Silver Springs State Park Camping
Camp alongside one of Florida's most iconic natural springs. Fifty-nine spacious campsites, cabin rentals, and direct access to glass bottom boats and the Silver River — just 15 minutes east of Ocala.
Silver Springs State Park has 59 campsites across two loops with water and electric hookups (30/50 amp), plus cabin rentals and group primitive camping. Reserve through ReserveAmerica or call (800) 326-3521. The campground is pet-friendly with bathhouses, laundry, a dump station, and direct access to kayaking and glass bottom boat tours.
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Campground Overview
Silver Springs State Park's campground sits within one of Florida's most treasured natural areas, just east of Ocala off State Road 40. The park is best known for its crystal-clear artesian springs and the famous glass bottom boat tours that have drawn visitors since 1878. For campers, it offers a rare combination — a well-equipped campground with easy access to world-class spring-fed paddling, wildlife viewing, and miles of hiking and biking trails.
The campground features 59 spacious sites spread across two loops, large enough to accommodate RVs up to 50 feet. Whether you're a tent camper looking for a quiet weekend in nature or an RV traveler wanting full amenities, the campground delivers. Beyond standard sites, the park also offers cabin rentals for visitors who prefer a roof overhead and a group primitive camping area for scouts, youth groups, and organized outings.
Located about 15 minutes from downtown Ocala and within easy reach of the Ocala National Forest, Silver Springs makes an excellent base camp for exploring Marion County's outdoor attractions.
Campsite Types
Tent & RV Sites
59 generously sized sites across two campground loops. Each site includes water and electric hookups (30-amp and 50-amp), a fire ring, barbecue grill, and picnic table. RVs up to 50 feet accommodated.
A limited number of full hookup sites (water, electric, sewer) are also available.
Cabin Rentals
The park offers cabin rentals for visitors who prefer more comfort. Cabins have a two-night minimum stay and include basic furnishings. Contact the park for current cabin availability and specific amenities.
Note: Pets are not permitted in cabin rentals.
Group Primitive Camping
A dedicated primitive camping area is available for scouts, youth organizations, and other groups. These sites offer a more rustic experience without hookups, ideal for group outings and team-building trips.
Contact the park directly for group reservations.
Fees & Reservations
Camping fees at Silver Springs State Park are set by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and may change. As a general guide, standard campsite rates have historically been around $24 per night plus applicable taxes and fees. Cabin rentals typically run higher, with a two-night minimum. Additional fees may include a nonrefundable reservation fee and a nightly utility fee for sites with hookups.
We recommend contacting the park or checking the official reservation system for current rates.
How to Reserve
- Online: Visit reserve.floridastateparks.org or ReserveAmerica
- By Phone: Call (800) 326-3521
- Advance Booking: Reservations can be made up to 11 months ahead
- Minimum Notice: Must book at least 1 day before arrival
- Pro Tip: Weekend and holiday spots fill fast — book early, especially October through April
Campground Amenities
Water & Electric Hookups
30-amp and 50-amp electric service with water at every site. Limited full hookup sites available.
Fire Rings & Grills
Every campsite includes a fire ring and barbecue grill for cooking. Bring your own firewood or purchase locally.
Bathhouses & Showers
Clean restrooms with hot showers in both campground loops, plus family restrooms with private showers.
Laundry Facilities
On-site washers and dryers available in the campground laundry room for extended stays.
Dump Station
An RV dump station is available within the campground for waste disposal convenience.
Picnic Tables
Every campsite has a picnic table. Additional day-use picnic areas are available throughout the park.
What's Nearby
One of the biggest advantages of camping at Silver Springs is the sheer variety of activities right at your doorstep. You don't need to drive anywhere to have a full day of adventure.
Glass Bottom Boat Tours
The park's signature attraction. Peer through crystal-clear spring water to see fish, turtles, and underwater formations that have fascinated visitors for over a century. Tours depart throughout the day.
Glass Bottom Boat Guide →Kayaking the Silver River
Paddle the 5.5-mile Silver River through some of Florida's most stunning scenery. Kayak and canoe rentals are available on-site. Watch for manatees, turtles, birds, and the famous wild monkeys along the banks.
Kayaking Guide →Silver Springs Monkeys
A colony of wild rhesus monkeys has lived along the Silver River since the 1930s. They are most active at dawn and dusk — early morning kayak trips from the campground offer the best chance to spot them.
Silver Springs Monkeys →Hiking & Biking Trails
The park has miles of hiking and biking trails winding through hardwood hammocks and longleaf pine sandhills. The Sinkhole Trail and River Trail are campground favorites for morning and evening walks.
Silver Springs Park Guide →Best Time to Camp at Silver Springs
October through April is the sweet spot. Daytime highs range from 60 to 80 degrees, humidity drops, and mosquito activity is at its lowest. Spring (March and April) is especially rewarding — wildflowers line the trails, and migratory birds pass through the Silver River corridor. Winter months bring manatees into the Silver River, offering a rare wildlife viewing opportunity right from your kayak.
Summer camping (June through August) is possible but comes with heat, humidity, and near-daily afternoon thunderstorms. If you camp in summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning, reserve afternoons for shade or the spring-fed swimming area, and bring plenty of insect repellent.
Weekends and holidays throughout the year fill up quickly. If flexibility allows, mid-week camping offers a quieter experience and easier reservation availability.
Tips for First-Time Campers
Book Early
Reservations open 11 months in advance. Prime weekends (especially in cooler months) sell out fast. Set a calendar reminder for your ideal dates.
Arrive Before Sunset
The park closes at sundown. Plan to arrive with plenty of daylight to set up camp, locate the bathhouse, and get oriented.
Bring Firewood
You can purchase firewood locally or bring your own (Florida has no firewood import restrictions for in-state travel). Never cut park trees.
Kayak at Dawn
Early morning is the best time for kayaking. You will see more wildlife, avoid afternoon storms, and may spot the Silver Springs monkeys before crowds arrive.
Store Food Securely
Black bears live in the area. Keep food in your vehicle or a hard-sided container, never in your tent. Clean up all scraps before bed.
Check for Fire Bans
Fire restrictions can be in effect during dry seasons. Check with the park ranger station when you arrive before lighting your campfire.