Ocala National Forest contains over 380,000 acres of sand pine scrub forest, standing as the oldest national forest in the eastern United States. The forest's campgrounds sit at elevations between 100-200 feet above sea level, with sandy soil that creates excellent drainage at most sites. Winter nights can drop into the 30s°F while maintaining comfortable daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s°F, creating ideal camping conditions during the cooler months.
What to do
Swimming in clear springs: Alexander Springs Recreation Area features a large swimming area where the spring head is located directly in the swimming zone. "The spring head is located right in the swimming area, it's bigger than any swim area at a spring that I have ever been too," notes one camper at Alexander Springs.
Kayaking the spring runs: Juniper Springs Rec Area offers a popular 7-mile downstream paddle with challenging navigation. "Some of the prettiest water in central FL makes for a great one way downstream 7 mile float. Boats less than 10' greatly improves your ability to navigate tight turns," explains one visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake Eaton Campground provides access to multiple viewing areas. "I'd visited this place many times! Love the scenery, saw some wildlife and the fishing pier is adequate!" shares a regular visitor. The campground sits near a lake that attracts diverse wildlife throughout the day.
Hiking the Florida Trail: The Florida National Scenic Trail runs adjacent to several forest campgrounds. At Rodman Campground, "There's 5.1 miles of trail hiking (actually part of the Florida National Scenic Trail that runs adjacent to Rodman Campground)," allowing hikers to access this major trail system.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hopkins Prairie Campground offers secluded sites facing a prairie. "Pretty much all of the sites are shady and most have good privacy between them, especially the sites that face out onto the prairie," explains one visitor who appreciates the natural buffers.
Clean facilities despite remote locations: Clearwater Lake Campground maintains excellent standards. "Restrooms and showers were great along with the dishwashing station. It is an active area for bears so make sure not to leave any food out at night," warns a camper, highlighting both the amenities and wildlife awareness needed.
Consistent water temperature: "The Springs stay 72 degrees year-round so no matter what time of the year the temperature is perfect," describes a visitor about the swimming area at Juniper Springs Rec Area, making it suitable for swimming throughout the year.
Large, level campsites: Salt Springs Recreation Area provides spacious sites for easy setup. "We were in 51 with trees out our windows for a view. H20,elec.,and sewer.good boat ramp for lake. We will be back!" shares a satisfied camper about the well-designed sites.
What you should know
Noise considerations: At Hopkins Prairie Campground, some visitors report: "Loud music and a lot of gun shots," indicating this primitive campground can experience varied noise levels depending on other campers.
Bear activity requirements: Clearwater Lake reports: "It is an active area for bears so make sure not to leave any food out at night. The campground does have a bear proof box to store some stuff in at night but make sure to put food in containers and in your car if you can."
Site selection impacts experience: Salt Springs Recreation Area offers varied sites with different privacy levels. "Nice enough but not private at all. Sites have paved pads but most are not level. Wifi very spotty. Springs are nice," notes one camper, showing the importance of selecting the right site.
Heavy weekend use: The springs become crowded during peak times. "AVOID SPRING & SUMMER WEEKENDS AT ALL COSTS or you will feel like you are at an amusement park waiting to get on a ride," warns a Juniper Springs visitor about the kayak run.
Tips for camping with families
Select campgrounds with direct spring access: Alexander Springs Recreation Area provides immediate swimming opportunities. "Large grassy area for picnicking was really nice," mentions one family, appreciating the convenient recreation setup.
Look for sites with natural shade: Clearwater Lake Campground offers protection from the heat. "The campground is quiet and sites are HUGE. We were able to find a very nice hammock friendly site near the water," reports a family camper.
Consider cabin options for mixed camping experiences: Silver Springs State Park offers cabins for families wanting more comfort. "Beautiful large Cabins at a decent price. Kayaking here is awesome," shares a visitor who enjoyed both cabin comfort and outdoor activities.
Schedule spring visits during weekdays: Family campers recommend visiting during off-peak times. "The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable," notes a visitor to Alexander Springs, though most springs are less crowded on weekdays.
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup availability varies: Salt Springs Recreation Area offers complete services in certain loops. "The people are more friendly on that side! Other than that it's clean nicely laid out and the staff is friendly," mentions a camper comparing the primitive and RV camping areas.
Consider size limitations: Juniper Springs has two distinct camping areas with different characteristics. "I was completely steered wrong listening to a reviewer saying Tropical was the better campsites. They're not bc virtually every one is a pull thru and those are inherently less private. When I biked through the Sand loop I was completely bummed bc they are huge sites with vegetation all around the sites making them awesome for RVs and privacy."
Paved sites available at select locations: Renegades on the River offers fully developed sites. "All are paver sites, it's not a large park but is well taken care of with a store, restaurant and a large tiki bar right on the river," notes an RV camper appreciating the infrastructure.
Road conditions affect access: Some forest roads require caution with larger rigs. "Difficult to find because there isn't a sign before the turn but nice camping... The road to get in has three large dips which might be a problem for big rigs but we saw several 30+ footers while camped here," reports a visitor to Lake Eaton.
