Camping near Newberry, Florida offers access to a network of freshwater springs connected by the Santa Fe River system. The region sits at a relatively flat elevation with scattered limestone karst formations creating Florida's unique spring landscape. Winter camping from November through March provides the most comfortable temperatures, typically ranging from 50-75°F with lower humidity than summer months.
What to do
Scuba diving at springs: Devil's Den Spring offers a unique underwater cave system for certified divers. "The spring was an amazing experience. The campground was maintained but the bathroom needed to be attended to. Overall, great experience!" shared one visitor at Devil's Den Spring.
Wildlife observation along boardwalks: Walk designated paths at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park to spot native species. "We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," reports a camper at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
Night sky viewing: The darker skies in rural areas around Newberry create opportunities for stargazing. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room," notes a visitor about Paynes Prairie Preserve.
Swimming in 72-degree water: Hart Springs offers a constant year-round water temperature that's refreshing in summer but comfortable on warmer winter days. "The Hart Spring has one of the largest swimming area with year-round 72-degree Fahrenheit water temperatures," explains a camper.
What campers like
Family-friendly water recreation: Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park provides accessible water activities for all ages. "The spring is MAGNIFICENT! We swam, floated, dove, and played in the sand. The Swimming area around the spring was nice and sandy and graded, not just rocky and/or deep some of the other near by springs," shares a visitor at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park Campground.
Proximity between campgrounds and springs: At many locations, camping puts you within walking distance of swimming areas. "The best part of this park is the short trail to Hart Springs directly from the campground. It takes you through shaded Florida swamp and marsh and opens up on the Hart springs recreation area," explains a camper at Hart Springs Park.
Clean bathroom facilities: Most state park campgrounds maintain well-kept restroom areas. "Sites are easy to back in and we was almost level where we put our camper. It seems pretty quiet in the evenings and everyone is very friendly that we have seen," reports a Hart Springs visitor.
Pool amenities: Some campgrounds offer swimming pools as an alternative to natural springs. "Nice pool with bathrooms and a big pavilion with picnic tables and two grills for cooking at the pool," notes a Hart Springs camper.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds impact experience: Spring and summer months bring much higher visitation rates. "This spring is one of the newer State parks in Florida. When you camp here you can use the spring before and after those who come for day use (there are a lot). In the evenings we had the spring to ourselves," advises a Gilchrist Blue Springs camper.
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds have more developed access than others. "There is a long dirt road to get in but was very manageable. Same with the sites(sand) which made us a bit nervous looking at it that we would get stuck, but no issues," reports a visitor about Gilchrist Blue Springs.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Not sure who said the internet coverage was good. It SUCKS. The campground is down a hill off the side of the interstate. Any signal probably just floats right by above you," notes a camper at Travelers Campground.
Alcohol policies differ: Some parks prohibit alcohol consumption. "Although Hart springs was closed while we were there due to flooding and construction but should be open for spring 2019, but it looks like an incredible swimming spot with ample space, tables and pavilions," mentions a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety measures: Monitor children closely at natural springs where depths can change suddenly. "The spring gets packed with tubers, floaters, coolers, kayaks, canoes, scuba divers and every other human powered vessel as well but that just gives Ginny it's vibe. What most people don't realize is that if you get to the spring EARLY in the morning you can have it mostly to yourself," advises a camper at Ginnie Springs Outdoors.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "This park also has a splash pad, volleyball and basketball court. Beautiful ½ a mile-long boardwalk along the springs and the Suwannee River," describes a Hart Springs visitor.
Family gathering spaces: Many sites include communal areas for group activities. "The middle sites seem more level than the outer ring of sites. WiFi connection is quite good and you are able to stream Netflix and Prime tv," shares a camper at Hart Springs.
Animal interactions: Some campgrounds feature educational wildlife opportunities. "Found this location here on Dyrt and I'm so glad we did. An animal rescue is woven between the park and around the outside in such a thoughtful and beautiful way," notes a Travelers Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose locations based on shade coverage and accessibility. "The Magnolia campground is the only one we will stay at when going to O'Leno. The campground is about 20 minutes from Ichnetucknee and several other springs," recommends a visitor at Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park.
Water hookup logistics: Prepare with proper equipment for various site layouts. "We stayed in site 1 and it could see the spring from our RV. The staff was friendly and the park host was so full of information. One note: site 1 in particular requires a looooooong hose," warns a camper at Gilchrist Blue Springs.
Navigation challenges: Be aware of tight turns and tree obstacles in older campgrounds. "We are 35' and are in the Magnolia loop but nearly hit a tree backing in. The park doesn't have much in the way of amenities no septic nor washer or dryer," cautions an O'Leno State Park camper.
Leveling preparation: Sandy sites often require additional stabilization. "Did have some issues trying to level. The sites were close and in 'corrals' but something about it made it feel nicer. Can't explain it. Just great feel to this park," shares a visitor about Gilchrist Blue Springs.
