Umatilla sits in central Florida's Lake County, surrounded by natural springs and freshwater lakes at an elevation of about 100 feet. The camping season extends year-round with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. Most campgrounds in this area maintain standard spacing between sites ranging from 20-30 feet depending on the specific location and tier of site.
What to do
Visit local springs: Alexander Springs in Ocala National Forest offers crystal-clear 72°F water year-round. "When it rains it does get muddy and it looks like there is a propensity towards standing water after a rain," notes one visitor about getting to Fisherman's Cove Golf and RV Resort during wet weather.
Golf courses: Several RV parks include golf amenities. "There's a club house, gazebo, select sized stalls, wash rack for bathing horses, recreation room (complete with ping pong, DirectTV and card table), small fishing pond, laundry room, bath house," writes a reviewer about Fiddlers Green RV Ranch.
Horseback riding: The Ocala area offers extensive trail systems for equestrians. "The trailhead for Ocala National Forest horse is just down a dead end road. We were so close to springs for where you can go swimming, kayaking, hiking, biking and snorkeling," according to a Fiddlers Green visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Lakes Harris, Beauclaire, and Ola provide excellent fishing spots. "Getting yourself on Lake Harris for some excellent fishing, boating and kayaking" is recommended by a visitor to Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Many RV sites near Umatilla, Florida serve as convenient bases for exploring. "This was a great central location to visit lakes, gulf coast, springs and historic towns. Plenty of shopping nearby, whatever you could want," writes a camper at Southern Palms RV Resort.
Community activities: Seasonal programs keep long-term visitors engaged. "We have visited Wekiva Falls many times. So, we decided to go full time in our RV. Always something to do. Granddaughter loves to come visit and play in the stream and on the playground," notes a resident at Wekiva Falls RV Resort.
Lake access: Waterfront RV sites provide direct water access. "Beautiful waterside sights, perfect place to bring the boat too. The lake it's connected to a handful of other lakes where you could boat to a different town everyday," writes a camper about Hide-A-Way Harbor RV Park.
Golf amenities: On-site courses appeal to many campers. "We stay here through Thousand trails and love it! There are so many amenities and even a full golf course!" mentions a visitor at Clerbrook Golf and RV Resort.
What you should know
Age restrictions: Several parks cater specifically to older campers. "This place is a balance depending on what you are looking for in your experience. As full-timers, we enjoy stopping by when we can but, we won't go out of our way to get a spot here," writes a visitor about Winter Garden RV Resort.
Site variability: Quality and size of RV sites differ within the same park. "The lots in the A section are a little close together, the premium lots in the B section have a little more breathing room," reports a Fisherman's Cove camper.
Seasonal population shifts: Winter months bring higher occupancy. "Centrally located between Eustis, Tavares, Umatilla, and Leesburg you will find this lovely RV resort on Lake Harris in Central Florida. Their busy season starts in Oct and goes through April with many guests staying throughout the months."
Water quality considerations: Some natural water features have distinct characteristics. "The springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind," cautions a Wekiva Falls visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Evaluate amenities: Look for parks with child-friendly facilities. "We loved being close enough to ride our bikes to downtown Winter Garden. The kids enjoyed ice cream, the bike trail, and the splash pad, all while the parents enjoyed the brewing company and coffee shop," writes a Winter Garden RV visitor.
Consider seasonal timing: Visit during off-peak periods for quieter stays. "The summer in Tavares is the off-season for tourists and snow-birds, so our stay was incredibly quiet," notes a Fisherman's Cove camper.
Check site spacing: Some parks have tighter layouts challenging for families. "Has by far not been my favorite. It's divided into 3 parts. We are Accross the road with no swimming pool or dog park... if you have small kids I don't think this is the camp ground for you," cautions a Southern Palms visitor.
Safety considerations: Natural waters require supervision. "First, this place has a lake, so in Florida, that means there's always the possibility of gators, so no swimming and keep your dogs on a leash," warns a visitor at Olde Mill Stream RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Reserve early for winter months: Peak season demand requires advance planning from November through March.
Site selection strategy: Ask about specific site features when booking. "One thing that separates them for the other campgrounds is the unique style they have of getting you to your spot. You follow a person to your spot and they then stretch a rope for you to back along to make sure your at the farthest from one side," notes a Southern Palms visitor.
Power management: Monitor electrical usage in older parks. "We kept tripping the 30A breaker with AC on and a hot plate or microwave. But in the end price seemed reasonable for what it was," reports a Winter Garden camper.
Consider location sections: Many larger parks have distinct areas with varying amenities. "Large park although it was only half full when we arrived. We stayed a week. Friendly, helpful office. When we arrived we were guided back to our site and we were offered help backing in," writes a Southern Palms visitor.
