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Best Campgrounds near Ocala, FL

1,171 Reviews

The Ocala National Forest dominates the camping landscape around Ocala, Florida, with numerous campgrounds featuring natural springs that maintain a constant 72-degree temperature year-round. Silver Springs State Park Campground offers full-hookup sites for RVs and cabins within a forested setting, while Santos Trailhead & Campground provides access to over 30 miles of mountain biking trails along the Cross Florida Greenway. Tent campers find spacious sites at Alexander Springs Recreation Area, where multiple 4-person tents can fit on a single site. The region spans from developed state park facilities with modern amenities to more primitive Forest Service campgrounds with basic facilities, creating options for various camping styles within a 30-mile radius of downtown.

Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds, particularly during winter months when "snowbirds" fill many RV parks and resorts. Sandy soil conditions can affect vehicle access in some areas, especially after rain or during drought periods when roads may become soft. As one camper noted, "The road that leads to the boat ramp occasionally is forced to close due to soft sand during drought." Cell service varies significantly throughout the region, with Verizon typically providing better coverage than AT&T in forest areas. Summer brings high humidity and temperatures, while winter offers pleasant camping conditions with occasional cool nights. Wildlife considerations include raccoons and black bears, with many forest campgrounds providing lockable storage containers at each site.

Natural springs represent the defining feature of camping in this region, with many campers planning their stays around these unique water features. "The Springs stay 72 degrees year-round so no matter what time of the year the temperature is perfect," reports one visitor to Juniper Springs. Salt Springs, Alexander Springs, and Silver Springs all offer swimming, snorkeling, and paddling opportunities directly accessible from nearby campgrounds. Mountain biking trails attract many visitors to Santos, while equestrian-friendly campgrounds like Shangri-La and Fiddlers Green RV Ranch cater to those traveling with horses. Road noise affects some campgrounds, with Ross Prairie campers recommending "a site as far from the road as possible" to minimize highway sounds. Shaded sites are highly valued during warmer months, with many reviewers specifically mentioning tree cover as a key factor in site selection.

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Best Camping Sites Near Ocala, Florida (350)

    1. Silver Springs State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Ocala, FL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 236-7148

    $24 - $110 / night

    "We rode our bikes around the campground and were amazed as almost all the sites were huge! Live oak trees with Spanish moss...this campground is truly the "Real Florida"."

    "Silver Springs Silver Springs SP Beautiful Florida campground with 60 sites, many pullthrus. The sites are huge with lots of space and privacy. Lush surroundings."

    2. Rainbow Springs State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Dunnellon, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 465-8550

    $30 / night

    "I have been to quite a few campgrounds in Florida over the past 20+ years."

    "The primitive camping is tucked back away from most of the RVs and has a bathhouse with very hot water/ toilets and hot hand dryers. Each site is spaced properly so not each person is too close."

    3. Santos Trailhead & Campground

    17 Reviews
    Belleview, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 369-2693

    $22 / night

    "Although in a populated area of Ocala, this campground is positioned in the trees and makes you feel like you are miles from civilization. The sites are spacious and most are shaded."

    "This campground is located near Ocala, FL. on the cross florida greenway. It is a small loop of only 22 sites with water and electric. Has clean restrooms with showers."

    4. Whimcycle Trail Resort At Santos

    11 Reviews
    Belleview, FL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 581-9917

    $46 - $188 / night

    "We Enjoyed the natural beauty and peaceful surroundings while listening to the

    Owls Hooting ~while we sat at our campfire ."

    "Situated in Ocala, this park offers a wonderful get away for bicycling, horseback riding, or hiking Great trails The park itself is open with few trees but an amazing host."

    5. Ross Prairie Campground

    12 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 732-2606

    $22 / night

    "The positive is that the sites, especially around the outside loop, are spaced nicely and private. It’s not a bad drive to Crystal River or Ocala."

    "Pluses are everything is super clean, the camp hosts are amazing, its easy to get to, great access to Ocala or Dunnellon, all sites are pullthrough, ground is small and quiet, 50 amp, and access to great"

    6. Wild Frontier RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Ocala, FL
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 629-3540

    $56 - $99 / night

    "Example, we are allowed to park on the grass unless there is space in front or behind your RV. We got in trouble for driving around our RV to park on the concrete, which is fine."

    "Nice campground, pool, activities, lots to see around town. Managers and staff very nice"

    7. Ocala RV Camp Resort

    6 Reviews
    Ocala, FL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 237-2138

    "Easy access to I 75 Has nice pond with wildlife , cabins to rent and all services . Friendly staff and dog park."

    8. Ocala Sun RV Resort

    6 Reviews
    Belleview, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 307-1100

    $54 - $75 / night

    "We will return on our trip back through Ocala!"

    "Very large RV park outside The Villages of FL. A mix of transient, seasonal and full timers. Clean if not older facilities. Most sites are good sized."

    9. Silver Springs RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Anthony, FL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 236-3700

    "We were already living in Ocala and we wanted to remain in the area. We discovered Silver Springs RV and are so glad we did. Everyone here, especially the staff, was so welcoming and friendly."

    10. Shangri-La Trailhead & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Hernando, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 347-1163

    $18 / night

    "Easy access to hiking and riding trials. Short drive into both Belview and Ocala."

    "I came for a night since it was close to other parks I wanted to visit, but I do think I’ll come back and have my father in law bring his horse with next time."

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Recent Camping Photos near Ocala, FL

349 Photos of 350 Ocala Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ocala, FL

1171 Reviews of 350 Ocala Campgrounds

  • ENRIQUE T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Wonderful Summer Spot

    Friendly and professional hostesses, clean bathrooms and sites are very spacious and private. The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable. Just watch for coons stealing your food.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Belle Parc RV Resort

    Belle parc is a very relaxing campground

    So check in was easy and the ladies at the front office where amazing and very hospitable. We were shown to our campsite by a very nice gentleman. He even helped us back in and hook up. As for the stay it’s been very relaxing and quiet. The shower houses are awesome. We backed up to one of the lakeside areas where the fishing was excellent. We were Also located next to a pool and it was very clean with limited activity from other guest. Would definitely recommend to stay again.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Awesomeness

    Let me start by saying park.is very clean and well maintained. Sites are big with gravel, fire pits, grill dining tabels and did I say clean. Silver springs is beautiful, go on the boat...

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Gateway Fish Camp

    Laid-Back Old Florida Waterfront Hideaway

    Tucked along the shores of The St. Johns River flowing southward to Lake George, Gateway Fish Camp feels like stepping back into a gentler, quieter version of Florida where fishing poles outnumber smartphones. This little slice of Old Florida charm has a down-home, relaxed atmosphere that’s equal parts rustic and welcoming. The first thing you’ll notice is the water – calm, wide-open lake views that practically beg you to sit (although as there's actually no chairs, I would encourage you to bring your own) a spell on the dock and watch the sun do its magic at either end of the day. Just follow the sandy ‘streets’ or road pathways covered in shade down to the main office.

    The campground here is small and unpretentious (that is my kind word for it at least), offering both pull-in and back-in RV sites, although if I’m honest, there’s a handful of RVs that looked like they’ve been here for a while and have no pretensions of leaving anytime soon. Is the place a bit disheveled and in need of a fresh coat of paint and a good bit of gardening manicure?  Yes.  Expect electric hookups, basic water access, and a layout that’s easy enough to navigate without fancy maneuvering. Restrooms (albeit primitive) are serviceable and clean, and the overall vibe is one of practicality rather than polish. Pet owners will be glad to know furry friends are welcome, and the pace of life here makes it easy to wander with them. It’s not luxury camping, but it’s honest, comfortable, and refreshingly straightforward.

    What really makes Gateway shine is its direct access to Lake George, a dream come true for anglers, kayakers, and birdwatchers. You can drop a line for bass, launch a kayak from the dock, or just sit by the water and spot ospreys circling overhead. Crescent City itself is a short drive away for groceries, gas, or a diner breakfast, but the lake and surrounding marshes provide the real entertainment. This is the kind of place where the sound of boat motors mixes with bird calls and nobody seems in a hurry.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you can, snag a campsite close to the water’s edge – you’ll get front-row seats to sunrise and a constant cool breeze; (2) For a memorable local meal, head over to 3 Bananas Restaurant right on Crescent Lake in Crescent City. Their blackened fish sandwich is as good as the view from the deck; (3) If you are a tent camper like me, you’ll want to take note that this place only has primitive bathrooms, so either bring your own, otherwise, you’ll be hiking to the nearest Publix or Dollar General; (4) Kayakers will love paddling out toward the lake’s eastern shoreline. And if you don’t have a kayak, fret not, the good folks here at Gateway Fish Camp will rent you 1 of the 2 that they have. Early morning trips often reward you with glimpses of herons, egrets, and even the occasional alligator – all from a safe distance, of course!; and (5) Apart from having direct access to Lake George (and nearby access to Crescent Lake), one of the very big upsides to being here at Gateway Fish Camp is the direct access to Fort Gates Ferry, which docks here and for a small fee will transport you to the other side of the St. Johns River, saving you substantial amount of time driving around this body of water.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Bass World Lodge & Marina

    Backwater Bayou Fishing Hole

    Located so close to the St. Johns River that if you were any closer to it, you’d be swimming in it! For those anglers that are looking for no frills accommodations – whether those be from the confines of your own RV or 5th Wheel… or in the event that you need to rent a place for the night – then Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up one of the 4-5 RV slots it has or by renting you one of its basic cabin rentals (up to 10 people can be accommodated). Fishing is coveted in these parts that will place you on the northernmost tip of Lake George in the very itty bitty enclave of Georgetown, which if you want to discover what Old Florida looks like, then just stop on by here for a spell.

    Given the weather conditions in this part of Central Florida, you can check-in to Bass World Lodge & Marina year-round and within minutes of getting set up, you’ll easily have access to the St. Johns in no time by leveraging one of 2 boathouses that sit adjacent to the property here. If you’ve got angling on your mind, you’ll have no problems casting for big- and small-mouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, pickerel, bluegill, lake trout, landlocked salmon, yellow perch, bluegill, panfish, northern pike and even American eel. While on the lake, you can enjoy all sorts of watersports like waterskiing, tubing, paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding, canoeing, boating and even gator hunting (permit required).

    Amenities include: 2 individual boat houses, fish cleaning stations complete with running water, boat slips for rent, non-ethanol fuel, FHU’s offering water, sewage & electric, bait & tackle, community grills, makeshift car rim fire pits, fish cleaning stations, lakefront seats & benches, fishing pier, boat docking, boat rentals, scattered card tables, assorted dock seating and on-site market with souvenirs, cold beverages, beer, ice, snacks and all the fishing gear you can swing your fishing pole at. There’s even a guide you can hire here to show you around the nearby fishing holes.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While brackish, somewhat darker-than-usual waters makes for just mediocre (at best) swimming accommodations, you’re in luck if coming here as nearby, there are gorgeous springs like Silver Springs, Juniper Springs and Alexander Springs, which all 3 will offer crystal-clear snorkeling and swimming options unlike you’ve ever experienced; (2) Because Georgetown is tiny, there’s barely any restaurant options, although we were able to find nearby a few really good spots like Idle Awhile for Cajun Fried Pickles & Blackened Haddock chased down by Rum Runners, Fatboy’s Saloon for Peel & Eat Shrimp, Hawg Burners with iced Tall Boys and Renegades on the River serving up Gator Tail and the best Shepherd’s Pie on the St. Johns – all within reach of a proper Tiki Bar where the Mai Tais pour freely; (3) This RV outpost on the St. Johns River has been up and running by the same family for 3 decades, so when it comes to knowledge of where to cast your line or how to get to a secluded area and away from the crowds, you can ask any one of the family here for some spartan tips and recommendations; (4) IMHO the best RV spots are those closest to the inside loop (#6 and #7), while if you are wanting to rent a cabin, I actually rate those a bit further away from the main office / riverfront, where it is quietest (#3 - #5); and (5) If you’ve come without a boat to get on the water, no worries, Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up Pontoon and Bass Boat rentals, which at $175 - $315 per day is incredibly affordable.

    Happy Camping!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground

    Two days before travel were able to get 2 nights in a pull thru site w full hook up. Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors. I am a native Floridian and this is the real deal. This is a quiet park w a lot of nature. Good for a slow-paced break.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Santos Trailhead & Campground

    Van Camping

    Very nice small campground. Best asset is the access to hiking and biking. Miles of trails.

Guide to Ocala

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!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Ocala, Florida?

Ocala offers several outstanding campgrounds, with Juniper Springs Rec Area standing out for its beautiful facilities, helpful rangers, and crystal-clear 72-degree springs perfect for year-round swimming and kayaking. The Ocala National Forest houses multiple top-rated options including Salt Springs Recreation Area, which features large camping areas with over 150 sites, many with full hookups including 50-amp service, water, and sewer. These campgrounds provide excellent access to hiking trails, springs, and the natural beauty that makes the Ocala area a premier camping destination.

Are there tent camping options near Ocala, FL?

Alexander Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest offers excellent tent camping with large sites that can accommodate multiple tents. The campground provides clean facilities with showers and is situated in the beautiful surroundings of the forest. Another great option for tent campers is Santos Trailhead & Campground, which despite being near populated areas, provides a secluded feel with spacious, shaded sites tucked among the trees. Both campgrounds are popular with outdoor enthusiasts and offer good access to hiking and biking trails.

Are there any lakeside campgrounds near Ocala?

Clearwater Lake Campground offers excellent lakeside camping at the southern end of Ocala National Forest. The campground features well-shaded, private sites spaced apart from each other, providing a calm atmosphere with access to a beautiful lake. While most sites don't offer electric and water hookups, the natural setting compensates with tranquility and beauty. Another option is Lake Eaton Campground, which provides great lakeside camping with easy access to Ocala trails. These lakeside locations offer peaceful water views and opportunities for fishing, paddling, and swimming.

What RV parks and campgrounds are available in Ocala?

Champions Run RV Resort is a fantastic new RV park in Ocala offering reasonable prices, excellent service, and immaculate grounds. The resort features numerous amenities including a pool, hot tub, bocce ball, pickleball, shuffleboard, and an indoor recreation area. For those seeking a quieter option near trails, Ross Prairie Campground provides nicely spaced, private sites, particularly around the outside loop. This quirky little place has recently remodeled bathrooms and offers convenient access to both Crystal River and Ocala, making it ideal for RVers who want to explore the region.

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