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Rainbow over the bathhouse and entrance to Big Scrub.

Big Scrub Campground

Open

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.

Special Weather Statement issued July 28 at 6:36PM EDT by NWS Jacksonville FL

6:36 PM — 7:00 PM

At 636 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over Lake Delancy, or near Salt Springs, moving east at 10 mph. HAZARD...Wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Locations impacted include... Fruitland, Lake Delancy, Welaka, and Georgetown.

Heat Advisory issued July 28 at 1:44PM EDT until July 28 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Jacksonville FL

1:44 PM — 9:45 PM

* WHAT...For the first Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 109. For the second Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 112 expected. * WHERE...Portions of northeast and northern Florida and southeast Georgia. * WHEN...For the first Heat Advisory, until 8 PM EDT this evening. For the second Heat Advisory, from 11 AM to 8 PM EDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.

Heat Advisory issued July 28 at 1:44PM EDT until July 29 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Jacksonville FL

1:44 PM — 9:45 PM

* WHAT...For the first Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 109. For the second Heat Advisory, heat index values up to 112 expected. * WHERE...Portions of northeast and northern Florida and southeast Georgia. * WHEN...For the first Heat Advisory, until 8 PM EDT this evening. For the second Heat Advisory, from 11 AM to 8 PM EDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.

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.

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

Rainbow over the bathhouse and entrance to Big Scrub.
Campers enjoying Big Scrub
Kids practice and learning track of Big Scrub Campground
OHV trail leaving Big Scrub Campground.
OHV visitors ready to head out on the trail.
Sunset over Big Scrub Campground
Big Scrub Campground Entrance
OHV Trailhead Kiosk with map and information.

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