Best Campgrounds near Lake Panasoffkee, FL

Lake Panasoffkee provides a range of camping experiences across several public lands and private campgrounds in central Florida. The Lake Panasoffkee Recreation Area offers free primitive camping with both open field sites for solar access and shaded areas under oak trees. Nearby, campers can find developed options like Thousand Trails Three Flags in Wildwood and Cypress Glen Campground in Withlacoochee State Forest. The region includes campgrounds accommodating both tent and RV camping, with several facilities providing electric hookups, water connections, and sewer services for longer stays.

Camping in this area requires advance planning, particularly for the free primitive sites at Lake Panasoffkee which need permits despite having no fee. Bathroom facilities with flush toilets are available at most campgrounds, though amenities vary considerably between locations. "This place was PERFECT. There was a big open field where basically all equestrian campers parked since it was near the horse stalls. There's also more shaded camp spots towards the back," noted one visitor about Lake Panasoffkee. The area experiences typical Florida weather patterns with hot, humid summers and mild winters, making fall through spring the most comfortable camping seasons. Road access is generally good throughout the region with most sites accessible by standard vehicles.

Several visitors mentioned the appeal of Lake Panasoffkee's combination of open and shaded sites, allowing campers to choose based on their preference for sun or shade. The campground includes fire pits, picnic tables, and non-potable water spigots throughout the grounds. Withlacoochee State Forest campgrounds receive positive reviews for their natural settings and proximity to hiking and equestrian trails. Noise levels vary by location, with some Lake Panasoffkee campers noting minor road noise, while others praised the peaceful atmosphere. Wildlife viewing opportunities are common throughout the area, with many campgrounds situated near water features. Campgrounds fill quickly during peak winter months when snowbirds migrate to Florida, making reservations advisable for developed sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Panasoffkee, Florida (395)

    1. Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    38 Reviews
    Nobleton, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    "Crooked River Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Hernando County), and a short 5-mile drive from I-75."

    "Each campground has its primitive camp charm all come with a picnic table, parking spot, a wooden pole you can hang your garbage, and a water spout near by."

    2. Lake Griffin State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Fruitland Park, FL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 360-6760

    $18 / night

    "This Florida gem is really something! Campsites were cozy and private. Walking trails a plenty. Friendly, helpful staff and courteous neighbors!"

    "Lake Griffin State Park in Fruitland Park, FL is a small Florida State Park and small campground as well. There are only 40 campsites."

    3. Thousand Trails Three Flags

    11 Reviews
    Wildwood, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Nearby shops and such are within 10 miles(gas, groceries, restaurants, flea markets, etc.). Overall, a nice park, but I wouldn't go during the rainy season in Florida."

    "Nice little Thousand Trails in Florida. Had full hookups at every site."

    4. Lake Panasoffkee

    7 Reviews
    Lake Panasoffkee, FL
    2 miles
    Website

    "There was 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 which is where I ended up."

    "This time around, there were no equestrian campers so everyone is aiming for the shady spots in the primitive area."

    5. Holder Mine Campground

    19 Reviews
    Inverness, FL
    16 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."

    6. Hog Island Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

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

    $14 / night

    "#hog) is located on the eastern bank of the Withlacoochee river close to the small town of Nobleton."

    "Older Florida park on the Withlacoochee State Forest. The campground had 20 very large sand and grass sites in tall pines. Each site has water only."

    7. Flying Eagle Preserve

    7 Reviews
    Inverness, FL
    8 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"

    8. Trails End RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Floral City, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 341-4440

    $60 - $99 / night

    "We have been traveling Florida for a while and this is our favorite place by far."

    "I looked for a campground close to home for our first trip in the new travel trailer. We found trails end and they had room for us on short notice."

    9. Cypress Glen Campground

    15 Reviews
    Nobleton, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    $22 / night

    "Perfectly located just off the exit for Brooksville off of I-75, and right off the Withlacoochee Rails to Trail bike/hiking path and near the [Croom Mountain Biking Trails](http"

    ")

    This is a RV-tent camping site with all sites being a reasonable walking distance from the facilities in the center."

    10. River Junction Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Nobleton, FL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    $14 / night

    "The road in called SW 113 ST was hardcore off road muddy driving. We pay for the sites so the road in could have been a lot less treacherous. Potholes all the way to the site."

    "Full over the weekend Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: thick shrubs Site Spacing: Good Pad surface: Sand Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Quiet Outside Road Noise: none Through Traffic"

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Recent Reviews near Lake Panasoffkee, FL

1660 Reviews of 395 Lake Panasoffkee Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Arrowhead Campsites & Mobile Home Park

    Budget-Friendly Stay Just Off I-75 in the Horse Capital of the World

    Sitting quietly just off I-75, Arrowhead Campsites & Mobile Home Park in Ocala, Florida is located on one of the busiest thoroughfares that runs through Ocala. This place is a no frills, straightforward, budget-friendly campground where grass pads, shady trees and neighborly vibes create a cozy Old-Florida atmosphere. First impressions? This isn’t a resort, but while there is a community pool (that wasn’t working when we stopped by and TBH was incredibly cringe-worthy), it’s a practical, easygoing basecamp that gives you everything you need while keeping you close to Ocala’s natural gems ... as long as you manage your expectations before arriving here.

    Facilities are simple but sufficient (unless they aren't working at all). There are around 100 sites with full hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water, sewer), most on grass with decent leveling. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, cable TV, mediocre bathrooms and subpar showers, a laundry facility, picnic tables and a recreation room. Long-term residents mix with short-stay campers, so expect a lived-in, welcoming feel. The campground also features a dining hall and small community events, adding a sense of 'cringy neighborhood' to your stay.

    Ocala itself is the star attraction nearby. Known as the ‘Horse Capital of the World,’ you’re just minutes away from equestrian centers, rolling farms and the glass-clear waters of Silver Springs State Park. The Ocala National Forest offers endless hiking, kayaking and wildlife watching, while downtown Ocala brings restaurants, art galleries and Southern charm.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a smathering: (1) IMHO the best sites are the ones with grass pads near the front loops for the easiest pull-in and better spacing, especially if you’re arriving late, which is convenient as well for those that want to make an early, discreet and trouble-free exit in the morning; (2) Should you need to stock up on anything, there’s a Walmart Supercenter, Publix, Home Depot and Lowe’s all within a 10-minute drive; (3) A nearby hidden ‘easter egg’ you’ll want to explore are the lesser-visited trails at Silver Springs State Park where you’ll find quiet boardwalks and an historic pioneer village that many tourists (and even local residents) miss; (4) If you’ve come with your kayak, a great place to launch is at Silver Springs State Park where you can paddle down the Silver River. Expect to see turtles, manatees and wild rhesus (not Reese's, but sounds the same) monkeys that somehow call the riverbank home; (5) Because there are long-term residents here at Arrowhead, it’s best to request a short-term site closer to the entrance for less foot traffic and quieter evenings; and (6) When you get tired of conjuring up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler, then check on some local joints like Big Lee’s Serious About BBQ for its nationally acclaimed BBQ brisket, ribs, and sides or Ivy on the Square with its upscale comfort food in a historic downtown building and there’s also Latinos y Mas serving up fusion Latin classics with Mediterranean touches.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort

    Camelot on the River (With a Pool Nicer Than Your HOA)

    Nestled along the St. Johns River in DeBary, Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort is a 25-acre playground where RVers and boaters mingle under giant oaks and Spanish moss. Locals call it ‘Camelot on the River,’ though I’m quite sure Arthur never had 50-amp hookups or a bait shop. First impressions? Think Old Florida charm, river breezes and a place where your neighbor might offer you both a cold beer and unsolicited fishing advice.  Unfortunately, there's no primitive camping here for mi tent pitchin' bredren.

    The campground packs plenty of creature comforts. RV sites come with full hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water, sewer), and most are shaded enough to keep your AC from begging for mercy. There’s a 30'X60' swimming pool (read: bigger than your neighbor’s backyard dream), a recreation hall, horseshoe pits, bocce ball and laundries. The camp store is less ‘convenience shop’ and more ‘bait & souvenirs,’ with everything from fishing gear to trinkets you’ll later wonder why you bought. Then there’s the 72-slip marina where your kayak can feel fancy just by association with the pontoon crowd.

    The setting is pure St. Johns River magic. You can paddle out and watch herons glide by, manatees surface like old river monks or gators give you side-eye. Kayakers rave about the downstream trip to Blue Spring, where you can float past manatees before your coffee gets cold. When you’re done pretending you’re an extra in a National Geographic documentary, DeBary and Deltona are just minutes away for groceries, supplies and a change of scenery.

    Insider Tips? Yeah, you know you are just jonesing for some, right? Here they are: (1) Riverfront sites are the crown jewels at this RV encampment, but book early unless you like camping by the dump station and telling people it’s ‘rustic charm.’; (2) Don’t skip the marina rentals as you’ll look cooler launching a pontoon, but the kayaks give you the better wildlife bragging rights; (3) The on-site Swamp House Grill & Tiki Bar is a must with its fried seafood, rum-fueled tiki drinks along with the chance to meet locals who definitely have fish stories longer than your RV; (4) Some sites feel more ‘neighbors with benefits’ (read: tight) than ‘sprawling privacy,’ so if this of concern for you, do yourself a ‘favor flave’ and grab a spot near the office or look towards the open loops for more elbow room; (5) If you missed it, for mi oar rowin’ bredren, kayak to Blue Spring: it’s the best free manatee show in Florida (sorry, SeaWorld!); and (6) In the event that you’ve already checked out the on-site Swamp House Grill and want to try something new, hit up Hontoon Landing Restaurant for casual riverside eats, Blue Spring Café serving up biscuits the size of your face or DeBary Hall’s nearby eateries for a dose of history and hearty Southern comfort.

    Happy Camping!

  • Courtney Moriah
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Trimble Park Campground

    Gorgeous natural park

    Been here only 1 day so far. The park is beautiful! It’s like a jungle, very tucked away and private and surrounded by water. 50 amp power, water hookups and sewage dump is right inside the campground for easy access. Our site has lantern hangers and a big fire pit with benches! The sites are nicely paved and graveled and the picnic tables are like new!! 10/10 recommend.

  • Dan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve

    Very Nice but ....

    Very Nice just being wood panels. It's a long dirt road to get to the campsite and I didn't think my car would make it through some of the big puddles after rain. Chevy Malibu isn't really known for off-roading lol

  • Rodd S.
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    Cabin stay

    Solo outing to clear my mind. Just me and the pup. Cabins were at 50% occupancy as it was mid-week. Quiet neighbors except the group behind me who was gone by 9pm. Many trails. Only one outlet, bring a powerstrip.

  • ENRIQUE T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Wonderful Summer Spot

    Friendly and professional hostesses, clean bathrooms and sites are very spacious and private. The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable. Just watch for coons stealing your food.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Belle Parc RV Resort

    Belle parc is a very relaxing campground

    So check in was easy and the ladies at the front office where amazing and very hospitable. We were shown to our campsite by a very nice gentleman. He even helped us back in and hook up. As for the stay it’s been very relaxing and quiet. The shower houses are awesome. We backed up to one of the lakeside areas where the fishing was excellent. We were Also located next to a pool and it was very clean with limited activity from other guest. Would definitely recommend to stay again.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Awesomeness

    Let me start by saying park.is very clean and well maintained. Sites are big with gravel, fire pits, grill dining tabels and did I say clean. Silver springs is beautiful, go on the boat...

  • SukiDookie ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Very quiet and peaceful

    We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn’t check it out, so I’m not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren’t so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!


Guide to Lake Panasoffkee

Camping near Lake Panasoffkee, Florida takes place within the Withlacoochee State Forest system, which spans over 165,000 acres across five counties in central Florida. The region sits at a modest elevation ranging from 40-75 feet above sea level with limestone outcroppings that create unique terrain features and small caves throughout the area. Most campgrounds are situated on sandy soil with oak hammocks providing natural shade and separation between sites.

What to do

Paddling opportunities: The Withlacoochee River connects multiple campgrounds for day trips. At River Junction Campground, site 14 offers direct water access. "We had a blast there stayed at campsite 14, it has its own private pool right in front of it with cold spring water," noted one camper.

Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide prime viewing times for deer, turkey, and various bird species. "Get up early in the morning and take walk and you are sure to see some deer," reports a visitor at Hog Island Campground. Nighttime brings another dimension with coyote calls in the distance.

Mountain biking: The Croom area contains 12+ miles of designated bike trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty levels. A camper at Cypress Glen mentioned it's "perfectly located just off the exit for Brooksville off of I-75, and right off the Withlacoochee Rails to Trail bike/hiking path and near the Croom Mountain Biking Trails."

Fishing access: Silver Lake and the Withlacoochee River offer bass fishing throughout the year. Most waterfront campgrounds provide shoreline access or boat ramps for small watercraft. "A boat ramp area to basically launch canoes or kayaks. Pretty nice paddling you can go either way and make it back to the boat ramp," notes a Hog Island visitor.

What campers like

Private, secluded sites: Many campgrounds provide natural buffers between campsites. At Crooked River Campground, "it seemed like every site was surrounded by dense undergrowth which really added more privacy. You can see from my campground and another random site I took a photo of that you are really nestled into the underbrush."

Clean bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds maintain clean restrooms despite rustic settings. "The bath house are cleaned daily and are well equipped," notes a camper at Trails End RV Park. Some facilities offer warm showers, though quality varies by location.

Variety of site options: Campers can choose between open field camping or shaded sites depending on their preferences. "There are open sites for solar and shaded spots. There is plenty of room for pull through with large rigs," explains a visitor at Lake Panasoffkee.

Free camping options: Several water management district properties offer no-cost camping with permits. Flying Eagle Preserve provides free sites but requires online reservation: "You make a free reservation and receive the gate code to get in. We had a wonderful time and ran into very few people."

What you should know

Road conditions: Many access roads are unpaved and can become challenging after rain. "The road in called SW 113 ST was hardcore off road muddy driving. We pay for the sites so the road in could have been a lot less treacherous. Potholes all the way to the site," reports a Flying Eagle Preserve visitor.

Noise considerations: Highway noise affects some campgrounds near major roads. "While these are large shaded site with water, electric, and your standard picnic table, and a fire ring... there is a lot of highway noise," notes a camper at Cypress Glen.

Bug preparation: Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially during warmer months. "There's mosquitoes but that is Florida camping, bring bug spray and keep the fire going helps," advises a Crooked River visitor.

Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds and carriers. A Hog Island camper reported: "Cellular service is spotty, but mostly usable," while Flying Eagle offers "2-3 bars of 5G AT&T."

Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds have shifted from walk-up to reservation-only systems. "They did away with walk ups, now it's reserve America and price went up," notes a Cypress Glen visitor. River Junction's walk-up status has also changed: "I just called them and none are walk-in. All has to be reserved."

Tips for camping with families

Kid-friendly water features: Silver Lake offers swimming opportunities with gradual entry points. "We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass... The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs, they all agree that this was their favorite part," shared a family at Crooked River.

Spacious sites for play: Look for sites with room for outdoor games and activities. "We had site 74 and really enjoyed it. It was huge and secluded! Our kids were able to run around and be noisy and we weren't worried about annoying our neighbors," reported a family at Crooked River.

Free water equipment: Some private campgrounds offer complimentary recreational equipment. "They have a canoe, kayaks and a paddle boat for their guest to use free of charge," notes a visitor at Trails End RV Park.

Wildlife educational opportunities: The diverse ecosystem provides real-world nature lessons. "The wildlife during the day is awesome to see on the water and then at night the animal life comes alive at a certain point at night. The coyotes at night is one of the coolest things to listen to," explains a River Junction camper.

Tips from RVers

Site selection considerations: Many sites require careful assessment for leveling. "Site 7 was quite undeveloped. Thanks to Anderson levelers we were fine," noted an RV camper at Lake Griffin State Park.

Hookup availability: Electric options vary between 30-amp and 50-amp service depending on location. "We had a wonderful time and ran into very few people... There is non-potable water spigots throughout the campground and there are miles and miles worth of trails for biking, hiking, or horseback riding," reports a Lake Panasoffkee visitor.

Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow entrances that limit larger rigs. "Be aware, it may be very difficult to get large RVs in the sites. The trip into the campground is very bumpy & narrow, with low hanging trees," cautions a River Junction RVer.

Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds with hookups offer dump stations on-site. "The dump station is no longer in use so you have to use the bath house or dump elsewhere," reports a visitor at Holder Mine Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lake Panasoffkee, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 395 campgrounds and RV parks near Lake Panasoffkee, FL and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lake Panasoffkee, FL is Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 38 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Lake Panasoffkee, FL.

What parks are near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Lake Panasoffkee, FL that allow camping, notably National Forests in Florida and Ocala National Forest.