Hopkins Prairie Campground
Open — Open for camping with reservations required. Campground gate is locked from 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. during March through October and from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. during October through March.
Freeze Watch issued December 30 at 12:05AM EST until December 31 at 9:00AM EST by NWS Jacksonville FL
* WHAT...Sub-freezing temperatures as low as 27 possible. * WHERE...Portions of northeast and northern Florida. * WHEN...From late tonight through Wednesday morning. * IMPACTS...Appropriate action should be taken to ensure tender vegetation and outdoor pets have adequate protection from the cold temperatures. Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold. Take measures to protect them.
Prospect Bluff Historic Site Closure Order
Authorities and Geographic Applicability. Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.53(c), this Forest Order: (1) Closes the Prospect Bluff Historic Site in its entirety for the preservation of objects or areas of historical, archaeological, geological, or paleontological interest.
Alcoholic Beverages
Lists the areas in the Apalachicola and Ocala National Forests where alcohol is not allowed.
About
Hopkins Prairie Campground is a secluded 21-site seasonal campground located in Ocala National Forest. The campground sits on an oak-shaded peninsula surrounded by the vast expanse of Hopkins Prairie, a sub-tropical grassland ecosystem with ponds and shallows. Cool breezes flow through the oak hammock when water levels are adequate in the prairie. The campground provides minimal facilities including vault toilets and water via hand pump. A boat ramp is available for launching canoes or jon boats to explore the prairie's deeper areas, though access depends on current water levels. A $3 per vessel launch fee applies. The campground is situated directly on the Florida Trail, making it a popular destination for hikers completing sections between Pat's Island Trailhead and Juniper Springs. Hopkins Prairie is exceptional for birding, as the interface between open prairie and oak scrub forest attracts songbirds, while wading birds frequent the ponds and shallows. Fishing from shore or by boat is possible depending on water levels. The location requires navigation on unmarked, unimproved forest roads. Bears and raccoons frequent the area, so proper food storage in bear boxes or vehicles is required.
Directions
The turnoff for Hopkins Prairie is 9.2 miles north along SR 19 from the intersection with SR 40. Turn left and follow the signs, turning left, right, and left along unmarked, unimproved roads to reach the camping area.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
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