Salt Springs Recreation Area

Star4.51
1.2K reviews
13851 Hwy 19N
Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

62 ft

Price

$37 - $69/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

60 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens American Land and Leisure 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
Salt Springs Recreation Area
$37.00 - $69.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary by season and site type; Standard Electric sites cost $69 per night, while Tent Only Nonelectric sites cost $37 per night. Additional fees...
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Standard Site Fee$37.00
Hookup Site Fee$69.00
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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Provider
352-685-2048
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What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 1.2K reviews

1077 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouswell-maintainedsites

Some mention

noise

"Salt Springs Recreation Area receives a mix of positive and negative reviews. While many highlight the campground’s cleanliness, spacious sites, and natural beauty, some users criticize management policies, staff attitudes, and the enforcement of rules."

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Campground Map

13851 Hwy 19N

Salt Springs Recreation Area

13851 Hwy 19N

Driving directionsFrom I-75 to Ocala: Drive east on State Route 40 for about 12 miles, then turn north on County Road 314 and proceed for 18 miles. Turn north on State Highway 19 and drive for about 0.5 miles to the recreation area entrance on the right. From I-95 east of Ormond Beach: Take SR 40 west about 40 miles to Highway 19. Turn north on Highway 19 and go about 16 miles to Salt Springs. Continue 0.5 miles to the recreation entrance on the right.
Road access is generally good with paved roads leading to the campground. The gate hours vary seasonally: Summer (April 15 - October 14) daily from 8 AM to 8 PM; Winter (October 15 - April 14) Friday 8 AM to 8 PM, Saturday - Thursday 8 AM to 6 PM.
Nearby places
Ocala (35 miles), Daytona Beach (60 miles), Orlando (95 miles)
Nearby supplies
Firewood, groceries, and essentials are available in Salt Springs community, which includes a gas station, grocery store, laundromat, and post office.

Best Time to Camp at Salt Springs Recreation Area

Experience the gentle rhythm of Florida's subtropical seasons at Salt Springs, where warm, balmy days invite year-round outdoor adventures. While summer brings the signature humidity that nurtures the lush forest canopy, winter occasionally surprises visitors with crisp mornings and cool evenings perfect for gathering around the campfire. The shoulder seasons offer ideal conditions for exploring, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty of this forest sanctuary.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Hot, humid summers bring crowds but are well-suited to swimming and snorkeling.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Milder fall weather with trails and water activities; generally less crowded than peak summer.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 13% in FL

Spring brings superb swimming, clear water and manatee sightings; very positive review signals.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
4.0 / 5

Cooler, pleasant winter temperatures and quieter camping make winter attractive.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1 through December 31 (same pricing throughout the year).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round, from January 1 to December 31.
  • Current Alerts: Closures of trails and springs have been reported occasionally due to natural events.

About Salt Springs Recreation Area

Nestled within the enchanting Ocala National Forest, Salt Springs Recreation Area beckons adventurers with its crystal-clear, mineral-rich springs and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you're diving into the refreshing 72-degree waters for a swim or snorkel, casting a line for your next catch, or setting up camp beneath towering pines, this natural oasis offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Choose between modern RV sites with full hookups or secluded tent camping spots shaded by ancient trees, all while immersing yourself in one of Florida's most treasured natural playgrounds.
The campground offers diverse accommodations, including RV sites with full hookups, tent-only areas, and primitive camping options. Its spacious layout and designated areas for different camping styles make it a versatile choice.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
4PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Salt Springs Recreation Area offers a variety of activities, both water- and land-based, with its centerpiece being the natural mineral spring. Visitors can engage in swimming, snorkeling, hiking, boating, and fishing. The surrounding Ocala National Forest adds opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration.
HikingThe campground provides access to the Bear Swamp Trail and a segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Hiking trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views, though some users noted trail closures and maintenance issues.
FishingFishing is available in Salt Springs Run and nearby Lake George. Anglers can expect to catch blue crabs and various fish species.
SwimmingThe natural spring is the main attraction, featuring crystal-clear water, blue crabs, and fish. Visitors are drawn to the spring for its refreshing 72°F temperature and opportunities for snorkeling.
BikingBiking is available on paved roads within the campground, but there are no dedicated biking trails.
BoatingBoating is supported with a nearby boat ramp, and pontoon rentals are available. The spring’s proximity to other water bodies makes it ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
Wildlife viewingVisitors commonly see manatees, blue crabs, and turtles in the water, along with various bird species in the area.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFire ants and ticks are common; visitors are advised to use insect repellents and avoid areas with visible ant mounds.
Active AlertsClosures of trails and springs have been reported occasionally due to natural events.
Food Storage RequiredDesignated food storage lockers are provided for primitive camping areas, useful in bear country.

Weather at Salt Springs Recreation Area

Reviews

4.5
1.2K reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Salt Springs Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Salt Springs Recreation Area receives a mix of positive and negative reviews. While many highlight the campground’s cleanliness, spacious sites, and natural beauty, some users criticize management policies, staff attitudes, and the enforcement of rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 1177 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users praised the cleanliness of the facilities, the beauty of the spring, and the spacious, well-maintained campsites. The campground’s full hookups and proximity to other activities in Ocala...
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Based on 1177 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include inconsistent enforcement of rules, issues with water temperature in showers, lack of Wi-Fi, and limited cell coverage. Some users found the staff overly strict, while others...
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Based on 1177 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing bug spray due to flies and ticks, stocking up on supplies beforehand, and arriving early to secure first-come, first-served sites. Many suggest snorkeling gear to enjoy...
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Based on 1177 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground tends to be quieter on weekdays and busier on weekends. Winter months offer cooler temperatures and sightings of manatees in the spring. Summer brings more crowds but provides an...
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Based on 1177 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The Salt Spring is fun and entertaining." - Review by TIBOR D. "The bathrooms were fairly clean, but it is almost impossible to take a shower when the water has to be turned on with hand pressure...
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Based on 1177 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Positive reviews frequently mention sites like 058 and 041 for their location and layout. Negative reviews highlight issues at sites like 048 due to noisy neighbors or staff interactions.
Based on 1177 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some users noted limitations in handicap parking and restroom accessibility. However, accessible campsites are available.
Based on 1177 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies allow dogs, but some users noted issues with leash policies and staff attitudes toward pets.
Based on 1177 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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