With 67 sites spread across three distinct sections, Ocean Pond Campground operates year-round in the Osceola National Forest near Sanderson. The campground divides into full hookup sites with electric and water ($30), water-only sites ($20), and primitive sites ($12) tucked into heavily wooded areas that Richard A. notes "would be risky to attempt to get in there with anything other than a tent or camper under 20 feet."
Most sites operate first-come, first-serve, requiring campers to use the Recreation.gov app upon arrival to secure their spot. The full hookup section fills quickly during busy weekends, though the water-only sites provide a reliable alternative with nearby bathhouses. Jack D. found "plenty of primitive sites were open still and a few electric" during a December visit, while multiple reviewers consistently praise the clean restrooms and hot showers maintained by active camp hosts.
The campground sits directly on Ocean Pond with a boat ramp and small beach area. "Beautiful sunset views over the lake" draw campers to waterfront sites, though heavily shaded areas throughout the campground may challenge solar panel users. The Florida National Trail passes nearby, connecting to broader hiking opportunities in campgrounds near Osceola National Forest.
Access requires navigating forest roads that some reviewers describe as rough, particularly after rain. The campground includes a free dump station for registered campers, multiple dumpsters, and laundry facilities in each bathhouse. RVs up to 50 feet can access the full hookup sites, though maneuvering larger rigs requires careful planning.
Plan to arrive after 2 p.m. to avoid previous-day charges, and bring supplies from Lake City since local options remain limited.
Description
Ocean Pond hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually. The two-mile wide lake has a shallow, sandy beach and facilities for fishing, picnicking, hiking, restrooms, fire rings and picnic tables. Ocean Pond is a favorite for boaters and skiing enthusiasts. A public boat launch and a 67-site campground attracts visitors from many parts of the country. The early bird gets the worm! Come early for lakeshore camping. Nineteen sites have electric and water hook-ups, 27 have water hook ups and there are twenty primitive sites. Water and electric are paved spurs with a 50-foot capacity. Each site has a lantern post, picnic table, fire ring and convenient access to bathrooms and hot showers. Campers can enjoy the boat launch and swimming area. If you are interested in day-use activities, the Olustee Beach has full bathrooms with showers, beach, boat launch, fishing pier, trails and picnic areas. The Great Florida Birding Trail and the Florida National Scenic Trail pass through the campground. Motor boats and trailers can be kept in the boat trailer parking across from the boat ramp. Ocean Pond is just four miles away from the Olustee Battlefield Park, site of Florida's only Civil War battle in 1864. The Olustee Battle Festival and Re-enactmentis held annually in Lake City. The campground is located approximately 1 hour from the First Coast Atlantic beaches and a short half-hour to multiple State Parks, local springs and caves.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundOcean Pond Campground is located in Florida
Coordinates
30.23985076 N
82.43482954 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 18 usersLast on 5/4/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 5/4/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/14/25
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 18 usersLast on 5/4/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 14 usersLast on 5/4/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/14/25
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 40 min from Jacksonville, FL
- 55 min from Gainesville, FL
- 1 hr 1 min from Valdosta, GA
- 1 hr 20 min from Ocala, FL









































