Manatee Springs State Park Campground

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Manatee Springs State Park Campground

Quick Facts

62 ft

Price

$11.99 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

80 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Pets Allowed

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

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Manatee Springs State Park Campground
$11.99 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Firewood is restricted; park sells firewood at the concession stand or ranger station for $11.99 each or 3 bundles for $30 (plus tax). Camping sites:...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Florida State Parks
Provider
800-326-3521 (reservations); 352-493-6072 (park); TDD 888-433-0287
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What Campers Say

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Limited Reviews

Based on 0 reviews

Most mentioned

quietshowersshadewater

Some mention

bugssmallunlevel

"Visitors praise the clear first-magnitude spring, boardwalk through cypress swamp, abundant wildlife (deer and seasonal manatees), well-kept shaded campsites and clean bathhouses. Common drawbacks reported are limited cell/data service and occasional site-specific issues (mud/low spots, narrow sandy loop roads); several reviewers caution about the glamping tents during storms."

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Campground Map

Manatee Springs State Park Campground

Manatee Springs State Park Campground

29.4975, -82.9758

Nearby places
Chiefland (short drive)
Fanning Springs State Park (~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Town of Chiefland (nearest town for supplies and services)

Best Time to Camp at Manatee Springs State Park Campground

This year-round destination transforms with the seasons, each offering its own magic. Winter and early spring months bring cooler temperatures and the park's most beloved visitors—gentle manatees seeking refuge in the warm spring waters—along with comfortable camping conditions and fewer mosquitoes. Summer transforms the spring into a refreshing oasis perfect for swimming and water activities, though you'll want to embrace Florida's signature warmth and bring bug spray for those humid evenings under the stars.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Top 17% in FL

Warm season good for swimming and paddling in the clear spring; popular in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5
Average

Milder weather and continued paddling/hiking opportunities make fall appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Below Average

Spring weather and active wildlife plus warm water make spring a very good season here.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5
Below Average

Winter can be too cold to swim but manatees are present; good for wildlife viewing, less for swimming.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open year-round

About Manatee Springs State Park Campground

Nestled among towering cypress trees and centered around a crystal-clear first-magnitude spring, Manatee Springs campground offers the perfect blend of natural Florida beauty and modern convenience. Choose from 80 fully-equipped campsites across three loops—each with electricity, water, and hot-shower restrooms—or opt for a glamping experience in the Hickory Loop for a touch of comfort in the wilderness.
Family campground with 80 campsites across three loops (including tent-only sites), RV-capable sites with water and electric hookups, concession-run glampsites in the Hickory Loop, and two youth group (primitive) camps accommodating up to 35 people.
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Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Dump station
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Manatee Springs offers a wide range of water- and land-based activities: swimming in the main spring, snorkeling and scuba diving (regulated), paddling/canoeing/kayaking on the spring run and Suwannee River, fishing from the boardwalk and river, extensive hiking and mountain-biking trails, and boardwalk wildlife viewing including seasonal manatee sightings.
HikingAbout 8.5 miles of nature trails on the North End Trail system plus additional wooded trails and an 800-foot boardwalk through cypress swamp.
FishingFreshwater fishing from the boardwalk and Suwannee River for species such as largemouth bass, catfish, mullet and panfish; state fishing regulations and licenses may apply.
SwimmingSwimming and free diving are allowed in the main spring (use caution—current can be swift); swimming is prohibited in Catfish Hotel, the spring run and at the end of the boardwalk.
Biking
Boating
Wildlife viewing
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSwift current in the spring swimming area; diving and cave/cavern diving are strictly regulated and carry inherent risks. Swimming is prohibited in Catfish Hotel, the spring run and at the end of the boardwalk. Do not bring firewood into the park (emerald ash borer prevention). Campers have reported mosquitoes, ticks and typical spring-area wildlife; maintain normal wildlife precautions and observe manatee distance rules.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Manatee Springs State Park Campground

Reviews

0.0
0 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Manatee Springs State Park Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitors praise the clear first-magnitude spring, boardwalk through cypress swamp, abundant wildlife (deer and seasonal manatees), well-kept shaded campsites and clean bathhouses. Common drawbacks reported are limited cell/data service and occasional site-specific issues (mud/low spots, narrow sandy loop roads); several reviewers caution about the glamping tents during storms.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

Clear, cool spring water and excellent spring swimming/snorkeling; scenic cypress boardwalk and trails; quiet, wooded campground with many shaded, private-feeling sites; availability of water and...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reserve well in advance; bring insect protection and leveling blocks/mats (many pads are sand/dirt); expect limited cell service (plan offline); buy firewood on site rather than bringing firewood;...
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Camper Quotes

"The water stays between 68° and 72° year round." — visitor review. "One of the most beautiful campgrounds in Florida." — visitor review.

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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