Lopez River Camping Area

Rate this place

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Lopez River camping area is located in Florida's Ocala National Forest, one of the largest national forests in the eastern United States.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The camping area is situated on the banks of the Ocklawaha River, one of Florida's most scenic waterways, which runs through the forest. The Lopez River camping area is known for its stunning views of the river and its surrounding forest. Visitors to the camping area can enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating on the river, as well as exploring nearby points of interest.

One of the nearby points of interest is the Juniper Springs Recreation Area, which features crystal-clear springs, a large swimming area, and hiking trails. Another nearby attraction is the Silver Springs State Park, which boasts glass-bottom boat tours, a variety of wildlife, and picnic areas. The Ocala National Forest also features numerous hiking trails, including the Florida National Scenic Trail, which stretches over 1,000 miles across the state.

The Lopez River camping area has amenities such as campsites with electrical hookups, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. The camping area also has a boat ramp for visitors who wish to bring their own boats. The Lopez River camping area is popular among anglers, as the river is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill.

An interesting fact about the Ocala National Forest is that it features some of the oldest and largest sand pine trees in the world. The forest also contains several rare and endangered species, including the Florida scrub-jay and the red-cockaded woodpecker.

The best time to visit the Lopez River camping area is in the fall and winter months, when temperatures are mild and the humidity is low. Average temperatures during this time range from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. Visitors should be aware that the camping area can be crowded during peak season, which is typically from March to June.

       

Weather Forecast

Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

Related Links