Best Campgrounds near Ocala, FL

Camping near Ocala, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature, fun activities, and a chance to unwind. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Explore the springs: Check out the stunning springs in the area. Many campers rave about the crystal-clear waters at Ginnie Springs Outdoors, where one reviewer said, "This is clearly one of the best natural springs in all of Florida."
• Hiking and biking: Trails abound in the Ocala area. Campers at Silver Springs State Park Campground enjoyed the "woodsy hiking trails" and noted that the park is "quiet" and perfect for outdoor activities.
• Kayaking and canoeing: Many campgrounds offer rentals for water activities. At Lake Louisa State Park Campground, visitors can paddle around and enjoy the scenery, with one camper mentioning, "Shower facilities are recently remodeled and impeccable."

What campers like

• Natural beauty: Campers appreciate the lush surroundings. One visitor at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground said, "The trails are absolutely gorgeous," highlighting the natural palms and tall pines.
• Clean facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A reviewer at Manatee Springs State Park Campground noted, "Facilities were clean and well stocked," making for a pleasant stay.
• Wildlife sightings: Campers love spotting local wildlife. At Rainbow Springs State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "You will see wildlife and enjoy being in a remote spot in nature."

What you should know

• Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell coverage. A camper at Blue Spring State Park Campground mentioned, "No public phone for emergency calls," so plan accordingly.
• Crowded on weekends: Popular spots can get busy. A visitor at Salt Springs Recreation Area noted, "Loud and rowdy campers all weekend long," so consider visiting during the week for a quieter experience.
• Reservations recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A reviewer at O'Leno State Park advised, "We enjoyed the campground so much that we extended our stay."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities for kids. At Lake Louisa State Park Campground, one camper mentioned, "There’s a playground and a small beach to put your feet into water."
• Plan activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. A family at Juniper Springs Recreation Area enjoyed the "challenging kayak run" and noted it was a great way to bond.
• Pack snacks: Having food on hand can save you trips to the store. A camper at Manatee Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "The springs are amazing and full of wildlife," making it a perfect picnic spot.

Tips from RVers

• Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground's sites. A reviewer at Silver Springs State Park Campground noted, "Big rig friendly, several pull thru spots," which is helpful for larger vehicles.
• Look for amenities: Many RV parks offer full hookups. Campers at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground appreciated the "electric hookups" and "drinking water" available at their sites.
• Plan for dump stations: Ensure you know where to empty tanks. A camper at O'Leno State Park mentioned, "There is a dump station," which is a must for RVers.

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Ocala!