Best Campgrounds near Hernando, FL

The Withlacoochee State Forest dominates the camping landscape surrounding Hernando, Florida, with multiple recreation areas offering diverse camping experiences. Rainbow Springs State Park Campground, about 20 miles northwest of Hernando, provides shaded sites with full hookups nestled among oak trees draped with Spanish moss. The Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest features several campgrounds including Holder Mine, Cypress Glen, and Crooked River, each with varying levels of amenities. Potts Preserve offers more primitive camping options along the Withlacoochee River. Private RV resorts like Rock Crusher Canyon and Encore Crystal Isles cater to those seeking more developed facilities with amenities like swimming pools and organized activities.

Florida's subtropical climate influences camping conditions year-round, with summer heat and humidity requiring adequate shade and insect protection. As one camper noted, "The sites are amazingly screened from each other with natural understory vegetation and access to the Withlacoochee River." Many campgrounds in the area implement fire restrictions during dry periods, particularly in spring. The sandy soil throughout the region can affect vehicle access, especially at primitive sites. Reservations are essential during winter months when seasonal visitors increase demand. Most state forest campgrounds require permits, with some operating on self-registration systems. Cellular service varies significantly throughout the area, with better coverage at developed campgrounds and spotty reception in more remote locations.

Water features prominently in the camping experience around Hernando. The Withlacoochee River system, including Silver Lake, provides opportunities for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing. According to one visitor, "The campground setting is nestled in Florida native Oak trees with long moss growing, palm scrubs, other varieties of native plants and vegetation all the way from entrance to the river." Campers frequently report sightings of armadillos, turtles, ospreys, and occasionally alligators near water bodies. The Florida Trail passes through several camping areas, offering hiking opportunities. Mountain biking enthusiasts appreciate the proximity to the Croom Mountain Biking Trails and the Withlacoochee State Trail, a rails-to-trails conversion that connects multiple recreation areas. Road noise can be an issue at some campgrounds, particularly those near Interstate 75.

Best Camping Sites Near Hernando, Florida (320)

    1. Rainbow Springs State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Dunnellon, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 465-8550

    $30 / night

    "I have been to quite a few campgrounds in Florida over the past 20+ years."

    "The primitive camping is tucked back away from most of the RVs and has a bathhouse with very hot water/ toilets and hot hand dryers. Each site is spaced properly so not each person is too close."

    2. Holder Mine Campground

    19 Reviews
    Inverness, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    $23 / night

    "Best thing about this place is the surrounding area: lots of (walking only) trails but my favorite, the seemingly endless off roading sandy Jeep trails throughout this forest state park - lovely!"

    "There is no real divider between campsites next to you or straight across. BUT for someone who likes ot be a little more secluded, I still did enjoy our time here."

    3. Ross Prairie Campground

    12 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 732-2606

    $22 / night

    "The positive is that the sites, especially around the outside loop, are spaced nicely and private. It’s not a bad drive to Crystal River or Ocala."

    "Located near Dunnellon, FL and is part of the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenways. Smaller campground - 15ish sites. All sites are pull thru for you rvers out there!"

    4. Potts Preserve

    9 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    6 miles
    Website

    "It is part of the Southwest Florida Water Management District Conservation Lands.

    Youtube Video Review: https://youtu.be/_n8q3ib0kPo"

    "It’s a huge open space with entrances to walking trails and beautiful views of the river. The back-country area has an outhouse."

    5. Encore Crystal Isles

    22 Reviews
    Crystal River, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Excellent park, great attractions nearby!

    We have tried to come here each year. It is a larger park, with many residents or longer term or leave the rig weekenders."

    "We had a spot on the lake which was very nice. The staff is super nice. When we arrived someone was parked in our spot but they were not around."

    6. Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Crystal River, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 564-9350

    $40 - $63 / night

    "Great spot with amenities and close to everything we want to do. Just make sure you don't get a site along the road."

    "Site 127A was so close to us that our picnic table was beside their septic hose. Would stay here again just in an inner site."

    7. Mutual Mine Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    14 Reviews
    Floral City, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    $14 / night

    "My group goes to this campground several times a year due to the location to home and for being able to play off road in the surrounding trail system."

    "This is an excellent place to camp because it is secluded with large private campsites surrounding a clear swimming hole. It is a short drive from the Chaz, and affordable."

    8. Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground (North Hooty Point Road)

    6 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 423-1476

    "There is a designated area to leave vehicles, and the sites on the river are walk in only. The area is open, but you can no longer pull your vehicle in next to your campsite. "

    "Hands-down my new favorite camping spot in Florida. Free, primitive, private, secluded. Pet-friendly, hammock friendly, boat friendly, fire friendly, & more."

    9. Nature's Resort

    15 Reviews
    Homosassa, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 628-9544

    "Perfect location on the springs, right next to the famous Homosassa Springs park. The site has its own marina where you can easily rent pontoon boats."

    "The sites are less than 18' across but you get boat parking behind your site."

    10. Flying Eagle Preserve

    7 Reviews
    Inverness, FL
    11 miles
    Website

    "To get to the camp site:

    1. go to the Circle K linked below

    https://goo.gl/maps/qCoojcRZWhjXTjC77

    1. use google maps walking directions to get to Flying Eagle Preserve."

    "Flying Eagle was clean a lot of airboat noise close to town"

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Recent Reviews near Hernando, FL

1126 Reviews of 320 Hernando Campgrounds



Guide to Hernando

Camping near Hernando, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore the springs: Check out the stunning natural springs at Alexander Springs Recreation Area. One visitor mentioned, "The spring is walking distance from the campground - we saw turtles, otters, and many fish while swimming in the spring."
  • Kayaking and paddling: The Silver Springs State Park Campground is perfect for kayaking. A camper shared, "We had our own kayaks so we put in at the head springs and paddled down to the campground."
  • Hiking trails: Enjoy the scenic trails at Lake Louisa State Park Campground. One reviewer noted, "There are lots of trails to hike, but it was so hot when we were there we did not do any but the river trail."

What campers like

What you should know

  • Limited hookups: Some campgrounds, like Alexander Springs Recreation Area, do not offer electric or water hookups. A visitor noted, "For the price, no electric or water hookups and the facilities were not well maintained."
  • Noise levels: Campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. One camper at Juniper Springs Recreation Area said, "Over Thanksgiving weekend it got pretty noisy due to one large multi-site group."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife sightings. A camper at Manatee Springs State Park Campground shared, "The springs are amazing and full of wildlife."

Tips for camping with families

  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities for kids. One family at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground mentioned, "There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy."
  • Pack snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids while exploring. A camper at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground noted, "We didn’t want to leave at the end of our trip."
  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One reviewer at Hillsborough River State Park Campground said, "There is a huge pool but it was closed for renovations."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Lake Louisa State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites have picnic tables and a fire ring."
  • Be aware of road conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow roads. A camper at Silver Springs State Park Campground noted, "The roads in the campground are a little narrow so maneuvering a larger rig might take some time."
  • Bring extra supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving. A camper at Manatee Springs State Park Campground shared, "Publix is less than 5 minutes of you forget something."

Camping around Hernando, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Hernando, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Hernando, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 320 campgrounds and RV parks near Hernando, FL and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Hernando, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hernando, FL is Rainbow Springs State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 45 reviews.

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

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Hernando, FL.

What parks are near Hernando, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Hernando, FL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.