Camping opportunities near Morriston, Florida center around the region's freshwater springs, riverine ecosystems and subtropical hardwood forests at elevations averaging just 60-80 feet above sea level. The area's sandy soil and limestone bedrock create ideal conditions for tent camping, while cabins and RV sites maintain accessibility during the wet season from June through September when afternoon thunderstorms are common. Winter camping offers mild temperatures with occasional cold fronts dropping nighttime lows into the 40s.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Paynes Prairie: The extensive trail system supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "This park has 8 trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," notes Brenda S. from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
Glass-bottom boat tours: Available daily at Silver Springs for $16-25 per person, allowing visitors to observe underwater life without getting wet. "The glass bottom boat tour is an absolute must, we had such a wonderful time and the boat captain had lots of interesting information," shares Carlos R. who visited with children.
Paddling on Orange Lake: Accessible from Sportsman's Cove Resort with kayak rentals for $10. "The park is in a great area Mcintosh and Micanopy are historical towns with great walk, and bike ability. Right in Orange Lake you can kayak," reports Rebecca H. from Sportsman's Cove Resort.
Hiking local trails: The River Loop Trail at O'Leno State Park connects to the Santa Fe River with unique river features. "The foliage is lots of fern and primitive looking fauna which makes for a very intriguing visit. The trail and bridges were reminiscent of that movie, no machete required," writes Shelly S.
What campers like
Spacious sites: At Silver Springs, camping areas provide more room than typical commercial campgrounds. "Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors. I am a native Floridian and this is the real deal. This is a quiet park with a lot of nature," explains Jody O. from Silver Springs State Park Campground.
Dark skies for stargazing: Paynes Prairie offers minimal light pollution for astronomy enthusiasts. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room. The location is great for visiting the prairie and easy access to Gainesville," reports Joe R.
Clean facilities: Manatee Springs maintains quality restrooms and camping infrastructure. "Peaceful secluded campsites. Most have a wooded buffer. There are full hookup sites available," notes Dave D. about Manatee Springs State Park Campground.
Natural setting: The undeveloped surroundings create an authentic experience. "Campground is ok - nice wooded sites, but not as much privacy between sites as we have been spoiled by in other FL state parks," reports Denise from Paynes Prairie.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Florida state parks fill quickly during winter months. "From the grasslands to the marshes, Paynes is truly one of a kind. It's challenging to get a reservation for the campgrounds but worth it if you can," advises Issa F.
Pet restrictions: Many trails prohibit dogs at certain parks. "The biggest disappointment for this state park is that all of the things they advertise (and I was looking forward to) - bison, horses, wildlife - are all on trails where pets are not allowed," cautions Denise.
Weather considerations: Summer brings insects and humidity. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter. All kinds of little critters in the woods and access to hikes and many gators," warns Dan X.
Glamping in Morriston, Florida options: While upscale glamping opportunities exist near Morriston, advanced planning is essential. "We stayed in site 33. Sites have fire ring and picnic tables," mentions Dave D. about his experience at Manatee Springs State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Participate in guided activities for educational opportunities. "We did the Ranger led hike which was really nice, my 5 year old struggled to keep up with the Ranger and there are decent elevation changes," shares Lindsey H. from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Kid-friendly swimming: The springs maintain consistent water temperatures year-round at 72°F. "The sites are big and have plenty of space between them. We have a 4 year old and a 10 year old and they both really enjoyed the boat tour also," reports Carlos R.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play structures for children. "There is a nice pool and playground. We went in late October. Nice preserve to walk or bike to. Observation tower. Saw wild horses in the prairie," notes Lauren W.
Safety considerations: Keep children supervised near water. "Lovely Park with lots of wildlife!! La Chua trail was beautiful and we saw lots of gators," warns Lindsey H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request full-hookup sites when available as they fill quickly. "We were able to get 2 nights in a pull thru site with full hook up. Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors," notes Jody O.
Access considerations: Some park roads present challenges for larger rigs. "Really tight if you got a big rig, lots of sand but was very happy with the stay overall. Not far from downtown high springs and tubing," advises SouthernGinger about O'Leno State Park.
Utility quality: Water pressure varies between parks. "The water pressure is very poor," notes Beth P. about Nature's Resort. "Full facilities. Extensive trails. River access. Beautiful forest," adds Bob S. about Silver Springs.
Site surface: Many sites feature sand rather than gravel or concrete. "The Dogwood campground sites are well spaced out with sand, electric, sand, water, picnic table and sand," comments Shelly S. describing O'Leno State Park.
