Hopkins Prairie Campground
4.2343 reviewsNone
Quick Facts
Price
$15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
21 campsites
Season
Seasonal operations ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
21 campsites
Season
Seasonal operations ...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Hopkins Prairie Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates are $15 per night for standard non-electric sites during both peak and non-peak seasons. Additional fees include a $3 vessel launch...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$15.00
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ProviderNullNull
What Campers Say
4.23
Satisfactory
Based on 43 reviews
89 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsquietcleanhiking
Some mention
cell service
"Reviews for Hopkins Prairie Campground vary widely, with users praising its natural beauty, hiking access, and peaceful setting while also raising concerns about ticks, road conditions, and staff behavior. "Beautiful views and great place to camp!" wrote one camper, whereas another warned, "Ticks are bad here.""
Fees & Passes at Hopkins Prairie Campground
$15/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay limit or consecutive nights not explicitly stated.
Cancellation: Scan and Pay system enforces strict no-refund, modification, or cancellation policies, operating sim...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Null website.
Best Time to Camp at Hopkins Prairie Campground
Hopkins Prairie transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own character to this dynamic landscape. The campground adjusts its gate hours throughout the year to match nature's rhythms. Summer storms can sweep across the prairie, leaving access roads challenging with mud and ruts—a reminder that you're truly in the wild. During warmer months, the ecosystem buzzes with life, including ticks and chiggers that remind visitors to come prepared for authentic wilderness camping.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: September 14, 2025 - December 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Seasonal operations with gate hours varying by season: 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. (March - October) and 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. (October - March).
- Current Alerts: Gate closures apply depending on season: 8 p.m. - 8 a.m. (March-Oct); 6 p.m. - 8 a.m. (Oct-March).
About Hopkins Prairie Campground
Discover a hidden sanctuary where 21 primitive campsites nestle beneath the protective canopy of ancient oak hammocks at Hopkins Prairie Campground. This enchanting peninsula rises like an emerald jewel from the surrounding sea of golden grasslands, offering adventurers a unique basecamp for exploring Florida's wild heart. Cast your line into pristine waters, spot rare birds darting through the prairie, or set out on foot along the legendary Florida Trail—all from this remarkable wilderness retreat.
Hopkins Prairie Campground caters to primitive camping experiences with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Hopkins Prairie remains shrouded in the mists of time, the land itself tells ancient stories through its weathered oaks and timeless prairies, inviting modern explorers to create their own chapters in this enduring wilderness narrative.
Weather and SeasonsHopkins Prairie transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own character to this dynamic landscape. The campground adjusts its gate hours throughout the year to match nature's rhythms. Summer storms can sweep across the prairie, leaving access roads challenging with mud and ruts—a reminder that you're truly in the wild. During warmer months, the ecosystem buzzes with life, including ticks and chiggers that remind visitors to come prepared for authentic wilderness camping.
ElevationThe subtle undulations of Hopkins Prairie create a gently rolling landscape where oak-crowned rises meet prairie lowlands, offering varied perspectives across this captivating terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living painting where twisted oak limbs frame sweeping vistas of sun-drenched grasslands that stretch to the horizon. This remarkable 'island of shade' provides a cool refuge amidst the prairie's golden expanse, while scattered ponds and shallow wetlands create mirrors that reflect endless Florida skies. From your shaded campsite, watch as the prairie transforms throughout the day—morning mists giving way to shimmering afternoon heat waves, while wildlife emerges from hidden corners of this pristine ecosystem.
Geological RegionSituated within the vast tapestry of the Ocala National Forest, Hopkins Prairie showcases Florida's unique geological story. Here, elevated oak hammocks rise from ancient limestone foundations, creating islands of biodiversity within expansive wet prairies and grasslands. This distinctive landscape represents millions of years of geological evolution, where water, wind, and time have sculpted a mosaic of habitats that defines Central Florida's natural heritage.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for campers with disabilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention that the campsites are good-sized and clean. "The sites are clean and tidy, and very spacious!" shared one user.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy, with some offering seclusion and others clustered more closely together.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome sites offer more seclusion than others. 'Some sites offer seclusion from other campers but some don't.'
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 pm
Check-out
11:00 am
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit or consecutive nights not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site can accommodate a maximum of 2 tents, 2 vehicles, and 5 campers.
Groups
Not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout21 sites arranged with varying levels of privacy, featuring picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and food storage boxes for bear safety.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal operations with gate hours varying by season: 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. (March - October) and 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. (October - March).
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made on-site through the Scan and Pay system using the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve; all sites are non-reservable online.
Cancellation PolicyScan and Pay system enforces strict no-refund, modification, or cancellation policies, operating similarly to drop-off cash payment.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hopkins Prairie Campground provides opportunities for primitive camping, birding, hiking, fishing, and boating. "The Florida Trail runs by the edge of the campground," noted one reviewer, highlighting a major draw for hikers. "Birding is excellent," shared another, emphasizing the variety of wildlife due to the prairie and forest interface.
Hiking
The campground is situated along the Florida Trail, providing year-round access for hikers. Popular sections include routes to Pat’s Island Trailhead and Juniper Springs.Fishing
Fishing is available dependent on water levels in the prairie. "It may be possible to fish from the bank or launch a canoe or jon boat to access the deeper areas," according to the official description.Boating
A boat ramp is available for launching canoes or jon boats, with a $3 vessel launch fee. "Depending on water levels in the prairie, you may be able to launch your canoe or jon boat," shared the official overview.Wildlife viewing
The area is known for diverse wildlife, including songbirds, wading birds, bears, and raccoons. "We saw autumn wildflowers in bloom, many birds including a scrub jay and a Barred owl," noted one camper.Winter Activities
Activities like hiking and birding can be enjoyed year-round, though specific winter recreation like snowshoeing is not applicable.Water Sports
The campground supports non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing, facilitated by the available boat ramp.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings. All fires must be fully extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity and ticks reported. 'Ticks are bad here.' Poor road conditions (muddy, rutted) during rainy weather and lack of cell service.
Active alertsGate closures apply depending on season: 8 p.m. - 8 a.m. (March-Oct); 6 p.m. - 8 a.m. (Oct-March).
Weather at Hopkins Prairie Campground
66
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 97%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesSeptember 14, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, including bear-safe trash bins. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near ponds and shallows, with access to a boat ramp.
Common complaintsComplaints in user reviews include poor directions from Google Maps, lack of cell service, ticks, and rude campground hosts.
HostHosts named Ed and Pearl are frequently mentioned in reviews. Reviews are mixed, ranging from 'friendly and knowledgeable' to complaints about 'curmudgeonly behavior.'
Campground Map
None
Driving directionsThe turnoff for Hopkins Prairie is 9.2 miles north along SR 19 from the intersection with SR 40. Turn left and follow the signs, turning left, right, and left along unmarked, unimproved roads to reach the camping area.
Access roads are unmarked and unimproved, with potentially difficult navigation. Multiple user reviews warn against using Google Maps due to incorrect routing that leads through sugar sand where vehicles often get stuck. Instead, directions recommend taking US 19 to SE 77 St, continuing approximately 2.5 miles, and turning right on Mark Point 111.Nearby places
Salt Springs (approximately 8 miles south)
Nearby supplies
Null
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.2
43 reviews
Hopkins Prairie Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Hopkins Prairie Campground vary widely, with users praising its natural beauty, hiking access, and peaceful setting while also raising concerns about ticks, road conditions, and staff behavior. "Beautiful views and great place to camp!" wrote one camper, whereas another warned, "Ticks are bad here."
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, scenic views, opportunities for hiking and birding, and friendly interactions with some staff. "Lovely and quiet. Pits, picnic tables, and high-top grills....
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include ticks, rough road conditions, and occasional issues with staff. "Ticks were everywhere," warned a camper. Another noted, "The groundskeeper either lost or stole my payment then...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend avoiding Google Maps for navigation, bringing bug spray to deal with ticks, and arriving early to secure a campsite. "DO NOT TAKE GOOGLE MAPS DIRECTIONS TO GET HERE," emphasized...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends highlight the campground’s popularity during hunting season and its serene setting during off-peak times. "Definitely will be going there for many years to come during hunting...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Hopkins Prairie Campground is a relatively small, rustic campground with only about 20 campsites surrounded by swamp habitat for excellent birding." "I have camp at more established campgrounds, and...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention that all campsites include picnic tables and fire rings but vary in privacy and features. "Campsites offer a range of privacy, connected sites for groups. Most had...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but must be leashed and supervised at all times. "Dogs are allowed in campground only and must be leashed and supervised at all times."
Based on 43 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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