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Campgrounds near Umatilla, Florida range from rustic forest sites to full-service RV resorts, with notable options in the Ocala National Forest just minutes from town. Alexander Springs Recreation Area and Lake Dorr Campground provide water-based recreation opportunities with tent and RV camping areas. Several private RV parks cater to long-term visitors, particularly during winter months when snowbirds migrate to central Florida. Lakefront camping represents a significant draw to the region, with Wekiwa Springs State Park offering cabin accommodations in addition to traditional camping areas.
Weather conditions remain favorable for camping throughout much of the year, though summer brings high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Many campground options require reservations, especially during peak winter seasons when northern visitors seek warmer climates. The region's lakes, springs, and forest areas create distinct camping experiences across relatively short distances. Primitive sites in conservation areas like Sawgrass Island Preserve contrast with fully developed facilities at places such as Encore Southern Palms. A visitor to Lake Dorr Campground noted: "Lake Dorr is a super nice camp site located less than an hour away from some of Florida's natural springs. It's also in the middle of two towns, Walmart is about 20 minutes away along with other stores and restaurants!"
The presence of natural springs represents a defining feature of camping in this region. Access to Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, and Blue Spring provides unique swimming and paddling opportunities within short drives from most camping areas. Campground reviews frequently mention proximity to water as a key consideration. Developed campgrounds typically provide standard amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and access to restroom facilities, though amenities vary significantly between public and private options. Campers seeking solitude may prefer the forest campgrounds with more vegetation between sites. One reviewer described the experience at Ocala National Forest's Lake Dorr Campground: "Every campsite has its own little private nook. So it's up to you if you're a social butterfly or want to just be anti-social. Always depends on the mood and reasons for getting away I guess."
"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."
from $38 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $38 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $38 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
from $24 - $95 / night
Check Availability"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."
"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."
from $18 / night
Check Availability"Lake Dorr is a super nice camp site located less than an hour away from some of Florida’s natural springs."
"Lake Dorr, NF campground in Ocala NF, FL Some sites are pretty secluded. This is not necessarily super attractive campground to me. I don’t know why for sure."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $40 - $73 / night
Check Availability
ScoutA very nice campground northwest of Orlando in Apopka. It's near a small airport that only has small planes flying in and out. It's relatively quiet here with access to the major theme parks from the nearby expressway. The staff here are very nice and friendly. I've stayed here on and off for approximately 1 month this summer and plan on coming back here again for the winter.
TravelerOak tree is more of a trailer park home opposed to being a campsite but there are people who live in tents on the property
GuideSurrounded by trees quiet and peaceful
ScoutI visited Preservation Point in June and really enjoyed the stay. The property is a quiet with a lot of open space and natural scenery. The RV sites were clean, brand new, level, and easy to get set up on. The hookups were simple, and everything felt well laid out with plenty of room for the RV. Gail was very helpful and welcoming, which made the whole experience easy from the start. There is plenty of room to relax, enjoy the wildlife, and take in the natural setting. It is also a nice location for exploring nearby Inverness, the Withlacoochee State Trail, and other Central Florida spots. You can tell the park is still growing, but the foundation is excellent. For anyone looking for a clean, quiet, RV-only place with easy hookups and a peaceful setting, Preservation Point is definitely worth considering.
GuideNice state park. Plenty of lakes, but also plenty of gators at this time; hatching season. Wide open space, great roads. Not all sites have sewer hookups, it’s worth finding out which one before booking, if it is important for you. Even glamping tents and cabins are available, cabins are right next to the lake. Swimming area at Lake Louisa has a playground with swings and even a beach/swimming area, but that seems awfully dangerous, given the noises the gators make about 30 feet away. Unfortunately there is not a lot of things to do near the state park if one wants to do anything outside of camping, at least not a lot I could find, maybe you are better at that. Apparently it is very popular with bikers and triathletes, I have seen at least 10 today, using the great roads.
ScoutWe love this campground. It's quiet and clean and the staff is very friendly.
ScoutMy husband and I love spending time here and overlooking the water, the sunsets and taking our boat out spending time with our family ,everyone there is super nice and friendly 😊
LegendIf you're planning a visit to Walt Disney World or any of Orlando's major attractions and prefer staying in your own RV over an expensive hotel room, Sun Outdoors Orlando Champions Gate continues to be one of the more convenient options in the area. Since my original visit, the resort has matured nicely, with its modern facilities, clean grounds and resort-style atmosphere making it an appealing basecamp for exploring Central Florida. And make no mistake about it, while this is very much an RV resort – not a nature campground – this spot succeeds by delivering comfort, convenience and easy access to everything the Orlando area has to offer.
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) Beautifully renovated facilities that still feel modern and well-maintained; (2) Outstanding heated swimming pool, clubhouse and spotless comfort stations remain the centerpiece of the resort; (3) Full-hookup RV sites with concrete pads make setup quick and easy; (4) Exceptional location just minutes from Walt Disney World, ChampionsGate with countless dining, shopping and entertainment options; and (5) Everyday conveniences like Publix, Aldi, CVS and numerous restaurants remain close enough that you can leave the RV parked and run errands with ease.
LOWLIGHTS: (1) The campground still feels more like an RV resort than a traditional campground, with relatively little mature landscaping or natural privacy; (2) Larger fifth wheels and motorhomes may find some sites a bit tighter than expected; (3) Tent campers will likely find the experience less appealing due to the predominance of paved surfaces and surrounding RVs; (4) Depending on your site's location, nearby road traffic can occasionally detract from the otherwise relaxing atmosphere; and (5) If you're seeking a true Florida nature experience, you'll need to venture beyond the campground to nearby lakes, conservation areas or state parks.
Happy Camping!
ScoutGamble Memorial RV Park was awesome. The park is very large the scenery is beautiful. They have a butterfly garden, a walking trail and a beach and river as side they Also have river to fish in. Washers and dryers are available. As well as a bath house. They have security as well as 2 camp host. I highly recommend camping at Gamble.
Camping spots near Umatilla, Florida center around the Ocala National Forest, which encompasses over 380,000 acres of pine scrub, springs, and lakes. The region sits at elevations between 100-200 feet above sea level, creating a unique ecosystem where camping conditions remain favorable year-round except during hurricane season. Water tables fluctuate seasonally, affecting access to some primitive camping areas during summer rainy months.
Spring swimming: 72-degree refreshment: Alexander Springs Recreation Area offers one of the largest swimming areas among Florida springs. "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 Gabby C. The clear water provides ideal conditions for swimming and observing wildlife.
Canoe or kayak the Wekiva River: Wekiva Falls RV Resort provides river access with equipment rentals. "Rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Wekiva River," suggests Tonia B. The river system connects to multiple waterways suitable for half-day or full-day paddling trips.
Hiking through sand pine scrub: Clearwater Lake Campground offers trail access around the lake and into surrounding forest. "There is a hiking trail that circles the lake, and the Paisley mountain bike trail head also begins at the campground entrance," explains Tom R. The varied terrain showcases Florida's unique inland ecosystems.
Privacy between sites: Lake Dorr Campground provides secluded camping spots in the national forest. "Every campsite has its own little private nook. So it's up to you if you're a social butterfly or want to just be anti-social," explains darsea. Sites are arranged to maximize separation between neighbors.
Proximity to supplies: Despite the natural setting, many camping locations offer convenient access to necessities. "It's also in the middle of two towns, Walmart is about 20 minutes away along with other stores and restaurants!" notes Jessica L. about Lake Dorr Campground.
Shaded camping areas: The region's mature oak canopy provides natural cooling. "Very nice campground, the oak canopy makes great shade in the heat," writes Nicole D. about Alexander Springs. This natural shade becomes particularly valuable during hot summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Swimming restrictions during manatee season: Blue Spring State Park Campground limits water access during winter months. "Weekends during the summer are VERY busy. During the winter you may not be able to swim because of the manatees," explains Zach G. Conservation efforts protect these marine mammals during cooler periods.
Early arrival recommended for springs: Popular recreation areas fill quickly, especially during weekends and summer. "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity," advises Hannah S. about Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Wildlife precautions needed: Several campgrounds require proper food storage due to local wildlife. "There are very few amenities here beyond the restrooms, picnic tables and fire rings," notes Stuart K. about Trimble Park. "It is an active area for bears so make sure not to leave any food out at night," adds Kevin D. about Clearwater Lake.
Child-friendly swimming options: Juniper Springs Recreation Area provides controlled swimming environments. "The springs/swimming area is really beautiful! Huge with room for lots of people, deep diving areas, shallows children's areas," describes Zanny M. The constant spring temperature remains around 72°F year-round.
Beginner-friendly camping environment: The area offers accessible introduction to camping for first-timers. "Great place for new or experienced campers, definitely and great way to introduce someone new to camping!" advises Zanny M. about Juniper Springs. Sites often include basic amenities needed for comfortable family camping.
Playgrounds and organized activities: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated children's facilities. "A seemingly brand new playground for the kiddos," mentions Stuart K. about Trimble Park Campground. Some larger facilities like Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offer ranger-led programs during peak seasons.
Limited utility hookups in forest campgrounds: Many natural area sites lack full connections. "No water or electric, but every couple sites there was a drinking water fill up station," reports Gabby C. about Alexander Springs. Plan accordingly for power generation and water conservation.
Tight maneuvering in some campgrounds: Several camping areas present challenges for larger rigs. "Campground sites feel secluded with vegetation but can be challenging for backing up into spots," notes Emily C. about Blue Spring State Park. Sites in Trimble Park Campground receive better reviews for accessibility.
Seasonal considerations for long-term stays: Winter months attract more long-term campers, affecting availability. "We stayed 2 weeks with our Thousand Trails affiliate plan. We were surrounded by empty sites which was probably due to the pandemic," reports Mary H. at Southern Palms. Reservations become essential during peak winter seasons when northern visitors arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Umatilla, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Umatilla, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 400 campgrounds and RV parks near Umatilla, FL and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Umatilla, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Umatilla, FL is Alexander Springs Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 35 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Umatilla, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Umatilla, FL.
What parks are near Umatilla, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Umatilla, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.
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