Clearwater Lake Rec Area
4.59270 reviews24511 CR 42, PAISLEY, FL 32767
Clearwater Lake Rec Area
$37.00 - $37.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$37.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees are $37 per night for both standard non-electric and RV non-electric sites. Extra charges may apply for additional vehicles ($9 per vehicle per night).
About this campground
Nestled along the southeastern shores of the Ocala National Forest, Clearwater Lake Recreation Area beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Florida wilderness experience. Here, beneath a canopy of ancient trees, visitors discover shaded campsites that offer respite from the Florida sun, while the pristine waters of Clearwater Lake invite swimmers, anglers, and paddlers to explore its calm surface. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, gliding across the lake in a canoe, or following woodland trails that wind through this semi-tropical paradise, Clearwater Lake delivers the perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Clearwater Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of camping options, including sites for tents, trailers, and motorhomes. It is particularly well-suited for primitive and group camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of American conservation history at Clearwater Lake, situated within the legendary Ocala National Forest—the oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River. This remarkable landscape preserves the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest, a rare ecosystem that has captivated naturalists and adventurers since its establishment. Every trail and shoreline tells the story of Florida's unique natural heritage and the ongoing commitment to protect these irreplaceable wild spaces for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsFlorida's sunshine graces Clearwater Lake throughout the year, creating an inviting climate for outdoor enthusiasts in every season. Winter brings crisp, dry days perfect for hiking and campfire gatherings, while summer transforms the landscape into a humid, verdant wonderland best enjoyed with refreshing lake swims. Spring and fall emerge as the sweet spots for camping, when gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures create ideal conditions for sleeping under the stars and exploring every corner of this natural haven.
ElevationThe gentle, rolling terrain of Clearwater Lake Recreation Area offers accessible adventures for visitors of all abilities, with minimal elevation changes throughout the campground and surrounding trails.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a semi-tropical tapestry where towering pines mingle with swaying palms, creating a uniquely Floridian landscape that feels worlds away from everyday life. The diverse ecosystem supports an incredible cast of wildlife characters—from prehistoric alligators sunning on distant shores to graceful deer stepping through morning mist. Raccoons investigate campsites at dusk, ancient turtles patrol the lakeside, and a symphony of bird calls fills the air from dawn to dusk, making every moment at Clearwater Lake a front-row seat to nature's daily drama.
Geological RegionClearwater Lake Recreation Area showcases the remarkable sand pine scrub forest ecosystem that defines the Ocala National Forest's southeastern edge. This extraordinary geological region represents the world's largest contiguous example of this habitat type, where ancient sand ridges support a fascinating blend of semi-tropical vegetation. Here, resilient sand pines stand alongside native palms, creating a distinctive landscape that exists nowhere else on Earth in such magnificent scale—a testament to Florida's unique position at the crossroads of temperate and tropical worlds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites with paved pads are available. However, some users mentioned that the narrowness of the pads and uneven terrain at certain sites can present challenges.
Sites SizeSites are spacious and well-shaded, accommodating tents, trailers, and motorhomes. Parking pads are level but can be tight for larger rigs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some offering good natural screening from brush and trees, while others are more exposed.
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #15 is recommended for its spacious and private setup with lake views. Sites #14 and #37 are also recommended for their size and proximity to amenities.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated sites include #15 for lakefront views and privacy, and #37 for proximity to facilities and scenic beauty.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 consecutive nights per visit and up to 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite accommodates up to 5 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two loops with paved parking pads. Sites are spacious but closely positioned, offering varying degrees of privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season pricing applies January through December.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is limited and subject to staff discretion. Some reviews mentioned inconsistent application of walk-up policies.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 service fee applies for cancellations. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night's fee. Refunds are not provided due to inclement weather.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Clearwater Lake Recreation Area can enjoy a variety of activities suited to nature enthusiasts and families. The campground provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, canoeing, mountain biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Designated trails such as the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail and segments of the Florida National Scenic Trail offer excellent hiking and biking experiences. The lake is a highlight for water-based activities, with a sandy beach and boat rentals available.
Hiking
The campground offers access to the Clearwater Lake Loop Trail, a 1.3-mile scenic nature trail around the lake, as well as the 22-mile Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail. A segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail also passes nearby.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Clearwater Lake, with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, brim, and catfish. Some user reviews noted that fishing can be slow at times.Swimming
A designated sandy beach area provides a safe swimming environment. User reviews describe the water as clear and warm, ideal for children and families.Biking
The 22-mile Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail caters to mountain bikers, offering forested terrain and challenges suited to different skill levels. The proximity of other trails makes the campground a biking hub.Boating
Canoes and kayaks are available for rent, and the lake's calm waters are suitable for paddleboarding and non-motorized boating. Motorized boats are not permitted.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently encounter local wildlife, including alligators, turtles, deer, raccoons, and numerous bird species. The area is also home to black bears, making proper food storage a necessity.Beach activities
The sandy beach at Clearwater Lake is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and playing. Some reviews highlight its cleanliness and family-friendly atmosphere.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are highlighted due to the year-round warm climate of Florida.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase at the entry station.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include ticks, mosquitoes, alligators near water, and low-hanging branches posing a risk to larger vehicles.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Paisley, including access to hospitals in DeLand (around 40 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 annually.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are provided throughout the campground. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is set along Clearwater Lake, offering swimming and canoeing opportunities. The 1.3-mile Clearwater Lake Loop Trail encircles the lake.
Common complaintsComplaints include high tick prevalence, generator noise, and strict enforcement of parking and food storage rules.
HostCampground hosts are noted for being friendly and helpful, with several reviews praising their attentiveness and customer service.
Campground Map
24511 CR 42, PAISLEY, FL 32767
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of Florida Highways 19 and 42, go east on Highway 42 toward Paisley. Drive approximately 6 miles and turn left at the entrance to Clearwater Lake Recreation Area.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but users have reported narrow roads with low-hanging branches. Larger RVs may face maneuvering challenges.Nearby places
Paisley (1 mile, less than 5 minutes), Altoona (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes), DeLand (approximately 40 miles, 40 minutes), Daytona Beach (approximately 60 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, a post office, and a library with internet access are available in Paisley (1 mile). Additional supplies and restaurants can be found in Altoona (7 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.6
270 reviews
Clearwater Lake Rec Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Clearwater Lake Recreation Area are generally positive, with an average sentiment score of 4.46. Many campers praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the friendliness of the staff, and the natural beauty of the lake and trails. However, some complaints include issues with ticks, low water pressure in showers, and noise from generators.
Review Summaries
Based on 270 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and helpful staff, spacious and well-shaded campsites, beautiful lake and trails, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Based on 270 reviewsCommon Concerns
Ticks and other pests, lack of privacy at some sites, occasional noise from neighboring campers or generators, high fees for limited amenities, and enforcement of strict parking and pet rules.
Based on 270 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring insect repellent to handle ticks and mosquitoes. Choose campsites further from the main road for more privacy. Check in during daylight hours for easier navigation. Utilize the dishwashing...
Based on 270 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are popular for their moderate weather, while summer sees more bugs. Winter offers a quieter experience but can have cooler temperatures.
Based on 270 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The lake is crystal clear and perfect for swimming or paddling.' 'The staff was super helpful and even delivered firewood directly to our site.' 'Ticks were everywhere, so bring repellent.' 'The...
Based on 270 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 (Lakefront): Described as 'gorgeous' and spacious. Site 22: Close to bathrooms, but noise from the day-use area can be an issue. Site 28: Infested with ticks during some seasons. Site 34:...
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Accessibility Features
Mixed reviews. While some found the facilities accessible, others noted issues with narrow or uneven parking pads, making it difficult for larger vehicles or those with mobility challenges.
Based on 270 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted from the beach and lake trail. Owners must keep them leashed and supervised at all times. Some users appreciated the pet-friendly policy, while others found the...
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Last updated August 10, 2025