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Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge

The best camping in Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, FL

Discover Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for wildlife and adventure.

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Stories from the community

Victoria

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

The space was great and the animals were fun. The goat sites are a bit close together but the parking was really spacious and easy

Eric

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

Great time with friends after thanksgiving. Quiet private space all to ourselves. Easy to book. Very attentive contact property manager. We’d come back for sure. Eric

Ronnie

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Sea Cow Campground <3

Very thoughtful accommodations, we slept warm and cozy despite the chilly Florida fall weather ☀️ thank you!

sabrina

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Skyacres aka the tin cottage

My boyfriend and I did some primitive camping for two nights Leonard had an awesome spot for us fully private the only public area would be the shared campfire super great experience would love to come again.

Pam

2 weeks ago

30 ft Class C

With kids

2 nights at Homosassa Springs RV Site

It was a lovely spot with full hookups and only a few steps away from the beautiful springs! We got to kayak with the manatee. Bucket list item! We would definitely recommend to friends.

Sarah

2 weeks ago

30 ft fifth wheel

With pets

2 nights at Lazy Longhorn

Erin and Shane were beyond wonderful! They took the time to show us in, make us comfortable and went the extra mile to give us a tour of the property… and even had farm fresh eggs!! An absolute must stay if you’re in the area!

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Wildflower Ranch

Host is very responsive, site is quiet and close to hiking trails, kayaking and botanical gardens. I would highly recommend for a clean, well kept place to stay. Lots of acres to explore, campfire at night, weight room and pool!

Lindsey

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Ranch

The cabin was great and had everything that we needed. Our dog came with us and loved running around on the property. Kim was very quick to respond to all messages and available for anything we needed during our stay. The cabin was a great place to enjoy a fire under the states

Looking south from the Blazing Star campsite offers views of the main homestead and the Senna cabin.

Sara

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Ranch

Kim was super sweet and very quick to respond! (Even for a last minute booking!) She gave a lot of recommendations of things to do in the area, wish we could’ve stayed longer!

Shannon

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

Cool secluded spot for camping. Traveled with our 2 dogs for a quick overnight stay. The site had a fire pit and a table with chairs which was nice. There was a porta potty available close to the site. Quite & peaceful place to sleep under the stars. Host was responsive and super nice. No complaints :)

Nataly

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

Beautiful site! 10 out of 10, so close to many beautiful places and such a nice property, felt completely safe and comfortable.

Nataly

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

It was beautiful! Host was amazing, site was clean and huge, the barn animals were adorable, we got the projector and that made the night so wonderful. Glamping to another level, and so close to beautiful springs and things to do 10 out of 10!!!

Bryan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl

David was a good host. Everything was what it’s supposed to be. The view was beautiful kayaking was great. The bathrooms were clean no complaints. I would definitely go there again.

Heidi

November 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Big Oak Farm Dog And Horse Camping

I highly recommend Big Oak Farm Dog and Horse Camping! It’s an idyllic little spot to stay with the family, with pets or solo. It’s easy to locate and very accessible near a state road. I booked last minute, (I’m talking about an hour beforehand). The host responded quickly and was very welcoming. Every time I reached out through the app, during my stay, the response was quick. The hosts were attentive, but definitely gave you your privacy. Although, their very clear directions and instructions were posted on the site, they took the time to greet me personally and helped me get set up with water and electricity, using their own hose and extension cord to save me the trouble of dragging out my own. There is a large fenced in area for the dogs to run around safely. My 3 had a great time and were fascinated by the pig and the emu in the adjoining field. It’s a beautiful sight to see horses in the field while having your morning coffee! I decided to book a second night after seeing the stars the first night. There is no noticeable light pollution and little to no traffic at night. I would recommend bringing a telescope, you won’t be disappointed. I would definitely stay again!

Suzanne

November 2025

29 ft Class C

2 nights at Homosassa Springs RV Site

It was great to have a well lighted dock to tie up our boat. The campsite was clean and kept up very well. Alondra’s place is very special indeed. Neighbors were all friendly and helpful. Alonda was available for our questions. I’m grateful Alondra gave us the opportunity to enjoy her very special beautiful piece of heaven on the spectacular Homosassa Springs of Florida.

Devin

November 2025

28 ft travel trailer

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Pure Paradise Lebanon station

Great camping spot! If you follow The Crossroads on Facebook you can see what events are happening. There is plenty of space across the property. Rv spots are large and a few with full hookups. Several with just water and power and plenty for tent camping. The whole property is impressive with tons to do. Frank and everyone else out there are super welcoming. We will be back for sure. Thanks Frank for a great weekend.

Katie

November 2025

26 ft fifth wheel

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lazy Longhorn

Erin and her husband were so nice! They were very accommodating and the site was perfect for my family and I this past weekend. We are already planning our next trip! Gorgeous skies, the firepit was perfect, the kayaks were great. We had a blast, made some wonderful memories. Our dogs were in heaven. :) Thank you guys so much!!!!

Jeanne

November 2025

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Homosassa Springs RV Site

Repeat customer here- always a good time! Love being on the water

Jeremy

October 2025

22 ft travel trailer

28 nights at Big Oak Farm Dog And Horse Camping

This is a very peaceful and private space. Personal entrance, and plenty of animals (even an emu!) to greet in a separate fenced off area, There's a hammock, Frisbee golf, and plenty of room to walk around. This is a great place to stay especially for families. Tip: For the best setup, be sure to bring an extension cable and long water hose.

Christina

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

I loved tent camping on Arcadios land! The stars were in clear view which was so beautiful and he was so accommodating! It was so peaceful out there and waking up to the rooster crows was so nice! We got to watch hocus pocus on the projector screen while laying out on a blanket by the fire and that alone was such an experience I’ll never forget! This camp ground is also close to the springs which makes the drive super easy and short! Will definitely stay here again! Amazing host!

Top-rated campgrounds

Skyacres aka the tin cottage

97%

(30)

19mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 19 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Chiefland, FL

Some open spaces for self contained rvs. Trails to open spaces for pitching a tent. Off the beaten path,, private and secluded. Full of wildlife away from the hustle and bustle of the city,, a true country retreat. Nearby fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Travel to the town of cedar key about 18 miles away it's a very quiet area. With shops , restaurants and a pier to fish at. It's a very laid back way of life at this charming gulf coast town.. Chiefland also is close by for the more convenient places to shop. Refrigerator at cabin, solar shower, charcoal grill, wood grill, gas stove top one burner, wading pool for those hot summer days.

Neal’s Nest

98%

(26)

22mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging · Chiefland, FL

This cabin is the perfect disconnect from the hustle and constant presence of everyday life. Surrounding you with lots of outdoor activities including fishing,kayaking,diving, swimming and plenty of wildlife to see. Has handicap ramp,screen porch and campfire. Mini fridge, microwave, linens and towels.

Pure Paradise Lebanon station

96%

(158)

23mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · Inglis, FL

Learn more about this land:Beautiful area with waterfalls observation Tower 23 beautiful acres to roam plenty of fishing and water sports in the area as well as other activities , tent and self-contained camping starting at $25 per night full hookup $50 per night

Manatee Springs Glamping

90%

(10)

24mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Lodging · Chiefland, FL

Our glampsites offer all the excitement and adventure of camping, without sacrificing the little luxuries of home. Our sites are nestled in the Hickory Loop of the Family Campground, and are just a short walk from the main spring. Manatee Springs State Park People have enjoyed the cool waters of Manatee Springs for more than 10,000 years. The first-magnitude spring releases an astounding 100 million gallons of water every day. Swimming, hiking, and kayaking are enjoyable year-round. Your Glamp site is situated a very short walk from the Manatee headspring, in the Hickory Loop Campground. Only Glamp sites and tents are permitted in the Hickory Loop. Sister park to Manatee Springs, Fanning Springs is a 10 minute drive away, and offers the perfect 72-degree water to cool down on hot Florida days and an abundance of underwater wildlife to view. Swimming, grilling, volleyball, and a playground create the perfect setting for a family day outdoors.

Fairytale Forrest

100%

(15)

25mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 5 sites · Tents · Crystal River, FL

***There is ONLY 1 SITE on the property, with 4 options.*** YOUR GROUP will be the ONLY one onsite. Welcome to my enchanting 1-acre Fairytale Forest nestled within a tranquil rural subdivision on the north side of Crystal River. As evening descends, a mesmerizing trail of lights illuminates the property, transforming it into a magical oasis. NOTE: Parking is approximately 300 ft from the site. No, you cannot sleep in your vehicle. Discover your secluded camping spot, accompanied by a cozy bench for private relaxation. Your spot is equipped with convenient access to power and water for your comfort. At your site you will have access to an outdoor shower (no hot water), a sink with a table, a screened dining area featuring a table and six chairs and a coffee station, and a barbecue grill. Moreover, the property boasts an array of additional amenities for guests to indulge in. Take advantage of four distinct seating areas, a hammock for lazy afternoons, a swing for whimsical moments, and a lounge seat/bed perfect for sunbathing, unwinding, or stargazing under the night sky. Immerse yourself in the charm and serenity of our Fairytale Forest retreat.

Los Pollitos Family Farm

100%

(28)

26mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · RVs · Chiefland, FL

Learn more about this land: Welcome to the Los Pollitos Family Farm in the heart of the nature coast! Come experience farm life while you camp! Ride a 50 year old tortoise (if you are a toddler 😉), snuggle some sheep and bunnies or feed some chickens! Say hello to the pigs ! We treat our guests like family! This will be a trip your family will always remember 🥰. This is the RV Listing on our property (see other listing for tent and group camping). We are less than 3 miles from the Nature Coast State trail , just 4 miles away from Manatee Springs and 5 miles from Fanning Springs, where you can bike , swim, snorkel, kayak, scuba dive and hike ! Chiefland Golf and Country Club is only 2 miles away where you can golf and have lunch ! We are 20 mins away from several other springs. Got your fill of the springs? Missing the beach ? Cedar key is only 30 miles away ! It is a quaint town on the gulf offering swimming, dining, shopping, kayak and golf cart rentals. Make sure to check out Shell Mound while you are there ! (Cedar key and shell mound currently under construction due to recent hurricanes). There is so much to do and explore! RV camping is located on the 2 acres surrounding our home on a limerock pad with 30 amp service and water hookup. See Tent camping @ Los Pollitos for TENT camping. Amenities such as fire pit and a table are available. Your first bundle of wood is on us! Check out the Extras tab during your booking. Sign up for a farm tour ! Chicken eggs available for your breakfast! Local shops and dining are less than 10 minutes away for anything else you might need . Looking forward to hosting you and your family! Check us out on facebook and instagram @lospollitosfamilyfarm

Maribella's Corner

100%

(10)

27mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · RV · Old Town, FL

Adjacent to the Airbnb/VRBO travel trailer site, there's an RV hookup spot capable of accommodating a camper or RV up to 30 feet in length. It offers a 30 amp hookup, along with water and sewer connections. Parking space for one car is provided, and there's also an additional toilet available on-site for convenience.

Paradise Park and River Retreat

100%

(142)

27mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · RVs · Old Town, FL

My father bought the property next door to the RV site over 30 yrs ago. After his passing, my husband and I acquired the property. We initially were going to be snowbirds and make this our winter vacation home. After much thought and many winters in PA, we decided to sell our home in PA and make the move south. It was a difficult decision to leave our family, friends and what was comfortable to us. About 3 years after our move, our neighbor asked if we were interested in his property. My husband Jeff and I discussed it and thought it would be a great idea to have a little more land. To make a long story short, that land somehow became Paradise Park River Retreat. My husband and I love this area and wanted to share it with other people who love being outdoors. We hope you'll come and visit Old Pine Landing and see the beauty and uniqueness that our little piece of paradise has to offer.

Paradise Lake Rousseau ,Fl

97%

(239)

28mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Inglis, FL

3 acres on beautiful Lake Rousseau. Fishing , camping , kayaking , cabin rentals. 10 miles from ThreeSisters Springs, Hunter Springs and Crystal River. Abundant wildlife. Beatiful sunrirses and sunsets. Very peaceful!

Big Oak Farm Dog And Horse Camping

91%

(16)

29mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Bronson, FL

Welcome to Big Oak Farm & Stables – a peaceful 39-acre farm located beside the beautiful Goethe State Forest in Bronson, Florida. This is a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the sights and sounds of real farm life. We offer 30- and 50-amp RV hookups, water, septic dump, and a private, fenced-in campsite perfect for relaxing with your pets. The site includes shaded areas, a disc golf basket, hammocks, and a large green space where your dogs can run safely. Campers must remain in the designated fenced-in area unless escorted by the host, for the safety of our animals and yours. We’re a working farm with free-roaming livestock guardian dogs, horses, emus, sheep, and more – and we love sharing their world with respectful visitors. Nearby attractions include: • Devil’s Den (10 mins) • Blue Springs (15 mins) • Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens (20 mins) • Rainbow River (25 mins) • World Equestrian Center (40 mins) • Black Prong Equestrian Village (5 mins for trail riding) • Crystal River & Cedar Key (under 1 hour) Come enjoy farm sunsets, starry nights, and a truly unique countryside experience. Whether you’re in a tent, camper, or RV – you’ll leave here refreshed, inspired, and maybe with a few furry friends.

Sea Cow Campground <3

97%

(19)

30mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Lodging · Crystal River, FL

My home and others are visible from the site but you are also surrounded by trees and have privacy. It’s about 100ft from the rd so you will hear traffic from time to time. In Citrus Springs' central area, this 1-bedroom campsite provides a peaceful retreat for your upcoming trip. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding area, with Rainbow Springs State Park just a 19-minute drive away, where you can explore lush forests and crystal-clear springs. For a day on the water, the Crystal River Watersports Marina is only an 11-minute drive, providing ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and other water activities. If you're in the mood for a round of golf, the Plantation Inn and Golf Resort is just a 14-minute drive from your cozy campground. Back at your home-away-from-home, you'll find all the essentials, including a bathroom, towels, basic soaps, air conditioning, heating, and fresh linens, ensuring your comfort throughout your stay. Escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Citrus Springs at our charming 1-bedroom campground.

Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

95%

(329)

31mi from Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dunnellon, FL

Welcome! 🌿 We're thrilled to have you join us for an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature and animals. 🐾 At our ranch, we're dedicated to providing a sanctuary for rescued animals and offering our guests a unique opportunity to connect with nature and support our mission of animal welfare and conservation – it's a haven where you can relax, unwind, and make memories that will last a lifetime. 🌟 During your stay, you'll have the chance to meet our furry friends, including rescued farm animals and adorable companions who call Happy Campers Rescue Ranch home. Whether you're feeding the goats, cuddling with the kittens, or exploring the beautiful surroundings, there's something for everyone to enjoy. 🐷🐱🌳 But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your experience. Rent a Kayak or Paddle Boat to explore the area and crystal-clear waters of Rainbow Springs, or choose our cooler with built-in air conditioning ❄️ to stay comfortable during hot summer days inside your tent. As a guest, you'll not only have the opportunity to relax and unwind, but you'll also be supporting our mission of animal rescue and rehabilitation. A portion of your stay goes directly towards caring for our rescued animals and maintaining our sanctuary, allowing us to continue our important work. 🤲 We can't wait to welcome you to out ranch and share our love for animals and nature with you. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a unique retreat, we're here to make your stay unforgettable. 🌈 ***We kindly request bookings for a maximum duration of up to 7 days. This allows us to maintain the integrity of our sanctuary and ensures that our animals receive consistent care and attention while also offering our guests the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing and rejuvenating getaway. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter. Thank you for choosing our ranch – we look forward to hosting you soon! 🎉

The best camping in Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge, FL guide

Overview

About

A Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge camping trip is like stepping into a sanctuary where nature thrives. This refuge in the Gulf of Mexico is a sprawling archipelago of 13 islands, each with its own unique charm. Originating as fish camps of First Peoples, these islands have a rich history that adds an extra layer of intrigue to your outdoor adventures. The refuge is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to a diverse array of avian species. While the numbers have dwindled from 200,000 to around 20,000, the variety is still impressive. Egrets, night herons, brown pelicans, and white ibis are just a few of the birds that have found sanctuary in the Seahorse Key rookery. In recent years, even reddish egrets and roseate spoonbills have joined the mix, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in ornithology. Camping near Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge offers more than just birdwatching. The islands are perfect for a range of water-based activities. Whether you're into kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying the Gulf's tranquil waters, there's something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Plus, the refuge's location in the Gulf of Mexico means you're never too far from other exciting attractions. What makes this refuge truly special is its commitment to both wildlife conservation and human recreation. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in nature while also respecting the habitat that so many species call home. So, if you're looking to experience the Gulf of Mexico in all its natural glory, Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge is the place to be.

When to go

The best time to visit Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge is during the fall, winter, and spring months, when the weather is mild and the natural beauty of the islands is at its peak. Summer visits are possible, but be prepared for higher temperatures and ensure you have plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

Know before you go

Check the latest guidelines and updates before planning your visit to ensure a safe experience.
Be aware that some areas of the refuge are closed to the public and require a permit for entry.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the refuge's natural beauty.
Bring your own refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
For any inquiries or assistance, contact the refuge manager at (703) 622-3896.

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