Cypress Glen Campground

Hello, fellow Florida adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts! Are you dreaming of a camping trip where you can wake up surrounded by nature, then immediately hit some of the best biking and hiking trails our state has to offer? Look no further than Cypress Glen Campground, nestled right within the sprawling beauty of the Withlacoochee State Forest in Brooksville, Florida. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a launchpad for endless outdoor activities, offering a fantastic blend of natural serenity and convenient access to adventure. If you're passionate about mountain biking, leisurely cycling, or exploring scenic trails, Cypress Glen Campground is a destination that perfectly aligns with your love for the real Florida outdoors.

Cypress Glen Campground is a cherished part of the Withlacoochee State Forest, one of Florida's largest and most popular state forests for outdoor recreation, managed by the Florida Forest Service. The campground itself features 34 single-family campsites, designed to accommodate a range of campers from tent users to those with larger RVs. This state-managed setting means that while you'll find essential amenities for comfort, the primary draw remains the natural environment and the vast opportunities for outdoor activities that the surrounding forest provides. It's a place where the sounds of the forest replace city noise, and the air feels refreshingly clean.

What truly sets Cypress Glen apart is its direct connection to an extensive network of trails, making it a dream destination for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers. Imagine being able to roll out of your sleeping bag and straight onto a paved trail that connects to miles of scenic routes, or accessing challenging mountain bike trails just a short ride away. This focus on active outdoor pursuits, combined with the peaceful, natural setting on Silver Lake, creates a unique camping experience. For Floridians who love to stay active and explore the diverse landscapes of our state, Cypress Glen Campground offers a practical, amenity-supported base from which to launch countless adventures.

Cypress Glen Campground is located at 31475 Silver Lake Rd, Brooksville, FL 34602, USA. This address places it squarely within the Croom Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest, a vast and ecologically rich area in Hernando County, Central Florida. Its location is particularly advantageous for outdoor enthusiasts due to its immediate proximity to key trail systems.

The campground boasts an exceptional level of accessibility for cyclists and hikers. The entrance to Cypress Glen Campground is situated directly across the street from the Withlacoochee State Trail, a renowned 46-mile paved rail-trail that is perfect for biking, walking, and skating. This means campers can literally step out of the campground and onto one of Florida's premier multi-use trails, offering miles of scenic routes through varying landscapes. For mountain biking aficionados, the famous Croom Mountain Bike Trails are just about 3 miles down the Withlacoochee State Trail, providing access to over 50 miles of singletrack with varied terrain suitable for all skill levels.

Furthermore, approximately 2 miles down the Withlacoochee State Trail, the Good Neighbor Trail intersects, offering another paved route that leads towards the charming town of Brooksville. This network of trails makes Cypress Glen an incredibly convenient hub for day trips and longer excursions without needing to load bikes onto a vehicle. While some internal roads and sites might present minor challenges for backing in larger campers due to hills or angles, the overall accessibility to the surrounding natural attractions and major thoroughfares (like nearby I-75) remains a significant draw for local and visiting outdoor enthusiasts.

Cypress Glen Campground, as a state forest campground, provides essential services designed to support a comfortable outdoor stay, with a strong emphasis on integrating with the natural environment. The facilities typically available include:

• Campsites: 34 single-family campsites, including 33 with water and electric hookups, and 1 tent-only site. Sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs ranging from 20 to 60 feet.
• Individual Site Amenities: Each site is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill grate, perfect for cooking and enjoying campfire camaraderie.
• Bathhouse with Showers: A central bathhouse provides flush toilets and showers. Note: While generally available, recent feedback suggests varying experiences with cleanliness and amenities like shower benches or heating in bathrooms.
• Drinking Water: Potable water sources are available within the campground for refilling.
• Trash Collection: Designated areas for trash disposal are provided.
• Dump Station: While not directly on-site at Cypress Glen, the nearest dump station is conveniently located a few miles away at the adjacent Silver Lake Campground within the same complex.
• Pets Allowed: Leashed pets are welcome at the campground, making it a great option for those who travel with their furry companions.
• Reservations: Campsites are reservable through the Florida State Forests online reservation system (e.g., ReserveAmerica).

Cypress Glen Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it particularly attractive to outdoor-loving Floridians:

• Direct Trail Access: Its prime location directly across from the Withlacoochee State Trail is a major highlight, providing immediate access to miles of paved trail for cycling, walking, and running.
• Proximity to Croom Mountain Bike Trails: For thrill-seekers and mountain biking enthusiasts, the renowned Croom trails are just a short ride away, offering diverse terrain and extensive singletrack.
• Natural Setting within Withlacoochee State Forest: Being immersed in one of Florida's largest state forests means abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing (deer, turkeys, various birds), hiking on numerous trails, and enjoying a peaceful natural environment.
• Lake Access: The campground is located next to Silver Lake, part of the Withlacoochee River system, offering potential for boating, kayaking, fishing, and water sports (a boat ramp is available at River Junction nearby).
• Well-Spaced Sites: Many sites are described as having good space between them, often backing up to the woods, providing a sense of privacy.
• Affordable State Park Camping: Offers a cost-effective way to access extensive outdoor recreation compared to more amenity-rich private resorts.
• ADA Accessible Sites: Specific ADA-compliant sites are available to accommodate campers with diverse needs.

It's important for prospective visitors to consider recent feedback which, while highlighting the excellent location and trail access, also mentions concerns regarding the consistency of bathroom cleanliness, lack of heating in bathhouses, uneven or challenging site angles for backing in some RVs, and occasional issues with noise or litter from other campers. It appears to be a spot loved for its nature and trails, but where campers should manage expectations regarding facility upkeep and neighborly conduct.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Cypress Glen Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 31475 Silver Lake Rd, Brooksville, FL 34602, USA

Phone: (352) 797-4140

Mobile Phone: +1 352-797-4140

Reservations: Campsites can be reserved online. It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, through the Florida State Forests reservation system (often via ReserveAmerica).

• Website for reservations: search for "Cypress Glen Campground Withlacoochee State Forest" on ReserveAmerica.com.

For the most current information regarding park rules, trail conditions, fire restrictions, or any updates on facilities, it's always best to contact the Withlacoochee State Forest office directly using the provided phone numbers.

Cypress Glen Campground holds a special appeal for Florida locals, particularly those who are active outdoor enthusiasts and appreciate direct access to the state's vast trail systems. For many Floridians, the love of cycling, mountain biking, and hiking is a core part of their lifestyle, and Cypress Glen provides an almost unparalleled base for these activities. The immediate access to the paved Withlacoochee State Trail means families can enjoy leisurely bike rides, while serious mountain bikers can easily reach the challenging Croom trails. This convenience eliminates the hassle of transporting bikes by vehicle, making spontaneous rides or multi-day cycling adventures incredibly simple.

Furthermore, as part of the Withlacoochee State Forest, Cypress Glen offers an authentic "Old Florida" camping experience. Locals who seek to escape the more commercialized tourist hubs will find solace in the natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere of the forest. It's a place where you can genuinely disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural rhythms of Florida's wilderness, whether you're observing deer, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the quiet of a campfire under the stars.

While some recent reviews highlight areas for improvement regarding facility maintenance and occasional issues with other campers, the fundamental value proposition for locals remains strong: it's an affordable, pet-friendly state campground with electric and water hookups, offering direct access to world-class trails. For Floridians who prioritize an active, nature-focused camping trip over luxury amenities, and who are prepared for a slightly more rustic experience, Cypress Glen Campground offers an ideal opportunity to explore the natural wonders of their own state, ride extensive trail networks, and connect with fellow outdoor lovers in a beautiful forest setting.

Cypress Glen Campground

31475 Silver Lake Rd, Brooksville, FL 34602, USA