Clearwater Lake Campground & Recreation Area offers a quiet, scenic getaway on the southeastern edge of the Ocala National Forest. Set among tall pines and native vegetation, the shaded campground and day-use area border a peaceful lake with a small beach and easy water access. Visitors can swim, paddle, or fish, then explore nearby trails on foot or by bike—including a segment of the Florida National Scenic Trail and the 22-mile Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail. Just outside the small community of Paisley, this spot feels remote but remains convenient, making it a favorite for campers looking to experience the natural side of Florida.

• Lakeside swimming area with small beach access

• Shaded campground with tent and RV sites (no hookups)

• On-site canoe rentals

• Picnic areas with tables and pedestal grills

• Access to hiking trails and the Florida National Scenic Trail

• Access to the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail (22 miles)

• Restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers

• Dishwashing stations in both campground loops

• Dump station and potable water spigots

• Fire rings and tent pads at campsites

• On-site ice machine and firewood sales

• Accessible facilities including parking and restrooms

Campsites at Clearwater Lake Campground are available to reserve in advance.

• Check-in is at 2:00 PM; check-out is at 11:00 AM
  Early arrivals must pay the day-use fee. Late departures may be charged or required to pay for extended access.

• Gate hours vary by season
  The campground entrance gate closes at 6:00 PM (March–October) and 4:00 PM (November–February). Campers arriving after hours must check in the next morning to avoid a no-show charge.

• Campsites are limited to 2 tents, 2 vehicles (including RVs), and 5 people
  Additional vehicles must park in overflow areas and will be charged a nightly fee.

• Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
  Generators are not permitted during quiet hours.

• Pets are allowed in the campground only
  Pets must be leashed and supervised at all times.

• Food must be stored securely
  Bears and raccoons are active in the area; all food and scented items must be kept in approved containers.

Clearwater Lake Recreation Area requires a per-person admission fee for day use access, collected on-site at the gate.

Day Use Admission:

• $8 per person (plus tax)

• Children 5 and under: Free

• Annual Day Use Pass: $80 (plus tax), available for purchase on-site

Available Activities:

• Swimming in a designated lakeside beach area

• Canoeing and kayaking (rentals available on-site)

• Picnicking at shaded tables with grills

• Hiking on the Clearwater Lake Loop Trail or nearby Florida Trail

• Biking the 22-mile Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail

Additional Information:

• Entry is first-come, first-served until the area reaches capacity

• Pets are not permitted in the day-use area

• Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the day-use area