Bennett Field Campground — Tiger Bay State Forest
Nice super spacious
Quite a bit of ticks. The camping table had a bee hive …
Several campgrounds surround Ocklawaha, Florida, making it a solid base for nature trips. Silver Springs State Park Campground sits about 12 miles away, where campers can stay near the park's well-known glass-bottom boat tours. About 16 miles from town, Juniper Springs Recreation Area has camping among tropical vegetation with clear, swimmable springs. Lake Griffin State Park Campground works well for families, with its playground and walking paths through nature. Fall and spring bring the most comfortable camping weather to the area, while summer campers should prepare for heat and humidity. You can reach all these campgrounds on good roads, though checking for any closures beforehand is smart. The Ocala National Forest lies nearby with extra trails and wildlife watching spots. Remember to check current fire rules and get any needed permits before your trip. Making reservations is a good idea, particularly when campgrounds fill up during busy times. Following the rules and cleaning up after yourself helps keep these natural areas in good shape for future campers.
$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."
$38 - $70 / night
"The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles. Very sunny during the day and very cool at nigth."
"The Florida Trail runs right through this spot and has a natural spring connection as well. We camped out near the facilities and am happy to report everything was maintained and clean."
$18 / night
"This Florida gem is really something! Campsites were cozy and private. Walking trails a plenty. Friendly, helpful staff and courteous neighbors!"
"Lake Griffin State Park in Fruitland Park, FL is a small Florida State Park and small campground as well. There are only 40 campsites."
$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."
$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."
$38 - $70 / night
"There are no laundry facilities but if you exit park and drive left there is a laundromat, local food, dollar store, bait tackle."
"Located in the center of the state, you’ll have near equal access to both the Atlantic Ocean to the east as well as the Gulf shores to the west."
$38 - $70 / night
"This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida. The facilities were clean and provided showers."
"This is a typical Florida spring."
"This is a quiet little park that sits around a lake with some woods. Let’s see, the Wifi is poor, but we still were able to stream our favorite show at night."
"We found the office & lake area & it's great! The boats & kayaks are free for campers. You just have to sign one out at the office. "
"Nearby shops and such are within 10 miles(gas, groceries, restaurants, flea markets, etc.). Overall, a nice park, but I wouldn't go during the rainy season in Florida."
"Nice little Thousand Trails in Florida. Had full hookups at every site."











Quite a bit of ticks. The camping table had a bee hive …
Great small RV park. Very clean and super friendly & helpful staff. We stayed 3 nights and will definately return. Approximately 60% full-time residents.
Just outside the tiny river village of Georgetown, where Road 309 bends toward Drayton Island, you will find Rivers Edge RV Park sitting exactly where its name promises, right on the banks of the St. Johns River. With roughly 50 or so sites arranged in a simple, easy to navigate loop, this campground feels intimate without being cramped and it books quickly for good reason. The setting is classic 'Old Florida' with long bearded Spanish moss draped over ancient oaks, wide river views and that slow moving, fish-filled water stretching out toward Lake George.
Sites here cater primarily to the RV and 5th wheel crowd, offering full hookups with 30- and 50-amp electric, water & sewer, along with a mix of back-in and pull-through options, many with concrete pads and patios. There is also a designated tent area, thoughtfully placed closer to the river, which gives tent campers a front row seat to sunrise over the water. Restrooms and showers are notably clean, laundry facilities feature newer machines and there is also a propane station on-site. Add in a small dog park, trash stations, a riverside pavilion, lawn games, horseshoes and even pickleball courts and it becomes clear that this is a well-managed, well-maintained operation. Complimentary WiFi reaches most of the park, though streaming can be a bit slow at peak times.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Direct access to the St. Johns River with private boat launch and guest-only slips; (2) Clean, well-kept facilities including modern laundry and shower buildings;(3) Distinct tent area positioned closest to the river; (4) Simple loop layout that makes navigation easy even for larger rigs; (5) Fishing is abundant here with local finds including: largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, shellcracker bream and striped bass; and (6) Affordable pricing compared to many waterfront parks in Florida, but for the area, this is either on par or slightly more $ for what you would typically find, however, IMHO completely worth it!
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Limited availability due to the park’s small size and popularity; (2) WiFi can slow down during busy periods; (3) Fewer restaurant and retail options immediately nearby, because, well, you're completely out in 'the sticks' here in Georgetown, which is admittedly, part of the allure (as well as the downside); (4) Sites, while organized, are not heavily screened for privacy; and (5) This CG is best suited for river lovers and boaters rather than those seeking resort style amenities.
Happy Camping!
The cabins at Blue Spring State Park offer a rare way to experience one of Florida’s most iconic spring-fed rivers without camping by RV or tents. Tucked well away from the busy springhead and day-use crowds and surrounded instead by hardwood hammock and palmetto flats. Arriving is straightforward via Orange City, just a stone's throw from I-4, and once you’re checked in, the cabins feel intentionally removed from the main campground loops, trading generator hums and tent zippers for solid walls, screened porches along with a noticeable sense of calm once the park gates close for the evening.
Each cabin is simple but thoughtfully laid out with climate control, real beds, a small kitchen setup, picnic tables and screened outdoor space that invites slow mornings with a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee and unhurried evenings over a nice iced glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. While these are not luxury accommodations by any stretch of the imagination, they are very clean, well maintained and ideal for families or couples who want immersion in nature without having to 'rough' it. Restrooms and showers are integrated into the cabin setup rather than shared campground facilities and nearby trails make it easy to step directly into the woods for a walk without ever starting the car.
Beyond the cabins themselves, Blue Spring’s broader amenities shine. Hiking trails wind through shaded forest and along the St. Johns River while the spring run offers some of the clearest freshwater paddling in the state. A small concession area and nearby Orange City like Fire on the Bayou, The Salted Goat and Orange Social provide tempting and hyper-local dining options, but most guests will find themselves lingering longer at the cabins, listening to owls at dusk or catching early morning river mist before the park stirs back to life.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you’re visiting during manatee season, the cabins are a ‘golden ticket’ for early and late viewing when crowds thin and the river feels most deserted and almost reverent; (2) For kayaking, launch at the Blue Spring Run canoe and kayak launch and paddle upstream early in the morning for glassy water, manatee sightings in season and wading birds like blue and grey heron, kingfishers, bald eagles and ospreys along the river banks; (3) The cabins closest to the interior trail network tend to feel the most secluded and quiet compared to those nearer service roads; (4) Plan simple meals rather than elaborate cooking, as kitchens are functional but hoestly, quite modest (read: just bare bones); and (5) If you want a true Old Florida day trip, head a short drive north to DeLeon Springs after breakfast for swimming and pancakes at the local restaurant there.
Happy Camping!
Great environment, a lot of marine activity in the water and boat rental was super fun.
Last minute getaway. 20 minutes from palm coast. We enjoyed being by the lake. You could bring your boat to this one for sure.
Awesome open spots for dispersed camping. Not too busy and camp host is a really nice dude.
75 women campers rented the parking lot at Mill Dam used for large group camping. I believe it was $100 a night. Currently a 'burn ban' on fires but they are otherwise allowed. Most of us have dogs and cats, but must check you and you pets for ticks, they are prevalent. There is a lake with a beauriful beach. There are restrooms and changing rooms with floor drains, so if you bring your own shower you can use that. There are no power hookups or dump stations that I saw, but there are dumpsters. There is a resident black bear so MUST observe bear safety. Great place, very nice camp host, kept bathrooms clean and stocked.
The campground is clean with large sites, huge trees, shade or no shade, very clean bath houses, and extremely friendly and helpful staff. The springs themselves are perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkeling. A bit far from a real grocery store but there is a convenient mart and hardware store close by.
Ocklawaha sits in north central Florida, where the landscape features a mix of pine flatwoods, cypress stands, and natural springs maintaining 72-degree temperatures year-round. The region's sandy soil quickly absorbs rainfall, making campgrounds less prone to extended flooding even during summer's frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Many campgrounds in this area remain open throughout the year, with weekday camping offering significantly more solitude than crowded weekend periods.
Kayaking scenic waterways: At Juniper Springs Rec Area, the 7-mile downstream float attracts paddlers to its crystal-clear waters. "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," notes Rebecca E., who warns to "AVOID SPRING & SUMMER WEEKENDS AT ALL COSTS or you will feel like you are at an amusement park waiting to get on a ride."
Mountain biking trails: The Santos Trailhead & Campground provides direct access to internationally recognized mountain biking terrain. "If you love to use awesome bike trails, this is the place!" says Ray P. The campground connects to "over 30 miles of trails to explore" according to Christy C., who explains the trails have been "recently updated to be even better" with various difficulty levels.
Swimming in natural springs: The swimming area at Alexander Springs Recreation Area offers a spacious natural pool around the spring vent. "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," writes Gabby C. The water stays consistently cool regardless of the season, with Tessa M. adding, "It is COLD though...be warned!"
Spacious, private sites: Campers consistently praise Silver Springs State Park Campground for its large campsites with substantial separation. "The sites are big and have plenty of space between them," Carlos R. observes. Jody O. describes the setup as "Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors" and notes "this is a quiet park w a lot of nature."
Proximity to multiple activities: Whimcycle Trail Resort At Santos earns high marks for its strategic location near various outdoor activities. Joni H. reports the "WhimCycle Trail campground location is PERFECT for accessing the Santos biking and hiking trails!" Teresa B. adds they "enjoyed being right next to the biking and hiking trails AND only a few minutes from grocery stores."
Shade from Florida heat: Mature tree canopies provide crucial relief during hot months. "The oak canopy makes great shade in the heat," Nicole D. says of Alexander Springs Recreation Area. At Lake Waldena Resort, campers appreciate the wooded sections, with Cynthia K. noting "Site 1-13 had a view of a marshy area with the lake beyond" and "We had sandhill cranes roaming around the campground who visited once in a while."
Varying bathroom conditions: Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Lake Griffin State Park Campground, "Nice clean restrooms" are reported by Larry M., while others note some parks need maintenance. Charles B. found staff responsiveness varied, mentioning a "young lady ranger seemed a bit lacking in knowledge re: disabled veterans/persons."
Seasonal crowd patterns: Popular springs become extremely crowded during peak periods. Juniper Springs experiences heavy usage where Rebecca E. warns to "AVOID SPRING & SUMMER WEEKENDS AT ALL COSTS." At Salt Springs Recreation Area, Stuart K. advises "chose to go either early or later in the day – as the water's temperature doesn't change remaining constant at 72 degrees throughout the day."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and ticks require proper planning. Larry M. reminds campers visiting Lake Griffin State Park, "It is Florida's so be prepared for mosquitoes." Tina L. warns hikers on the Florida Trail near Alexander Springs to "Be careful of ticks and alligators if you have your dog!!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Santos Trailhead provides encounters with Florida's natural inhabitants. Rich S. notes the park "makes you feel like you are miles from civilization" despite being near populated areas. Zanny M. describes Juniper Springs as having "great trails through the trees you can hike for hours, but easily find your way out, they were well mapped out."
Water safety awareness: Spring runs often contain wildlife requiring parental supervision. Zanny M. explains Juniper Springs is "Great for new or experienced campers, definitely and great way to introduce someone new to camping!" but advises caution with "obstacles depending on tide and fallen trees."
Recreational equipment: Some campgrounds provide free equipment access. Dayanis P. highlights Lake Waldena Resort's family-friendly amenities: "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! The lake was really a joy to swim on, the kids were in it all day."
Site selection considerations: RV sites vary significantly in accessibility and privacy. At Whimcycle Trail Resort, Lisa O. advises against the Tropical loop, explaining "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."
Hookup availability: Full hookup options remain limited at natural springs. At Silver Springs State Park, Bob S. reports "Full facilities" with "extensive trails" and "river access," making it worth the premium. Daniel S. notes Alexander Springs "would be 5 stars if they had some sites with electric hookups."
Seasonal booking recommendations: Campsite availability tightens dramatically during winter months. Charles F. recommends planning well ahead for Three Flags RV Campground, noting "Sites were huge!! Semi shaded with picnic tables and great full hookups" but can fill quickly during snowbird season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ocklawaha, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ocklawaha, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 394 campgrounds and RV parks near Ocklawaha, FL and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Ocklawaha, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ocklawaha, FL is Silver Springs State Park Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 41 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ocklawaha, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Ocklawaha, FL.
What parks are near Ocklawaha, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Ocklawaha, FL that allow camping, notably National Forests in Florida and Ocala National Forest.
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