Starke, Florida RV parks are positioned in central northern Florida approximately 45 miles southwest of Jacksonville and 30 miles northeast of Gainesville. This region features predominantly flat terrain with sandy soil and a humid subtropical climate where summer temperatures typically reach 90°F. Cell service can vary throughout the area with coverage gaps common in more rural locations between established campgrounds.
What to Do
Fishing on site: Cooper Lake RV Community offers catch-and-release fishing in its small namesake lake. "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 Greg S. about nearby Camp Blanding RV Park.
Water activities: Multiple parks provide lake access for children and families. "Our site was right on the lake so the kids had a great time playing in the water for something to do. We could hang our hammocks and the paved roads allowed for the kids to ride their bikes," writes Jenn B. about Camp Blanding.
Swimming options: Outdoor water recreation isn't limited to natural bodies of water. "Heated resort pool with tiki pool bar & music, beach front lake with a massive inflatable obstacle course," describes Jeremy R. at Island Oaks RV Resort.
What Campers Like
Security features: Many parks prioritize camper safety through controlled access systems. "Gainesville RV Park gets HIGH points for offering up a highly secured RV camping outpost – upon arrival, you will be greeted by a well-fortified sliding gate that only guests will be able to access with a respective key code," explains Stuart K. at Gainesville RV Park.
Onsite dining: Some parks offer food service options eliminating travel for meals. "The best burger and onion rings I've had in decades! The park is quiet and clean. Friendly staff," shares Kelly S. about the Classic Cafe at Gainesville RV Park.
Recreation facilities: Beyond basic camping amenities, area parks provide various recreational options. "We never had to leave the park, they had EVERYTHING. 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," writes Jeremy R. about Island Oaks RV Resort.
What You Should Know
Site layout considerations: Some parks have infrastructure design issues requiring advance preparation. "When they designed the park, the hook ups are on the wrong side of the spots. We needed 50 feet and our friends 80 feet of sewage hook ups! The sewer connection is not sink and does not drain properly," warns Kristen S. about Island Oaks.
Wi-Fi limitations: Don't count on consistent internet connectivity at all parks. "The cell service (for both T-Mobile and Verizon) didn't work very well, and the Wi-Fi is iffy at best," reports Daniel G. about Compass RV Park.
Alcohol restrictions: Local regulations may affect park policies. "NO LIQUOR SALES ON SUNDAY. So don't count on having fun at the Tiki bar if you are staying on Sunday evening," cautions Kristen S. about visiting Island Oaks.
Tips for Camping with Families
Military access requirement: Not all campgrounds permit public access. "Even with base access, you can only camp with a military member as a guest or be in the military," explains Sean B. about Camp Blanding RV Military.
Variety of accommodations: Some parks offer alternatives to standard RV sites. "The Quonset huts are great. We stayed in a half one with two families and everyone fit fine and we had a great time," shares Danielle K. about Camp Blanding.
Activity planning: Families particularly appreciate parks with multiple recreation options. "The kids had a great time. Our site was right on the lake so the kids had a great time playing in the water for something to to. We could hang our hammocks and the paved roads allowed for the kids to ride their bikes," writes Jenn B. about Camp Blanding.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: Pack additional hookup equipment based on site design. "If staying in the front section of the resort be sure to have extra sewer line and power cord extension," advises Dean G. about Sun Outdoors St. Augustine.
Shade availability: Finding shady sites can be challenging at newer facilities. "There are maybe 2 sites that have shade. Otherwise, the installed trees and plantings are way too immature to offer shade. At least for the first 10 years," notes Brooke about Island Oaks.
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully based on intended activities. "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," suggests Stuart K.