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 Warning issued October 12 at 8:56PM EDT until October 15 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Tampa Bay Ruskin FL
...The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Florida... Myakka River At Myakka River State Park affecting Sarasota County. Withlacoochee At US 41 Dunnellon affecting Citrus, Levy and Marion Counties. * WHAT...Minor flooding is forecast. * WHERE...Withlacoochee at US 41 Dunnellon. * WHEN...Until Thursday evening. * IMPACTS...At 28.2 feet, Docks and boat ramps flood along the river in Citrus and Marion counties. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 7:45 PM EDT Monday the stage was 28.1 feet. - Bankfull stage is 28.2 feet. - Forecast...The river is expected to rise to a crest of 28.2 feet tomorrow evening. It will then fall below flood stage early Thursday afternoon. - Flood stage is 28.2 feet. - Flood History...This crest compares to a previous crest of 28.2 feet on 10/02/1979. - https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Supervisor's Office Closed
Due to potential weather impacts from Hurricane Isaias, the Supervisor's Office will be temporarily closed Friday, October 9.
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…
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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