RV camping near Rocky Point, Florida offers options in the heart of north-central Florida's horse country. The region features several freshwater springs with year-round 72-degree temperatures, making them popular destinations for swimming and paddling regardless of season. Many camping areas sit within a 30-mile radius of Rocky Point, providing access to lakes, springs, and wooded areas where campers can enjoy water recreation and outdoor activities throughout the year.
What to do
Spring swimming and snorkeling: Hart Springs Park offers one of the largest swimming areas with naturally cool water. "We love visiting Hart springs and have been for years, our number one location for summer birthdays. Our favorite time to visit is the off season with cold nights warm days and the least bugs," notes Bri F. The park features a boardwalk loop along the river where visitors can spot wildlife.
Fishing opportunities: Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort provides direct access to Orange Lake for fishing. "The on-site restaurant (Eagles Nest Cafe) has very good food and well priced. The amenities and facilities are very clean and the lake view is awesome," shares Steven L. Bass, crappie, and bluegill are common catches in the area lakes.
Botanical gardens: Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens near Williston offers a unique experience. "This is a man made spring fed garden of eden. A must see piece of uncharted paradise. Something for all ages. Leashed Pets are welcomed for a meer 12$ per person entry fee that is certainly worth it," explains Danyel P. The gardens feature multiple waterfalls and photo opportunities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Ocala North RV Park features newly paved sites with plenty of room. "Very enjoyable and I always look forward to coming back. It's going through some renovations. New owners have paved all the spaces, the shower house has been redone, they are digging a beautiful pond in front," shares Donni D. The park sits in horse country with friendly horses visible from the property.
Community atmosphere: Citra Royal Palm RV Park welcomes diverse camping styles. "Great group of people with positive energy and diversity of both people and rigs. Long term, tents, tiny homes, skoolies, and traditional travelers all in one place. Free coffee in the clubhouse in the morning," says neveraroadmap M. The park offers a fire circle and clubhouse with facilities.
Lake access: Old Florida RV Resort provides waterfront camping with newly built amenities. "This RV resort, complete with just 34 FHU slots that dot a small, simple single loop, sits right on Orange Lake. One of its great assets is the quick and EZ access you'll have to this formidable fresh water lake," notes Stuart K. The property features Tiki huts and paved sites with adjoining patios.
What you should know
Seasonal changes: Winter brings snowbirds to many parks, changing the availability and demographics. "Ocala North RV Resort is in horse country, yet convenient to both Gainesville and Ocala. We stayed here last June and came back for the winter," explains Ellen L. Many parks have expanded to accommodate seasonal residents.
Swimming closures: Natural water features can close due to conditions. "Unfortunately Hart springs was closed while we were there due to flooding and construction but should be open for spring 2019, but it looks like an incredible swimming spot with ample space, tables and pavilions," Kelsey G. mentions. Check ahead when planning water activities.
Connectivity: Cooper Lake RV Community and other parks offer varying levels of internet access. "WiFi here (but it's not so good)," notes Stuart K. Some parks have upgraded their systems, with Ocala North offering "an amazing campground WiFi deployment. I was getting about 15mbs down and 6mbs up," according to John.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Hart Springs Park includes more than just the springs. "The spring has an over bridge and concrete steps that lead down into the springs. Plenty of shade and Pavilions with grills close to the springs, playground, bathrooms and camp store. This park also has a splash pad," reports Brenda S.
Resort activities: Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort offers amenities for all ages. "This is a beautiful large RV and golf resort. The grounds were clean and well maintained. There is a full 18 course golf course and putting green. There are also onsite golf cart rentals and a golf pro shop," describes Ashley W. The resort includes lake access with fishing permitted from the shore.
Budget-friendly options: Visiting springs during off-peak times saves money and avoids crowds. "We love visiting Hart springs and have been for years, our number one location for summer birthdays. Our favorite time to visit is the off season with cold nights warm days and the least bugs," shares Bri F.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Williston Crossings RV Resort offers various site types. "Very well kept and quiet 55+ resort! They have a free night promotion going in now so we spent two nights here. Beautiful clubhouse, huge fire pit area, nice library and game room," notes Catherine A. Sites are level and spacious.
Rental options: Some parks offer alternatives to bringing your own RV. "There are both RVs and vacation rentals. Many things to do and lots of options for other recreation nearby," explains Ashley W. about Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake.
Utilities and hookups: Santa Fe Palms RV Resort provides full-service sites. "In all there's some 115, mostly diagonal, slots to chose from that offer 30 amp, 50 amp back-in or 50 amp pull-through sites, charging $65, $75 and $85 respectively," reports Stuart K. The resort also features fiber optic WiFi and heated pool.