Clearwater Lake Rec Area

4.6·244 reviews
·National Forests in Florida

Overview

Clearwater Lake Recreation Area offers a quiet getaway along the southeastern edge of the Ocala National Forest, just outside the community of Paisley, Florida. With a shaded campground, day use picnic area, beach and a nature trail that winds through the pine woods and scrub around Clearwater Lake, this facility has plenty of activities to keep campers occupied.

Great Facilities and Amenities

  • Checkin Time

    (All campsites have Checkin Time)

  • Checkout Time

    (All campsites have Checkout Time)

  • Driveway Entry

    (All campsites have Driveway Entry)

  • Firepit

    (All campsites have Firepit)

  • Max Num Of People

    (Up to 5)

  • Max Num Of Vehicles

    (Up to 2)

  • Pets Allowed

    (All campsites have Pets Allowed)

  • Shade

    (All campsites have Shade)

  • Site Access

    (All campsites have Site Acceses)

Natural Features

Lake view - Credits: Adventure Ocala
Trail information - Credits: Adventure Ocala
Picnic area - Credits: Adventure Ocala
Trailhead - Credits: Adventure Ocala
The semi-tropical region gives the campground a mixture of pines and palms, with lush greenery and warm temperatures. With ample habitat, alligators, turtles, deer, raccoons, black bear and numerous birds make their home here.

Recreation

Waterfront - Credits: Adventure Ocala
The abundant water in the area offers many opportunities for recreation. In addition to swimming in the lake, a 7-mile canoe trail meanders not far from Clearwater Lake. Canoe rentals are available at the campground. Campers can fish for largemouth bass, brim or catfish. Hikers have access to the Clearwater Lake Loop Trail, a 1.3-mile nature trail; a segment of the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail; and mountain bikers can ride the Paisley Woods Bicycle Trail, a 22-mile forested path. This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques. It is also alligator country; practice caution around water.

Permitted Equipment

  • rv-Up to 40ft

  • tent-Up to 40ft

  • trailer-Up to 40ft

Nearby Attractions

The Ocala National Forest is notable for its extensive off-road trail system catering to both ATV enthusiasts and Jeeps, as well as being a traditional destination for deer hunters from around Central Florida. These opportunities are available within a short drive of Clearwater Lake.

Additional Information