Ross Prairie Primitive Backpacking Campsite
00 review6675 NE 40th Ave Rd, Ocala, Florida, 34479, United States
Ross Prairie Primitive Backpacking Campsite
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
Exact fee details are unclear, but a user review explicitly mentioned being charged $30 for tent camping. This fee structure may vary by site type or reservation method.
About this campground
Deep within the untamed wilderness of Ross Prairie State Forest, this primitive backpacking campsite offers adventurers a true escape into Florida's natural heartland. Accessible only by foot, this secluded retreat strips away modern conveniences—no electricity or running water—inviting visitors to reconnect with nature in its purest form. Whether you're traversing the trails on foot or horseback, stalking game during hunting season, or capturing the perfect photograph of native wildlife, Ross Prairie rewards those who seek authentic outdoor experiences in Marion County's 3,000-acre wilderness sanctuary.
This campsite is strictly primitive with no amenities such as water or electric hookups. It is a hike-in, backcountry-oriented site designed for minimalistic camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceWhile Ross Prairie may not bear ancient monuments or historical markers, its untouched wilderness tells a different story—one of Florida's enduring natural heritage, where the land remains much as it has for centuries, offering visitors a glimpse into the state's wild past.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Florida's distinct seasonal rhythms at Ross Prairie, where summer brings sultry days wrapped in humidity and the symphony of cicadas, while winter offers crisp, dry air perfect for extended hikes. The changing seasons paint the landscape in different moods—from the lush, rain-soaked vibrancy of summer to the golden, sun-drenched clarity of winter mornings. Campers should note that the distant hum of nearby highways occasionally drifts through the forest, a gentle reminder of the world beyond the trees.
ElevationThe gentle Florida terrain at Ross Prairie offers relatively level camping and hiking experiences, making it accessible for backpackers of varying skill levels while still providing the adventure of primitive camping.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss create natural cathedrals above your campsite. The forest's crown jewel is its dynamic freshwater basin marsh—a natural amphitheater that transforms with the seasons. During wet months, it becomes a shimmering wetland teeming with wading birds and reflecting clouds, while dry seasons reveal a golden grassland prairie dotted with wildflowers. This ever-changing mosaic of oak hammocks and wetland grasses creates a photographer's paradise and a naturalist's dream.
Geological RegionRoss Prairie State Forest encompasses a remarkable 3,000-acre tapestry of Florida's most iconic ecosystems. At its heart lies a fascinating freshwater basin marsh—a geological depression that acts as nature's seasonal lake. This unique feature fills with life-giving water during Florida's wet season, creating vast wetlands bordered by majestic live oak hammocks. As dry seasons arrive, the marsh gradually transforms into an expansive prairie of wetland grasses, revealing the ancient rhythms of flood and drought that have shaped this landscape for millennia. This dynamic ecosystem showcases Florida's incredible biodiversity within a single, ever-changing natural arena.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNot specified.
Sites SizeNot specified.
Sites PrivacyNo privacy; sites are described as closely packed with minimal natural screening. Reviews state that the sites lack trees and seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #2 is shaded but inclined; Site #5 offers space and amenities but is noisy due to proximity to SR 200. Choose outer loops for better seclusion.
Best CampsitesSite #2 is praised for its shade but noted to be on an incline. Site #5 is often mentioned as the best site but is closest to highway noise.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Limited to a maximum of 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific data provided on guest limits per site.
Groups
Not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe layout is described as tight, with tent campers sharing spaces close to RVs. Outer loops provide more forest views and privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Hunting seasons may affect usability; visitors are advised to wear blaze orange during hunting periods.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are mentioned in user reviews as being available online, but no specific platform or website is provided.
Walk-in AvailabilityReviews indicate the campsite is difficult to book during high season; first-come-first-served options are not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyNo details on cancellation policy provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Ross Prairie include hiking, horseback riding, hunting, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and outdoor photography. The area connects to the Holly Hammock Hiking Trail and features recreational trails for multiple uses.
Hiking
The campsite is adjacent to the Holly Hammock Hiking Trail. Trails are marked and noted for their beauty, with options for both easy hiking and extended trail systems through the state forest.Biking
The site offers access to biking trails through the Cross Florida Greenway Santos-Belleview Trail system.Wildlife viewing
The forest supports bird watching and wildlife photography. Open marshes and live oak hammocks provide unique habitats.Winter Activities
Not specified.Water Sports
Not specified.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are available at tent sites, but no specific rules are mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Reviews indicate quiet hours are not strictly enforced, leading to noise disturbances.
Hazards
General hazardsProximity to SR 200 means consistent noise from vehicles. Wildlife such as bears has been noted in the area, though garbage bins are locked to prevent bear access.
Active alertsAdvisory for hunting seasons. Campers should wear blaze orange.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 90%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Closest emergency services include Ocala Regional Medical Center (approx. 15 minutes away) and local police/ranger services accessible via provided contact numbers (3527321779).
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNot specified.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby lakes or rivers noted. The forest features a seasonal freshwater basin marsh.
Common complaintsSeveral users complain about road noise from the nearby highway, lack of shade, and campsite layouts offering limited privacy.
HostHosts are generally rated as friendly and helpful. However, some reviews mention mishandling of reservations and rudeness.
Campground Map
6675 NE 40th Ave Rd, Ocala, Florida, 34479, United States
Driving directionsFrom 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 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. Parking for this campsite directly off of SR 200 at the Ross Prairie State Forest Trail Head.
Road access is directly off a major highway (SR 200), making it convenient to locate. However, being near a highway means noise is common. The campsite is accessible year-round, but no specific details on seasonal closures or terrain challenges were provided.Nearby places
Ocala (15 minutes southwest). Crystal River (approx. 30 minutes southeast).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are located in Ocala (15 minutes away), offering access to groceries, camping essentials, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Ross Prairie Primitive Backpacking Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are highly polarized. Many appreciate the clean facilities, friendly hosts, and access to hiking trails, while others criticize the lack of privacy, noise from the highway, and the absence of shade.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes 'clean bathrooms,' 'marked trails,' 'friendly camp hosts,' and 'peaceful environment.' One review highlights that the campsite is 'centrally located to local attractions.'
Common Concerns
Major complaints include the lack of shade, privacy between campsites, and noise from the nearby highway. Tent campers particularly note the lack of separation from RV sites.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend choosing sites located in outer loops for privacy and shade. Long extension cords are advised for tent campers who may require electric connections.
Seasonal Insights
During peak seasons, the campground is described as busy with minimal availability. The heat and lack of shade in summer may lower comfort levels for campers.
Camper Quotes
1. 'If you like walking trails, large campsites and clean bathrooms with large showers check this place out.' 2. 'The highway next to the camp ground is very noisy and you'll hear it all day and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #16 is noted for its lack of privacy as it is 'sandwiched between other campsites.' Site #2 has great shade but is on an incline. Site #5 is praised for its location but is noisy due to...
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Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
No pet-specific reviews are mentioned.
Last updated August 10, 2025