Juniper Springs Recreation Area (NF)

 My husband and I visited Juniper Springs 6 years ago for a Valentine’s getaway.  We swam in the spring, hiked the trails/boardwalks and rented a canoe to float down the River run.  It was enchanting!  The campground was rustic but wonderful at $29.00 per night.  
Fast forward to today.  Again we are visiting for Valentines but this stay is much different.  The trails and boardwalks are closed off because of disrepair and lack of funds.  The visitor center for the spring is closed and they no longer rent canoes.  There are signs and fences everywhere keeping you off/out of trails and areas.  And the price per night has almost doubled to $44.00 still offering rustic, no utilities on sites.  That is not a complaint because we love to “Ruff it!”  
This campsite is a Florida gem and should be protected and rejuvenated.  

The campsites are nice in the tent only area and also in the camper sites but, I would not recommend any camper over 30’ in length. Sites are not level and the roads are very narrow. The showers are either ice cold or blistering hot with no way to adjust the temperature. They are not very clean. Moldy walls and such. It is a primitive campground but if you’re going to provide minimal conveniences, make sure everything works as it should and is cleaned or don’t provide it at all. 

The sites are large and mostly private, especially in the back loop. Showers have ample hot water, restrooms are clean. The boardwalk and many trails are wonderful to walk, the natural pool  is clean and inviting. Park staff are so friendly, from the workers who raked vacant sItes to the shuttle driver, to Chuck, from security, who gave an educational and memorable evening talk about American Eels. Kayaking the river is a must! 

Nice roomy sites with privacy.  Federal park so there is no power or any other hookups.  You can walk to the spring, camp store, and canoe/kayak rental.  Can't wait to go back.
They were a little gripey about quiet time.  We were doing nothing but sitting around camp fire talking and they came and said something to us.  So, just be aware of quiet time at this one.  It's STRICT. 

Senic, safe, quite. T-Moble service acceptable.
Clean showers, dish washing facilities.
Springs are amazing.