Ross Prairie Primitive Backpacking Campsite

Open — Open year-round with reservations accepted up to 11 months in advance. Campers should be aware that hunting is allowed at various times throughout the year.

About

Ross Prairie Primitive Backpacking Campsite offers a rustic camping experience in Ross Prairie State Forest, located about 15 minutes southwest of Ocala in Marion County. This is a hike-in only campsite with a single site that accommodates up to 8 people. Campers must park at the State Forest trailhead along SR 200 and backpack in to the campsite, which is located just off the Holly Hammock Hiking Trail. No electric hookups or potable water are available at this primitive site. Ross Prairie State Forest encompasses over 3,000 acres of diverse woodlands and wetlands, featuring a freshwater basin marsh characterized by open areas of wetland grasses surrounded by live oak hammocks. The prairie contains water during the wet season and becomes completely dry during the dry season. Recreational opportunities include hiking, horseback riding, camping, hunting, picnicking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and photography. The site includes basic amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables. Hunters should be aware that this forest allows hunting at various times throughout the year, and visitors are advised to wear blaze orange during hunting seasons.

Directions

From Ocala (I-75): Head west on SR 200 for 10.5 miles. Ross Prairie State Forest is located on the south side of SR 200. Parking for this campsite is directly off of SR 200 at the Ross Prairie State Forest Trail Head. From Crystal River (US 19/98): Head east on FL 44, then left onto County Rd 486/West Norvell Bryant Highway. Next, turn left on FL 200 for 5.8 miles. Ross Prairie State Forest is located on the south side of SR 200.

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