Withlacoochee State Forest features extensive trails that wind through diverse Florida ecosystems around Hernando. The region offers year-round camping with temperatures ranging from 50°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Equestrian camping in this area provides specialized facilities with horse stalls, corrals, and direct trail access from many campsites.
What to do
Explore caves and off-road trails: Withlacoochee State Forest offers unique cave exploration opportunities and extensive off-road trails. "Lots of (walking only) trails but my favorite, the seemingly endless off roading sandy Jeep trails throughout this forest state park - lovely!" notes a visitor to Holder Mine Campground. Another camper mentioned, "The people we met here showed us a great trail you can hike on that brings you to some awesome caves, yes in Florida, that you could explore in."
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: Santos Trailhead offers internationally recognized mountain biking trails with technical features. A reviewer explains, "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. It's remarkable to see."
Kayak and boat access: Several campgrounds offer water access for paddling and boating. At Thousand Palms Resort, "This park also has river access, boat ramp and launch so we had a great paddle on the Withlacoochee."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many horse campgrounds near Hernando provide a peaceful environment. At Tillis Hill Equestrian Campground, campers appreciate that "It's a great place to get away from city lights, noise, etc." Another visitor noted, "Looking to sit out and listen to mostly nature, this is a great place."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathrooms and camping areas. A camper at Ross Prairie Campground shared, "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."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of some campgrounds creates excellent night sky viewing. One camper mentioned, "If you lucky enough to stay during clear night skies...all the stars light up the area and it is very nice."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds can be challenging depending on weather and season. At Tillis Hill, "Be mindful and take your time on the dirt road leading to the campgrounds. It can be very ruff during certain times of the year." Another camper advised, "Go SLOW on the gravel stretch, it's very bumpy and you'll raise a white cloud of dust."
Ticks and wildlife awareness: Bearhead Hammock and other forested campgrounds have seasonal tick issues. One camper at Bearhead Hammock Primitive Campsites warned, "Lots of ticks here, beware!" Another mentioned they "stuck to the roads to walk the dogs" due to ticks in overgrown areas.
Cell service varies: Coverage can be limited at some campgrounds. A Tillis Hill visitor noted, "Cell service is bad for AT&T. I'm told other carriers are better." Campers should prepare for limited connectivity, particularly at more remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Horse corral adaptations: Some campgrounds allow creative use of horse corrals. At Bearhead Hammock, "There is a horse corral at each site (a horse is not required). One of our neighbors used their corral for their kids."
Swimming access: Look for campgrounds with pool facilities for family entertainment. A visitor at Lake Panasoffkee shared, "There is a big open field where basically all equestrian campers parked at since it was near the horse stalls. There's also more shaded camp spots towards the back."
Security features: Some campgrounds have enhanced security measures. Tillis Hill offers "Gate code you get with your reservation for the gate at night after hours. A sheriff went by daily on a 4 wheeler. So security is abound."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Look for specific sites to accommodate your RV size and setup preferences. One RVer at Ross Prairie advised, "The positive is that the sites, especially around the outside loop, are spaced nicely and private." Another suggested, "I suggest a site as far from the road as possible, 3 seemed like the best site to me."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites due to natural settling. At Tillis Hill, "Some sites are a challenge to level, seems the park was built some time ago and the Earth's shifting has made some uneven." Check reviews for specific site recommendations.
Dump station access: Note the dump station locations before setting up. A visitor to Tillis Hill mentioned, "The dump station (with left and right dumping) and adjacent is a dumpster located as you leave." Another noted, "Be cautious pulling into the dump station - plan your exit before you pull all the way in or you might have trouble."
