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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND

Ocklawaha, Florida · Marion County · Campground

Overview Perennially popular with off-road vehicle enthusiasts, Big Scrub Campground sits in the Ocala National Forest in central Florida. A trailhead within the facility offers riders campsite-to-trail access. 14 day stay limit in a 30 day period in ALL Ocala National Forest CampgroundsFor reservations or refund reque…

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29.05028, -81.76250
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5-Day Forecast

Weather at BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND

Live forecast for the park. Plan your visit accordingly.

Avg High86°F
Avg Low70°F
Peak Rain Chance37%
Humidity72%
UV (avg)8
Air Quality45 · Good
Today
☁️
Overcast
89°/74°
💧 12%🌬 10mph
6:28 AM8:20 PM
Mon
Thunderstorm
84°/75°
💧 23%🌬 17mph
6:28 AM8:21 PM
Tue
🌧
Rain Showers
93°/72°
💧 35%🌬 16mph
6:28 AM8:21 PM
Wed
🌦
Light Drizzle
78°/67°
💧 37%🌬 17mph
6:28 AM8:22 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
86°/64°
💧 8%🌬 12mph
6:28 AM8:22 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND

Overview Perennially popular with off-road vehicle enthusiasts, Big Scrub Campground sits in the Ocala National Forest in central Florida. A trailhead within the facility offers riders campsite-to-trail access. 14 day stay limit in a 30 day period in ALL Ocala National Forest CampgroundsFor reservations or refund request please call (877) 444-6777Recreation Big Scrub Campground offers direct access to the 47-mile Ocala Adventure Trail. All off-road vehicle riders will enjoy exploring the Tread Lightly Four Wheel Drive Way. A permit is required for use of the trail system. Learn more about off-road vehicle use in Ocala National Forest.Facilities Big Scrub can accommodate tents, campers and RVs. The campground is equipped with showers, restrooms and drinking water. Natural Features The Ocala National Forest spans four counties and 383,000 acres. It is the southernmost and oldest national forest east of the Mississippi River and protects the world's largest contiguous sand pine scrub forest. Miles of trails offer plenty of open space and blue skies for off-road vehicles. Contact Info This location has limited staffing. Please call (352) 625-2520 for general information. Nearby Attractions The warm, turquoise waters of Alexander Springs are a short drive away. Visitors can swim, canoe and dive in a natural spring-fed lake and creek.

How to Get There

From I-75 east, travel on State Route 40 to Forest Road 588. Turn south on 588 and go approximately 8 miles. The campground is on the west side of the road.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
    Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
  • 🩳
    Light shorts/skirt
    Loose-fit, breathable.
  • 🧢
    Wide-brimmed sun hat
    Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
  • 🕶
    Polarized sunglasses
    Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 8)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND

Heading to BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND?

No central reservation system listed for BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234513) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND?

From I-75 east, travel on State Route 40 to Forest Road 588. Turn south on 588 and go approximately 8 miles. The campground is on the west side of the road.

How do I contact BIG SCRUB CAMPGROUND?

You can reach the park at phone: 352-625-2520 .