Best Campgrounds near Pierson, FL

The small town of Pierson, Florida sits at the gateway to Ocala National Forest, where multiple camping styles converge within a 30-mile radius. Juniper Springs Recreation Area and Salt Springs Recreation Area offer established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities, while Hopkins Prairie Campground provides a more rustic experience along a unique wet prairie. Clearwater Lake Campground, located at the southern end of Ocala National Forest, features well-shaded sites with natural buffers between them. For RV travelers, several private campgrounds like Pine Island RV & Marina and Parramore's Fish Camp provide full hookups, while tent campers have options ranging from primitive forest sites to developed campgrounds with basic facilities.

Forest Service roads throughout the region can be challenging for larger vehicles, particularly around Hopkins Prairie where tent camping is often more practical than RVing. As one camper noted, "The forest service roads were a little rough for our RV. Recommend using entrance off route 19 via forest service road 86." Summer heat and humidity make spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Many campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest area require advance reservations, especially during winter months when snowbirds increase demand. Precautions against wildlife are necessary, with lockable storage containers provided at many forest campgrounds to protect food from raccoons and black bears.

Natural springs represent the defining feature of camping in this region, with crystal-clear 72-74 degree water available year-round. "The water in the springs are generally crystal clear and having goggles and/or mask would make this more fun," reports one Salt Springs visitor. Shaded campsites receive consistently high ratings from summer visitors seeking relief from Florida's heat. The Florida Trail passes through or near several campgrounds, providing hiking opportunities directly from camp. Clearwater Lake offers excellent visibility to its mostly sand-bottomed swimming area, while Salt Springs features slightly mineral-tinged water. During winter months, manatee sightings become more common in the springs and runs, adding wildlife viewing opportunities to the camping experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Pierson, Florida (297)

    1. Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area

    45 Reviews
    Astor, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 625-3147

    $37 - $60 / 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."

    2. Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    34 Reviews
    Astor, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 669-3522

    $37 - $60 / 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."

    3. Salt Springs Recreation Area

    57 Reviews
    Salt Springs, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 685-2048

    $37 - $69 / 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."

    4. Blue Spring State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Orange City, FL
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 775-3663

    $24 - $95 / night

    "Not a ton of hiking available here but a decent 3.5 mile one way trail through Florida scrub and oak hammock. The rare and endangered Florida Scrub Jay can be found here."

    "It was still very hot and buggy in Florida so be warned If this is an issue for you. Large campsites with a picnic table, electric, and water."

    5. Tomoka State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Ormond Beach, FL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 676-4050

    $24 / night

    "From the initial encounter with the ranger at the entrance to the staff running the camp store everyone was super-chill. Campground was well maintained and our neighbors were all well behaved."

    "This is my favorite Florida State Park so far. Sites are small. Some are very shallow. There is plenty of greenery between sites. Camp road and sites may be difficult to maneuver into."

    6. Hopkins Prairie Campground — National Forests In Florida

    15 Reviews
    Salt Springs, FL
    14 miles

    $15 / night

    "This is a beautiful campground with proximity to the Florida Scenic Trail. Ideal for tent camping, as the forest service roads were a little rough for our RV."

    "Great view of lake and Hopkins Prairie from most of the sights. Has a large bat house. Florida trail runs thru campground. Pay at the pipe system."

    7. Clearwater Lake Campground

    23 Reviews
    Paisley, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 669-0078

    $37 / night

    "Clearwater Lake Recreation is one of the few National Forest Service managed campgrounds located at the southern end of Ocala National Forest. Campsites are well-shaded, private and spaced apart."

    "Clearwater Lake Recreation Area was recommended to us as a backup option to nearby and popular Alexander Springs for our small group of scouts."

    8. Pine Island RV & Marina

    4 Reviews
    Pierson, FL
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 749-2818

    $55 - $85 / night

    "of a magnificent campsite includes the opportunity of waking up to an endless blue horizon eclipsed by the sinking sun at dusk, then look no further than this very quaint, out-of-the-way boutique lakeside"

    "This give you access to Lake George and some of the most amazing sunsets ever seen."

    10. Highland Park Fish Camp

    4 Reviews
    De Leon Springs, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 734-2334

    $25 - $32 / night

    "Lots of permanent sites takes away from the typical campground.

    Staff member was nice and helpful. NO internet and phone service so spotty that hotspot was useless."

    "This family run location has bee in operation for over 50 years and is working on their 4th generation! They offer 50 sites with full hookups (some 50 amp), tent sites and hot showers."

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Recent Reviews near Pierson, FL

1409 Reviews of 297 Pierson Campgrounds



Guide to Pierson

Camping near Pierson, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: The Silver Springs State Park Campground is perfect for paddling. One visitor mentioned, "We had our own kayaks so we put in at the head springs and paddled down to the campground." It's a scenic trip that showcases the area's natural beauty.
  • Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, have trails that let you explore the local flora and fauna. A reviewer noted, "The trails are absolutely gorgeous. Natural palms growing among tall pines."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Blue Spring State Park Campground, you can see manatees, especially during the cooler months. One camper shared, "This beautiful state park has a secluded old Florida feel."

What campers like

  • Privacy: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at places like Tomoka State Park Campground. A visitor said, "The campsites are carved out of palmettos and tall palm trees for lots of shade and visual privacy."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers rave about the cleanliness of the bathhouses. At Anastasia State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Super clean bathhouse. A few raccoons so take necessary precautions with trash and food storage."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, a visitor noted, "Constant ground crews, sanitation work, and transportation options."

What you should know

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Florida Salt Springs advised, "A camp host came to our site immediately after we unhitched to advise that our one tow vehicle tire on the grass will get us a $250 fine."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Juniper Springs Recreation Area, may have limited amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "The level of cleanliness seems typical of concessionaire run campgrounds. Poor."
  • Noise Levels: Be prepared for noise, especially on weekends. A visitor at Florida Salt Springs said, "Loud and rowdy campers all weekend long—day and night."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At North Beach Camp Resort, one family enjoyed, "The camp is located in a great location between the beach and the river."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Anastasia State Park Campground mentioned, "Beach is beautiful. Lots to do in the area."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground noted, "Pools, restaurants, shops, and fun activities going on all the time."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground said, "The site backs up to an area of low grasses, bushes, and palms with tall pines nearby."
  • Use Dump Stations: Familiarize yourself with the location of dump stations. At Silver Springs State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "There is a dump station."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Florida Salt Springs noted, "Not much in the area, but it did have gas stations and a few places to eat close."

Camping near Pierson, Florida, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Pierson, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Pierson, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 297 campgrounds and RV parks near Pierson, FL and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Pierson, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pierson, FL is Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area with a 4.6-star rating from 45 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pierson, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Pierson, FL.

What parks are near Pierson, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Pierson, FL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.