Silver Springs State Park Campground provides full-service accommodations with spacious sites and extensive trail systems in Ocala, Florida. The park offers both tent and RV camping options with well-maintained facilities on nearly 5,000 acres of natural Florida landscape. Several nearby locations also provide yurt camping near Ocala, Florida, with amenities ranging from basic to luxury experiences.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Silver Springs State Park Campground offers excellent water activities with crystal clear springs ideal for paddling. One camper noted, "Beautiful place. Kayaking here is awesome. Try not to go during a tourist time." Rentals are available directly at the park.
Hiking trails: Mutual Mine Campground in Withlacoochee State Forest features multiple trail systems for day hiking. A visitor shared, "We hiked extensively in this tract and used Mutual Mine campground as one of our stop-overs. Very nice, open, flat areas to pitch tents and close to hiking trails."
Swimming in natural springs: Several campgrounds offer spring access for cooling off during hot weather. At Mutual Mine Campground, "the watering hole helped us stay cool and the camp host was very informative and friendly," according to one reviewer who visited during summer months.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Silver Springs State Park Campground receives consistently positive feedback for site layout. One camper mentioned, "Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors. I am a native Floridian and this is the real deal." Sites typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and hookups.
Peaceful atmosphere: Grateful Hammock offers yurt camping in Ocala, Florida with a focus on tranquility. A visitor described it as "gorgeous! If you find it and come, please be respectful and Bear aware. It's a small community and we are grateful for it."
Amenities and activities: Lake Waldena Resort offers diverse recreational options. A camper explained, "The boats & kayaks are free for campers. You just have to sign one out at the office. They have a large pavilion & 2 wooden docks- one with a covered seating area."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Campgrounds near Ocala fill quickly, especially in winter months. At Silver Springs State Park Campground, a visitor mentioned, "It was quite a relief to be able to secure reservations for both the beginning and end of my trip."
Wildlife encounters: Local wildlife is abundant and sometimes intrusive. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is known for diverse species. A camper reported, "We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking."
Weather considerations: Summer camping requires preparation for heat and insects. For Mutual Mine Campground, a reviewer advised, "Would absolutely recommend this campground...Will definitely be back to visit when it's cooler."
Tips for camping with families
Glass-bottom boat tours: Children often enjoy the educational boat rides at Silver Springs. One parent shared, "We have a 4 year old and a 10 year old and they both really enjoyed the boat tour also."
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Lake Waldena Resort provides safe swimming options for children. A family camper noted, "The lake was really a joy to swim on, the kids were in it all day."
Free recreational equipment: Some campgrounds provide complimentary activities. A reviewer at Lake Waldena mentioned, "Free to use kayaks and water sports, my son learned how to ride a bicycle for the first time today with one of their bicycles!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for big rigs: For larger vehicles, campgrounds vary in accessibility. At Sportsman's Cove Resort, RVers find waterfront options in a relaxed setting. One camper described it as a "great place to stay. Layed back atmosphere. Small campground right on a lake."
Hookup quality: Full hookups are available at most Ocala area campgrounds. Silver Springs RV Park provides comprehensive services, with a camper noting, "The bathhouse is very nice and spacious. 5 showers/6 stalls. There is a nice pool area."
Seasonal considerations: Winter months offer the most comfortable RV camping conditions in Ocala. One camper at Paynes Prairie mentioned, "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter."
