Camping sites in Astor, Florida surround the area where the St. Johns River widens to form Lake George, Florida's second largest freshwater lake at 46,000 acres. The region features a subtropical climate with summer temperatures averaging 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. Natural spring-fed waterways maintain consistent 72°F temperatures year-round, creating unique swimming and fishing opportunities during cooler months when many Florida waterways would otherwise be too cold.
What to do
Kayaking on St. Johns River: Launch directly from Pine Island RV & Marina for immediate access to Lake George. "Great place if you're looking for a peaceful stay in the middle of nowhere. The lake views are beautiful," notes Elisa J., highlighting the scenic paddling opportunities.
Natural springs exploration: Drive 25 minutes to Alexander Springs, where crystal-clear 72°F water offers year-round swimming and snorkeling. "If you are looking for a great meal and something out of the ordinary, head on over to The Dam Smoker and you will discover some pretty outrageous BBQ" after your swim, recommends a visitor to Fiddlers Green RV Ranch.
Horseback riding trails: Access the Ocala National Forest horse trails just minutes from Altoona. "The trailhead for Ocala National Forest horse is just down a dead end road. We were so close to springs for where you can go swimming, kayaking, hiking, biking and snorkeling," mentions Dian D., who stayed at Fiddlers Green RV Ranch.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Campers value direct lake access above all other amenities. "If your idea of a magnificent campsite includes the opportunity of waking up to an endless blue horizon eclipsed by the sinking sun at dusk, then look no further than this very quaint, out-of-the-way boutique lakeside gem," writes one reviewer about Rivers Edge RV Park.
Fishing opportunities: The St. Johns River system offers some of Florida's best freshwater fishing. "Great fishing and an amazing view of Lake George," reports Julian G. about Pine Island RV & Marina, where on-site boat ramps make access simple.
Community activities: Many RV parks organize regular social events. "Wild Hog Cafe!" recommends Terrilynn J., who visited Encore Sunshine Holiday Daytona. "We have camped here several times for cub scouts. Really nice clean park. Nice showers. Pool and store."
What you should know
Boat launch availability: Most riverfront campgrounds offer boat slips or ramps, but reservations are recommended. Rivers Edge RV Park "offers up boat launch and slips exclusively for its guests, so if you have a boat, whether with motor or not (like those of us towing canoes and kayaks), be sure to call ahead."
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms occur almost daily between June and September, typically in late afternoon. Keep fishing and boating trips to morning hours when possible.
Water quality variations: Some natural springs have sulfur content. At Wekiva Falls RV Resort, a visitor noted "The springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind." Despite this, many enjoy the constant 72°F water temperature.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: When river swimming isn't ideal, look for campgrounds with pools. "The main attraction was the swimming pool/spring in the center. Concrete borders surrounded it and there was a grassy hill to sun on or chairs to relax in too," writes Christy C. about Wekiva Falls RV Resort.
Kid-friendly activities: Check for playgrounds and open spaces. Brian I. mentioned about Fiddlers Green RV Ranch: "We stayed here twice so far this year. We are not horse people but were treated as such. Got to know a few horses and their owners."
Safety considerations: Exercise caution with children near water. "Florida Cracker Ranch (and you just have to love that name, right?!), where for some small change, you too can get your off-roading muddin' driving pleasures realized and if that's not really your thing, they also have hiking, biking, horseback riding, skeet shooting," notes a visitor to Encore Bulow RV, describing nearby activities safer for various age groups.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For longer stays, request sites away from main roads. At Bulow RV Resort, a reviewer suggests, "For those that are spending just a few nights (or even a week), you'll want to find a spot much closer to the front of the property – as the back of the property is organized more for longer-term monthly 'residents'."
Utilities information: Some rv campgrounds near Astor, Florida have irregular water service. "BE CAREFUL WITH THE ELECTRIC and use a surge protector. The water is randomly shut off," warns a resident of Encore Rose Bay.
Campsite spacing: Sites vary dramatically between parks. "We loved how private our site felt within the big oak trees, but we noticed they had a lot of other sites that weren't as private," explains Kasey M. about Bulow RV Resort, highlighting the importance of requesting specific site information when booking.