Ross Prairie Campground

Hello, fellow Floridians! Are you ready to trade the everyday hustle for the serene sounds of nature and the thrill of outdoor adventure? If you’re looking for a camping destination that seamlessly blends modern comforts with unparalleled access to some of Florida’s most captivating trails, then Ross Prairie Campground in Dunnellon is a place you absolutely need to explore. This full-service campground, nestled within the vast Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway, is a true gem for RVers, equestrians, hikers, and mountain bikers alike. We’re here to give you a clear, engaging, and factual overview of what makes Ross Prairie Campground a standout choice for your next Florida getaway.

Florida offers an incredible array of outdoor experiences, from our pristine beaches to our sprawling forests and diverse trail systems. Ross Prairie Campground is a shining example of how a well-maintained facility can be a perfect base for exploring these natural wonders. It’s a place where you can pull in your RV, set up your tent, or stable your horse, and immediately step out onto miles of scenic trails. We’ll delve into its convenient location, the impressive range of services and features that cater to a variety of outdoor activities, and why this particular campground is perfectly suited for those of us in Florida who crave both adventure and a peaceful retreat.

Ross Prairie Campground is conveniently located at 10660 SW State Rd 200, Dunnellon, FL 34432, USA. This address places it strategically along State Road 200, a major artery that offers excellent accessibility from various parts of Florida. Situated approximately 15 miles southwest of Ocala and about 14 miles east of Dunnellon, the campground provides a perfect balance of being immersed in nature while remaining within a short drive of essential services and amenities.

What truly sets Ross Prairie apart is its integration into the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. This vast greenway spans over 70,000 acres and boasts 290 miles of trails, making the campground an ideal trailhead for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. The direct access to the "South Trails" system is a significant advantage, allowing visitors to easily connect with popular routes like "Ern and Burn" and "Nayls trail," which offer varied terrain and elevation changes.

For everyday needs, the location on SR 200 means that "everything you will need as far as shopping and dining is only a short drive," reportedly "less than 2 miles" from the campground. This includes major stores, restaurants, and fuel stations, ensuring convenience without sacrificing the tranquil camping experience. The campground's accessible location, coupled with its direct link to extensive trail systems and nearby towns, makes it a highly practical and appealing choice for Floridians looking for an active yet comfortable outdoor escape.

Ross Prairie Campground is a "full-service campground" designed to provide a comfortable and convenient experience for all its guests. It boasts a range of amenities that go beyond basic camping.

• Campsites: The campground features 14 public-use campsites. Each site is equipped with both 30- and 50-amp electrical pedestals as well as potable water hookups. Sites are often pull-through, making parking easy for larger RVs, and feature a "compacted shell surface." Each site also includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
• Bathhouse: A "fairly new, very clean" bathhouse provides flush toilets and free hot showers, accessible to both campers and day-use visitors. The restroom facilities are also wheelchair accessible.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available within the campground for RVs, simplifying waste disposal for guests.
• On-site Campground Host: An "on-site campground host is available 365 days a year." Reviews praise the "super nice" and "very friendly and helpful" park hosts, who can assist with check-ins, provide gate codes (as the gate locks at 7 pm for security), and offer local information.
• Picnic Pavilions: Available in the day-use area and within the campground, providing shaded spots for meals and gatherings.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at Ross Prairie Campground. They must be on a hand-held, 6-foot leash at all times and not left unattended. Pet owners are required to pick up after their pets.
• Equestrian Facilities: Ross Prairie is an "equestrian friendly campground" with specialized facilities, including:
  • High tie posts at all 14 sites.
  • Option to use personal portable stalls/pens if preferred.
  • Designated horse wash-down area for post-ride cool down.
  • Equestrian staging area at the trailhead for day-use riders.
• Trash Collection/Recycling: Trash receptacles are available, and a recycling center is on-site.
• Good Cell Service & Wi-Fi: Reviews indicate "good cell service," and while Wi-Fi isn't universally guaranteed at every site, connectivity is generally good in the area.
• Firewood: Available for purchase from the camp host.

Ross Prairie Campground is rich with features that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Florida.

• Extensive Trail Access: This is the primary highlight. The campground offers direct access to approximately 5.7 miles of natural surface single-track trails for bicycling and connects to the broader 290 miles of trails within the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway. This includes popular mountain biking trails like "Ern and Burn" with "good elevation changes and a couple of technical areas."
• Equestrian Focus: As an equestrian-friendly campground, it provides dedicated facilities for horse owners, making it a rare and valuable find for those who enjoy horseback riding. Nearly 14 miles of equestrian trails are in this segment of the greenway.
• Diverse Ecosystems for Wildlife Viewing: The adjacent sandhill and wetland prairie systems create a unique ecological environment. When the prairie is wet, "dozens of waterfowl, wading birds and more wildlife can be spotted," including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, bobcat, alligators, and gopher tortoises.
• Small, Quiet, and Well-Maintained: Reviewers consistently describe it as a "small and quiet campground" with "very clean" bathrooms and shower stalls, fostering a peaceful and pleasant camping experience. The crushed shell surfaces in the sites also contribute to cleanliness.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: The "super nice" and "very friendly and helpful" park hosts receive high praise, contributing significantly to a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
• Convenient Pull-Through Sites: Many of the 14 campsites are pull-through, simplifying parking and setup, particularly for larger RVs.
• Proximity to Urban Amenities: Despite its natural setting, the campground is less than two miles from major shopping, dining, and fuel options on SR 200, offering the best of both worlds.
• Accessible Facilities: The restrooms/bathhouse, picnic pavilion, and parking are wheelchair accessible, promoting inclusivity.

As Ross Prairie Campground is part of the Florida State Parks system, specific promotions or discount programs are typically managed centrally through the state parks. While the provided information does not detail unique promotions exclusive to Ross Prairie Campground itself, Florida State Parks often have various offers that visitors can utilize:

• Annual Pass Discounts: Florida State Parks offer annual passes that can provide savings on park admission fees over time, especially for frequent visitors.
• Booking Discounts: Websites like WorthEPenny often list general Florida State Park coupon codes. For example, "Book 3 Nights, Get 1 For Free" or "Book 2 Nights, Get 1 For Free" have been noted as potential offers. There might also be seasonal discounts of "20-30% on park passes and merchandise" during major holidays.
• Military and Senior Discounts: While not always explicitly advertised for every park, Florida State Parks may offer discounts for military personnel and potentially for seniors, though direct confirmation is always best.
• Newsletter Sign-Up Offers: Signing up for the Florida State Parks newsletter might yield special discount codes, such as a "50% off park entry fees" for your birthday month.

To inquire about any current promotions or discounts that might apply to your stay at Ross Prairie Campground, it is highly recommended to:

• Visit the official Florida State Parks reservations website (reserve.floridastateparks.org) or call their reservation line (800-326-3521).
• Directly contact Ross Prairie Campground using the provided phone number (352) 732-2606 to ask the park hosts about any specific local promotions or to confirm any state-wide offers they are participating in.

These methods will ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information on how to maximize your value when planning your camping trip to Ross Prairie.

For reservations, inquiries about campsite availability, amenities, trail conditions, or any other questions regarding your visit to Ross Prairie Campground, you can 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

It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, as the campground has only 14 sites and is quite popular. You can typically make reservations through the Florida State Parks reservation website or by calling the state parks reservation line. When calling the campground directly, the friendly park hosts will be able to provide localized information, such as the gate code if you anticipate a late arrival, and answer any specific questions about the sites or facilities.

For Floridians, Ross Prairie Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for a wide array of outdoor adventures and a peaceful retreat. Its unique combination of direct trail access, equestrian-friendly facilities, and comfortable amenities makes it an ideal spot for residents seeking to connect with our state's diverse natural beauty.

Firstly, its prime location within the Marjorie Harris Carr Cross Florida Greenway is a major draw. For local mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians, the immediate access to miles of well-maintained trails, including challenging routes like "Ern and Burn," means more time enjoying the outdoors and less time traveling. This integrated trail system provides endless opportunities for exploration and exercise, appealing directly to our active Florida lifestyle. The unique ecological setting, with its sandhill and wetland prairie systems, also offers fantastic opportunities for birding and wildlife viewing, allowing locals to appreciate the rich biodiversity right in their backyard.

Secondly, the campground's "full-service" nature and comfortable amenities ensure a pleasant stay. With water and 30/50-amp electrical hookups at each of its 14 sites, clean bathhouses with hot showers, and a convenient dump station, Ross Prairie caters to the modern camper, especially RVers. The presence of "super nice" and "very friendly" park hosts who are available year-round further enhances the experience, providing helpful assistance and contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. This level of comfort and support is a significant advantage for those looking for a hassle-free camping trip.

Finally, its accessibility, being a short drive from major amenities in Dunnellon and Ocala, means that campers can enjoy the tranquility of nature without feeling completely isolated. This balance of seclusion and convenience makes Ross Prairie an ideal choice for a weekend escape or a longer vacation. Whether you're planning on "exploring the surrounding towns," hitting the trails, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, Ross Prairie Campground truly offers a fantastic opportunity for Floridians to immerse themselves in the natural splendor and recreational opportunities that our state proudly offers.