Best Camping in and near Manatee Springs State Park

96% (12 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Manatee Springs State Park adventure.

Enjoy a wealth of recreation at one of Florida’s largest springs.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Manatee Springs State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Manatee Springs State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Manatee Springs State Park

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Wildflower Pond and Woodlands

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Alachua, FL

Welcome to a sweet and soulful little piece of the woodlands. Tucked in on 4.5 acres, this spot is a secluded, enchanting piece of old Florida. Stay in one of our three designated camping sites, tie up a hammock, gaze at the pond inhabitants, and check out what's growing in the seasonal garden. Also enjoy the many flowering plants and other special trees. Florida's gem-colored, healing spring waters are just a 20 minutes up the way and local retreat centers and yoga studios dot the area. Gator fans? Head into Gainesville for a game and to visit the University of Florida. Mostly, enjoy. We look forward to hosting you! To note for all guests: We suggest arriving before dark so as to make set up easy and comfortable. We do not require a formal check-in and encourage being self-reliable in set up of primitive campsites. (For something with more structure and a space already set up, check out our Aframe cabin.) We do have water, a composting toilet, sink, and groundtemp shower for your use and ease. ***PLEASE NOTE FARM TOURS AND ANIMAL EXPERIENCES ARE CURRENTLY PAUSED***

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Spacious Oak Hammock

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · High Springs, FL

Only a 5 Minute drive to High Springs Historic District and 20 Minutes to Gainesville. Enjoy peacefulness with a 30 amp electric/water site on this dead end road that abuts O’Leno State Park. It is common to see wildlife on this and the surrounding properties. Located only 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers. Learn more about this land: Located 3 miles from O'Leno State Park, this area is known for it's numerous beautiful springs along the Santa Fe, Ichetucknee and Suwannee Rivers. Kayaking, snorkeling and cave diving are popular activities here. So pitch your tent or park your RV in our oak hammock. You will have access to your own fire pit and picnic table. We also offer access to our hot outdoor showers.

4A River Camp

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · Fort White, FL

This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world. Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers. Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience. Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum. Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away. Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee. Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore. The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles. Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.

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Glenn Farm

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents125 acres · Fort White, FL

The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of 4 spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow, North Hall Pasture or Magnolia Sink). We also have a 1 bedroom Tiny home that used to be the farm office. Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1824), Magnolia sink and The North Hall Pasture are also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.

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Cabin At Little River Springs

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · O'brien, FL

Rustic cabin located just outside of Little River Springs. This off-grid property features over an acre of privacy and is perfect for small to medium sized recreational vehicles. Campers, enjoy this open cabin with A/C during the summer months where there is a small generator on-site available for use, included with rental. Property is a short five minute walk to Little River Springs, with several more springs in the surrounding area. This area is great for swimming, diving, and enjoying Florida. Boaters can launch at the private boat ramp at the end of the street. Popular ATV area with rural dirt roads.

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Secluded Wooded Campsite 🏕️

1 site · RV, Tent1 acre · High Springs, FL

Secluded little campsite tucked back on 10 owned acres behind all housing. Has a driveway/path all the way back to the campsite. Signs are clearly marked upon arrival. Parking is allowed on site and set up is at your discretion. Campsite is about approximately 50x50 and includes use of outdoor composting toilet, picnic table, outdoor chairs, trash can with lid, outdoor hand washing area w/ water, and a nice sized fire ring. (Wood is available for your enjoyment and ease, but please only use what you need) Hosts are on site 24/7 for ease of making your stay comfortable and we will ensure all your needs are met in a timely fashion. This is PRIMITIVE camping site and would not be suitable for RV’s. Van camping is allowed and can hold up to three vans or cars. Small walking trails available behind the campsite. Local Highlights - Ginnie Springs, Blue Springs, Rum Island, Ichetucknee Springs, Ichetucknee River, Santa Fe River, Pink Flamingo, The Great Outdoors, Steakout, and more! (If you are looking for an amazing paddle we highly recommend a visit to Ichetucknee River) We have a small convenience store right at the entry of our street which has many of your quick camping needs. We also have a grocery store (Winn Dixie) that is a short 5 minute drive from our location.

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Happy Campers Rescue Ranch

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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! 🎉

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Bowman's Landing

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Fort White, FL

We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River. We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances: Ginnie Springs - 6 miles Blue Springs - 9 miles Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles Gainesville - 38 miles Rum 138 - 8 miles Lake City - 27 miles White Springs - 38 miles Branford - 13 miles High Springs - 12 miles Dollar General - 3 miles Publix - 15 miles Bobs River Place - 20 miles

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Pure Paradise Lebanon station

25 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · 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

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Artists Nature Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Archer, FL

Learn more about this land: Nestled under the old oak forest and longleaf pines, listen for the owls and woodpeckers. Walk the path or relax in the couch swing. Quiet, secluded, close to Gainesville yet eons away. Heartwood Soundstage, downtown Gainesville, "The Swamp" - Go Gators! and UF 1/2 hour away. Blue Springs, Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, and Ichetucknee Springs parks all within an hour's drive. Equally close to Fanning, Manatee and Rainbow Springs. If you just need a quick getaway or a base camp for vacation explorations, this is the place for you. Enclosed dog park for off leash pups. Fenced paddocks and covered stalls available at additional cost. 2 mile dirt road leads you back into the woods and away from the noise into a paradise time forgot. RTC Tiny Theater and workshop also available at an additional cost for bands, theater, circus and dance rehearsals and performances. Self-funded residencies available.

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The Scramble On Inn

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Crystal River, FL

YES, WE'RE OPEN! No Flooding at our Property. Welcome to the Scramble On Inn! An "Old Florida" vibe in Florida's Manatee Capitol of Crystal River. The property is private, yet just minutes from stores, restaurants and the water. The cabin is located on private property with owners and security on site, yet plenty of privacy. Your cabin is fully supplied with bedding, towels, refrigerator, coffee pot, cups and silverware, AC in the summer months, and an electric fireplace in the wintertime. On site is our own Bistro Barn fully furnished with a refrigerator, gas grill, charcoal grill, silverware and all the pots and pans you may be looking for. It's a great little hang out area with bluetooth speaker setup. Outside you will find a firepit as well as a charcoal grill, a table for eating, a hammock, and a swing chair. The outside shower house is on the primitive side and made for the adventure type. It is equipped with a portable toilet and shower under the stars. It is hooked up with instant hot water. During the day, paddle your way to the beautiful Three Sisters Springs for a swim. You may see some manatee or dolphins on your way there. Hunter Springs is a great little park with a beach area for swimming and kayak rentals too. There are also several Diving with the Manatee tours available. One we suggest in town is Fun2Dive. These are all only a short drive away. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, scalloping, snorkeling, kayaking, pontooning just five minutes away, or just relaxing back at camp fireside. Heritage Village is in town filled with many hometown eateries and shoppes. It's a great way to spend the afternoon and explore downtown Crystal River. We have a variety of great one-of-a-kind eateries with many special events and festivals throughout the year. Conveniently located at the end of the street is a Publix, DG, a Mexican restaurant, and Beef O'Brady's. We also have brochures on all kinds of other great places you'll want to experience while staying in beautiful Crystal River! Oh, and don't forget to stop by Grandma's gift shop before you leave. We look forward to your stay!

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Paradise Park and River Retreat

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Old Town, FL

My father bought the property next door to the RV sites 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 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.

The best camping near Manatee Springs State Park guide

Overview

About

Stroll the boardwalk in Florida’s Manatee Springs State Park to take in sights of “trees with knees” in the namesake first-magnitude spring, which pumps out as much as 150 million gallons of water a day. The clear waters of the spring run eventually join the tea-stained Suwannee River, offering scenic spots for kayaking, swimming, and fishing along the way. You might even spot cave divers–-or join them! During cool weather, manatees visit the park. Over eight miles of biking and hiking trails meander through cypress swamps and around sinkhole ponds. A camping area offers sites for tents and RVs. Glamping rentals are also available.

Notable Campgrounds

Best for glampers: Manatee Springs Campground’s glampsites offer fully furnished glamping tents, which include a bed, coffee maker, fire pit and stylish furnishings.
Best for RVers: Manatee Springs Campground’s Magnolia 1 loop has full hookups.
Best for tent camping: Manatee Springs Campground’s Hickory and Magnolia 1 loops have several designated tent-only sites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Reservations for may be made on the Florida State Parks website or by phoning 800-326-3521.
Florida residents can make campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
Advanced reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays.
Most sites have water and electric hookups, with select sites offering full hookups.
A dump station is available.
Campers with RVs longer than 40 feet may be limited to select sites or may not find accessible sites. Check with the campground for full details.

When to go

The best time to visit for manatee sightings is winter, when the spring waters attract these popular sea cows. Winters are generally pleasant and good for outdoor recreation year round, with daily highs in the 60s and 70s. While lows may dip into the 30s, freezing temperatures are rare. The rest of the year offers nice weather in fall and spring, while summer is often hot and humid, with the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms.

Know before you go

Recreational opportunities include snorkeling, scuba diving, wildlife viewing, cave diving, paddling, and more.
The park’s trail system connects to the greater 32-mile Nature Coast State Trail.
Park ranger programs are free and offered seasonably.
Though swimming in the clear spring waters is generally considered safe since alligators prefer murkier waters, alligator sightings are not out of the question in the waters and in other areas of the park.
Take a kayak tour from Fanning Springs State Park to Manatee State Park along the Suwannee River to explore more of the region’s flora and fauna.
The boardwalk and swimming area may close when the Suwannee River floods.