N
Nancy L.
Scout
ScoutHaines Creek RV Village (55+)
Nice Private Park
Great small RV park. Very clean and super friendly & helpful staff. We stayed 3 nights and will definately return. Approximately 60% full-time residents.
Best Campgrounds near Paisley, FL
Campgrounds near Paisley, Florida include Clearwater Lake Campground, a popular spot within the Ocala National Forest that accommodates tent and RV camping. The surrounding area features several campgrounds with varying amenities, from primitive sites with no hookups to developed facilities with water and electric connections. Located approximately 45 miles northwest of Orlando, this region encompasses spring-fed lakes, pine forests, and nature trails that provide diverse camping environments throughout the year.
Camping in the Ocala National Forest area requires preparation for variable conditions. Most campgrounds have limited or no electrical hookups, with Clearwater Lake offering water spigots throughout the grounds but no individual site hookups. Generators are permitted at some locations but restricted at others. Cell service can be spotty, with reviewers noting just "1 to 2 bars" at Clearwater Lake. Bear activity requires special precautions, as one camper noted: "You are in bear country here and it is mandatory to use the bear lockers for your food and put your shower stuff in there too. If it's not a bear, which we didn't encounter, it will definitely be a raccoon."
The campgrounds in this region receive particularly high marks for their natural settings and water access. Clearwater Lake lives up to its name with exceptional water clarity that makes swimming and fishing popular activities. Spacious, shaded campsites provide privacy at many locations, though some reviewers mention certain sites lack visual separation. The area supports various recreational activities including hiking, canoeing, and mountain biking. A visitor commented that Clearwater Lake is "a beautiful campground with a very curious soft shell turtle that came to check us out every time we went swimming in the lake." Several campgrounds feature clean bathroom facilities and hot showers, with some including dishwashing stations. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with campers frequently spotting deer, raccoons, birds, and occasionally bears throughout the forest.
Best Camping Sites Near Paisley, Florida (360)
1. Alexander Springs Recreation Area
35 ReviewsAstor, FL7 milesWebsite+1 (352) 669-3522$38 - $70 / night
"This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida. The facilities were clean and provided showers."
"This is a typical Florida spring."
2. Blue Spring State Park Campground
46 ReviewsOrange City, FL13 milesWebsite+1 (386) 775-3663$24 - $95 / night
"Not a ton of hiking available here but a decent 3.5 mile one way trail through Florida scrub and oak hammock. The rare and endangered Florida Scrub Jay can be found here."
"It was still very hot and buggy in Florida so be warned If this is an issue for you. Large campsites with a picnic table, electric, and water."
3. Clearwater Lake Campground
23 ReviewsPaisley, FL1 mileWebsite+1 (352) 669-0078$38 / night
"Clearwater Lake Recreation is one of the few National Forest Service managed campgrounds located at the southern end of Ocala National Forest. Campsites are well-shaded, private and spaced apart."
"Clearwater Lake Recreation Area was recommended to us as a backup option to nearby and popular Alexander Springs for our small group of scouts."
4. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground
65 ReviewsApopka, FL20 milesWebsite+1 (407) 553-4383$24 / night
"Close to home and took a drive through one day. Haven't been camping yet this year due to illness but getting ready to get on the road."
"We camp a lot during the summer but since this is Florida it's HOT regularly and sizzling during the summer months."
5. Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area
46 ReviewsAstor, FL17 milesWebsite+1 (352) 625-3147$38 - $70 / night
"The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles. Very sunny during the day and very cool at nigth."
"The Florida Trail runs right through this spot and has a natural spring connection as well. We camped out near the facilities and am happy to report everything was maintained and clean."
6. Wekiva Falls RV Resort
21 ReviewsMid Florida, FL15 milesWebsite+1 (352) 269-6839$40 - $73 / night
"There are beautiful walking trails, beautiful and refreshing cool springs, kayak rentals for $20. There are also some small caves there for anyone who free dives or snorkels."
"I have steps that will not allow us to close the door to the camper if there is not enough room. See second picture. If you have young ones or teenagers this place gives them lots to do."
7. Ocala National Forest Lake Dorr Campground
8 ReviewsAltoona, FL6 milesWebsite$20 / night
"Lake Dorr is a super nice camp site located less than an hour away from some of Florida’s natural springs."
"Lake Dorr, NF campground in Ocala NF, FL Some sites are pretty secluded. This is not necessarily super attractive campground to me. I don’t know why for sure."
8. Trimble Park Campground
20 ReviewsMount Dora, FL17 milesWebsite+1 (407) 254-1982"Just a note of caution: Keep animals away from the water's edge."
"I stayed in site 11 that was positioned so I had a magnificent view of the lake and the little gator that lived at the waters edge."
9. Encore Southern Palms
11 ReviewsEustis, FL12 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-1477"We stayed 2 weeks with our Thousand Trails affiliate plan. We were surrounded by empty sites which was probably due to the pandemic."
"Next to a highway so it can be noisy."
10. Lake Monroe Park
15 ReviewsDeBary, FL17 milesWebsite$15 / night
"Had water and electric hook up and the near by walking trail was absolutely awesome. The staff could not have been more helpful. Next time I’m visiting family in Florida, I will definitely stay here"
"Small grounds, beautiful lake that allows fishing and boating. Sites are very close to each other, good for making friends, not good if you like your privacy. Drive up right next to your site."
Recent Camping Photos near Paisley, FL
382 Photos of 360 Paisley Campgrounds
Kevin D.
Clearwater Lake Campground
Brian
Bluff Landing
darsea
Ocala National Forest Lake Dorr Campground
Alexandra E.
Alexander Springs Recreation Area
Ryan O.
Ryan Oliver
Morgan R.
River Road Campground — Lake George State Forest
Ellen E.
Hontoon Island State Park Campground
The Dyrt
Encore Southern Palms
Eric S.
St Johns River Campground
Christy C.
Blue Spring State Park Campground
Daniel S.
Big Scrub Campground
Tom H.
Wekiva Falls RV Resort
Recent Reviews near Paisley, FL
1656 Reviews of 360 Paisley Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendRivers Edge RV Park
St. Johns River Basecamp Done Right
Just outside the tiny river village of Georgetown, where Road 309 bends toward Drayton Island, you will find Rivers Edge RV Park sitting exactly where its name promises, right on the banks of the St. Johns River. With roughly 50 or so sites arranged in a simple, easy to navigate loop, this campground feels intimate without being cramped and it books quickly for good reason. The setting is classic 'Old Florida' with long bearded Spanish moss draped over ancient oaks, wide river views and that slow moving, fish-filled water stretching out toward Lake George.
Sites here cater primarily to the RV and 5th wheel crowd, offering full hookups with 30- and 50-amp electric, water & sewer, along with a mix of back-in and pull-through options, many with concrete pads and patios. There is also a designated tent area, thoughtfully placed closer to the river, which gives tent campers a front row seat to sunrise over the water. Restrooms and showers are notably clean, laundry facilities feature newer machines and there is also a propane station on-site. Add in a small dog park, trash stations, a riverside pavilion, lawn games, horseshoes and even pickleball courts and it becomes clear that this is a well-managed, well-maintained operation. Complimentary WiFi reaches most of the park, though streaming can be a bit slow at peak times.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Direct access to the St. Johns River with private boat launch and guest-only slips; (2) Clean, well-kept facilities including modern laundry and shower buildings;(3) Distinct tent area positioned closest to the river; (4) Simple loop layout that makes navigation easy even for larger rigs; (5) Fishing is abundant here with local finds including: largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, shellcracker bream and striped bass; and (6) Affordable pricing compared to many waterfront parks in Florida, but for the area, this is either on par or slightly more $ for what you would typically find, however, IMHO completely worth it!
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Limited availability due to the park’s small size and popularity; (2) WiFi can slow down during busy periods; (3) Fewer restaurant and retail options immediately nearby, because, well, you're completely out in 'the sticks' here in Georgetown, which is admittedly, part of the allure (as well as the downside); (4) Sites, while organized, are not heavily screened for privacy; and (5) This CG is best suited for river lovers and boaters rather than those seeking resort style amenities.
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Blue Spring State Park - Cabins
Old Florida Comfort Without the Tent Stakes
The cabins at Blue Spring State Park offer a rare way to experience one of Florida’s most iconic spring-fed rivers without camping by RV or tents. Tucked well away from the busy springhead and day-use crowds and surrounded instead by hardwood hammock and palmetto flats. Arriving is straightforward via Orange City, just a stone's throw from I-4, and once you’re checked in, the cabins feel intentionally removed from the main campground loops, trading generator hums and tent zippers for solid walls, screened porches along with a noticeable sense of calm once the park gates close for the evening.
Each cabin is simple but thoughtfully laid out with climate control, real beds, a small kitchen setup, picnic tables and screened outdoor space that invites slow mornings with a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee and unhurried evenings over a nice iced glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. While these are not luxury accommodations by any stretch of the imagination, they are very clean, well maintained and ideal for families or couples who want immersion in nature without having to 'rough' it. Restrooms and showers are integrated into the cabin setup rather than shared campground facilities and nearby trails make it easy to step directly into the woods for a walk without ever starting the car.
Beyond the cabins themselves, Blue Spring’s broader amenities shine. Hiking trails wind through shaded forest and along the St. Johns River while the spring run offers some of the clearest freshwater paddling in the state. A small concession area and nearby Orange City like Fire on the Bayou, The Salted Goat and Orange Social provide tempting and hyper-local dining options, but most guests will find themselves lingering longer at the cabins, listening to owls at dusk or catching early morning river mist before the park stirs back to life.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you’re visiting during manatee season, the cabins are a ‘golden ticket’ for early and late viewing when crowds thin and the river feels most deserted and almost reverent; (2) For kayaking, launch at the Blue Spring Run canoe and kayak launch and paddle upstream early in the morning for glassy water, manatee sightings in season and wading birds like blue and grey heron, kingfishers, bald eagles and ospreys along the river banks; (3) The cabins closest to the interior trail network tend to feel the most secluded and quiet compared to those nearer service roads; (4) Plan simple meals rather than elaborate cooking, as kitchens are functional but hoestly, quite modest (read: just bare bones); and (5) If you want a true Old Florida day trip, head a short drive north to DeLeon Springs after breakfast for swimming and pancakes at the local restaurant there.
Happy Camping!
Maria Mercedes M.LegendLooney Acres
Quiet, Rustic, and Very Bare-Bones
Looney Acres sits tucked just off US-1 in Mims and immediately feels like a throwback to truly primitive camping, with about three dozen simple sites scattered through the woods of what looks to be freshly cleared land that accommodate tents and smaller RVs, all on grass and dirt with minimal leveling. Amenities are extremely limited, with a portable toilet, a basic outdoor shower setup and very little in the way of landscaping or defined walkways, which made getting around on foot a bit tricky for the kids. The boys enjoyed a short wander through the trees and a bit of free-range exploring before we realized this spot wasn’t the best match for our family’s comfort level or setup needs. From what we saw, the quieter sites farthest from the entrance offer the best sense of seclusion, but for families wanting easier access, cleaner facilities, and a more relaxed stay, we ultimately recommend passing and heading down the road to Indian River RV Park in Titusville instead.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Willow Lakes Golf & RV Resort
Where RV Living Is A Way Of Life
While exploring Florida's 'Space Coast' we decided to pull into Willow Lakes Golf & RV Resort just off US-1 in Titusville, which immediately sets you up for a comfortable and relaxed stay, with well-maintained RV sites nestled among shady tree-lined paved pathways and plenty of space between rigs that feels restful after a long travel day. The resort itself is one of the most highly polished RV communities we have ever visited with thoughtful amenities like a small swimming pool, shuffleboard and bocce ball courts, offering clean bath and shower facilities, roomy paved sites that provide shelter for even the tallest and longest of RVs along with a peaceful layout that feels safe and welcoming for families – but one huge watch out: this is a 55+ community, so while we instantly fell in love with this place, we knew the only way we could stay was if we brought one set of grandparents! One of the highlights of our visit was taking the boys down to the Space Coast to watch a satellite launch from nearby Cape Canaveral, their eyes wide as the rocket lifted into the sky. Dinner at Shilohs Steak & Seafood, a short drive away on US-1, gave us all a chance to enjoy hearty meals and fresh local fare before heading back to our rig, where we eventually found a much better, family-friendly place to stay in Manatee Hammock CG. We’d recommend Willow Lakes for 55+ RV campers who appreciate EZ access from the highway, a friendly RV vibe with clean amenities and proximity to unique local attractions like space launches and great local dining that make every day feel like a part of the adventure. My hubby and I decided this is one of the places we would consider retiring to when our boys are all grown up!
- MMichael H.Scout
Bull Creek Campground
Quiet, rural, and plenty of water
Last minute getaway. 20 minutes from palm coast. We enjoyed being by the lake. You could bring your boat to this one for sure.
- CCory J.Scout
Lake Delancy West Campground
Nice spot in the trees
Awesome open spots for dispersed camping. Not too busy and camp host is a really nice dude.
- JJim P.Scout
Orlando/Kissimmee KOA
location location
Nice old KOA but businesses built around it. If you like sirens and racing cars irs ok. It is a nice camp ground but don’t park in back near the fence. lots of street noice like garbage pickup.
Susan A.ScoutMill Dam Lake Resort
Mill Dam campground PARKING LOT
75 women campers rented the parking lot at Mill Dam used for large group camping. I believe it was $100 a night. Currently a 'burn ban' on fires but they are otherwise allowed. Most of us have dogs and cats, but must check you and you pets for ticks, they are prevalent. There is a lake with a beauriful beach. There are restrooms and changing rooms with floor drains, so if you bring your own shower you can use that. There are no power hookups or dump stations that I saw, but there are dumpsters. There is a resident black bear so MUST observe bear safety. Great place, very nice camp host, kept bathrooms clean and stocked.
Guide to Paisley
Camping near Paisley, Florida offers sites within the Ocala National Forest at elevations between 40-100 feet above sea level. The region features natural springs with constant 72-degree water temperatures year-round, providing cooling relief during hot summer months. Seasonal considerations affect campground accessibility, with winter months (November-February) bringing cooler temperatures and increased manatee sightings at nearby springs.
What to do
Swimming in crystal springs: Alexander Springs Recreation Area features a spacious swimming area directly at the spring head. One visitor noted, "The spring head is located right in the swimming area, it's bigger than any swim area at a spring that I have ever been too." The swimming area maintains the signature 72-degree temperature found in Florida springs.
Kayaking on spring-fed rivers: Juniper Springs Recreation Area offers kayak rentals for a downstream float on its crystal clear spring run. "Go Canoeing! The main springs are great but go explore! Watch for wildlife! If you are anywhere near here...go! You will not be disappointed! It is COLD though..be warned!" shared an enthusiastic camper. The kayak run follows a 7-mile natural course with occasional obstacles.
Hiking forest trails: Several trails traverse the Ocala Forest near Paisley camping areas. At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, "The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife!" according to one visitor. Trails range from short quarter-mile loops to longer multi-mile routes.
Fishing in local lakes: Lake Dorr Campground provides direct lake access for fishing. A camper mentioned, "Very relaxing. Wonderful swimming area. Clean bathrooms. Secluded sites. Great hosts. Only issue was lack of fishing spots without a canoe or kayak." Most fishing spots require boat access rather than shore fishing.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Clearwater Lake Campground earns high marks for site layout. One reviewer shared, "Campground is quiet and sites are HUGE. We were able to find a very nice hammock friendly site near the water." Another noted, "Basically all sites have trees for hammocks so bring yours along!"
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. A Lake Dorr visitor commented, "Bathrooms were cleaned and hot showers. 15/20 minutes away plenty of amenities and shopping if necessary." Many campgrounds include dishwashing stations for added convenience.
Natural springs: The main attraction for many campers is access to crystal clear springs. A visitor to Alexander Springs Recreation Area noted, "The spring is spectacular! Natural open spring with lots of plant & animals to see in the water & around the park. Large grassy area for picnicking was really nice."
Wildlife viewing: Forest campgrounds offer excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. A Blue Spring visitor reported, "Kayaked the river, and even swam with manatees in the spring!!!" Wildlife commonly seen includes turtles, fish, birds, and occasionally alligators and manatees (seasonally).
What you should know
Bear country precautions: The Ocala National Forest requires special food storage practices. At Lake Dorr Campground, "There is a bear box, fire pit, grill, and pinic table at every site." Another camper advised, "It is an active area for bears so make sure not to leave any food out at night."
Limited or no hookups: Most forest campgrounds offer primitive camping with few amenities. A visitor to Alexander Springs noted, "nice and quiet. good buffers between sites. no water or electricity hookups bathrooms are ok." Campers should plan for self-sufficiency.
Water access considerations: Swimming areas can get crowded, especially on weekends. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," warned a Wekiwa Springs visitor. Weekday visits offer more solitude.
Variable cell service: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the forest. Campers report ranges from "just 1 to 2 bars" to completely unavailable service in more remote areas. AT&T typically has the weakest coverage in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming spots: Blue Spring State Park offers accessible swimming for children. A visitor shared, "Spent a weekend and had a great time. The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles." The swimming area includes both shallow sections for younger children and deeper areas.
Wildlife education opportunities: Nature trails provide learning experiences. "I have been camping here since I was a kid. I still enjoy camping at this place. There is plenty of nature to during the day and night. The swimming area is amazing," explained a visitor to Alexander Springs.
Playground access: Lake Monroe Park includes a playground within the campground. "Small park with boat ramp, playground, and bike trails connecting to Gemini Springs," noted a camper. The playground offers children an alternative activity when not swimming.
Safety considerations: When camping with children near water, supervision is essential. A parent visiting Trimble Park Campground advised, "Keep animals away from the water's edge. We only saw baby gators right off the water's edge, but never any longer than your arm the entire time we were there."
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Some forest campgrounds have size restrictions. A visitor to Juniper Springs noted, "There are several different camping areas, each with varying degrees of secludedness." Most sites accommodate smaller to mid-sized RVs under 30 feet.
Hookup availability: Trimble Park Campground offers water and electric connections. A camper shared, "50 amp power, water hookups and sewage dump is right inside the campground for easy access." Not all sites have sewer connections, but dump stations are available.
Site selection strategy: When booking RV sites, consider proximity to amenities versus privacy. A visitor to Juniper Springs advised, "I was completely steered wrong listening to a reviewer saying Tropical was the better campsites. They're not bc virtually every one is a pull thru and those are inherently less private."
Preparation for variable conditions: RVers should bring sufficient supplies. "Each site has its own picnic table, water and electric as well as fire ring, while the ground itself is laden with powdery grey sand (so leave your boots or flip flops at the door of your tent or RV)," noted a Trimble Park visitor regarding the sandy conditions that affect site setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Paisley, FL?
What camping is available near Paisley, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Paisley, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 360 campgrounds and RV parks near Paisley, FL and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Paisley, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Paisley, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paisley, FL is Alexander Springs Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 35 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paisley, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paisley, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Paisley, FL.
What parks are near Paisley, FL?
What parks are near Paisley, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Paisley, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.
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