Alexander Springs Recreation Area

Star4.26
970 reviews
49525 CR 445, Altoona, Florida, 32702, USA
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

72 ft

Price

$37/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

67 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Ocala National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Alexander Springs Recreation Area
$37.00 - $37.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for standard nonelectric campsites is $37. Group picnic areas cost $60 per night. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes,...
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Standard Site Fee$37.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
352-669-3522
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What Campers Say

4.26

Satisfactory

Based on 970 reviews

Most mentioned

privacycleanspaciouswater

"User reviews highlight both positive and negative experiences. The campground's natural beauty and recreational opportunities receive praise, but recurring issues like facility closures, noise at night, and overcrowding detract from overall satisfaction."

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Campground Map

49525 CR 445, Altoona, Florida, 32702, USA

Alexander Springs Recreation Area

49525 CR 445, Altoona, Florida, 32702, USA

Driving directionsFrom I-75, take Highway 40 east through Ocala and Silver Springs approximately 40 miles to Highway 19. Go south on Highway 19 approximately 5 miles to Country Road 445. Go east on 445 for 5 miles to the campground. From I-95, take the Ocala/Silver Springs Exit (Highway 40) west for approximately 35 miles to Highway 19. Go south on Highway 19 approximately 5 miles to County Road 445. Go east on 445 for 5 miles to the campground.
Road access is paved with clear signage leading to the campground. Seasonal closures are not indicated, and the terrain is suitable for all vehicle types.
Nearby places
Ocala (approximately 40 miles), Silver Springs (approximately 40 miles), Astor (approximately 10 miles), Altoona (approximately 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Altoona, approximately 5 miles away from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Alexander Springs Recreation Area

Experience the joy of year-round camping in Florida's inviting climate. While summer brings warm, humid days perfect for cooling off in the springs, winter transforms the campground into a comfortable outdoor paradise with crisp mornings and mild afternoons. The moderate temperatures throughout the seasons mean you can plan your adventure any time of year, though many seasoned campers treasure the cooler months when the forest comes alive with migrating birds and the camping conditions are simply perfect.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Great for cooling off in the springs but summer crowds and heat lead to overcrowding.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Mild weather and seasonal color; fewer specific mentions than spring/winter in reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring is highlighted as a preferred season with mild temps and excellent water activities.

Best
Winter(Dec-Feb)
4.0 / 5

Winter is favored in reviews for mild temps and comfortable camping conditions.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance, with peak seasons running from January 1 through December 31.
  • Current Alerts: The boardwalk trail is closed for extensive renovations, with no clear timeline for reopening. Some restrooms experience closures due to water system repairs.

About Alexander Springs Recreation Area

Nestled within the ancient Ocala National Forest, Alexander Springs Recreation Area beckons adventurers with its stunning turquoise waters and pristine wilderness setting. This beautifully maintained campground serves as your gateway to unforgettable experiences—from gliding through crystal-clear springs in a canoe to discovering hidden trails that wind through one of Florida's most treasured landscapes. Whether you're drawn to refreshing swims in the constant 72°F spring waters, wildlife watching at dawn, or trekking portions of the legendary Florida National Scenic Trail, Alexander Springs promises the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Alexander Springs Recreation Area accommodates various camping styles, including RV camping, tent camping, and group camping. Primitive camping is supported with basic amenities but lacks hookups for RVs.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings
Food storage lockers

Activities you can enjoy

Alexander Springs Recreation Area offers diverse recreational activities, including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and biking. These activities are complemented by the natural beauty of the springs and surrounding forest. However, ongoing issues such as the closure of hiking trails and overcrowding during peak times have affected user experiences.
HikingHiking opportunities include access to segments of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail. However, multiple reviews highlight closures of key trails, such as the Timucuan Trail, which one user described as 'closed for years.' Another user stated, 'Trail was our main reason for visiting, but it was closed.'
FishingFishing is available at designated platforms along the Timucuan Trail. Fish types and fishing quality were not detailed in the provided information.
SwimmingSwimming in the naturally sloped spring pool is a highlight for many visitors. The constant 72-degree water temperature makes it suitable year-round. Reviews such as 'Swimming in the spring is always a cherished memory' reflect positive sentiments. However, one review warns of 'overcrowding during weekends.'
BikingBiking opportunities include trails such as the Paisley Woods Bike Trail, located across the campground entrance. A user noted, 'Trail sand can bog you down, but it's a good workout.'
BoatingCanoeing and kayaking are popular, with rentals available on-site. Several users praised the beauty of Alexander Springs Run, describing 'crystal-clear water and abundant wildlife,' while others criticized the high rental costs.
Wildlife viewingThe area supports diverse wildlife, including turtles, alligators, otters, raccoons, and birds. Reviews highlight memorable experiences such as 'snorkeling with otters' and spotting bear tracks near campsites.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsAlligators inhabit the spring waters, and raccoons are frequent visitors at campsites, requiring strict food storage guidelines. Heat and humidity during summer months may pose challenges.
Active AlertsThe boardwalk trail is closed for extensive renovations, with no clear timeline for reopening. Some restrooms experience closures due to water system repairs.
Food Storage RequiredBearproof food storage lockers are available at every site for added safety.

Weather at Alexander Springs Recreation Area

Reviews

4.3
970 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Alexander Springs Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight both positive and negative experiences. The campground's natural beauty and recreational opportunities receive praise, but recurring issues like facility closures, noise at night, and overcrowding detract from overall satisfaction.
Review Summaries
Based on 970 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and spacious campsites, crystal-clear spring water, friendly staff, large sites with privacy, and abundant wildlife viewing. For example, one user stated, 'The spring was beautiful and the...
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Based on 970 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include noisy neighbors, facility closures, lack of maintenance, overcrowding, high rental fees, and limited amenities. For instance, reviews noted, 'Bathrooms and showers were not cleaned...
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Based on 970 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure parking and access the spring before crowds arrive. Bring earplugs for noise, and be prepared for closures of trails and facilities. For example, one user advised, 'Get there...
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Based on 970 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter and spring are favored seasons for camping due to mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer experiences high visitor numbers, leading to overcrowding and facility stress.
Based on 970 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Alexander Springs is a beautiful campground with lots to do,' 'The spring was lovely to swim in after a hike,' 'The spring is gorgeous with mostly shallow areas for kids.'
Based on 970 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 15 is praised for its privacy and proximity to amenities. Site 67 is noted for its spaciousness. Reviews like 'Site 15 is very private and shaded,' and 'Site 67 was a great site, we had a really...
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Based on 970 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites are available, but no specific reviews from users with disabilities were noted.
Based on 970 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in campsites but restricted from the spring area. A user stated, 'Dogs are allowed in camp but not near the main attraction.'
Based on 970 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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