Juniper Springs Rec Area

Welcome to Juniper Springs!
Historic Mill House
Picnic area
Rentable Pavilion
Natural Florida

Featured amenities

Showers Showers

Sites & Rates

Average nightly rates

76 total sites

RV Sites

57 sites

Tent Sites

19 sites

About Juniper Springs Rec Area

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.

Number of accommodations: 76

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Open year round

This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.

365 Days

Campground Amenities

Most popular amenities

Showers Showers
RV Utilities and Hookups

RV Utilities and Hookups

  • Dump station on site
Water and Hygiene

Water and Hygiene

  • Showers
Missing information?

Rates, Sites & Availability

Select check-in and check-out dates to see real-time availability for each site.

76 Sites Available

Site
Price
🚐 001, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 002, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 003, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 004, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 005, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 006, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 007, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 009, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 010, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 011, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 012, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 013, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 014, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 015, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 016, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 018, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 019, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 020, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 021, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 022, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 023, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 024, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 025, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 026, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 027, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 028, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 029, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 030, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 031, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 032, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 033, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 034, Loop: TROP RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 036, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 037, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 038, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 039, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 040, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 041, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 042, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 043, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 044, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 045, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 046, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 047, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 048, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 049, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 050, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 051, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 052, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 053, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 054, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 055, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 056, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 057, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 058, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 059, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
🚐 060, Loop: SAND RV
No Hookups
Price not available
061, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
062, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
063, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
064, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
065, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
066, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
067, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
068, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
069, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
070, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
071, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
072, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
073, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
074, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
075, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
076, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
077, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
078, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available
079, Loop: FERN Tent
5 guests · Campfire · Pet Friendly
Price not available

Reviews (594)

What Guests Are Saying

Juniper Springs Recreation Area is a beautiful natural destination, ideal for summer visits with its refreshing springs and scenic kayaking on Juniper Run. Campgrounds are generally well-maintained and offer a peaceful atmosphere, with friendly staff enhancing the experience. However, some facilities, like the wooden boardwalks and bathrooms, require repairs, and visitors should be cautious of ticks and occasional overcrowding in popular areas.

Review Summary

4.1
594 reviews
5
50.5%
300
4
23.7%
141
3
14.5%
86
2
7.7%
46
1
3.5%
21

Fermina R

Verified

June 3, 2024 Stayed at: 066, Loop: FERN

4

The place is really beautiful and peaceful. The only problem are the bathroom specially the showers, they are really dirty. Needs improvement in that area

Autumn M

June 2, 2024

4

Getting in was a nightmare especially with a reservation. Pavilion rental a little expensive with no designated grill. But everyone was nice and cordial. We had a good time.

Tess B

Verified

May 28, 2024 Stayed at: 075, Loop: FERN

3

The campsite was nice but some rude campers kept their truck running until late into the night. It would be nice if that was monitored. The bathrooms started very clean but they weren't cleaned over the weekend. We also noticed the water in the showers kept running and we tried turning them off and called the after-hours number to report it. Not sure what happened and if it was fixed. It was nice having a dish-cleaning station. The springs were beautiful. So sad that people leave so much trash. It is disappointing that all of the boardwalks are closed. It seems like they have been for a long time- when will they be fixed?! Also, it would be great if there was a place where dogs could run and be off-leash and/or swim!

Tim E

Verified

May 4, 2024 Stayed at: 073, Loop: FERN

4

It's truly a beautiful campground but it's unfortunate they aren't doing anything about the trails and wood paths that have deteriorated and have become unusable.

Clare C

Verified

May 3, 2024 Stayed at: 042, Loop: SAND

5

Sites were nicely spaced apart with plenty of room on each site. Bathrooms and showers were clean. The staff were so friendly and helpful. Will go again really enjoyed the springs

LISA M

Verified

April 30, 2024 Stayed at: 078, Loop: FERN

2

I wish I had a better review. My stay during the week was pleasant, the bathrooms were tidy. The staff is friendly. The park, however, is in dire need of maintenance. None of the boardwalks were accessible, all of them were closed due to disrepair and rot. All of the structures that were built by the CCC, except for the mill, were surrounded by chain link with Keep Out signs posted. It's sad and disappointing to see this beautiful park and its history be left to rot.

Alex T

Verified

April 22, 2024 Stayed at: 038, Loop: SAND

5

The campsites are partially/fully shaded with foliage creating privacy from other campers. Each site has a paved driveway and well defined level tent pad. Sites are large enough for 2 vehicles and a small group of people. Fire rings, a table, and a bear box large enough for 3+ large coolers are on each site. Water is shared between 3-4 sites and there is no electric. Highway noise was audible, but not loud enough to be disruptive. The bathhouse is clean and adequate. There were a lot of ticks, so bug repellent is recommended.
The spring is beautiful with a year-round 72 degree temperature offering year round swimming and snorkeling, but does not have a shallow area where you can touch the bottom. There are open areas with picnic tables and hiking paths. The pavilion was closed when we were there. A connector trail connects to the Florida Trail for extended hiking.
You can rent kayaks (and soon canoes we were told) and experience one of the best canoe trails in the state of Florida, however it is very technical and is NOT recommended for first time paddlers. The 7.3 mile trail features lot of twists, turns, obstacles and logs just under the surface that can tip you over and even a short rapid section. Even experienced paddlers will get pushed into the brush by the current. It is mostly shaded with lots of foliage and plenty of wildlife to see including alligators. Allow about 4 hours to complete it. Juniper Springs is a popular destination (but not over crowded) so if you are camping, reserve your site early. The park has a relaxing natural atmosphere with fantastic springs, great camp sites, a premier canoe trail and friendly staff!

Gabryelle C

Verified

April 14, 2024 Stayed at: 015, Loop: TROP

5

After reading other reviews, we were nervous coming to the site. But the staff here was absolutely amazing! Everyone was friendly and professional. We brought our own kayaks and the launch fee was waived since we were camping but they treated us the same as if we were renting. Beautiful views, clean and quiet campsite. We will absolutely be back!

Diana L

Verified

April 14, 2024 Stayed at: 059, Loop: SAND

4

Great experience. Our campsite was close to the bathroom and showers and they were opened 24/7. Very clean and organized. The only thing we didn't like much is that the campsite is too small for two tents and 2 cars. Keep un mind that if you want to go for the kayak option, it is a 4 -5 hours of paddling!

Victoria H

Verified

April 10, 2024 Stayed at: 007, Loop: TROP

3

We loved the springs. The camp ground was very welcoming and easy to get around.
We hate that our dog couldn’t be in the area of the springs because camping with a dog meant only one parent could go with the kids and they other had to stay back with the dog. Also all the wooden tails were closed so we weren’t able to explore as much as we would have liked and didn’t see anything posted prior to booking. Quite time was also not enforced and unfortunately there were kids climbing on the bathroom, flipping over the cigarette butt holder, trashed the bathrooms and yelled and screamed well past midnight.

Location Juniper Springs Rec Area

Address:
26701 East Hwy 40
Silver Springs, FL, 34488
United States

Highway access

Juniper Springs Recreation Area is accessible via Highway 40, which connects to I-75 and I-95. It is located approximately 4.5 miles west of the intersection of Highway 40 and Highway 19.

Elevation: 13 feet

Distance to downtown

23 mi drive to downtown Silver Springs (about 29 min)

Policies & Rules

Arrival & departure

Check in time

2PM

Check out time

11AM

General

  • Campground gate is closed and locked from to . Campers who check-in after the gatehouse is closed must visit the Gatehouse the next morning to complete their check-in to their site. Failure to do so will lead to a 'no show' charge to your reservation and potential forfeiture of site.
  • Camp sites must be occupied first night of reservation
  • Each campsite can hold a MAXIMUM of 2 tents and 5 campers. Maximum 2 vehicles per site (campers included); extra vehicles must park in overflow/overnight parking area and will be charged $9 per vehicle, per night
  • NO REFUNDS DUE TO WEATHER
  • Generators are not allowed to run during quiet hours.
  • No off-road vehicles allowed within the campground
  • Bears and raccoons frequent the area; all food must be kept in approved containers. Failure to comply with this regulation can result in immediate ejection from campground without refund. 
  • Dogs/pets are allowed in campground only and must be leashed and supervised at all times. No dogs/pets allowed in day-use area, bathrooms, boardwalk and canoe run.
  • Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the day-use area.We ask that guests be courteous of one another and limit floats in the swimming area to under 60 inches across. Please be aware the boardwalk remains closed due to age and hurricane damage.
  • Children weighing less than 40 lbs are not allowed in rental canoes. No disposable items allowed on the canoe run (i.e., food wrappers, styrofoam coolers, cans, bottles, etc.) Only re-usable containers are allowed.
  • Private canoe and kayak launches are at a fee and limited to 30 total vessels per day. Vessels must be launch BEFORE 1:00 p.m. daily. JUNIPER RUN IS NOT FOR BEGGINERS. IT IS A WILDERNESS AREA AND MECHANICAL TOOLS ARE NOT PERMITTED, SO THE RUN REMAINS WILD. 
  • Click here for more information about Ocala National Forest
  • Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
  • As per Forestry Department regulations, fines will result from the following infractions:    - Leaving unattended coolers and food. These items must be in bear boxes or fully shut vehicles    - Leaving burning or smoldering fires when exiting campsite.    - Improperly parked vehicles

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: September 6, 2026

USDA Forest Service Logo
Managed by USDA Forest Service