The Withlacoochee State Forest region surrounding Holder, Florida spans over 157,000 acres with terrain characterized by pine flatwoods, sandhills, and cypress swamps. This central Florida location maintains year-round camping access, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September. Winter camping near Holder draws numerous visitors seeking mild 70°F days and cooler nights in the 40s.
What to do
Manatee viewing: 9 miles from Crystal River. At Encore Crystal Isles, visitors can access prime wildlife viewing areas. "Close to Three Sisters Springs where you can kayak with the Manatees," notes Sonya A., who also mentions the availability of pontoon boat rentals directly from the resort.
Canal fishing: Access directly from campsites. Many waterfront campsites at Homosassa River RV Resort offer immediate water access. "Our site D12 backs right up to the pier overlooking the Hall River. We have seen manatees, turtles and flying fish. You can fish, kayak, rent pontoon boats or bring your own," explains Jack B.
Hiking and biking: Trails throughout the region. The state forest trail system offers miles of multi-use paths. At Trails End RV Park, "They have a canoe, kayaks and a paddle boat for their guests to use free of charge," according to David R., making it easy to explore the waterways without extra equipment costs.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Room to spread out. Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park offers well-designed sites with ample space. "There is so much room at all the sites. Great amenities and actives. Great for active walkers," says Josh W., highlighting the comfortable camping experience with room to move.
Clean facilities: Daily maintenance. At Thousand Trails Three Flags, "They keep the grounds, showers restrooms cleaned everyday," according to Billy H. Another camper, Weston S., adds, "Bathrooms are cleaned daily. Manager, staff, and host are all very kind and helpful."
Shaded camping: Natural cooling. The oak canopy provides relief from Florida heat. "Quiet campground near I-75 and Florida turnpike. Pool is small but very clean. Campground is well maintained with open sites up front and more shaded sites in the back section," shares Chuck G., describing the layout at Thousand Trails Three Flags.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Winter brings more campers. Florida's camping season peaks from November through March. "Beautiful location off of a major highway but due to lots of trees - very little road noise. Sites were huge! Semi shaded with picnic tables and great full hookups," notes Charles F. about his winter stay at Thousand Trails.
Varied site quality: Research specific sites. Some campgrounds have significant differences between sites. "Great spot with amenities and close to everything we want to do. Just make sure you don't get a site along the road," advises Kelly D. about Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park.
Reservation requirements: Book early for prime spots. At Ocala Sun RV Resort, "We pulled in after hours without a reservation. The set up was nice. The site had a box at the front for both reservation arrivals and non-reservation arrivals," shares Steven A., though this convenience isn't guaranteed during busy seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Kid-friendly amenities. Crystal Isles RV Resort features aquatic recreation for children. "Facilities were great. Pool was amazing as was the playground. Would stay again," reports Erica D., though she notes they initially had a site mix-up that required switching locations.
Playground access: Built-in entertainment. Many resorts offer dedicated children's areas. "We loved this campground! Feels like you are far from civilization. Next to a beautiful pasture and nestled among oak trees, it is quiet and far enough off of the busy road but so close to stores and restaurants," shares Emily G. about her family's experience at Thousand Trails Three Flags.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Educational experiences. Trails End RV Park provides nature encounters for children. "Quiet, huge oversized slips, gorgeous, trees are amazing and taken care of as well as the grounds. Not a big park so you get more personalized response with the staff," notes Cody S., appreciating the intimate setting.
Tips from RVers
After-hours arrival procedures: Know the protocol. At Ocala Sun RV Resort, "After hours check in was EASY and we were able to call and speak with someone at 5:30pm. Friendly and kind hosts who care about their camp and their guests," according to Skylar T., highlighting the accessibility of staff even outside regular hours.
RV service proximity: Repairs nearby if needed. "Also located directly across the street is an RV sales and service business. Very convenient. Many restaurants and local shopping are located close by," mentions Lenny M. about Quail Roost RV Park, noting the practical advantage for RVers who might need maintenance.
Big rig navigation: Some tight turns. Certain parks require careful maneuvering for larger vehicles. "The entrance is a bit tight and tricky. The smaller of the two are for the RVs. Most sites are as snug as the road you travel on as you menuver through the park to your site," warns Robert M. about his experience at Clover Leaf Forest RV Resort.