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.
