Best Campgrounds near Pomona Park, FL

Campgrounds in the Pomona Park area of Florida offer diverse camping experiences along waterways and within national forests. Locations like Salt Springs Recreation Area provide both RV hookups and primitive tent camping options, while Renegades on the River includes cabin accommodations for those seeking more comfort. The region includes several established campgrounds along the St. Johns River and its tributaries, with Welaka State Forest offering hiking trails accessible from camping areas. Many sites provide direct access to freshwater springs, lakes, and rivers for fishing, swimming, and boating activities.

The camping season runs year-round in most locations, though summer brings hot, humid conditions and increased mosquito activity. Amenities vary significantly between campgrounds, with some offering full hookups while others maintain more primitive settings. "The campsites are large, we fit 3 4+ person tents. This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida. The facilities were clean and provided showers," noted one visitor about Alexander Springs Recreation Area. Water access points for fishing and boating represent key features at many locations, with several campgrounds offering boat ramps and fishing docks. During peak weekends and holiday periods, reservations are strongly recommended as waterfront sites fill quickly, especially at popular destinations like Anastasia State Park.

Campers consistently rate water access as a primary draw to the area, with the freshwater springs being a particular highlight. Sites near Ocala National Forest provide access to crystal-clear springs maintaining a constant 72-74 degrees year-round. One camper described Salt Springs as having "complete hookups, meaning 50amp, water and sewer. The cherry on top is that all the sites are paved!" Fishing opportunities abound throughout the region, with several locations advertising bass fishing in particular. The camping areas range from densely wooded sites offering shade and privacy to more open waterfront locations with views of lakes and rivers. While most established campgrounds provide at least basic restroom facilities, several primitive camping areas in the national forest require visitors to be self-sufficient with water and waste management.

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Best Camping Sites Near Pomona Park, Florida (268)

    1. Salt Springs Recreation Area

    57 Reviews
    Salt Springs, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 685-2048

    $37 - $69 / night

    "There are no laundry facilities but if you exit park and drive left there is a laundromat, local food, dollar store, bait tackle."

    "Located in the center of the state, you’ll have near equal access to both the Atlantic Ocean to the east as well as the Gulf shores to the west."

    2. Rodman Campground

    27 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 326-2846

    $12 - $22 / night

    "Sites 1-39 are not near the Florida Trail but it was not a bad walk to the other side of the campground to get to the trail. Would stay again."

    "This peaceful campground provides a serene setting surrounded by towering pines and lush Florida foliage."

    3. Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area

    45 Reviews
    Astor, FL
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 625-3147

    $37 - $60 / night

    "The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles. Very sunny during the day and very cool at nigth."

    "The Florida Trail runs right through this spot and has a natural spring connection as well. We camped out near the facilities and am happy to report everything was maintained and clean."

    4. Anastasia State Park Campground

    114 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 461-2033

    $28 / night

    "You really can have it all at this campground - with its 'next door' proximity to one of the most amazing beachheads on Florida's Atlantic coastline and quick access to the country's oldest town (St."

    "Great location & in close proximity to St. Augustine. One of my favorite places to visit in Florida. If you've never been to St."

    5. Half Shell Resort

    6 Reviews
    San Mateo, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (901) 230-6224

    $55 / night

    "Close to town for all your needs. It's right on the St John's river. 

    We made some awesome friends while we were their. Can't wait to get back"

    "Nice restaurants nearby. No picnic table at campsites. Everyone very friendly."

    6. Renegades on the River

    5 Reviews
    Georgetown, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 524-4179

    $80 - $190 / night

    "Great access to the lake."

    "Plenty of bars and restaurants within a short drive."

    7. Hopkins Prairie Campground — National Forests In Florida

    15 Reviews
    Salt Springs, FL
    17 miles

    $15 / night

    "This is a beautiful campground with proximity to the Florida Scenic Trail. Ideal for tent camping, as the forest service roads were a little rough for our RV."

    "Great view of lake and Hopkins Prairie from most of the sights. Has a large bat house. Florida trail runs thru campground. Pay at the pipe system."

    8. Welaka State Forest

    4 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 292-2478

    $10 - $15 / night

    "Please note there isn’t much close by, so stop at the grocery and get fuel before you turn off 17."

    "The location itself was very quiet and peaceful with good trails. There were a several other campers at the hookup sights."

    9. Davenport Landing

    7 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 236-0288

    "Pulled in around 9:30 pm. Big open spot. Last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV. But great Tent/van spot."

    "Had no one around and nice and cool in the forest"

    10. Welaka Lodge & Resort

    2 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 467-7171

    "OK, so maybe it’s not quite like Margaritaville (nor do I think there is any aspiration to be like Jimmy Buffet’s version of paradise), but if you’re toting an RV and looking to dock up to a lakeside marina"

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Recent Reviews near Pomona Park, FL

1277 Reviews of 268 Pomona Park Campgrounds


  • ENRIQUE T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Wonderful Summer Spot

    Friendly and professional hostesses, clean bathrooms and sites are very spacious and private. The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable. Just watch for coons stealing your food.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Awesomeness

    Let me start by saying park.is very clean and well maintained. Sites are big with gravel, fire pits, grill dining tabels and did I say clean. Silver springs is beautiful, go on the boat...

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Anastasia State Park Campground

    Great park

    Feels secluded and amazing and the shops are great they have everything you need that you may have forgot or fun stuff for you to do

  • Jerri K.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Black Creek Ravine

    Very nice

    Was a very nice and quiet place to camp

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Gateway Fish Camp

    Laid-Back Old Florida Waterfront Hideaway

    Tucked along the shores of The St. Johns River flowing southward to Lake George, Gateway Fish Camp feels like stepping back into a gentler, quieter version of Florida where fishing poles outnumber smartphones. This little slice of Old Florida charm has a down-home, relaxed atmosphere that’s equal parts rustic and welcoming. The first thing you’ll notice is the water – calm, wide-open lake views that practically beg you to sit (although as there's actually no chairs, I would encourage you to bring your own) a spell on the dock and watch the sun do its magic at either end of the day. Just follow the sandy ‘streets’ or road pathways covered in shade down to the main office.

    The campground here is small and unpretentious (that is my kind word for it at least), offering both pull-in and back-in RV sites, although if I’m honest, there’s a handful of RVs that looked like they’ve been here for a while and have no pretensions of leaving anytime soon. Is the place a bit disheveled and in need of a fresh coat of paint and a good bit of gardening manicure?  Yes.  Expect electric hookups, basic water access, and a layout that’s easy enough to navigate without fancy maneuvering. Restrooms (albeit primitive) are serviceable and clean, and the overall vibe is one of practicality rather than polish. Pet owners will be glad to know furry friends are welcome, and the pace of life here makes it easy to wander with them. It’s not luxury camping, but it’s honest, comfortable, and refreshingly straightforward.

    What really makes Gateway shine is its direct access to Lake George, a dream come true for anglers, kayakers, and birdwatchers. You can drop a line for bass, launch a kayak from the dock, or just sit by the water and spot ospreys circling overhead. Crescent City itself is a short drive away for groceries, gas, or a diner breakfast, but the lake and surrounding marshes provide the real entertainment. This is the kind of place where the sound of boat motors mixes with bird calls and nobody seems in a hurry.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you can, snag a campsite close to the water’s edge – you’ll get front-row seats to sunrise and a constant cool breeze; (2) For a memorable local meal, head over to 3 Bananas Restaurant right on Crescent Lake in Crescent City. Their blackened fish sandwich is as good as the view from the deck; (3) If you are a tent camper like me, you’ll want to take note that this place only has primitive bathrooms, so either bring your own, otherwise, you’ll be hiking to the nearest Publix or Dollar General; (4) Kayakers will love paddling out toward the lake’s eastern shoreline. And if you don’t have a kayak, fret not, the good folks here at Gateway Fish Camp will rent you 1 of the 2 that they have. Early morning trips often reward you with glimpses of herons, egrets, and even the occasional alligator – all from a safe distance, of course!; and (5) Apart from having direct access to Lake George (and nearby access to Crescent Lake), one of the very big upsides to being here at Gateway Fish Camp is the direct access to Fort Gates Ferry, which docks here and for a small fee will transport you to the other side of the St. Johns River, saving you substantial amount of time driving around this body of water.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Bass World Lodge & Marina

    Backwater Bayou Fishing Hole

    Located so close to the St. Johns River that if you were any closer to it, you’d be swimming in it! For those anglers that are looking for no frills accommodations – whether those be from the confines of your own RV or 5th Wheel… or in the event that you need to rent a place for the night – then Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up one of the 4-5 RV slots it has or by renting you one of its basic cabin rentals (up to 10 people can be accommodated). Fishing is coveted in these parts that will place you on the northernmost tip of Lake George in the very itty bitty enclave of Georgetown, which if you want to discover what Old Florida looks like, then just stop on by here for a spell.

    Given the weather conditions in this part of Central Florida, you can check-in to Bass World Lodge & Marina year-round and within minutes of getting set up, you’ll easily have access to the St. Johns in no time by leveraging one of 2 boathouses that sit adjacent to the property here. If you’ve got angling on your mind, you’ll have no problems casting for big- and small-mouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, pickerel, bluegill, lake trout, landlocked salmon, yellow perch, bluegill, panfish, northern pike and even American eel. While on the lake, you can enjoy all sorts of watersports like waterskiing, tubing, paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding, canoeing, boating and even gator hunting (permit required).

    Amenities include: 2 individual boat houses, fish cleaning stations complete with running water, boat slips for rent, non-ethanol fuel, FHU’s offering water, sewage & electric, bait & tackle, community grills, makeshift car rim fire pits, fish cleaning stations, lakefront seats & benches, fishing pier, boat docking, boat rentals, scattered card tables, assorted dock seating and on-site market with souvenirs, cold beverages, beer, ice, snacks and all the fishing gear you can swing your fishing pole at. There’s even a guide you can hire here to show you around the nearby fishing holes.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While brackish, somewhat darker-than-usual waters makes for just mediocre (at best) swimming accommodations, you’re in luck if coming here as nearby, there are gorgeous springs like Silver Springs, Juniper Springs and Alexander Springs, which all 3 will offer crystal-clear snorkeling and swimming options unlike you’ve ever experienced; (2) Because Georgetown is tiny, there’s barely any restaurant options, although we were able to find nearby a few really good spots like Idle Awhile for Cajun Fried Pickles & Blackened Haddock chased down by Rum Runners, Fatboy’s Saloon for Peel & Eat Shrimp, Hawg Burners with iced Tall Boys and Renegades on the River serving up Gator Tail and the best Shepherd’s Pie on the St. Johns – all within reach of a proper Tiki Bar where the Mai Tais pour freely; (3) This RV outpost on the St. Johns River has been up and running by the same family for 3 decades, so when it comes to knowledge of where to cast your line or how to get to a secluded area and away from the crowds, you can ask any one of the family here for some spartan tips and recommendations; (4) IMHO the best RV spots are those closest to the inside loop (#6 and #7), while if you are wanting to rent a cabin, I actually rate those a bit further away from the main office / riverfront, where it is quietest (#3 - #5); and (5) If you’ve come without a boat to get on the water, no worries, Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up Pontoon and Bass Boat rentals, which at $175 - $315 per day is incredibly affordable.

    Happy Camping!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground

    Two days before travel were able to get 2 nights in a pull thru site w full hook up. 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.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Santos Trailhead & Campground

    Van Camping

    Very nice small campground. Best asset is the access to hiking and biking. Miles of trails.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    Great spot

    Very narrow trails but really easy access, you will leave with some new pinstripes


Guide to Pomona Park

The camping spots near Pomona Park, Florida sit within the northernmost section of the Ocala National Forest, where the St. Johns River widens as it flows northward. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, making November through March the most comfortable camping season. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with humidity levels above 80%, creating challenging conditions for tent campers without proper ventilation.

What to do

Kayaking Juniper Springs Run: This 7-mile downstream paddle at Juniper Springs Recreation Area provides a challenging adventure through a narrow, winding waterway. "The creek makes for a great one way downstream 7 mile float. Boats less than 10' greatly improves your ability to navigate tight turns," advises Rebecca E. Plan for potential obstacles depending on water levels and fallen trees.

Hiking the Florida Trail: Multiple access points exist where the Florida National Scenic Trail passes through the region. Hopkins Prairie Campground provides direct trail access with "a nice boardwalk midway through with excellent views of trees endemic to the Ocala National Forest like the many varieties of Oaks, Big Scrub, Saw Palmetto, water-logged Palmettos and Southern Magnolias," according to one hiker.

Fishing at Rodman Reservoir: The 9,000-acre Rodman Preserve offers prime freshwater fishing opportunities. "The Rodman Reservoir offers nothing short of amazing kayak and canoe adventures," notes Stuart K. Local anglers report consistently good catches of bass, particularly during early morning hours. Fishing licenses required.

What campers like

Natural springs access: Salt Springs Recreation Area stands out for its spacious campsites near the main spring. "The spring is a short walk from the campground or a quick bike ride," notes Miranda R. The springs maintain a consistent 72-degree temperature year-round, providing refreshing swimming opportunities regardless of season.

Riverfront camping views: Welaka Lodge & Resort offers premium waterfront sites. "Hidden under the shade of Ancient Oaks, Magnolias and tropical Palms," describes Stuart K., making it ideal for wildlife viewing directly from your campsite. The resort includes "a proper heated swimming pool and jacuzzi here with an adjacent community bar."

Private tent sites: For those seeking more seclusion, Hopkins Prairie Campground provides "pretty much all of the sites are shady and most have good privacy between them, especially the sites that face out onto the prairie," according to Jaime G. First-come, first-served sites typically fill quickly on weekends but often remain available midweek.

What you should know

Primitive camping limitations: Davenport Landing offers free dispersed camping but comes with minimal facilities. "No picnic tables. No fire ring. No stand-up grill. No potable (or for that matter, non-potable) water spigot," explains Stuart K. Access requires navigating "a winding gravel road" with "divots and potholes" that may challenge lower-clearance vehicles.

Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during winter months. At Salt Springs, "it is highly advisable that you make your campground reservations way in advance by calling 1-877-444-6777 or booking online at Recreation.gov," notes one camper.

Weekend noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise during peak weekends. At Rodman Campground, "if there is an 'All Hours Weekend' at the nearby Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort (right across the river), then the trails remain open 24 hours and you will not have any tranquility or relaxation all night," warns Jeff E.

Tips for camping with families

Best campgrounds for children: Anastasia State Park offers family-friendly amenities including "water sport equipment rental and snack shack on site," according to Kim A. Sites near the playground provide convenient supervision while maintaining some privacy.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer structured wildlife observation areas. "We saw deer at dusk meandering through the woods," reports Jeff E. at Rodman Campground. Bird watchers can spot osprey, bald eagles, and wading birds throughout the region, particularly during early morning hours.

Swimming safety precautions: Natural springs provide safer swimming options than river locations where alligators may be present. "The springs/swimming area is really beautiful! Huge with room for lots of people, deep diving areas, shallows children's areas," describes Zanny M. about Juniper Springs, making it ideal for families with mixed swimming abilities.

Tips from RVers

Hookup availability: Renegades on the River offers premium RV sites with full connections. "All are paver sites, it's not a large park but is well taken care of with a store, restaurant and a large tiki bar right on the river," notes Dean G. The campground includes both back-in and pull-through options to accommodate various RV sizes.

Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require extra effort for leveling. At Salt Springs Recreation Area, "Sites have paved pads but most are not level," according to Sue G. Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended, particularly for larger rigs.

Internet connectivity limitations: Most campgrounds in this rural area have limited or no reliable internet. One RVer at Rodman Campground notes that "I use Starlink for my internet and there's only one site in the park that would work for it (Site 1)." Plan to disconnect or bring your own connectivity solutions if remote work is necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Pomona Park, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Pomona Park, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 268 campgrounds and RV parks near Pomona Park, FL and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Pomona Park, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pomona Park, FL is Salt Springs Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 57 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pomona Park, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Pomona Park, FL.

What parks are near Pomona Park, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Pomona Park, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.