Near Lake City, Florida, RV campers and tent enthusiasts find diverse camping options within a subtropical climate zone receiving approximately 54 inches of rainfall annually. The area sits at around 200 feet above sea level and serves as a gateway to natural springs that maintain a consistent 72-degree water temperature year-round. Camping opportunities range from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks with varying levels of amenities.
What to Do
Springs exploration: Hart Springs Park offers access to refreshing waters perfect for swimming during hot months. "The campground is about a 15 minute walk away from the springs on a well cleared and marked trail through the woods," notes one visitor. The park features "a ½ mile-long boardwalk along the springs and the Suwannee River."
Kayaking and canoeing: Camp Clear Riverfront RV with Boat Dock provides direct water access for paddling adventures. "We tubed the lower portion of the Ichetucknee with the included access to the neighborhoods private park entrance and pickup. Kayaking up river to sunbeam spring was awesome. We saw turtles and otters then deer and stars at night," reports one camper.
Horseback riding trails: Equestrian campers can take advantage of Long Branch Rest & Ride RV & Horse Park, which features "tons of hiking, biking and riding trails" according to reviews. The park also offers "brand new horse paddocks with individual stalls" and three different paddock sizes to accommodate various equestrian needs.
What Campers Like
Private, spacious sites: At Camping out in Country, campers appreciate the layout. "Sites are large, shaded, and spread out," notes one review. Another mentions the campground has a "duck pond and animals, dogs roam free, but are friendly and well behaved."
Family-friendly amenities: Many campers choose Island Oaks RV Resort for its extensive recreation options. "Tons of amenities and lots of activities for the kids and full bar for the adults," shares one visitor. The resort features "a refreshing heated swimming pool, a hot tub, and a well-stocked general store where I could purchase everything from snacks to RV supplies."
Natural surroundings: Campers value the peaceful settings available at several parks. "This park is super clean & friendly. The tents have a/c & fridge. The bed was comfy & sheets were so soft. The rec hall was fun with games and juke box. The spring was a mile away," notes a visitor to Moonshine Acres RV Park.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: During peak winter months, many RV parks fill with seasonal visitors. "Would stay here every time traveling from south FL to the panhandle. Will try staying for a few nights to explore the area of Jacksonville on next trip north," notes a Lake City RV Resort visitor.
Facility limitations: Some campgrounds have restricted amenities or services. At Camping out in Country, a review mentions "Located in the country and off the beaten path, be sure to have everything you need before you arrive... No frills. Not 'modern'. Hosts are down to earth, friendly and accommodating."
Site configurations: Several RV parks have specific layout challenges. At Island Oaks RV Resort, a camper notes: "When they designed the park, the hook ups are on the wrong side of the spots. We needed 50 feet and our friends 80 feet of sewage hook ups! The sewer connection is not sink and does not drain properly."
Tips for Camping with Families
Water recreation options: Families should consider campgrounds with swimming access. "Come here in the summer when it's good swimming weather! The springs here are gorgeous and the swimming area is large," advises a Hart Springs Park camper.
Activity planning: For families seeking entertainment beyond swimming, Island Oaks RV Resort offers diverse options. One visitor reports: "They had a great playground for kids... They also have a variety of paddle boats and kayaks around for free use. During the summer months, they have a floating obstacle course."
Campsite selection: When camping with children, site location matters. A visitor to Island Oaks notes: "The sites at the back are REALLY far from any amenity and I would not stay there unless you have a golf cart."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Several RV parks near Lake City require additional equipment. For Island Oaks RV Resort, one RVer advises: "When we first stayed but I chalked that up to a teaching lesson. Now I have 30 amp extension and a longer 50 amp power cord."
Site selection: For optimal comfort, carefully choose your site location. At Moonshine Acres RV Park, a reviewer recommends: "Site 19 has great privacy and view of woods. Only 2 miles from Itchetucknee. Would've been better if playground was a bit more present for littles."
Mobile connectivity: Internet access varies across rv parks in the Lake City, Florida area. One camper at Camping out in Country notes: "Barely any cell signal, wifi provided." Meanwhile, at Island Oaks, a visitor reports: "They do provide WIFI but from my experience, it was not too reliable and we opted for using our mobile hotspot. We have AT&T, the 5G signal was great."
