Camping sites near Starke, Florida range from primitive tent camping to fully serviced RV resorts. Located in north-central Florida at an elevation of about 130 feet, the area features sandy soil and pine forests typical of the Florida inland region. Average temperatures remain mild through winter with nighttime lows in the 40s, making late fall through early spring the optimal camping season.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At O'Leno State Park, visitors can enjoy kayaking on the Santa Fe River with rental equipment available. "There is a swimming section. The river goes underground but you can't kayak in this area. The river has a small rapids area, for Florida. Got to see a snake sunbathing next to two turtles while kayaking," notes one camper at O'Leno State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offers eight distinct hiking trails where visitors can observe native Florida fauna. "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 a visitor to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Hiking trails: Jennings State Forest provides miles of marked paths through natural Florida landscapes. "We hiked the beach pioneer trail and really enjoyed ourselves. The campsite is about a mile in and has a picnic table and fire ring. There is a stream nearby for water. The trail is well marked and we only saw a few others while hiking," reports a camper at Jennings State Forest.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between campsites at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. "Very woodsy, plenty of walking trails, even a spring to take a dip in, if you dare!!" comments one visitor about the park's natural features.
Lake activities: Camp Blanding RV Park receives high marks for its waterfront sites and water recreation opportunities. "Some of the best camping in FL, beautiful lake, spread out camp sites, fire pit, grill and full hookups. All water sports, including fishing, boat launch, Jet skis, etc.. plenty of room to swim," notes one reviewer at Camp Blanding RV Park.
Clean facilities: Island Oaks RV Resort maintains well-kept amenities that appeal to campers seeking comfort. "The bathhouses were clean and well-maintained. The one we used has 4 stalls to it all with a private bathroom and shower in one. If I am nitpicking the water pressure was not great but it was nice and hot," shares a visitor to Island Oaks RV Resort.
What you should know
Military connections: Camp Blanding RV Park requires specific credentials for access. "Even with base access, you can only camp with a military member as a guest or be in the military," explains a reviewer who stayed at the facility.
Hookup positioning: Some RV parks have design issues with utility connections. At Island Oaks, "When they designed the park, the hookups are on the wrong side of the spots. We needed 50 feet and our friends 80 feet of sewage hookups! The sewer connection is not sink and does not drain properly," warns a camper.
Pet restrictions: Some parks limit where dogs can access. "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.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Sites near lakes provide natural entertainment for children. "We camped here before things warmed up, but we enjoyed it. The children loved the close proximity of the lake. We were approximately 10 feet away from the water. The area had two sets of swings nearby and a dock," notes a family who stayed at Camp Blanding.
Historical education: Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park offers learning opportunities. "Camp staff knows much about the Native American heritage in this location," mentions one camper about the educational aspects of Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park.
Recreational amenities: Island Oaks RV Resort provides extensive facilities for families. "Heated resort pool with tiki pool bar & music, beach front lake with a massive inflatable obstacle course, an on-site restaurant & ice cream shop, not to mention multiple fenced dog parks. I cant say enough positives about this place!" shares an enthusiastic family camper.
Tips from RVers
Extension cords necessary: Some parks require additional equipment for hookups. "Just left STARK FLORIDA KOA. No shade but a huge amount of space between sites and set up on an angle which increased the sense of space. Sites had full hook up, elec, water, sewer," explains an RVer at Starke-Gainesville NE KOA.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on accessibility and amenities. "The best sites at Gainesville RV Park include: PO4 – 16 (basically all the pond front sites) as well as W1– W18, which is kind of surprising as they are the cheaper slots, but back up to the treeline and are furthest away from any roads / noise," advises one experienced RVer.
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Would have given 5 stars if internet was decent but it was awful. Our rig is 42' w/ 4 slides and had lots of space. Escorted to our site. Nice picnic tables. Pool area was clean and inviting," reports a camper at Island Oaks about the trade-offs to consider.
