawk species, wild turkey and eastern diamondback rattlesnakes."
Paddle on nearby waterways: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park provides kayaking and fishing opportunities in addition to horseback riding. "This park has 8 trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," notes Brenda S. Water levels vary seasonally, with some trails becoming wet during summer rainy season.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Santos Trailhead & Campground offers specialized mountain biking trails approximately 45 minutes from Hawthorne. "The attraction here is the biking. It's an international destination for mountain biking! While there are no mountains in Florida, there are many man made ramps and jumps and turns," writes David G. Trails range from beginner-friendly to technical with jumps and obstacles.
What campers like
Secluded camping areas: O'Leno State Park provides quiet camping for equestrians and other visitors. "The Dogwood campground sites are well spaced out with sand, electric, sand, water, picnic table and sand. Some of the sites are more suitable for group camping," notes Shelly S. Sites are separated by natural vegetation with some offering more privacy than others.
Access to diverse trail systems: Welaka State Forest provides extensive equestrian trail networks. "This federal turned state park... today is both a major conservation area as well as fish hatchery for the State of Florida. In all, there's 4 miles of river frontage area on the east bank of Little Lake George," explains Stuart K. The campground includes "2 – I repeat that 2 – 24 stall horse-ready stables, show horse stage, training area, along with 6 primitive campsites along with 5 full hook-up RV drive-through sites."
Wildlife encounters: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offers opportunities to see wild horses and bison. "Many opportunities to spot wildlife close by. The camp is frequented by college students. Bathrooms are clean. Plenty of hiking to be found. Buffalo, deer, eagles, alligators, owls," writes Jenn B. Wildlife viewing is best during early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings mosquitoes and high temperatures to most camping areas. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter. All kinds of little critters in the woods and access to hikes and many gators," warns Dan X. about Paynes Prairie. Insect repellent is essential from April through October.
Trail conditions: Some horse trails become wet during rainy periods. At Etoniah Creek State Forest, "You'll discover all sorts of wildlife here... If you are into hiking and longing for some serious P&Q, then Etoniah has you covered with 3 different trails," Stuart K. explains. Trail conditions change seasonally with some becoming muddy after heavy rains.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds require advance booking, especially during winter months. "This is a campground I have been to many times in the winter. It has water and electric hookups as well as a central playground and bathrooms," shares Christy C. about O'Leno State Park. Reservations should be made 3-6 months in advance for winter stays.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Look for educational sessions at state parks. "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," mentions Lindsey H. from Paynes Prairie Preserve. Programs typically run weekends and include wildlife identification and historical information.
Choose shaded sites: Florida heat requires cooling strategies for comfortable camping. "Smaller campground - 15ish sites. All sites are pull thru for you rvers out there! Definitely quieter here. Hike the Ross Prairie Loop, a 3.5 mile trail that is part wooded and part prairie," recommends Bran P. about Ross Prairie Campground. Sites with afternoon shade provide better temperature regulation.
Pet policies: Check trail restrictions for dogs before planning activities. "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," cautions Denise about Paynes Prairie. Many equestrian trails prohibit dogs for safety reasons.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some equestrian campgrounds have limited large rig access. "Very nice new concrete RV/Trailer pads with 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," reports B H. about Welaka State Forest. Check specific site dimensions before booking.
Layout details: At Ross Prairie Campground, "This little campground is a nice little campground. Pluses are everything is super clean, the camp hosts are amazing, its easy to get to, great access to Ocala or Dunnellon, all sites are pullthrough, ground is small and quiet, 50 amp, and access to great trails for hiking, biking, horse back riding, and walking. Down sides are noise from rt 200, some sites are compact, and it lacks shade." Kathie E. recommends selecting sites farther from the road when possible.
