Camping near Satsuma, Florida provides access to several dispersed sites and established campgrounds within the Ocala National Forest, with many locations positioned near spring-fed water systems that maintain consistent 72-74°F temperatures year-round. Sandy forest roads leading to several camping destinations can challenge lower-clearance vehicles, particularly during dry periods when they become rutted and dusty. Campgrounds in this region see varying usage patterns, with weekday visits typically offering more solitude than weekends when ATV and boat traffic increases significantly.
What to do
River exploration by kayak or canoe: The Ocklawaha River accessed from Davenport Landing offers excellent paddling opportunities along a historic waterway. "If you are looking to catch and eat your meals, then this will certainly be an added bonus. The steps down the ravine to the river basin are somewhat steep, but for anyone towing a light-weight kayak or paddleboard, me thinks you could likely manage to bring your watercraft down here and easily access emerald-green waters," notes one visitor.
Hiking forest trails: The Florida National Scenic Trail runs adjacent to Rodman Campground, offering 5.1 miles of marked trails. "We hiked some... probably would have enjoyed more had he come," shares one camper, while another mentions "Road our bikes to the dam. We've been there four times now, and just love it there!"
Spring swimming: Natural springs throughout the region provide refreshing swimming opportunities away from summer heat. One camper at Juniper Springs Rec Area shares: "The springs/swimming area is really beautiful! Huge with room for lots of people, deep diving areas, shallows children's areas. It's really great. And cold, it's around 72 all year, so if its hot SWIM!"
What campers like
Spacious sites with water views: Many campgrounds in the area feature generous site spacing and waterfront positioning. At Salt Springs Recreation Area, a camper noted: "We went camping here with two small kids, one of the sites closest to the springs, just a short walk. The campsite was much bigger than I expected. There were other people near by, but very quiet night."
Water access: Direct access to rivers, lakes, and springs ranks high among camper preferences. "Beautiful site! Full shade and very level. Water directly in front of our site. Road our bikes to the dam," shares one Rodman Campground visitor, while another notes "We saw deer at dusk meandering through the woods."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural settings around Satsuma provide excellent wildlife spotting. "If you're a wild nature enthusiast, you're in luck, because here at Rodman Campground, you'll easily be able to spot: bald eagle, foxes, wild turkey, white-tailed deer, hawks and owls, osprey and the American alligator," according to a visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds and noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise from nearby recreation areas. At Rodman Campground, one camper warns: "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."
Variable facilities: Campground amenities vary widely throughout the region. At Lake Delancy West Campground, "Toilets only, no water. The mosquitos were pretty bad but no ticks," reports one camper, while another notes "Great place to Camp for several days and ride your atv's, OHV right out of the campground. Lots of shade trees."
Wildlife precautions: Bears and other wildlife require proper food storage. "We stayed here for 3 nights and had no trouble with ATV noise at all during the week. Fri-sun is a different story. There are bear here so be cautious with your food and animals," cautions a Lake Delancy camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas: Springs offer safe, refreshing swimming for children. "The spring is a short walk from the campground or a quick bike ride," explains one Salt Springs camper, while another mentions, "The campsite was much bigger than I expected... The bathrooms were pretty clean and within decent walking distance."
Consider campgrounds with playground access: Some sites provide recreational facilities for children. A visitor to Anastasia State Park Campground shares: "We have site 33 which is amazing to let the kids play, you can see the playground but still have some privacy from it."
Plan for insect protection: Mosquitos can be problematic, especially during warmer months. "The mosquitos were pretty bad but no ticks," reports a Lake Delancy camper, suggesting families should pack appropriate repellent and protective clothing.
Tips from RVers
Select sites with adequate shade: Florida heat requires good tree cover for comfort. At Welaka Lodge & Resort, one visitor appreciates "Hidden under the shade of Ancient Oaks, Magnolias and tropical Palms, there's few better places that I would recommend to find respite from the busy week."
Check hookup availability: Electrical capacity varies between campgrounds. At Salt Springs, "Clean and well thought out rr's. We were in 51 with trees out our windows for a view. H20,elec.,and sewer.good boat ramp for lake," reports one RVer.
Consider access road conditions: Many forest roads present challenges for larger rigs. At Davenport Landing, campers should "maneuver around divots and potholes along this narrow gravel, dusty roadway for the better part of 2 miles before arriving to a small sign on the left-hand side of the road." Another camper notes about Lake Delancy: "It's hard for the forest Dept to keep Camp host there with no electric hook up & running water."
