Do you crave the great outdoors? Do you prefer staring at the stars at night rather than your ceiling? If you have an urge to be one with nature, it’s time to get outdoors and camp in North Central Florida along the St. Johns River. Known for its natural beauty and a variety of camping sites, the area is a must stop camping destination. Follow us to discover a list of places to camp along the river that will keep you coming back again and again.
The Florida National Scenic Trail
The Florida National Scenic Trail is a must for you and your fellow campers. The trail consists of 1,300 miles of federally designated land that comes right across North Central Florida near the St. Johns River.
The central northern portion of the trail near Astor, FL is a great place for bird watching and beautiful views. Utilize this map of the Florida National Scenic Trail to plot the portion of the trail you want to hike. Use this designated campsite and trailhead location site to find your perfect camping spot.
Learn tips to hike the Florida National Scenic Trail in our blog.
The Ocala National Forest
You can’t find a better camping haven in North Central Florida than the Ocala National Forest. Brimming with 607 square miles of nationally protected forest that contains more than 600 lakes, springs and rivers, the forest is a great place to explore nature. Campers can see black bears, deer, birds, manatees and an abundance of other wildlife in the forest from their camp sites.
There are dozens of campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest that accommodate walk-in tent camping for 14 days or more, depending on the time of the year.
Read our blog on watching wildlife in the Ocala National Forest for wildlife viewing tips.
RV Campsites Near the River
Are you a camper that still likes to have the luxuries of home at your fingertips? Those that like a little bit of both worlds enjoy the recreational vehicle (RV) life.
Castaways on the River offers two RV sites just steps from the river with 30 amp or 50 amp offerings that include cable, water and sewer.
The Astor Landing RV Resort and the St. Johns River Campground offer campsites that can accommodate the size of any RV or motor home. The sites come equipped with open grills and fire rings for your late night scary stories by the fire with roasted marshmallows.
Juniper Springs Recreation Area
How does the sight of a crystal clear spring to cool off in sound on a hot summer day? Then the Juniper Springs Recreation Area is the campground you should seek out near the St. Johns River. Juniper Springs is one of the oldest recreation areas in the country. It has an onsite campground and hiking trails.
Read our blog to learn 7 tips for swimming in freshwater springs.
Enjoy the St. Johns River
The St. Johns River is the main attraction while you camp in North Central Florida. Embrace and enjoy the river by renting a boat and enjoy some fishing and boating at Castaways on the River. Are there some members of your camping entourage that prefer the comforts of home? We also offer cottages and motel rooms just steps from the river. Call Castaways on the River today at (352) 759-3442 to plan your camping and river trip today!
