floridacampgrounds

Fore Lake Recreation Area

Looking for the perfect outdoor getaway? Look no further! Fore Lake Recreation Area is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Florida. Located within the Ocala National Forest, this beautiful spot offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Get ready to explore the wonders of Fore Lake! Launch your non-motorized boat, Swim in the designated area, birdwatch, or enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Experience the magic of sleeping under the stars! The recreation area offers 31 campsites and camping facilities for those seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.

Fore Lake has something to offer all year round, whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter. Each season brings its unique charm and opportunities for unforgettable experiences.

Planning a family outing? Fore Lake Recreation Area is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, and creating lasting memories together.

Nature photographers, get your cameras ready! The area is a paradise for capturing stunning landscapes and wildlife shots.

Let’s help preserve this natural wonder! Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the environment during your visit.

For more details and directions, visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/florida/recarea/?recid=83686

Experience nature at its best – plan your Fore Lake Recreation Area trip now!

Photo Credit: Dan Kon

Lithia Springs Conservation Park

Lithia Springs Conservation Park, situated 20 minutes to the east of Tampa, Florida, is a 160-acre leisure destination renowned for its natural spring water. With over half of its expanse bordered by the Alafia River, this unassuming park is particularly favored by residents. The Lithia Spring Major supplies a considerable amount of fresh mineral water, averaging about 35 million gallons per day, with a consistent temperature of 72℉ throughout the year. The park features a pleasant swimming area that accommodates up to 400 visitors per day, allowing them to enjoy the water during two four-hour swim sessions, provided the weather conditions are favorable. Other popular activities in Lithia Springs include kayaking, canoeing, hiking, walking trails, fishing, and bird watching. Boat rentals are not offered on-site, but many people rent from Alafia River Canoe Rentals Inc, just three miles away from the springs.

Lithia Springs Park was initially acquired by Gardinier, Inc., a mining enterprise that later transformed into Mosaic Phosphate, Inc. Subsequently, in 1957, the company leased the park to Hillsborough County for use as a recreational facility, and over time, the 160-acre location gradually gained popularity as a camping destination. So, if you’re into camping the park offers 45 camping spots that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site comes with a 30-amp service, with a select few providing 50-amp service. While the size of the sites differs, they typically measure between 40-80 feet long. Amenities offered include proximity to the water, picnic tables, playgrounds, grills, fire pits, restrooms, and showers. There are no reservations for these sites; everything is done on a first-come, first-serve basis.

After setting up camp, hikers can explore the woodsy trails and their diverse plant communities, river cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks. The Fish Hawk Nature Preserve Trail which is comprised of a mix of grassy, sandy, and wooded portions, spans approximately 3.0 miles and is not paved.

And while you can bring your dog to the park on a leash, there’s no doggy peddling by our four-legged fur friends allowed in the spring.

For more information click here: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/…/lithia-springs-park

Author and Photo Credit: Renada Hill Valencia State College

Walk In the Water Campground

Walk In the Water Campground is located on the Lake Wales Ridge State Forest, (Polk County) on the Walk In the Water tract, approximately 44 miles SE of Lakeland, FL. It features eight primitive campsites that all require an advanced reservation. There is a picnic table and a fire ring at each site. There is no water or electricity available. There are two port-a-pots and a dumpster at the campground.

Some recreational activities that can be enjoyed here are: hiking, bicycling, picnicking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Hikers can take advantage of the two hiking trails on the Walk In the Water tract, which include Big Bay Trail, Scrub Jay Loop Trail, and two designated horseback riding/equestrian trails (Red and Blue).

Speaking of Scrub-jays….The trail leading from the entrance at King Trail Gate is an excellent place to see Florida scrub-jays, and some visitors may be fortunate enough to see short-tailed hawks. The area is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

Purchased under Florida’s Conservation and Recreation Lands program, Walk-in-the-Water protects fast-disappearing scrub and sandhill communities, which are home to many rare plants and animals. One such plant is the endangered scrub plum, one of the first scrub plants to bloom in the year, flowering in January or February before its leaves open.

And if you are wondering…YES! Yes, you can bring your fur baby along for the adventure. Dogs are allowed. Make sure to have your leash because there is an on-leash rule that applies.

For more information, click here: https://www.fdacs.gov/…/Lake-Wales-Ridge-State-Forest

Author: Renada Hill – student – Valencia State College

Photo Credit: Dan Kon