Outbound Collective logo

Juniper Springs Rec Area

Astor, Florida

Book this listing through our partner Recreation Gov

About Juniper Springs Rec Area

Overview

Juniper Springs Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest. The location offers deeply shaded sites within walking distance of some of Florida's most beautiful natural springs. The surrounding recreation area has plenty of activities to entertain visitors, including swimming, picnicking, canoeing, snorkeling, hiking, birding and wildlife viewing.

This campground was named one of Reserve America's Top 100 Family Campgrounds in the United States.

Recreation

Visitors love swimming in a warm natural pool found in the day use area. Canoeing is also extremely popular year-round. The 7-mile journey down Juniper Run offers a unique perspective on the Juniper Prairie Wilderness. Private canoes can be used, or canoes can be rented from the concessionaire.

Back on land, campers can spend a day in the woods on a segment of the statewide Florida Trail, or walk a shorter nature trail within the facility. Interpretive programs are available during summer months.

Facilities

The facility is divided into a day use area and campground. Campsites are arranged into three loops near the creek and springs. All sites are shaded and equipped with a picnic table, grill, campfire ring, lantern post and space for tents. There are no sites with full hookups. Other amenities include hot showers, flush toilets and dump station.

A convenience store with camping supplies, beach supplies, food, drinks and ice cream is nearby. Restaurants, shopping and gas are just 10 miles from campground.

Natural Features

The natural springs are at the heart of this recreation area. Hundreds of bubbling springs emerge from crevices in the earth beneath a dense canopy of palms and oaks - an oasis within the heart of the desert-like Big Scrub ecosystem for which the national forest is known.

Abundant wildlife inhabitant the area, including alligators, turtles, deer, black bear, turkey, raccoons and numerous species of birds, as well as uncommon species like the albino gray squirrel, river otters and American eels.

Nearby Attractions

Lake George and its many activities are just a short drive away. The Ocala National Forest is also notable for its extensive off-road trail system catering to both ATV enthusiasts and Jeeps, as well as being a traditional destination for deer hunters from around Central Florida. These opportunities are available nearby.

Juniper Springs Rec Area Reviews

Just wish the campsites were slightly more private.

Top Spots in or near Astor

Kayak Silver Glen Springs

5271 Florida 19, Florida
4.0

Camp at Alexander Springs

Altoona, Florida
1 mi / 0 ft gain

Paddle Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs, Florida
5.0

Hike the Bear-N-Oak Trail to Indian Lake

Silver Springs, Florida
1.4 mi

Hike the St. Francis Yellow Trail

Paisley, Florida
3 mi / 14 ft gain

Swim with Manatees in Blue Spring State Park

Orange City, Florida
4.3

Camping and Lodging in Astor

Mill Dam Group Camp
Silver Springs, Florida

Mill Dam Group Camp

Buck Lake Group Campground
Altoona, Florida

Buck Lake Group Campground

Big Scrub Campground
Umatilla, Florida

Big Scrub Campground

Alexander Springs Rec Area
Altoona, Florida

Alexander Springs Rec Area

Doe Lake Group Site
Umatilla, Florida

Doe Lake Group Site

Salt Springs Recreation Area
Fort McCoy, Florida

Salt Springs Recreation Area

Unfortunately, we don't have up-to date pricing data for this listing, but you can check pricing through Recreation Gov.

Book Now

Add your business today to reach The Outbound's audience of adventurous travelers.