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 (301)

    1. Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    35 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."

    2. 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."

    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

    55 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

1430 Reviews of 301 Pierson Campgrounds


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

    Bennett Field Group Camp — Tiger Bay State Forest

    Where Roughing It Meets Room for the Whole Crew

    If you’ve ever thought, "I love camping, but wouldn’t it be fun to bring along 40 of my closest friends?” then Bennett Field Group Camp in Tiger Bay State Forest is your jackpot. This is no dainty, couple’s hideaway. Nope, it’s a big, open field tucked under the pines where your scout troop, church group or family reunion can spread out and see who snores loudest at night. The atmosphere here is pure 'back-to-basics,’ but with just enough orderliness to keep it from feeling like you’re re-creating 'Lord of the Flies' (and if you don't know this reference, you need to go to Amazon right now and have this book sent to you - it will open your world).

    Facilities are rustic yet practical – think of it as camping with training wheels. There are picnic tables, grills and a giant fire ring where ghost stories practically tell themselves. No water or electric hookups at the sites, so RVs and glampers might feel like they’ve been tricked into a survival challenge. But if you’re rocking tents, hammocks or an old-school camper, you’ll be just fine. Restroom facilities are on the primitive (nearly caveman) side – but trust me, it's better than a shovel and a prayer, but not spa-level, so bring your hand sanitizer and a sense of humor. Pets are welcome, but fair warning: they’ll come home smelling like pine needles and campfire.

    The real treat here is Tiger Bay’s 30,000 acres of pine needle wilderness just beyond camp. Hiking trails thread through longleaf pine, palmetto flats and hidden ponds where herons stalk like feathery ninjas. Bikers can hit the sandy forest roads and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of deer, turkeys or the occasional black bear giving you the ‘you don’t belong here’ side-eye. And being so close to Daytona, you can swap the forest’s symphony of crickets and symphony of frogs for NASCAR’s roar within a 20-minute drive.

    Insider Tips? Sure, here’s a handful: (1) If you’re camping with a large group, snag the shady perimeter spots – less dew in the morning and fewer pinecones bonking you on the head; (2) For grub, head to Daytona’s Caribbean Jack’s on the marina where you'll gnosh on great seafood, fruity drinks and live music that makes you forget you’re only half-clean from the woods; (3) Kayakers should paddle the nearby Tomoka River as it’s calm, scenic and full of birdlife that will happily ignore your paddling form; and (4) Forgot half your gear? Don’t sweat it as the Bass Pro Shop over in Daytona, which is just a stone's throw from this particular CG has everything from tents to marshmallow roasters, and you’ll probably leave with three things you didn’t need but had to have; and (4) In case you need to load up on low-cost fuel, there's the Costco that's located just behind the Bass Pro Shop, so you can not only load up on supplies, but load up on cheap fuel too.

    Happy Camping!

  • Emily A.
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Lake Mills Park

    Secure and beautiful

    As a camper that often camps alone, I loved that the park gate closes and locks at night (with a code for campers to exit and enter) and the campground itself has a gate that is always locked as do the bathrooms so they stay fairly nice. And a very good price with a beautiful lake and walking trails. Will visit again.

  • Tara G.
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Trimble Park Campground

    Incredible Hidden Gem

    Just returned from a 2 night stay at Trimble Park and I'm already planning my return next week!  The campground is very small and intimate, you will certainly get to know your neighbors and others staying in the park if you're going to be spending any time outside.  The park employees are zooming about on their golf carts multiple times within the hour during the day and always ready to help if needed.  The man in the office was amazing (I wish I had gotten his name) and so helpful, even swapping our spot for another with a better lake view!  Speaking of, the view is awesome!  Spots 8 and 9 are directly in front of the docks so if you mind other campers walking through your site to get to them, choose a different spot.  Even the spots that don't have a lake view are great!  Every site has a grill, separate fire ring, lantern hangers and picnic table plus electric and water hook ups.  Bathrooms are kept clean, every morning they are tended to.  My only complaint there is that the showers are very narrow.  I'm small and was feeling a bit cramped. Also the water pressure could definitely be stronger...took forever for me to rinse shampoo.  My personal issues are not enough for me to not come back though!  It's a great place to recharge and be at peace; I still can't get over how beautiful it is!

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    Primitive!

    So I was desperate trying to find my very first primitive camp site and started to panic and then came across the review "you might get pinstripes", well let me tell you the trail to the lake is so narrow I wasn't sure I was driving my Chevy Malibu through the forest because it was so overgrown. I started panicking and trying to find a turn around after going through a very soft sandy spot. Figured I'd never be able to get out or reverse. Then the lake appeared and someone left some firewood so I figured better pitch my tent fast before dark. I was scared to death all night alone , I had a black bear sighting that afternoon and I had no bear spray no cellphone service but all there was was whispering pines! It was soothing, and decided if I had to I could spend the night in car. It rained all night and morning. I knew I couldn't drive out or take the risk. I spent the second night. It's a beautiful lake and forest. The setting is breathtaking. I'd go back in a proper vehicle!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Youth Primitive Campground - Tomoka State Park

    Perfect Riverside Youth Group Camping Haven

    If you have hiking, canoeing, fishing, boating, picnicking, kayaking and bird watching on your mind and are looking for a great place that ticks all of these boxes and more, than you definitely want to give Tomoka State Park your due consideration. While I’ve camped here before in the main campground – which is nothing short of amazing – I just recently learned that there’s a Youth Campground that can be reserved (only by calling the main office here at Tomoka SP) for larger groups, so when I was invited to join my buddy’s boy scout group outing here, I jumped at the chance.

    What I love most about Tomoka State Park, especially as I was there to help guide a large group of teens, was all of the exploration that exists, from no shortage of flora like wild coffee bushes, tropical sage, green-fly orchids and of course, all of the live oak hammocks just dripping with Spanish moss. From a fauna standpoint, there’s white-tailed deer, otters, opossums, raccoons and even bobcats that come out closer to sunset as well as throughout the night, so you definitely want to ensure you are packing up everything before turning in. Of course, the stand-out attraction here is the immediate access to the Halifax River, where you can eyeball some coastal inhabitants like oysters, fiddler crabs and countless birds like blue herons, ospreys and eagles who prey on the ample fish that abounds here like redfish, snook, tarpon, black drum and seatrout. And if you keep your eyes open and get lucky, you may also see otters and dolphins.

    As for the campground, we had the entire place to ourselves for the weekend we went camping, so the sheer size of this place is massive – where there easily could be 3-4 different large-sized groups camping without tripping over one another. The ground was a mixture of both dirt and finely-ground sand with uneven patches of land scattered throughout the grounds. A lot of the picnic tables and benches were definitely worn and likely in need of some refurbishment (or replacement altogether) before too much longer. There were scattered concrete slabs around various areas of the campground – some with picnic tables bolted into the ground, while others were bare – the latter of which we used to organize our tent kitchen and eating area around. The CG had decent stand-up grills with adjustable levels for grilling at different heights, but we found that given we were a group, these grills were not large enough nor were there enough for us to BBQ everything we had planned on with our troop, but as we had brought additional grills ourselves, we didn’t have any issues.  Net-net, if you are here for a picnic, the grill situation is fine, but if you are here with a much larger group, then you better bring your own kitchen gear.

    Tree cover was light to non-existent in the center of the campground (so unless you want to get scorched by the unrelenting Florida sun, bring your own shade with you), but the surrounding perimeter was lush with thick jungle-like foliage of ferns and brush palms. A handful of scattered hanging Ts were provided for us to hang garbage and lanterns from and there were a number of solo standing water spigots to draw non-potable water from. The restroom and shower facility was fairly good with external showering hoses providing decent hot water and while the restroom itself was basic, it did have an actual toilet and working hot / cold water sink and paper towel dispenser - which for a primitive campsite is pretty amazing. Nearby there were a handful of covered shelters with additional picnic tables along with a sand volleyball court, which was definitely a bonus for the boys. Further afield, there’s a handful of great docks to either fish from or carefully launch a kayak or canoe from.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) You will want to heed all of the signs that properly warn you about both alligators and snakes – they are real, abundant with this place having had a lot of issues with people not taking these warnings seriously; (2) If you are boating in these parts with an engine, you will want to take note that there’s ample manatees to steer clear of as well as be very aware that there are a number of places, particularly on the inlet of the Tomoka River that are quite shallow, depending upon the timing of the tides; (3) In the event that you need ANYTHING while visiting Tomoka SP, you should definitely make it a point to stop by the very well-appointed Tomoka Outpost and say hello to Captain Scott and his lovely wife Ashley, where here at this store, you’ll find that this place has everything from kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals, guided boat tours, firewood, bait and ice for sale, snacks, beverages as well as beer & wine, including their very own local Tomoka EPA brew, which you can enjoy at the river dock patio overlooking the Tomoka River.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Ponderosa Adult RV Park

    Keep On Mosey'ing Past This RV Ranch

    Maybe it was the descriptor of ‘Adult’ that grabbed my attention or the fact that along this stretch of US1, there’s not a whole lot of competition for attractions that catches one’s eye. If you find yourself pondering a stay at Ponderosa Adult RV(apart from the prerequisite check of your ID), you likely are here because you have either gotten yourself lost or it is very late in the evening and you simply need a place to‘drop anchor’ for the night.

    Whatever the reason you find yourself out in the boondocks here, I would certainly recommend taking a hard pass on this little outcrop of an RV parking lot for a myriad of reasons. First of all, this patch of land is pretty rough– almost as rough as the‘neighbors’ you will encounter if you choose to stay here. There’s a single loop that goes around this place(conveniently named Ponderosa Lane, although it should be renamed loop or circle, right?) with only about two dozen or so slots available with about half of these being of the semi-permanent varietal with the other half occupied by proper RV’ers enroute no doubt to somewhere that’s more promising. As for amenities, there’s not a whole lot apart from a pretty unshapely pebble-strewn pathway, but watch out for all of the potholes(and being from Chicago, that’s saying something)! There’s electric and water hook-ups and a dumpster at the back of the place, but that’s about it.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Keep driving past this RV dump and look for higher ground – within a 30 minute drive of this place you’ll be able to find MUCH better accommodations – just look at my other reviews here on TheDyrt for nearby places that offer a much better experience, such as Palm Coast RV Park, just up the road past Bunnell; (2) If you do have to stay here for some reason, get in late and leave early; (3) Looking for nearby attractions or something to do? I would recommend heading east on Marco Polo Boulevard and crossing I95 to Bulow Creek State Park where you’ll find no shortage of amazing hiking pathways as well as kayak entry points and fishing holes to cast a line in; and (4) For those hauling an ATV, due south of Ponderosa Adult RV Park is something called Florida Cracker Ranch, which is basically a big open mud pit for all your ATV mud-flinging pleasure.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Arrowhead Campsites & Mobile Home Park

    Budget-Friendly Stay Just Off I-75 in the Horse Capital of the World

    Sitting quietly just off I-75, Arrowhead Campsites & Mobile Home Park in Ocala, Florida is located on one of the busiest thoroughfares that runs through Ocala. This place is a no frills, straightforward, budget-friendly campground where grass pads, shady trees and neighborly vibes create a cozy Old-Florida atmosphere. First impressions? This isn’t a resort, but while there is a community pool (that wasn’t working when we stopped by and TBH was incredibly cringe-worthy), it’s a practical, easygoing basecamp that gives you everything you need while keeping you close to Ocala’s natural gems ... as long as you manage your expectations before arriving here.

    Facilities are simple but sufficient (unless they aren't working at all). There are around 100 sites with full hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water, sewer), most on grass with decent leveling. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, cable TV, mediocre bathrooms and subpar showers, a laundry facility, picnic tables and a recreation room. Long-term residents mix with short-stay campers, so expect a lived-in, welcoming feel. The campground also features a dining hall and small community events, adding a sense of 'cringy neighborhood' to your stay.

    Ocala itself is the star attraction nearby. Known as the ‘Horse Capital of the World,’ you’re just minutes away from equestrian centers, rolling farms and the glass-clear waters of Silver Springs State Park. The Ocala National Forest offers endless hiking, kayaking and wildlife watching, while downtown Ocala brings restaurants, art galleries and Southern charm.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a smathering: (1) IMHO the best sites are the ones with grass pads near the front loops for the easiest pull-in and better spacing, especially if you’re arriving late, which is convenient as well for those that want to make an early, discreet and trouble-free exit in the morning; (2) Should you need to stock up on anything, there’s a Walmart Supercenter, Publix, Home Depot and Lowe’s all within a 10-minute drive; (3) A nearby hidden ‘easter egg’ you’ll want to explore are the lesser-visited trails at Silver Springs State Park where you’ll find quiet boardwalks and an historic pioneer village that many tourists (and even local residents) miss; (4) If you’ve come with your kayak, a great place to launch is at Silver Springs State Park where you can paddle down the Silver River. Expect to see turtles, manatees and wild rhesus (not Reese's, but sounds the same) monkeys that somehow call the riverbank home; (5) Because there are long-term residents here at Arrowhead, it’s best to request a short-term site closer to the entrance for less foot traffic and quieter evenings; and (6) When you get tired of conjuring up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler, then check on some local joints like Big Lee’s Serious About BBQ for its nationally acclaimed BBQ brisket, ribs, and sides or Ivy on the Square with its upscale comfort food in a historic downtown building and there’s also Latinos y Mas serving up fusion Latin classics with Mediterranean touches.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort

    Camelot on the River (With a Pool Nicer Than Your HOA)

    Nestled along the St. Johns River in DeBary, Highbanks Marina & Camp Resort is a 25-acre playground where RVers and boaters mingle under giant oaks and Spanish moss. Locals call it ‘Camelot on the River,’ though I’m quite sure Arthur never had 50-amp hookups or a bait shop. First impressions? Think Old Florida charm, river breezes and a place where your neighbor might offer you both a cold beer and unsolicited fishing advice.  Unfortunately, there's no primitive camping here for mi tent pitchin' bredren.

    The campground packs plenty of creature comforts. RV sites come with full hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water, sewer), and most are shaded enough to keep your AC from begging for mercy. There’s a 30'X60' swimming pool (read: bigger than your neighbor’s backyard dream), a recreation hall, horseshoe pits, bocce ball and laundries. The camp store is less ‘convenience shop’ and more ‘bait & souvenirs,’ with everything from fishing gear to trinkets you’ll later wonder why you bought. Then there’s the 72-slip marina where your kayak can feel fancy just by association with the pontoon crowd.

    The setting is pure St. Johns River magic. You can paddle out and watch herons glide by, manatees surface like old river monks or gators give you side-eye. Kayakers rave about the downstream trip to Blue Spring, where you can float past manatees before your coffee gets cold. When you’re done pretending you’re an extra in a National Geographic documentary, DeBary and Deltona are just minutes away for groceries, supplies and a change of scenery.

    Insider Tips? Yeah, you know you are just jonesing for some, right? Here they are: (1) Riverfront sites are the crown jewels at this RV encampment, but book early unless you like camping by the dump station and telling people it’s ‘rustic charm.’; (2) Don’t skip the marina rentals as you’ll look cooler launching a pontoon, but the kayaks give you the better wildlife bragging rights; (3) The on-site Swamp House Grill & Tiki Bar is a must with its fried seafood, rum-fueled tiki drinks along with the chance to meet locals who definitely have fish stories longer than your RV; (4) Some sites feel more ‘neighbors with benefits’ (read: tight) than ‘sprawling privacy,’ so if this of concern for you, do yourself a ‘favor flave’ and grab a spot near the office or look towards the open loops for more elbow room; (5) If you missed it, for mi oar rowin’ bredren, kayak to Blue Spring: it’s the best free manatee show in Florida (sorry, SeaWorld!); and (6) In the event that you’ve already checked out the on-site Swamp House Grill and want to try something new, hit up Hontoon Landing Restaurant for casual riverside eats, Blue Spring Café serving up biscuits the size of your face or DeBary Hall’s nearby eateries for a dose of history and hearty Southern comfort.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Anastasia State Park Campground

    Sand Dunes & Sea Breezes Near Ancient City

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) 139 shaded sites nestled under live oaks dripping with Spanish moss and palmettos with water and electric hookups; (2) Quick access to 4 miles of pristine Atlantic beach; (3) Amenities include bathhouses, dump station, camp store and rental concession; (4) Nature trails and birding along salt marshes and dunes; (5) Minutes from downtown St. Augustine’s history and attractions; (6) Nearby restaurants include O’Steen’s Restaurant, which is famous for fried shrimp, Mellow Mushroom offering hippie-themed pies and Salt Life Food Shack offering up casual seafood with rooftop views. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Tight sites where large RVs may struggle; (2) No sewer hookups at individual sites; (3) Reservations book up fast, especially weekends – trust me, this is one of the MOST POPULAR CAMPGROUNDS in all of Florida!; (4) Mosquitoes and no-see-ums thrive in warm months; and (5) Road noise from A1A can be noticeable. 

    Happy Camping!


Guide to Pierson

Camping near Pierson, Florida offers a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts within the boundaries of Ocala National Forest. Situated in an area with sandy soil and longleaf pine ecosystems, the terrain creates diverse camping conditions across the region. Most primitive campsites lack running water but provide ready access to the Florida Trail, which connects several campgrounds throughout the forest.

What to do

Swimming in springs year-round: Alexander Springs Recreation Area features an unusually large swimming area around the spring head. "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 Recreation Area.

Kayaking Juniper Run: This popular 7-mile downstream paddle requires advance planning. "A gorgeous natural run, sometimes with obstacles depending on tide and fallen trees, that's one part I always enjoyed, maneuvering around new obstacles!" reports a visitor to Juniper Springs Rec Area.

Fishing at multiple locations: Lake George provides excellent fishing opportunities. "Freshwater fishing anywhere along here is just amazing! Lots of wildlife including manatee, shorebirds, bears and more can be seen," explains a regular visitor to Highland Park Fish Camp.

Hiking the Florida Trail: This long-distance trail connects multiple campgrounds. "Great trails through the trees you can hike for hours, but easily find your way out, they were well mapped out," according to a camper who stayed at Juniper Springs.

What campers like

Shaded campsites: The oak canopy at many campgrounds provides crucial relief from Florida sun. "Very nice campground, the oak canopy makes great shade in the heat," reports a visitor to Alexander Springs Recreation Area.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: From manatees to unique forest creatures. "We were surprised with an albino squirrel sighting as an added bonus," mentions a camper at Alexander Springs.

Natural privacy barriers: Many sites feature vegetation that creates seclusion. "The sites are 'semiprivate' with our neighbors being able to see right though to us but it is what it is," explains a camper from Alexander Springs.

Lake views: Some campgrounds offer views over water. "Great view of lake and Hopkins Prairie from most of the sights. Has a large bat house. Florida trail runs thru campground," notes a visitor to Hopkins Prairie Campground.

What you should know

Campground availability varies seasonally: First-come, first-served campgrounds like Hopkins Prairie fill up differently depending on season. "First come first serve, I usually arrive on a Wednesday or Thursday morning (non-holiday weekend) and a majority of sites are available," advises a regular Hopkins Prairie camper.

Cell service limitations: Connectivity is often poor or non-existent. "NO internet and phone service so spotty that hotspot was useless," warns a visitor to Highland Park Fish Camp.

Wildlife precautions needed: Bears and raccoons require proper food storage. "Just watch for coons stealing your food," cautions a camper at Clearwater Lake Campground.

Spring swimming temperature: The springs maintain constant temperatures. "It's COLD though..be warned!" notes one Juniper Springs visitor about the 72-degree spring water.

Tips for camping with families

Swimming spots for different ages: Look for springs with varied depths. "Huge with room for lots of people, deep diving areas, shallows children's areas," recommends a family that visited Juniper Springs.

Free fishing options: Some campgrounds offer no-cost fishing opportunities. "There is a free catch and release pond that is kept well stocked and a great place for the kids or beginners to learn how to fish," shares a visitor to Highland Park Fish Camp.

Bring swimming gear: Enhance spring visibility with proper equipment. "Remember to bring 2$ a pers. and goggles for the springs," suggests a Highland Park Fish Camp visitor.

Recreation activities beyond water: Many campgrounds offer additional amenities. "Our kids enjoyed basketball & swimming at the huge pool," mentions a family that visited Parramore's Fish Camp.

Tips from RVers

Waterfront sites with full hookups: Some camping spots near Pierson offer premium RV amenities with views. "Waterfront RV Sites, RV Rentals (they have 3-4 to choose from), Marina, Boat Slips, Boat Ramp, Camp Store, Bait Shop, Wine & Beer Bar," describes a camper at Pine Island RV & Marina.

Site leveling challenges: Not all RV pads are perfectly level. "Sites have paved pads but most are not level," warns an RVer who stayed at Salt Springs Recreation Area.

Site size considerations: Many RV sites offer ample space. "The site was much bigger than I expected. There were other people near by, but very quiet night," reports a Salt Springs visitor.

Power options vary: Different amperage availability exists across campgrounds. "They offer 50 sites with full hookups (some 50 amp), tent sites and hot showers," notes a visitor to Highland Park Fish Camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Pierson, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Pierson, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 301 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 Alexander Springs Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 35 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 Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.