Tavares is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Tavares, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
"Close to home and took a drive through one day. Haven't been camping yet this year due to illness but getting ready to get on the road."
"We camp a lot during the summer but since this is Florida it's HOT regularly and sizzling during the summer months."
"Just a note of caution: Keep animals away from the water's edge."
"I stayed in site 11 that was positioned so I had a magnificent view of the lake and the little gator that lived at the waters edge."
$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."
$56 - $201 / night
"Big park so lots of walking if you don’t have the cart (or you can bring your own and/or bikes). Our grandsons loved the golf cart!"
"The best campground in Florida ! Fun beautiful and lots to do even without going to the parks Wildlife is abundant Bunnies deer turkey"
$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."
"We stayed 2 weeks with our Thousand Trails affiliate plan. We were surrounded by empty sites which was probably due to the pandemic."
"Next to a highway so it can be noisy."
"While located a bit off the beaten path in a part of Florida that few find themselves in, Magnolia Park Campground, featuring 56 acres of pristine Florida wilderness, is located on an elbow curve where"
"You can hear a small amount of highway traffic in the distance, but totally tolerable. No pull thru sites. We stayed in site #8 and could barely see the neighbor next to us thru the trees/brush."
$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."
$50 - $65 / night
"Maybe they choose the name of this RV enclave because they were either actively hiding from the rest of the known world or due to its location, was hidden from (nearly) plain sight."
"Friendly neighbors and perfect lakeside view."
$40 - $73 / night
"There are beautiful walking trails, beautiful and refreshing cool springs, kayak rentals for $20. There are also some small caves there for anyone who free dives or snorkels."
"I have steps that will not allow us to close the door to the camper if there is not enough room. See second picture. If you have young ones or teenagers this place gives them lots to do."
RangerMargaritaville is so clean & spacious!! The store has so much great stuff and there is always entertainment. They even have a big farmers market on Sundays with tons of vendors. There are two big pools (the back one is quiet) with bars, yummy drinks and good food. They are pet friendly & have dog poo stations along the roads. Very close to a long biking trail & there’s a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff.
TravelerFriendly and professional hostesses, clean bathrooms and sites are very spacious and private. The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable. Just watch for coons stealing your food.
ScoutSo check in was easy and the ladies at the front office where amazing and very hospitable. We were shown to our campsite by a very nice gentleman. He even helped us back in and hook up. As for the stay it’s been very relaxing and quiet. The shower houses are awesome. We backed up to one of the lakeside areas where the fishing was excellent. We were Also located next to a pool and it was very clean with limited activity from other guest. Would definitely recommend to stay again.
ScoutLet me start by saying park.is very clean and well maintained. Sites are big with gravel, fire pits, grill dining tabels and did I say clean. Silver springs is beautiful, go on the boat...
TravelerWe were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn’t check it out, so I’m not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren’t so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!
LegendTucked along the shores of The St. Johns River flowing southward to Lake George, Gateway Fish Camp feels like stepping back into a gentler, quieter version of Florida where fishing poles outnumber smartphones. This little slice of Old Florida charm has a down-home, relaxed atmosphere that’s equal parts rustic and welcoming. The first thing you’ll notice is the water – calm, wide-open lake views that practically beg you to sit (although as there's actually no chairs, I would encourage you to bring your own) a spell on the dock and watch the sun do its magic at either end of the day. Just follow the sandy ‘streets’ or road pathways covered in shade down to the main office.
The campground here is small and unpretentious (that is my kind word for it at least), offering both pull-in and back-in RV sites, although if I’m honest, there’s a handful of RVs that looked like they’ve been here for a while and have no pretensions of leaving anytime soon. Is the place a bit disheveled and in need of a fresh coat of paint and a good bit of gardening manicure? Yes. Expect electric hookups, basic water access, and a layout that’s easy enough to navigate without fancy maneuvering. Restrooms (albeit primitive) are serviceable and clean, and the overall vibe is one of practicality rather than polish. Pet owners will be glad to know furry friends are welcome, and the pace of life here makes it easy to wander with them. It’s not luxury camping, but it’s honest, comfortable, and refreshingly straightforward.
What really makes Gateway shine is its direct access to Lake George, a dream come true for anglers, kayakers, and birdwatchers. You can drop a line for bass, launch a kayak from the dock, or just sit by the water and spot ospreys circling overhead. Crescent City itself is a short drive away for groceries, gas, or a diner breakfast, but the lake and surrounding marshes provide the real entertainment. This is the kind of place where the sound of boat motors mixes with bird calls and nobody seems in a hurry.
Insider Tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you can, snag a campsite close to the water’s edge – you’ll get front-row seats to sunrise and a constant cool breeze; (2) For a memorable local meal, head over to 3 Bananas Restaurant right on Crescent Lake in Crescent City. Their blackened fish sandwich is as good as the view from the deck; (3) If you are a tent camper like me, you’ll want to take note that this place only has primitive bathrooms, so either bring your own, otherwise, you’ll be hiking to the nearest Publix or Dollar General; (4) Kayakers will love paddling out toward the lake’s eastern shoreline. And if you don’t have a kayak, fret not, the good folks here at Gateway Fish Camp will rent you 1 of the 2 that they have. Early morning trips often reward you with glimpses of herons, egrets, and even the occasional alligator – all from a safe distance, of course!; and (5) Apart from having direct access to Lake George (and nearby access to Crescent Lake), one of the very big upsides to being here at Gateway Fish Camp is the direct access to Fort Gates Ferry, which docks here and for a small fee will transport you to the other side of the St. Johns River, saving you substantial amount of time driving around this body of water.
Happy Camping!
ScoutI booked this for a first time car camping with my 4 year old. The tent spots are ok just placed on corner spots with traffic. The spot I got was close to restroom with kids is a must if you don’t have other options. Front people were nice and tried to help. Got rained out of my check out time. Had to extend check out.
ScoutThe place is beautiful and exactly what id been looking for.
ScoutWe thoroughly enjoyed ourselves camping here!
Camping near Tavares, Florida, offers a mix of natural beauty and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Tavares, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Tavares, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 383 campgrounds and RV parks near Tavares, FL and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tavares, FL is Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 64 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Tavares, FL.
What parks are near Tavares, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Tavares, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.
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