Florida
Stays|Camping

There’s A Spring Hiding In A Florida National Forest Where You Can Camp Year-Round

Juniper Springs Recreation Area in Florida offers year-round camping with various outdoor activities and amenities.

Published Mar 11, 2022

Written by 

Angie Slayton

Living in Florida means that we have access to warm temperatures pretty much all year long. While this could look like different things to different people, any outdoor enthusiast understands that warm climates mean year-round camping. Juniper Springs Recreation Area in Florida is the perfect campground to camp any time of the year, from the natural spring swimming area to the perfectly shaded campsites.

Juniper Springs is one of the best natural attractions in the state of Florida and one visit will show you exactly why.

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As one of the oldest and best-known recreation areas in Florida, if not the entire East Coast, visitors to Juniper Springs will be able to swim, hike, paddle, and camp all year-round.

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Juniper Springs Campground is one of the most popular within the Ocala National Forest system, whether you’re camping for the whole weekend or just finding a spot to set up for the day.

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Named one of Reserve America’s Top 100 Family Campgrounds in the country, visitors will find deep-shaded spots surrounded by lush, vibrant tropical flora.

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All the campsites are arranged in loops within close proximity to both the creek and springs. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, campfire ring, lantern post, grill, and space for tents and cars.

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Amenities within the campground include hot showers, a dump station, and flush toilets. Plus, you’ll have direct access to the springs which opens up all the possibilities for the best outdoor activities.

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There is nothing quite like swimming in these cool, spring-fed waters, especially on a sunny day when you can see straight to the spring floor.

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Reserve a campsite at the Juniper Springs Campground for an epic weekend away tucked into the beauty of Florida nature.

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Click here to find out where the Juniper Springs Campground is in Florida.

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Have you ever camped at Juniper Springs Recreation Area in Florida before? Share with us your experience in the comments section! Or if you’re looking for more information about how to reserve a campsite here, including current rates, then check out the USDA Forest Service website.

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Stays|Camping

The Amazing Campground in Florida We Want to Visit All Year Round

Nothing beats camping on the beach here in Florida, especially when you factor in the seashell-laden beachfront and opportunities for wildlife viewing at Sebastian Inlet State Park.

Published Oct 29, 2024

Written by 

Beth Copenhaver

Florida's Space Coast is famous for its miles of unspoiled beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. It's perhaps unsurprising, then, that it's also home to one of our all-time favorite campgrounds: Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground. The state park is beloved among surfers chasing epic waves, but this pristine park has also made a name for itself among campers seeking an immersive experience in an unforgettable setting. Whether you're looking for world-class fishing, beach strolls, wildlife encounters, or simply a night spent under a blanket of stars, you'll agree that it doesn't get much better than camping at Sebastian Inlet State Park.

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One of the best parts about camping in Florida is that it's hardly just a summertime activity; in fact, many people prefer to camp during the off-season to avoid crowds and intense heat. One year-round campground in Florida that will delight in any season is the one you'll find at Sebastian Inlet State Park. An excellent day trip destination, the park is even more special if you can dedicate a few days there.

The campground offers 60 campsites, all just a short distance from the beach. Each campsite comes equipped with water and electric hook-ups. Those looking for a more primitive camping experience can opt for the sites near the Bayside Marina. As for amenities, the campground offers drinking water, flush toilets, a dump station, and, for a fee, laundry and hot shower facilities. The park itself also features a marina with boat rentals and a boat ramp.

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During the day, you'll love exploring the stunning beaches. Everyone in your crew will be dazzled by the seashells, crashing waves, and bright blue water for which this region of Florida is so famous. But that's just the beginning of all this state park offers. Nature enthusiasts will love the chance to spot birds and perhaps even sea turtles! The park is also home to some truly spectacular butterfly species.

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This is a horizontal, color photograph of a caucasian woman in her 20s sitting inside a small dome tent. She looks out towards the beach on Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas National Park.

For more information on Sebastian Inlet Campground, including making a reservation and park details, be sure to visit the official Sebastian Inlet State Park website. And don't forget to take a look at our ultimate camping gear checklist before embarking on your outdoor adventure!

Looking for even more camping adventures in the Sunshine State? Take a look at our list of the very best campgrounds in Florida. There's something on the list for everyone!

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Stays|Camping

With Horseback Riding & Safari Tent Camping, This Remote Park In Florida Is The Best Summer Day Trip

Published Aug 14, 2024

Written by 

Megan Todaro

State parks in Florida are so underrated. They are some of the best places to spend a summer afternoon, especially with friends or family, and immerse yourself in nature. Personally, I love looking up hidden gem state parks in Florida when I have a day off to go and explore, hike, bike, and sometimes even bring my dog. I came across Lake Louisa State Park in Clermont, Florida, recently, and this place not only has run-of-the-mill amenities but also a few pleasant surprises.

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Just 30 minutes outside of Orlando, Florida you'll find Lake Louisa State Park, a natural theme park that is perfect for a family, friendly summer day.

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The state park covers over 4500 acres of land and features six lakes with the three major lakes being Louisa, Hammond, and Dixie.

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These lakes are renowned for outdoor activities from paddle boarding and kayaking to canoeing and fishing. You could easily spend an entire weekend enjoying all of nature's opportunities.

There are also designated swimming areas in Lake Louise as well or visitors can cool off from the high summer Florida temperatures swimming is allowed from Memorial day through Labor Day.

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The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty. These trails offer a chance to explore diverse ecosystems and spot local wildlife. Biking is also permitted on some of these trails.

But perhaps one of the coolest amenities you'll find at Lake Louisa State Park is horseback riding. The park offers equestrian trails for those who enjoy horseback riding. Horse rentals and guided trail rides are available from local providers.

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Plus for anyone looking to take this day trip and turn it into an overnight getaway. Lake Louisa State Park has a variety of camping options. One of the most popular options include the glamping sites were guest can stay in a fully furnished safari tent.

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If you love learning like I do make sure to stop by the small visitor center within the park this visitor center provides information about the parks, history, ecosystems, and available activities throughout.

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Lake Louisa State Park is located at 7305 US Highway 27, Clermont, FL 34714. It's about 30 miles west of Orlando, making it a convenient day trip from the city. The park is open from 8 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.

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Whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful retreat in nature, Lake Louisa State Park offers a little something for everyone.

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Here are a few pro tips for visiting the state park, especially in the summer.

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