Juniper Springs Rec Area
Open — The campground is currently open year-round with reservations available through Recreation.gov. Campers have 24-hour access via coded gates. The day-use area operates 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The boardwalk trails are temporarily closed for renovations.
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
Juniper Springs Campground stands as one of the oldest and most beloved recreation areas on the East Coast, constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The campground features 79 sites nestled under a dense canopy of live oaks and palms, offering exceptional shade and a jungle-like atmosphere unique to Florida's Big Scrub ecosystem. The facility sits adjacent to hundreds of bubbling springs that create crystal-clear pools and the renowned Juniper Run, a 7-mile narrow waterway winding through old-growth forest. The recreation area provides diverse activities including swimming in warm natural spring pools, canoeing and kayaking down the challenging Juniper Run, snorkeling, birding, and wildlife viewing. Visitors may encounter albino gray squirrels, river otters, American eels, deer, black bear, and numerous bird species. The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through the area, offering backpackers a 72-mile unbroken segment. The historic Mill House serves as an interpretive center, showcasing the area's CCC heritage. The campground accommodates both tents and RVs, though no hookups are available. Campers enjoy 24-hour access via coded gates. The day-use area operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and a concessionaire provides canoe rentals, shuttle services, and a general store selling snacks, ice, firewood, and supplies. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov, making this a convenient base for exploring one of Florida's premier natural areas.
Directions
From I-75, take Highway 40 east through Ocala and Silver Springs for approximately 36 miles to Juniper Springs Recreation Area. From I-95, take Highway 40 west for approximately 37 miles. From the intersection of Highway 40 and Highway 19, the campground is 4.5 miles west on Highway 40. The entrance is on the north side of Highway 40.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | Yes |
| Price | $37 - $60 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 45ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 45ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (352) 625-3147 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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