Big Bass Campground

Star3.94
80 reviews
Big Bass Campground, Ocala National Forest, Florida

Quick Facts

75 ft

Price

$10 - $15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

34 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Ocala National Forest site

Official Website
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Big Bass Campground
$10.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard camping fees are $15 per night, with a 50% discount available for Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders. There is an additional...
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Standard Site Fee$15.00
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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What Campers Say

3.94

Mixed Reviews

Based on 80 reviews

78 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanspacioussites

Some mention

noiseroad noise

"Overall, user reviews describe Big Bass Campground as a quiet, budget-friendly option for camping with spacious sites and natural beauty. Some maintenance issues and road noise were noted."

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Campground Map

Big Bass Campground, Ocala National Forest, Florida

Big Bass Campground

Big Bass Campground, Ocala National Forest, Florida

Driving directionsIn Altoona, FL, at the intersection of County Rt. 42 and State Rt. 42, take State Rt. 42 west 9.6 miles to campground sign. Turn right after sign onto Forest Rt. 13 (dirt) and go 1 mile to campground on right.
Access involves a dirt road (Forest Rt. 13) for approximately one mile after turning off State Rt. 42. User reviews describe the entry as 'extremely rough' and advise entering carefully due to the road's condition.
Nearby places
Altoona (approx. 10 miles, ~15-20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, are likely in Altoona, FL, approximately 10 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Big Bass Campground

From mid-October through mid-April, Big Bass Campground awakens from its summer slumber to welcome visitors during Florida's most glorious months. As autumn's crisp mornings give way to balmy afternoons hovering between 67°F and 89°F, campers can enjoy perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. Evening temperatures dip to a comfortable 49°F to 74°F range, ideal for gathering around campfires and stargazing. While these months typically bring Florida's signature sunshine, nature occasionally graces the forest with refreshing rain showers that enhance the pine-scented air.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
Not recommended

Campground closed in summer; seasonal open Oct 15–Apr 15.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open season begins Oct 15; fall is cited as one of campground's best periods.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open until April 15; spring offers pleasant weather though the season ends mid-April.

Best
Winter(Dec-Feb)
4.0 / 5

Open through mid-April; cooler months are peak season and highly recommended.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Open season is October 15 to April 15, coinciding with cooler months.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open seasonally from October 15 to April 15.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal closures occur from mid-April to mid-October.

About Big Bass Campground

Tucked away in the heart of the southern Ocala National Forest, Big Bass Campground beckons as a peaceful sanctuary where 34 thoughtfully spaced sites nestle beneath towering longleaf pines and ancient oaks. This rustic retreat embraces the simplicity of traditional camping—no hookups, just pure connection with nature. The thick understory weaves a natural privacy screen between each site, creating intimate pockets of wilderness where campers can truly unwind. While the forest's tranquil symphony usually prevails, the occasional whisper of distant traffic serves as a gentle reminder of the world beyond these wooded confines.
Big Bass Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, including tent, RV, and group camping, providing basic amenities in a remote forest setting.
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Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
3p.m.
Check-out
11 a.m.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days in a 30-day period.

Amenities available

Dump station
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is a seasonal hub for outdoor activities, such as camping, hunting, and wildlife viewing. With its natural surroundings and occasional black bear sightings, it offers a wilderness retreat experience.
Wildlife viewingThe area offers opportunities to observe local wildlife, including occasional black bear sightings. Visitors are advised to practice safe food storage techniques.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThis is bear country; visitors should practice safe food storage techniques. Alligators are present near water bodies, and precautions should be taken, especially with pets. Ticks are abundant in the area, and precautions are advised.
Active AlertsSeasonal closures occur from mid-April to mid-October.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Big Bass Campground

Reviews

3.9
80 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Big Bass Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews describe Big Bass Campground as a quiet, budget-friendly option for camping with spacious sites and natural beauty. Some maintenance issues and road noise were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 80 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the affordability ($15 per night), spacious and private sites, clean vault toilets, and the natural setting. 'Nice sites and very quiet,' noted one reviewer.
Based on 80 reviews

Common Concerns

Concerns raised include maintenance issues, road noise, and occasional discomfort due to other attendees. The lack of potable water and hookups was also mentioned as a drawback.
Based on 80 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own potable water as it is not available on-site. Use tick repellents due to high tick activity in the area. Select campsites on the north end to reduce road noise.
Based on 80 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest on weekends during the open season (October to April). Users have noted that the sites may close when capacity is reached. Seasonal road conditions can be rough.
Based on 80 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Clean water, bathrooms, and sites - couldn't ask for a better campground, especially for $15.' 2. 'Ticks are abundant in the forest. Take the usual precautions for yourself, your children, and...
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Based on 80 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Some users recommend campsites on the north end to minimize road noise. No specific site numbers were provided.
Based on 80 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible toilets and two designated accessible sites are available, but no reviews specifically address these features in detail.
Based on 80 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Pet owners should exercise caution due to ticks and wildlife, especially alligators near water.
Based on 80 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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