O'Leno State Park sits 29 miles from Newberry, Florida, featuring a distinct river disappearance where the Santa Fe River flows underground for three miles before reemerging. The park's 6,000 acres include dense forests with hiking trails that connect to primitive camping areas. Campgrounds in this region often feature natural springs maintaining constant 72-degree water temperatures year-round, providing cooling relief during Florida's humid summer months.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Manatee Springs State Park, visitors can kayak through clear spring waters that feed into the Suwannee River. One camper noted, "Boardwalk and swimming in the springs was open... Boardwalk was really cool and long and we saw a couple of manatees."
Wildlife viewing: The trails at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offer excellent opportunities to spot diverse Florida wildlife. A visitor mentioned, "The camp is frequented by college students. Bathrooms are clean. Plenty of hiking to be found. Buffalo, deer, eagles, alligators, owls....Visit Sweetwater."
Swimming in springs: Natural springs provide refreshing swimming spots throughout the region. A camper at O'Leno State Park explained, "The campsite was nice and private. The bathrooms were clean. The park had nice hiking trails, but I enjoyed the kayaking most of all. There is a swimming section."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campgrounds near Newberry offer secluded camping spots. A visitor at O'Leno State Park shared, "This is a campground I have been to many times in the winter. It has water and electric hookups as well as a central playground and bathrooms. It is a short hike to the Santa Fe River and many trails that are not too strenuous."
Natural spring access: The region's springs are consistently rated as a top attraction. A camper at Ichetucknee Family Canoe and Cabins commented, "Spring is really beautiful, and tubing all the way down was fun, campground is far from the Spring you would have to drive there its not convenient to walk there."
Waterfront locations: Lakeside camping sites provide direct water access. At Sportsman's Cove Resort, a visitor wrote, "Great place to stay. Layed back atmosphere. Small campground right on a lake. The lake is natural and undisturbed."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for glamping close to Newberry, Florida. A visitor to Paynes Prairie warned, "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."
Pet restrictions: Not all trails allow dogs. A camper noted about Paynes Prairie, "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."
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. At Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground, a visitor reported, "Zero WiFi or Zero cell service (1 tiny bar but not enough to do a basic internet search)."
Tips for camping with families
Animal interaction opportunities: Several glamping sites near Newberry include farm animals. At Ichetucknee Family Canoe and Cabins, a visitor shared, "There's also a lot of friendly animals that live on the property, such as goats, a donkey, chickens, dogs and cats. It's a wonderful family friendly experience for all."
Pool alternatives: For families who prefer controlled swimming environments. A visitor to Otter Springs mentioned, "They have hot showers heated indoor pool blue grass concerts lots of activities including volleyball."
Recreation options: Multiple activities keep children engaged. At Silver Springs State Park, a camper noted, "The glass bottom boat tour is an absolute must, we had such a wonderful time and the boat captain had lots of interesting information. We have a 4 year old and a 10 year old and they both really enjoyed the boat tour also."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on size and access needs. At Manatee Springs, an RVer advised, "It is slightly tight in some spots if you have a large camper or RV. But overall very relaxing campground with beautiful springs."
Water quality awareness: Some camping areas have water quality issues. At Ellie Ray's RV Resort, a visitor noted, "Water in cabin was brown - so showering was strange. Bring bottled water/water storage."
Hookup differences: Full-service sites are limited at some parks. A camper at Travelers Campground explained, "The park was fine. It is what the name calls it- a campground for travelers. Not sure I'd want to stay here for more than a day or two. We were in a little pull through area."
