Ross Prairie Campground

Welcome to Ross Prairie Campground, a well-loved and highly-rated destination nestled along the scenic Cross Florida Greenway, near Dunnellon, Florida. For Floridians who are passionate about exploring the outdoors, whether on horseback, by bike, or on foot, this campground offers an exceptional basecamp experience. Ross Prairie is renowned for its convenient amenities, clean facilities, and direct access to an extensive network of trails that wind through diverse and beautiful ecosystems. It's a place where comfort meets adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without compromising on essential conveniences.

This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to Ross Prairie Campground, highlighting why it’s an ideal choice for locals across Florida. We'll delve into its strategic location, the impressive range of services and facilities available, and the distinct features that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts. We understand that Floridians value both accessibility to natural wonders and comfortable camping options, and Ross Prairie delivers on both fronts, making it an excellent option for your next active outdoor escape right here in your home state. Prepare to discover a campground that perfectly blends convenience with the wild beauty of Central Florida.

Ross Prairie Campground is conveniently located at 10660 SW State Rd 200, Dunnellon, FL 34432, USA. This prime location places it along the southern boundary of the Cross Florida Greenway, easily accessible from State Road 200. For Floridians traveling from various parts of the state, including Ocala, Gainesville, and the greater Central Florida area, the campground is very accessible. Its position offers the best of both worlds: a natural, trail-centric environment, yet within just a couple of miles of major shopping and dining opportunities north of the County Road 484 and State Road 200 intersection. This means you can quickly resupply or enjoy a meal out without straying far from your natural retreat.

The campground is situated adjacent to the entrance to Ross Prairie State Forest, providing immediate immersion into a unique ecological area where high, dry sandhill communities meet wetland prairie systems. While the campground entrance road might be unpaved in sections, access is generally good, even for larger RVs and trailers. The park operates with a gate that closes at 7:00 p.m., but campers arriving later can call the park on the day of arrival to receive the gate combination, ensuring smooth entry even after hours. All campers must be set up before 11 p.m. This balance of direct highway access and a secluded, natural setting makes Ross Prairie Campground an incredibly convenient and appealing option for local adventurers looking to explore the surrounding towns and extensive trail systems.

• Full Hookup Campsites: 14 public-use campsites are available, each equipped with water and 30/50 amp electric hookups.
• Spacious & Shady Lots: Sites are described as spacious, roomy, and offering some shade, enhancing comfort.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite includes a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Individual fire rings and/or grills are provided at each site for campfires and cooking.
• Clean Restrooms & Showers: Features well-maintained restrooms with flush toilets and spacious, clean shower stalls.
• Potable Water: Potable water is available at the day-use trailhead facilities.
• Dump Station: Conveniently located dump stations are available for RV waste.
• On-Site Campground Host: A super nice and accommodating campground host is available 365 days a year to assist campers.
• Equestrian Facilities: Includes equestrian trailer parking, fresh water for horses, and two horse wash racks, catering to horse enthusiasts.
• Cell Service: Good cell service is generally available.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase from the camp host.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed, though they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and are not permitted in designated swimming and picnicking areas.

• Premier Trail Access: Ross Prairie Campground is a gateway to an extensive network of trails, making it a dream destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. It offers direct access to natural surface mountain bike trails (including popular ones like "Ern and Burn" with good elevation changes and technical areas) and sections of the iconic Florida National Scenic Trail. This unparalleled access is a major draw for active Floridians.
• Equestrian-Friendly Design: With dedicated equestrian trailer parking, horse wash racks, and water for horses, the campground is exceptionally welcoming to riders. It serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring the equestrian trails within the state forest and Cross Florida Greenway.
• Convenient Full Hookups: Unlike many primitive campgrounds, Ross Prairie offers 30/50 amp electric and water hookups at its 14 public-use campsites. This provides a comfortable experience for RV and travel trailer campers, allowing them to enjoy amenities without sacrificing the natural setting.
• Exceptional Campground Host: Reviews consistently highlight the "super nice" and "accommodating" park hosts. Their presence ensures a welcoming atmosphere and readily available assistance, contributing significantly to a positive camping experience.
• Immaculately Clean Facilities: The bathhouse facilities, including restrooms and showers, are frequently praised for being "huge and very clean." This attention to cleanliness is a significant advantage for campers seeking comfortable and hygienic amenities.
• Diverse Ecosystems for Wildlife Viewing: The adjacent sandhill and wetland prairie systems create a unique ecological environment that supports a wide range of wildlife. Visitors can spot waterfowl, wading birds, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobcats, alligators in the prairie, and gopher tortoises in the sandhills, offering fantastic opportunities for nature observation and photography.
• Strategic Location for Area Exploration: Its proximity to Dunnellon and Ocala, combined with easy access to SR 200, makes it a perfect base for exploring surrounding towns, shopping, and dining opportunities. This allows for a blend of outdoor adventure and convenient access to local conveniences.
• Secure and Quiet Environment: The gate system with a combination lock (provided upon arrival) ensures a secure environment for campers. Despite being near a major road, the campground is noted for its quiet and enjoyable atmosphere.

For reservations and inquiries about Ross Prairie Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 10660 SW State Rd 200, Dunnellon, FL 34432, USA

Phone: (352) 732-2606

Mobile Phone: +1 352-732-2606

For the most up-to-date availability and to make reservations, it is recommended to visit the Florida State Parks reservation system website or call the number provided. Remember to call on the day of arrival if you anticipate arriving after 7 p.m. to get the gate code.

For Floridians, Ross Prairie Campground near Dunnellon offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for their next outdoor adventure. Its prime suitability stems from its unparalleled access to the Cross Florida Greenway's extensive trail system. Whether you're a passionate equestrian, an avid mountain biker, or a dedicated hiker, the direct entry to miles of diverse trails, including challenging routes like "Ern and Burn" and connections to the Florida Trail, provides endless opportunities for exploration right in your backyard. This focus on active outdoor recreation is a major draw for locals who want to fully utilize Florida's natural landscapes.

Beyond the trails, the campground excels in providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience. With 14 sites offering water and 30/50 amp electric hookups, it caters well to RVs and travel trailers, offering a level of amenity often sought by those who enjoy modern conveniences while immersed in nature. The consistently praised clean restrooms and showers further enhance the comfort of your stay. The presence of a dedicated and "super nice" campground host available year-round adds a personal touch, ensuring a welcoming and problem-free visit for all guests.

The strategic location near major shopping and dining options means that while you're enjoying the tranquility of the state forest, essential supplies and a chance to dine out are just a short drive away. This balance of wildness and convenience is perfect for Floridians looking for an accessible escape that doesn't compromise on either outdoor adventure or basic comforts. The unique ecology of the prairie and sandhill systems also provides fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing, enriching every visit.

In summary, Ross Prairie Campground is an ideal destination for Floridians seeking an active, comfortable, and well-supported camping experience. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the diverse trails and natural beauty of Central Florida, offering a perfect blend of convenience, quality amenities, and authentic outdoor adventure for every local outdoor enthusiast.

Ross Prairie Campground

10660 SW State Rd 200, Dunnellon, FL 34432, USA