Big Scrub Campground
Open and accepting reservations. Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect across Ocala National Forest as of March 2026; campfires are permitted in Forest Service-provided fire rings at developed campsites. Expect full sites during weekends. Gates open 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Flood Advisory issued August 27 at 6:01PM EDT until August 27 at 9:00PM EDT by NWS Jacksonville FL
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected. * WHERE...South Central Marion County in northern Florida... * WHEN...Until 900 PM EDT. * IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 601 PM EDT, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms. Minor flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly in the advisory area. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. - Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are expected over the area. This additional rain will result in minor flooding. - Some locations that will experience flooding include... Ocala and Ocala Airport. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Travel Management & Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Forest Service are reviewing the Executive Order, entitled "Removing Unnecessary and Counterproductive Restrictions on Access to Federal Lands" issued May 29, 2026, that may affect travel management on National Forest System lands. Any changes to public…
Fire Restrictions in Effect for Ocala National Forest
The Ocala National Forest is under stage 1 fire restrictions. Exemptions include developed campsites with Forest Service provided campfire rings and grills. Dispersed campers who wish to have fires must use propane; charcoal is authorized for grilling purposes. All residents must conform to the…
About
Big Scrub Campground occupies a prime location in the south-central portion of Ocala National Forest, the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River. The campground protects a portion of the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest, offering 46 nonelectric campsites including 37 standard sites and 9 tent-only sites. The campground is perennially popular with off-road vehicle enthusiasts due to its direct access to the 47-mile Ocala Centennial Trail (also known as the Ocala Adventure Trail). A trailhead within the facility allows riders to go from their campsite directly to the trail system. OHV riders must have a valid permit for trail use, and operators under 16 are required to wear helmet and eye protection. Facilities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water from faucets, and picnic tables. The campground operates with gates open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Check-in is at 3:00 p.m. and check-out at 11:00 a.m. Campers are limited to a 14-day stay within any 30-day period, and the camping fee covers a maximum of two vehicles.
Directions
From I-75, travel east on State Route 40 to Forest Road 588. Turn south on FR 588 and continue approximately 8 miles. The campground is on the west side of the road.
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $20 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 40ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (352) 625-2520 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
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