Mill Dam Group Camp sits within the forested boundaries of Ocala National Forest, requiring reservations and operating seasonally from October through March. The US Forest Service facility accommodates large groups exclusively, with one reviewer noting their 70-person engineering fraternity used it for bi-annual retreats. Access involves rough roads leading to the $200-per-night site near both river and lake terrain.
The campground prohibits RVs and pets, focusing on tent-based group camping with swimming opportunities in nearby waters. Mill Dam Lake Resort provides an alternative just half a mile southwest for those seeking individual sites or RV accommodations.
Description
Overview
Mill Dam Group Campground offers a fun and relaxing setting for groups of up to 150 to enjoy Ocala National Forest. Large picnic shelters and access to outdoor and water recreation make this area ideal for family reunions and other large parties.
Recreation
The campground sits along the 168-acre Mill Dam Lake, and water activities are popular among campers and day-use visitors. Anglers come from all over to enjoy bass fishing. Campers can bring their boats, canoes and kayaks for easy access to the water via an adjacent boat ramp. A large swimming beach and picnic area are great ways to keep the kids entertained.
Facilities
In the spring, summer and early fall, Mill Dam is a day-use area only. For the remainder of the year, it becomes a group campground and recreation area for both day-use and tent camping. Amenities include a picnic shelter, group grills, picnic tables and flush toilets. The parking lot can hold up to 70 vehicles. A boat ramp adjoins the recreation area, on a separate entrance.
Natural Features
Located in north central Florida, 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. The campground and recreation area sit in the shade of live oak trees overlooking Mill Dam Lake. Numerous animals make their home in the area, including alligators, turtles, deer, raccoons, black bear and many bird species.
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.
Contact Info
This location has limited staffing. Please call (352) 625-3147 for general information.
Charges & Cancellations
Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation. https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies Refunds are not given for inclement weather for camping, gear rentals, or day-use fees.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
The Ocala National Forest is currently under stage 1 fire restrictions. Exemptions include developed campsites with Forest Service provided campfire rings and grills. Dispersed campers who wish to have fires must use propane; charcoal is authorized for grilling purposes. All residents must conform to the specifics of their county's burn bans. The USFS conforms to and may enforce county burn bans as authorized under; "CFR 261.5 (i) Violating any state law concerning burning fires or any state law that is for the purpose of preventing or restricting the spread of fire." USFS law enforcement can issue citations under this code.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsMill Dam Group Camp is located in Florida near Ocklawaha
Directions
Mill Dam is located just off of Highway 40, approximately 15 miles east of Silver Springs, Florida, and 50 miles west of Ormond Beach. From 40, look for the Mill Dam/Half Moon signs about a quarter-mile from the recreational area turnoffs.
Address
19657 EAST HIGHWAY 40
Silver springs, FL 34488
Coordinates
29.1811111 N
81.8311111 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 5/26/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/26/26
AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 2/21/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 13 usersLast on 5/26/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/26/26
- AT&T5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 2/21/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
Drive Time
- 29 min from Ocala, FL
- 48 min from Wildwood, FL
- 1 hr 1 min from Gainesville, FL
- 1 hr 3 min from Deltona, FL
