Glamping and camping options near Pomona Park, Florida are situated within Florida's inland lake country, an area characterized by freshwater lakes and cypress forests. The region averages 53 inches of annual rainfall with summer temperatures reaching into the mid-90s. Camping facilities range from primitive sites at conservation areas to full-service RV resorts, with several properties offering water access to Lake George.
What to do
Hiking trails at conservation areas: Lake George Conservation Area offers primitive hiking trails for experienced outdoors enthusiasts. "Great for hunters. Not a lot there for hiking campers. Very primitive," notes one Lake George Conservation Area visitor, highlighting the undeveloped nature of this outdoor space.
Fishing excursions: Access to freshwater fishing is a primary draw for the region's campgrounds. "Great very quiet RV park with a little bait shop, store, boat ramp, and marina. This gives you access to Lake George and some of the most amazing sunsets ever seen," explains a reviewer at Pine Island RV & Marina.
Wildlife observation: Several parks in the region offer wildlife viewing opportunities. At Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, about 60 miles west of Pomona Park, visitors report diverse animal sightings. "This park has 8 trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. We were able to see wild horses, bisons, snakes and gators. Great for fishing and kayaking," shares one camper about their experience.
What campers like
Spacious RV sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature well-designed RV accommodations. "Large sites with ample separation from your neighbors. I am a native Floridian and this is the real deal. This is a quiet park with a lot of nature. Good for a slow-paced break," says a visitor to Silver Springs State Park Campground.
Swimming pools and water amenities: Several glamping options near Pomona Park provide resort-style swimming facilities. "Great full hook up, paved site with easy access to beautiful St Augustine Beach. There's also a large, clean pool area with hot tub, big fishing dock with small boat/kayak ramp, and bar/restaurant at the pool," notes a guest at Ocean Grove RV Resort.
Dark night skies: The relatively rural location creates opportunities for stargazing at many campgrounds. "Great location with plenty of dark skies. The spots are well spaced in the woods, with plenty of room. The location is great for visiting the prairie and easy access to Gainesville," explains a recent visitor to Paynes Prairie State Park.
What you should know
Cell service and Wi-Fi limitations: Connectivity can be inconsistent at many area campgrounds. "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," reports a camper from Compass RV Park in nearby St. Augustine.
Weather considerations: Summer heat and humidity affect comfort levels at less-developed sites. "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," mentions a camper regarding seasonal conditions at Paynes Prairie.
Limitations on pet access: Some parks restrict where pets can go within their boundaries. "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," notes a visitor to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Educational boat tours: Families benefit from the interpretive programs available at some parks. "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 a family who visited Silver Springs State Park.
Cabin accommodations: For families new to glamping near Pomona Park, cabin rentals provide comfort with outdoor access. "Beautiful large Cabins at a decent price. Kayaking here is awesome. The cabins are very large. Fireplaces. Larger bedrooms..." notes a visitor from Silver Springs State Park.
Recreational options beyond water: Several campgrounds offer land-based activities for children. "Lots of things for kids to do at the campground (pool, playground, cornhole, ping pong table, fishing pond, etc)," reports a family who stayed at Compass RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campsites vary significantly in privacy levels. "IMHO the best spots here at Ocean Grove are those that are waterfront: F138–F141 next to the fishing pier or J100–J126," advises an experienced RVer at Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort, providing specific site recommendations.
Arrival timing: First-come availability affects site quality at popular campgrounds. "With only 9 waterfront slots to choose from, you want to book as early as possible," suggests a reviewer regarding Pine Island RV & Marina, emphasizing the limited premium waterfront options.
Water depth awareness: Lake access points may have limitations for boats. "While Lake George is the second largest lake in all of Florida, it is also one of the most shallow, meaning that if you'd like to launch right in front of any one of the camping spots, you can, but you definitely want to be wearing some aqua socks or something as the rocks here are both slippery and sharp," advises a Pine Island RV visitor.