Campgrounds near Grand Island, Florida range from state parks with full amenities to more primitive sites within the Ocala National Forest. The area features several notable options including Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, Lake Griffin State Park, and Trimble Park, all offering year-round camping opportunities. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several parks like Blue Spring State Park and Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort providing cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort. The region's campgrounds typically sit near freshwater springs, lakes, or rivers, creating diverse recreational possibilities within central Florida's unique ecosystem.
Access to camping areas varies seasonally, with Florida's summer heat and humidity affecting comfort levels from June through September. Most campgrounds maintain paved roads suitable for standard vehicles, though some forest service roads leading to more remote sites may require higher clearance. "This campground is in Ocala National Forest, which is always beautiful. The campsites are large, we fit 3 4+ person tents. This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida," noted one visitor about Alexander Springs Recreation Area. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly during winter months (December-March) when the region experiences an influx of seasonal visitors. Many campgrounds offer both reservable and first-come sites, with booking windows typically opening 6-11 months in advance through Reserve America or recreation.gov.
Water features dominate the camping experience in this region, with springs, lakes and rivers providing natural swimming areas and paddling opportunities. Clearwater Lake Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its crystal-clear swimming area and hiking trails that circle the lake. Several visitors highlight the region's springs as major attractions, with one camper noting that "Salt Springs is a natural spring area that due to the composition of minerals in the water there is a slightly salty tinge to the water." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with many reviewers mentioning sightings of wading birds, alligators, and even manatees during colder months. Campgrounds vary in privacy levels, with state park sites typically offering more space and natural buffers between campsites compared to private RV resorts, which tend to feature more amenities but less seclusion.
$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."
"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."
$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."
$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."
$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."
$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."
"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."
$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."
$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."
$56 - $201 / night
"Big park so lots of walking if you don’t have the cart (or you can bring your own and/or bikes). Our grandsons loved the golf cart!"
"The best campground in Florida ! Fun beautiful and lots to do even without going to the parks Wildlife is abundant Bunnies deer turkey"
ScoutNice 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.
Scout75 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.
GuideOther than the airplane noise overhead it’s fantastic large sites are amazing with water and electric.
ScoutThe campground is clean with large sites, huge trees, shade or no shade, very clean bath houses, and extremely friendly and helpful staff. The springs themselves are perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkeling. A bit far from a real grocery store but there is a convenient mart and hardware store close by.
TravelerWell kept primitive camping site. No road noise, and nice bear cabinets, picnic tables, grill and fire ring.
TravelerOther reviews had suggested that this campsite was largely used by ATV and other off highway vehicle enthusiasts using the adjoining trail system and it was loud and unpleasant. On our visit, there were only three campers total in the area, which was nicely maintained and clean, with a very friendly and accommodating campground host. The campground is directly adjacent to the Florida trail, which provided great opportunities for hiking.
TravelerWe were very disappointed with the condition of what once was the flagship campground in Ocala National Forest. The boardwalks to both the springs adjacent to the campgrounds were in horrible and disrepair and closed, and looked like they had been for some time. The restroom on the tropical loop where we were staying was in serious need of a deep cleaning, lots of grime all over the walls. Additionally, the only dump station in the old campground was out of order and blocked off. This is one of those campgrounds where the forest service has contracted operations to a private contractor, and they are apparently falling down on the job.
ScoutThis campground has friendly staff, clean facilities, and is a bit more affordable than the Kissimmee KOA. About 20 minutes from Disney and there are several stores and restaurants nearby.
GuideGreat place to camp Close to silver springs state park and stores and shopping nearby Would recommend
Camping sites near Grand Island, Florida range from primitive forest settings to full-service lakeside accommodations. The region sits primarily between 30-100 feet above sea level, creating a terrain that combines sandy soil with a water table that's often just a few feet below the surface. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with humidity levels above 80%, while winter lows can occasionally dip below 40°F between December and February.
Springs exploration: Lake County's freshwater attractions offer crystal-clear swimming. At Alexander Springs Recreation Area, the spring head is directly accessible. "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," notes Gabby C. The water maintains a constant temperature year-round, making it refreshing even in Florida's summer heat.
Paddling: River systems connect many of the region's camping areas. Juniper Springs Recreation Area offers a challenging paddling route. "This is a must do if you are a kayaker. Some of the prettiest water in central FL makes for a great one way downstream 7 mile float. Boats less than 10' greatly improves your ability to navigate tight turns," advises Rebecca E. Boat rentals are available at most springs, with costs typically running $20-40 for half-day rentals.
Wildlife viewing: Seasonal animal sightings vary throughout the year. Visitors to Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground report diverse wildlife encounters. "Saw lots of animals. Everyone was very nice!" says Caitlyn P. The park's diverse ecosystems support everything from wading birds to small mammals throughout its trail systems.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer better separation than others. At Lake Dorr Campground, campers appreciate the natural buffers. "Every campsite has its own little private nook. So it's up to you if your a social butterfly or want to just be anti social," explains Darsea. Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and in some cases, bear-proof storage boxes.
Clean facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly across camping areas. Trimble Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "Restrooms and shower facilities are fairly well taken care of," notes Stuart K. "This is a beautiful and well maintained county park." Most campgrounds in the region offer some combination of restrooms, showers, and dishwashing stations.
Water access: Lakefront sites provide additional recreational options. Many campers value the proximity to swimming areas. "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. I paddled my inflatable kayak around lake Carlton and the adjoining lake that has the boat ramp. I launched directly from my campsite," shares Ryan S. about Trimble Park.
Reservations essential: Competition for sites varies seasonally. The booking process at Trimble Park involves "booking 45 days in advance, so you have to time the precise days you want to camp here and be the first person to reserve a spot at 12:01am on the day that those spots become available," explains Stuart K. Most state parks open reservation windows 11 months in advance.
Wildlife precautions: Bears and alligators require proper safety measures. At Clearwater Lake Campground, "It is an active area for bears so make sure not to leave any food out at night. The campground does have a bear proof box to store some stuff in at night but make sure to put food in containers and in your car if you can," advises Kevin D.
Weather considerations: Camping comfort changes dramatically with seasons. Summer visitors should prepare for intense heat and insects. "Very nice campground, the oak canopy makes great shade in the heat," notes Nicole D. about Alexander Springs Recreation Area. Thunderstorms occur frequently during summer afternoons, with the highest rainfall typically coming between June and September.
Accessibility features: Some parks offer specialized accommodations. Wekiwa Springs State Park provides facilities for visitors with mobility challenges. "Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water! She was so helpful," shares Lauren W. Most developed campgrounds in the area offer at least some accessible sites.
Swimming options: Natural springs provide safer alternatives to lakes. Children particularly enjoy the designated swimming areas at Alexander Springs. "The swimming area is amazing," says Rusty R. "I have been camping here since I was a kid. I still enjoy camping at this place." Swimming areas at springs typically include both shallow entry points and deeper sections.
Playground availability: Limited options exist for traditional play structures. Lake Griffin State Park offers some recreational facilities beyond water features. "Good trails. Kayaks/Canoes available to rent. Bathrooms and showers were always clean," notes Tee S. Most developed campgrounds include at least basic recreational facilities like open fields or volleyball courts.
Site selection: RV-specific considerations affect camping experience. Encore Southern Palms RV Resort uses a unique system for site placement. "One thing that separates them for the other campgrounds is the unique style they have of getting you to your spot. You follow a person to your spot and they then stretch a rope for you to back along to make sure your at the farthest from one side to give both you and the next site all the space allotted to your site," explains Robert M.
Hookup variations: Electric and water availability differs widely. Clearwater Lake Campground offers more primitive options. "No power or water at any of the sites, drinkable water is not far from any site," reports Mike G. In contrast, most state parks provide electric hookups at most sites, though sewer connections are less common.
Size restrictions: Many forest service campgrounds limit RV length. At Lake Dorr Campground, Roger W. advises, "Rig Size: I don't think large Riggs would be appropriate here." Most primitive campgrounds within Ocala National Forest can accommodate RVs up to about 25 feet, while state parks and private facilities can often handle larger rigs up to 40+ feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Grand Island, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Grand Island, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 386 campgrounds and RV parks near Grand Island, FL and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Grand Island, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Grand Island, FL is Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Grand Island, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Grand Island, FL.
What parks are near Grand Island, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Grand Island, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.
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