Equestrian Camping near Wildwood, FL

38 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.

Search destinations
    Add dates

    Lake Panasoffkee offers free primitive camping with designated horse stalls for equestrian visitors traveling through Withlacoochee State Forest. The campground features multiple sites in a large open field specifically designed for horse owners, positioned near dedicated horse stalls and miles of interconnected trails. Flush toilets, running water, and non-potable water spigots are available throughout the grounds. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table, with both open sunny areas ideal for solar power and shaded spots under the tree canopy. Equestrians particularly appreciate the spacious layout that easily accommodates trailers and provides ample room for horses to rest between trail rides.

    The equestrian trails connecting to Lake Panasoffkee provide extensive riding opportunities through diverse Florida landscapes. Miles of well-maintained paths suitable for horseback riding wind through the area, with trails accommodating both novice and experienced riders. Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort, located about an hour east, offers more developed equestrian facilities including horse corrals, though at premium prices compared to the free camping at Lake Panasoffkee. Reservations are required for Lake Panasoffkee despite being free, with permits obtained through Southwest Florida Water Management District's website. The area remains accessible year-round, though some seasonal flooding may affect trail conditions during rainy periods. The campground host maintains the property and can assist with local trail information and horse-related questions.

    Best Equestrian Campgrounds near Wildwood (38)

      1. Lake Panasoffkee

      4.9(7)9mi from WildwoodRVs, Tents

      "There was a big open field where basically all equestrian campers parked at since it was near the horse stalls. There’s also more shaded camp spots towards the back which is where I ended up."

      "This time around, there were no equestrian campers so everyone is aiming for the shady spots in the primitive area."

      2. Santos Trailhead & Campground

      4.5(17)20mi from Wildwood24 sitesRVs, Tents

      "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."

      "With camping along the edge in the woods and also in the field with some trees. Lots of open tent camping also. The bathrooms are huge and modern and super nice."

      from $22 / night

      Check Availability

      3. Lake Panasoffkee

      5.0(2)8mi from WildwoodRVs, Tents

      "Just pick a place you want to set up, drive in and park.  Nice trails to hike. Clean bathrooms. Lot's of places to park with full-sun for solar.  They do have non-potable water."

      4. Holder Mine Campground

      4.5(20)23mi from Wildwood27 sitesRVs, Tents

      "I had site 1, which sites 1 and 2 are next to the entrance gate. It was fairly quiet at night. There was a few times I heard loud vehicles gojng down the road but not enough to complain about."

      "Trails available for hikes, bikes, horses and even 4x4 vehicles. Bath house clean and very hot water"

      from $23 / night

      Check Availability

      5. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground

      4.4(65)33mi from Wildwood51 sitesRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "We camp a lot during the summer but since this is Florida it's HOT regularly and sizzling during the summer months."

      "Caverns are beautiful under the water but it is constantly crowded around. Pets need to be put on a leash. Horses are permitted. Many opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and kayaking."

      from $24 / night

      Check Availability

      6. Potts Preserve

      4.2(9)18mi from WildwoodRVs, Tents

      "It’s primitive/equestrian camping and Hooty Point is far better in my opinion because it has water access for fishing."

      "You can park outside the gate off of North Hooty point. Oak hammock is on north Dee River Rd and has regular spot that is left at the outhouse a ways, and nearby for if you bring a horse."

      7. Thousand Palms Resort

      5.0(3)13mi from Wildwood3 sitesRVs

      "Our original goal was to cycle on the Withlacoochee Trail, an area favorite of ours. We discovered that it had been closed due to the pandemic like many other parks."

      "I stayed here for the first time for 3 days as a break from driving up to the mountains. Well worth it! If you, become a member of TRA you'll be happy"

      from $61 - $72 / night

      Check Availability

      8. The Grand Oaks RV Resort

      5.0(2)11mi from WildwoodRVs, Cabins

      "Not to mention all the beautiful horses on the property my dog is in love with this place!"

      "Parts of the CG have a few trees, particularly near the entrance where ours was, but most sites deeper in the CG are open."

      9. Blackwater Joe’s

      4.0(1)8mi from WildwoodRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "Not too bad of a spot, somewhat close to home. For the times I don’t wanna go to far but still wanna go camping this was the perfect spot."

      from $15 - $40 / night

      Check Availability

      10. Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground (North Hooty Point Road)

      4.3(6)18mi from WildwoodRVs, Tents

      "There is a designated area to leave vehicles, and the sites on the river are walk in only. The area is open, but you can no longer pull your vehicle in next to your campsite. "

      "Hands-down my new favorite camping spot in Florida. Free, primitive, private, secluded. Pet-friendly, hammock friendly, boat friendly, fire friendly, & more."

    2026 Explorer Giveaway

    Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

    Enter to Win

    Drive Time


    Equestrian Camping Reviews near Wildwood, FL

    300 Reviews of 38 Wildwood Campgrounds


    • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
      May. 9, 2018

      Colt Creek State Park Campground

      A Brand New Place For Adventure

      Colt Creek State Park is one of the newest parks in the Florida State Park System. Their RV/Tent Campground just recently opened in early 2018. RV spots are spacious. There is not a lot of privacy between spots but cover will grow in in time. Most sites are in full sun most of the day. Tent camping areas are on grass not gravel. very nice dump and wash area at gate to campground. They also offer equestrian, group, and primitive camping at this location. The equestrian camp is well used and quite large with standard amenities for horses and campers. There are 2 primitive sites along a 10 mile loop trail. Group site does not have a pavilion but does have port o lets ( no water or electric). There are 4 lakes ( no swimming) on the property kayak/canoe rentals, nice fishing ares and a dock. Lots of wildlife. Great for biking as well.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Dec. 1, 2021

      World Equestrian RV Resort

      First Class Horse Camping

      If you are watching, training or riding world-class horses and find yourself here at World Equestrian RV Resort, you'll experience brand-spanking-new facilities, complete with its very own petrol station. It’s a mall-like parking lane maze of slots designed exclusively for the RV camping lot– so sorry fellow tent campers, you’ll have to keep looking for higher ground. For the RV’ers out there, you’ll be pleased with the new sticker smell of this place, complete with all of the standard water, electric and sewar hook-ups. There’s decent space between you and your neighbors, although there is zero privacy in this greenery-free parking lot. If you’re hauling horses, then you’ll have plenty of space, but the place is incredibly high maintenance when it comes to cleaning up after yourself(or your mares!). That said, it’s a stone’s throw to the World Equestrian Center, so what this place lacks in ambiance and nature, its proximity, newness and ease of navigation make it an attractable location to stay in. 

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 1, 2023

      Welaka State Forest

      Solemn Equestrian Campground Experience

      As you approach Welaka State Forest, it feels as though you’ve arrived ‘at the end of the line,’ and not in a bad sense either. Here, you’ll feel as though you’ve escaped the crowds, left the commercial world only to discover a truly pristine natural jewel. You’ll be overwhelmed by the incredibly loud silence and solitude of this far-reaching outpost and the moment that you’ve crossed the threshold (or the gravel road) entering Welaka State Forest, you’ll be incredibly grateful for the wide open expanse of the place and the communion with nature that it provides. 

      Just due south of Welaka – where there’s a minute scattering of local eateries and distractions, this spot is fairly off the ‘beaten path,’ a good half hour south of Palatka in central Florida, along the banks of the historic St. Johns River. This federal turned state park was founded in 1935 (under the Federal Resettlement Administration) and today is both a major conservation area as well as fish hatchery for the State of Florida. In all, there’s 4 miles of river frontage area on the east bank of Little Lake George, making for some decent kayaking and canoeing, although most of this is fairly difficult to navigate as it’s swamp-like, where overgrown Cypress and Pine trees provide a very thick canopy of forested shade throughout. 

      If you’ve got horses en towe, then you have hit the ‘lottery of equestrian campgrounds’ as Welaka State Forest is perhaps the most perfect place to camp if you’ve brought your four-legged steeds and looking for a place that offers up nearly 20 miles of equestrian trails for plenty of galloping, including the 6-mile Sandhill Horse Trail (part of the Florida Trailtrotter Program: www.fdacs.gov/Forest-Wildfire/Our-Forests/State-Forests/State-Forest-Recreation/Recreational-Activities/Horseback-Riding/Trailtrotter-Program)..) The campground here at Welaka State Park is made for you horse-loving outdoor enthusiasts and provides 2 – I repeat that 2 – 24 stall horse-ready stables, show horse stage, training area, along with 6 primitive campsites along with 5 full hook-up RV drive-through sites. 

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you are looking to get some hiking in, there’s 2 decent trails (both integrated into the Florida forest Service’s ‘Trailwalker Hiking Program’ with the first, Spring Trail, offering a short 2-mile loop that ends in Mud Springs and the second, John’s Landing Trail, offering either a 3.5 or 4 mile loop; (2) Not interested in hiking? Not a problem, you can follow the scenic Indian Pond Road from the comfort of your own vehicle. Near here there are 2 primitive campsites that you can rent that places you right on the St. John’s River; and (3) While this SP doesn’t have much to offer apart from encounters with nature, if you find yourself missing civilization, in less than a 5 minute drive, you can join a sweltering crowd at either Shrimp R Us or, for amazing river-front gnashing, check out Welaka Lodge & Resort (for more details on this particular campground, check out my review on The Dyrt on this site). 

      Happy Camping!

    • Elliott B.
      Jul. 11, 2017

      Oak Ridge Primitive Campground

      Nicely maintained and secluded

      This campground is an excellently maintained recreation area part of the [SouthWest Florida Water Management District](http://SouthWest Florida Water Management District). With the OakRidge campground being wonder part of the Lower Hillsborough Preserve just outside Tampa, FL.

      The campground here is huge as you can use it either as a primitive site or an equestrian site. Although it's nice and open you actually have a ton of tree coverage. You can get the combination for the lock when you make your reservation (required) or just hike yourself in from the large lot off Highway 568 "Morris Bridge road" which is only about 3/4 of a mile.

      While hiking in I came across several deer and some gopher tortoise.

      This campground has 3 "sites", with tables and fire rings, and one nice pavilion. There is a good water pump (non-potable) which you'll need to boil or treat and an actual clean ADA toilet on site.

      You then have access to miles and miles of trails and can really enjoy yourself out here.

    • Kathie E.
      Apr. 3, 2022

      Lake Louisa State Park Campground

      Beautiful Lake Louisa

      Lake Louisa is located on the edge of the Orlando metropolitan region. Close to Disney but accessible to other area attractions and communities, if that's what you are lookimg to do.

      We needed a break from life so we went to chill and hang out in the park. What a beautiful park it is. Miles of trails, a small beach, 3 lakes for fishing and kayaking, and 2 fishing piers. They also have equestrian facilities for horseback riding. Including a stable where you can sign up to join a ride.

      The park's campground is compact with 2 very clean bathhouse, a small camp store, and 60 sites. The sites are nicely setup with lots of privacy. There are a few sites with both 50 amp electric and sewer service. One issue, especially in the summer, is the lack of shade so make sure you bring your own shade structures and a fan. In addition to traditional sites, the park has glamping tents, eco tents, primitive tent sites, equestrian sites, cabins, and a youth group area.

      The park is really beautiful. The riolling hills, pine forests, and pretty lakes. The wild flowers are also very pretty.

      We've been to many of Florida's state parks and this is among our new favorites. Just love it! Enjoy!

    • Abby M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 29, 2021

      Green Swamp — West Tract

      Nice free spot

      Stayed at Ashley campground, which is free with a reservation through Southwest Florida water management. They provide a Lock code for you to enter upon entering so there’s always a locked gate during your stay. The sites are very well-kept and I’ll have a firing and covered picnic table. The sites are a little close as there are not a lot of trees for privacy but overall a really nice camp spot. Has two vault toilets which were relatively clean. Mixture of equestrian campers and non-equestrian campers. Barely any cell service so wasn’t ideal for my work situation and had to go into town. 1-2 bars of 4G via AT&T.

    • A
      Jul. 9, 2021

      Colt Creek State Park Campground

      Colt Creek Lakeland Fl

      Well we didn't like the tent and RV sites. They're in an open area on gravel with no shade and hardly no divisions. There are other areas for special groups that are much nicer. But for individual campers. The equestrian area was the nicest to us. But you must have a horse to stay there.

    • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jan. 7, 2026

      The Griffin Ranch

      Old-Florida Charm Meets Ranch-Life Calm

      Arriving to Griffin Ranch just outside Fort McCoy feels like stepping into a page of classic Florida history, where 30+ acres of shaded woods, ponds, pastures and trails invite you to slow down long before you ever unpack your bags. The ranch’s cabins, Airstream camper and cottage rentals, each with antique-inspired interiors, set the tone for a timeless, unhurried stay. The accommodations are rustic in the very best way: solidly built, thoughtfully equipped spaces that feel cozy rather than pretentious, and the hosts are genuinely welcoming, making you feel like part of the ranch family rather than just a guest. During our visit, we watched the kids wander out toward the pasture at sunset, chasing fireflies and laughing at the horses’ gentle nickers, while the sun dipped behind the trees in that golden light only old pastures seem to have. While this isn’t a ‘back-to-barebones’ campground in the primitive sense, it is more of a cabin-centric ranch stay than a full-service campground, so if you’re coming with a big RV or tent setup in mind, you’ll want to book one of the on-site cabins instead of relying on typical campsites. The best lodging options are the cabins tucked deeper into the woods or near the ponds, which offer the most serenity and EZ access to the ranch trails and wildlife watching. Nearby you can easily stock up on supplies in Fort McCoy or make short drives to local eats like Rocco’s Italian or a long list of options in nearby Gainesville.  Also, the closeness to Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs makes this a great base for exploration. We’d recommend Griffin Ranch for families who appreciate quiet evenings under ancient oaks, authentic old-Florida ranch character, space for kids and pets to run wild and host hospitality that turns a simple stay into lasting memories. This place is one part history, one part nature retreat and entirely welcoming.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Mar. 8, 2025

      Clarcona Horse Park

      Getty Up! @ This Not-So-Standard RV Parking Lot

      If you’ve got one of those incredibly large mobile homes on wheels, then this particular RV location just off of Highway 414 near Hiawassee may just be the perfect spot for you. OK, there were a few tents here, but you could tell this place was really built for the mobile campers in mind. With 28 ample slanted, elongated parking lanes for your parking pleasure, all of the sites come equipped with the typical 30 / 50 amp electrical hook-ups, waste disposal and water connections. The bathrooms and shower facilities are clean and fairly well-maintained.

      There’s the standard picnic table, garbage receptacles and even a community BBQ. The hosts are incredibly nice and offer pricing by the night, week and month. Overall, the community is inviting and friendly and there’s at times some planned activities, with most of those featuring horse shows and competitions of some sort, throughout the week (check with the front desk). While there’s not a ton of amenities to pick and choose from, this location does come with grills, park and shelter as well as all the free glimpses of horses being trained. Of course, should you be here with your noble steed, there’s some 22 miles worth of paths to gallup. Near this RV parking lot, you do have access to Lake Apopka.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) The real draw to this particular campground is the massive equestrian infrastructure that exists as the fulcrum, so if you are camping, this can be a very nice distraction, in case you come here with the principle idea of racing / showing your horses, then this CG is ideal – and less so if you don’t have a horse and don’t want to camp alongside what could be considered a bit of a circus (especially on show days); (2) Should you grow tired of whipping up franks & beans again for supper and you wanna check out some local fare, you’re going to have to drive a bit north to South Apopka where there’s joints like The Nauti Lobstah, Verona Café, Lechonera Latina and Wings-N-Things; (3) In the event that you need to load up on supplies, there’s both a Sam’s Club and Walmart Supercenter due NE of here; and (4) For some really great hiking & biking, of course, there’s the West Orange Trail, but if you are looking for something a bit different and less trodden, then check out Oakland Nature Preserve, which sits south of Lake Apopka.

       Happy Camping!


    Guide to Wildwood

    Lake Panasoffkee provides equestrian camping near Wildwood, Florida with trail access through the Withlacoochee State Forest. The area sits at approximately 75 feet above sea level within central Florida's subtropical climate zone where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. The region experiences distinct dry and rainy seasons, with summer afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September.

    What to do

    Trail rides beyond Withlacoochee: Holder Mine Campground offers additional riding options. "Very clean and quiet area. Trails available for hikes, bikes, horses and even 4x4 vehicles," notes Karyn B. The campground connects to an expanded network of forest trails.

    Explore natural caves: Some surprising geological features exist near the equestrian trails. "The people we met here showed us a great trail you can hike on that brings you to some awesome caves, yes in Florida, that you could explore in," shares Kim S. about her experience at Holder Mine Campground.

    Fishing access: For equestrians wanting to combine trail riding with fishing, Potts Preserve provides water access. "There's two camping areas, one off of North Dee and one off of Hooty Point. It's primitive/equestrian camping and Hooty Point is far better in my opinion because it has water access for fishing," explains Quinton C.

    What campers like

    Free camping with amenities: Lake Panasoffkee continues to attract equestrian campers with its value. "Excellent free camping nice and quiet," states J A. Another camper notes, "You need a permit, but it's free," confirming the cost advantage for horse owners.

    Spacious sites for solar power: The open field layout works well for self-sufficient campers. "There are open sites for solar and shaded spots. There is plenty of room for pull through with large rigs," explains Allison H. This flexibility accommodates different energy needs while camping.

    Site variety and cleanliness: The combination of open and wooded sites gives options to equestrian campers. "We were a little out of place in our small camper among the seasonal and permanent residents in large rigs and permanent modular homes sites, but that added to the fun," shares Perry J. about nearby Thousand Palms Resort.

    What you should know

    Reservation requirements: Despite being free, securing your spot requires planning. "I stayed at a great, free, campground and though it was down pouring when we arrived, we had no issues going down the long road since it was gravel," notes UnnamedAdventures about Potts Preserve. Remember that permits must be obtained through the Southwest Florida Water Management District's website.

    Seasonal flooding considerations: Water levels can affect both trail and campsite conditions. "However the downside is they are flooded some of the year," warns Gail W. about the river primitive camping sites at Potts Preserve.

    Road conditions: Access roads to equestrian camping areas vary in quality. "The road to the campground is hard packed gravel but we traveled slowly and had no issues," explains David K. about getting to Holder Mine Campground.

    Tips for camping with families

    Pack for variable weather: Florida's climate requires preparation for both sun and storms. "It rained most of the time but our site never flooded!" shares Caitlyn P. about camping at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, indicating the importance of proper rain gear.

    Check trail conditions: Before bringing children on horse trails, verify current conditions. "The area remains accessible year-round, though some seasonal flooding may affect trail conditions during rainy periods," notes an experienced rider.

    Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to observe Florida's natural inhabitants. "Saw lots of animals. Everyone was very nice!" reports Caitlyn P. Families with children often enjoy watching for wildlife around the camping areas.

    Tips from RVers

    Solar power planning: For boondockers with horses, site selection matters. "Spent 3 nights here by the pavilion. There are about 5 spots in the 'primitive' camping area. Plenty of privacy and a kayak launch area," reports Todd M. about Potts Preserve, noting the importance of selecting sites with adequate sun exposure.

    Cellular connectivity: Coverage varies significantly throughout equestrian camping areas. "AT&T coverage was ok, with 5 bars of 5G+ service and speeds up to 5 MB/s," explains Ray & Terri F. about their stay at The Grand Oaks RV Resort. This can be important for those needing to stay connected while camping with horses.

    Water availability: Understand water source limitations before arrival. "There is non-potable water spigots throughout the campground," notes a camper. Another visitor to Lake Panasoffkee adds, "They do have non-potable water. Can't keep hose hooked up to RV but you are allowed to run hose to your fresh water tank and fill if you desire. Use at your own risk."

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Wildwood, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Wildwood, FL is Lake Panasoffkee with a 4.9-star rating from 7 reviews.

    What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Wildwood, FL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 38 equestrian camping locations near Wildwood, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.