Glamping options near Palatka, Florida extend beyond the immediate area, with diverse accommodations within driving distance. Lake George, the second largest lake in Florida at 46,000 acres, provides a scenic backdrop for several glamping sites. The subtropical climate maintains comfortable conditions year-round, though summer humidity requires preparation for outdoor activities.
What to do
Water activities on Lake George: Pine Island RV & Marina offers direct access to the shallow waters of Lake George. "The lake views are beautiful. Staff and owner are very friendly. Thankful we found this [place]," notes Elisa J. The marina includes boat slips, kayak rentals, and ethanol-free fuel for boaters.
Wildlife viewing at Paynes Prairie: Though requiring a 45-minute drive from Palatka, this preserve offers unique wildlife spotting. "La Chua trail was beautiful and we saw lots of gators. We did the Ranger led hike which was really nice, my 5 year old struggled to keep up with the Ranger and there are decent elevation changes," shares Lindsey H.
St. Augustine historical tours: Compass RV Park provides a shuttle service to St. Augustine attractions. "The resort has a deal with Old Town Trolley where they will pick you up from the office and take you into historic town. One thing they don't tell you is to keep your ticket stub for a cheaper rate if you go back within 5 days," advises Deb P.
What campers like
Private sites with natural surroundings: Silver Springs State Park Campground provides spacious camping areas. "Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors. I am a native Floridian and this is the real deal. This is a quiet park w a lot of nature. Good for a slow-paced break," writes Jody O.
Beachfront access: Ocean Grove RV Resort offers proximity to St. Augustine Beach. "Great location, close to the beach and to St Augustine attractions. Very clean, well maintained, nice pool," states Jack B. The resort also features a fishing dock with small boat launch.
Amenities for extended stays: St. Augustine Beach KOA provides conveniences for longer visits. "The individual restrooms available at the center of the facility are great, spacious, clean, and have showers. There's a store to buy some basic groceries, ice, and wood. You place the trash on the edge of your spot, and it's picked up every morning," explains L O.
What you should know
Site limitations at some locations: Ocean Grove has space constraints. "Spots are kind of to tide plus, many spots had more than one car or truck parked making the spaces more reduced still. No privacy. My neighbor sewer, electric, and water were beside my picnic table and my motorhome entrance," reports Jack B.
Environmental considerations: Camping near natural areas requires awareness. "Hot with skeeters the majority of the year, cold overnight in the winter. All kinds of little critters in the woods and access to hikes and many gators," warns Dan X. about Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground.
Pet restrictions on trails: Not all area trails permit pets. "The biggest disappointment for this state park is that all of the things they advertise (and I was looking forward to) - bison, horses, wildlife - are all on trails where pets are not allowed. We did one of the only trails you can take your dog on (the Lake Trail)," notes Denise about Paynes Prairie.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Silver Springs State Park Campground offers engaging experiences for children. "The glass bottom boat tour is an absolute must, we had such a wonderful time and the boat captain had lots of interesting information. We have a 4 year old and a 10 year old and they both really enjoyed the boat tour also," shares Carlos R.
Recreational options at campgrounds: Compass RV Park provides numerous facilities for children. "Lots of things for kids to do at the campground (pool, playground, cornhole, ping pong table, fishing pond, etc). Had a small issue with the water hookup when we first arrived but their maintenance guys quickly rectified it," explains Daniel G.
Comfortable glamping for families: Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort offers memorable oceanfront experiences. "You could see beach/ocean from rv! Just beautiful!! Beach was very small and slanted so hard to walk on. Small but well done. Full hookup," reports Sandy G.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Compass RV Park has limited digital connections. "The only down side is that the cell service (for both T-Mobile and Verizon) didn't work very well, and the Wi-Fi is iffy at best," notes Daniel G. Pack offline entertainment options when staying here.
Check-out flexibility: Some campgrounds accommodate later departures. "Just like check-in, check-out was a breeze. We were a bit late getting checked-out and as a courtesy I called the main office to let them know. They were great about extending us an hour with no penalty, but if we went more than an hour there would be around a $20 late check-out fee," shares Randal F. about Compass RV Park.
Seasonal rate variations: Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort has significant price changes. "We have stayed here many times but the price continues to go up so I can't say we will be returning. Highest I paid was $130 per night on holiday weekend but now it is way more than that," advises Christy C.