Best RV Parks & Resorts near Waldo, FL

Looking to find an RV campground, RV park, or private campsite near Waldo? Find the best information on RV campgrounds near Waldo, including sites, reviews, and tips. Each RV campsite offers quick access to one or more of Waldo's most popular destinations.

Best RV Sites Near Waldo, FL (171)

    Camper-submitted photo from Compass RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Compass RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Compass RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Compass RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Compass RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Compass RV Park

    1. Compass RV Park

    19 Reviews
    22 Photos
    88 Saves
    St. Augustine, Florida

    Take a trip to Old Florida at Sun Outdoors St. Augustine, formerly known as Compass RV Resort. As one of the best RV parks near St. Augustine, Florida, you'll discover great site options, including full hookup sites, patio sites, and buddy sites.

    Our three sections, The Grove, The Pond, and The Oasis, each deliver a different experience. Guests can enjoy a spacious dog park, swimming pool, fitness center, laundry room, a nature trail that winds through the resort, and a friendly community with fun planned activities. Discover all that our St. Augustine RV park has to offer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort

    2. Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort

    1 Review
    19 Photos
    Reddick, Florida

    Rated "One of the Top Nine Resorts in the United States" by USA Today and given a 5-star rating by Woodall's, Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake immerses you in central Florida's natural beauty and seclusion mixed with a wonderful Florida RV resort experience.

    Take your RV experience to the next level with a stay on an elite site offering full hookups with 30- or 50-amp electric service for your convenience. These back-in sites are beautifully landscaped and feature full concrete pads that can accommodate up to 45 feet with room for slide-outs, plus a beautiful brick paver patio area. Each site also includes cable and WiFi services to keep you connected, and a shed for extra storage space.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Blanding RV Park

    3. Camp Blanding RV Park

    5 Reviews
    23 Photos
    71 Saves
    Starke, Florida

    Authorized Users Active Duty, National Guard, Reservists, Retired Military, 0-100% DAV, Purple Heart Recipients, Former POW, Veteran Caregivers, DoD Civilians, Sponsored Guests, Public with an approved "Associate Membership" (call office)

    Johnson RV Park accepts reservations, is only for RV's and doesn't have laundry, restrooms or showers. McKenna Campground is first-come only, allows tents, and has showers, restrooms and laundry. 2 tent limit per primitive site. There is a new Wal-mart super center in Starke, Fl. about 15 miles from the Campground. There is a small px with limited food supplies available on post.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors St. Augustine
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors St. Augustine
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors St. Augustine
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors St. Augustine
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors St. Augustine
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Outdoors St. Augustine

    4. Sun Outdoors St. Augustine

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    14 Saves
    St. Augustine, Florida

    Take a trip to Old Florida at Sun Outdoors St. Augustine, formerly known as Compass RV Resort. As one of the best RV parks near St. Augustine, Florida, you'll discover great site options, including full hookup sites, patio sites, and buddy sites.

    Our three sections, The Grove, The Pond, and The Oasis, each deliver a different experience. Guests can enjoy a spacious dog park, swimming pool, fitness center, laundry room, a nature trail that winds through the resort, and a friendly community with fun planned activities. Discover all that our St. Augustine RV park has to offer.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort

    5. Island Oaks RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    35 Photos
    28 Saves
    Sanderson, Florida
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $60 - $79 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camping out in Country
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping out in Country
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping out in Country
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping out in Country
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping out in Country
    Camper-submitted photo from Camping out in Country

    6. Camping out in Country

    2 Reviews
    25 Photos
    21 Saves
    Fort White, Florida

    Welcome. Thank you for considering staying with us. We are privately family owned, on 10 acres in country setting. Enjoy country exposure with horses, dogs, chickens, and ducks. Nice, peaceful, quiet setting no city lights to enjoy the nature and sky setting. Our dogs are free roam but are dog and people friendly. We located close by some Florida's popular springs ex; Ginnie Springs, Blue Springs, Ichetucknee Springs. There bathhouse for your convenience has hot/cold shower, toilet, sink. Washer in dryer on property. Along with ice machine. Feel free reach out for any questions, looking forward to your stay! (:

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 - $40 / night

    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Moonshine Acres RV Park

      8. Moonshine Acres RV Park

      13 Reviews
      25 Photos
      67 Saves
      Fort White, Florida
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access

      $50 - $65 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Gainesville RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Gainesville RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Gainesville RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Gainesville RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Gainesville RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Gainesville RV Resort

      9. Gainesville RV Resort

      3 Reviews
      24 Photos
      4 Saves
      Waldo, Florida

      Formally Dixieland RV Park.

      Conveniently located on Hwy 301, we are within minutes of Gainesville and the University of Florida. Within an hour you can see the beaches of St. Augustine, the natural springs of High Springs, Jacksonville attractions, the beautiful horse country of Ocala or enjoy a Gulf of Mexico sunset at Cedar Key. If you wish to have all the comforts of a full RV hook-up, we offer a get-away that is just what you’ve been looking for. Walking distance to restaurants, Dollar General and Pilot. We have a large stocked pond and group space available to reserve for private gatherings. We are in the process of renovating our large outdoor pavillion, adding a fitness center, building a pool. Pool house and pickelball courts coming end of 2022.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • RVs

      $57 - $125 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Palms RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Palms RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Palms RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Palms RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Palms RV Resort
      Camper-submitted photo from Santa Fe Palms RV Resort

      10. Santa Fe Palms RV Resort

      2 Reviews
      20 Photos
      5 Saves
      Gainesville, Florida

      Gainesville, Fl. first and only RV resort. Close to Shand's Hospital and UF. We are a locally owned resort. Minutes from downtown.

      Our amenities include high speed internet Wi-Fi access through the entire resort.

      • Closest RV accommodations to the University of Florida. Less travel time to get to your favorite game: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Stephen C. O’Connel Center, and Florida Ballpark at Alfred A. McKethan Field 6.8 miles!
      • Near shopping and access to all of Gainesville from a convenient location.
      • Locally owned and operated. You will not reach a big corporate call center with us.
      • Small town charm and hospitality in the city. The experience is what matters to you. Contact our concierge for local highlights.
      • Pets
      • Electric Hookups
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      • Market

      $45 - $95 / night

    Showing results 1-10 of 171 campgrounds

    Recent RV Reviews in Waldo

    824 Reviews of 171 Waldo Campgrounds


    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Ocala RV Camp Resort
      Oct. 22, 2024

      Ocala RV Camp Resort

      No tent camping allowed

      I called and was told they don’t allow any tent camping. Just an FYI. Was advised only the state parks in the area allow tent camping.

    • Joe R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Prong Equestrian Village
      Oct. 14, 2024

      Black Prong Equestrian Village

      Awesome Harvest Host partner!

      We stayed one night on a grass spot with harvest host. While we did not “pay,” we were still treated as royalty. The entire team was amazing. The grass spit was up front by all of the amenities. The other lots are beautiful and further back. The pool is gorgeous. They have bikes that you check out with the bracelets, and the restaurant was top notch with live music.

    • Jeremy R.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
      Sep. 18, 2024

      Island Oaks RV Resort

      We will be back. Many Times!

      We just purchased our 33’ Salem travel trailer and we used Island Oaks as our shakedown trip. Honestly, its going to be hard to top this first trip. My Wife and I traveled with our 2 young children and our pup. 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. I cant say enough positives about this place! I chose a pull through site and it had sewage, water, & electrical hook ups. They do offer free Wifi, however I would not rely on it, it was spotty at best. Dont think twice. Give this resort a try. It’s a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere!

    • NThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Ocala North RV Park
      Sep. 13, 2024

      Ocala North RV Park

      Great experience

      We stayed here for 3 weeks. Park staff made sure we had a shaded site in the front of the park. The park is very clean and well cared for. Staff is very attentive. Location is convenient to Gainesville or Ocala, and the park is next to a beautiful horse farm with curious, friendly horses. Great pool and fitness center. Very pet friendly!! We’ve already booked our next stay

    • Ashley W.
      Camper-submitted photo from Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort
      Jul. 28, 2024

      Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Golf Resort

      Sun Retreat Ocala Orange Lake RV Resort

      This is a beautiful large RV and golf resort. The grounds were clean and well maintained. There is a full 18 course golf course and putting green. There are also onsite golf cart rentals and a golf pro shop. The staff were very helpful and friendly. Bath houses were clean. Nice laundry facilities available. Campground is directly in Orange Lake with a dock available. Fishing permitted off dock and from shore. All roads were paved. There are both RVs and vacation rentals. Many things to do and lots of options for other recreation nearby. We came for spring break and would definitely visit again.

    • Danton T.
      Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs RV Park
      Jul. 22, 2024

      Silver Springs RV Park

      A great place to stay

      My wife and I decided last year to full time RV. We were already living in Ocala and we wanted to remain in the area. We discovered Silver Springs RV and are so glad we did. Everyone here, especially the staff, was so welcoming and friendly. SSRV is definitely going to be home for a long time.

    • Lorilee S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
      Jul. 6, 2024

      Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

      Pretty and quiet

      This campground is really dark, quiet and pretty. The bathhouse was always clean. You can smell the well water in the bathhouse. Brings me back to my childhood memories. We rode our bikes to the observation tower, but we were not lucky enough to see any bison or wild horses. Still nice to see the open prairie. We had a big rainstorm and the back of our site did become a lake, but it was gone overnight. The bugs lit us up all hours, so make sure you different bug sprays.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Edge RV Park
      Jul. 1, 2024

      Rivers Edge RV Park

      Hidden Camping Gem Truly On The River’s Edge

      One thing’s for certain, this camping outpost located just outside the itty bitty village of Georgetown couldn’t be any closer to the mighty St. Johns River, which if you don’t know, is one of the largest and most prolific fishing rivers in all of Florida. Should you find yourself in north-central Florida and / or near Lake George and looking for a spot to call ‘home for the night’ (or many as it might be) then you’ll definitely want to plan a stay here at Rivers Edge RV Park, which is a little know campground jewel in the rough, but be sure to reach out well in advance, as with only 50 or so slots, this place books up quick.

      Apart from the very close proximity to St. Johns River – so close that Rivers Edge RV Park actually offers up boat launch and slips exclusively for its guests, so if you have a boat, whether with motor or not (like those of us towing canoes and kayaks), be sure to call ahead and enquire about available boat slips – this is one very pristine, well-kept and easily organized campground. There’s a decent amount of top-grade amenities including spartan-clean restrooms, shower & laundry facilities with brand new washers & dryers, propane refueling station, a pup playground, trash stations and waterfront nature walk path.

      What I appreciated most was that Rivers Edge RV Park offers up a distinct tent area, which places mi tent-pitchin’ bredren in our own canvassed-erected environ that is actually the closest camping option to the St. Johns River here. As for the RV or 5th Wheel crowd, the standard hook-ups are offered here including 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage back-in and pull-through sites with concrete patios. Complimentary WiFi is offered everywhere and actually isn’t too bad (although our ability to stream was slow). Most sites offer up picnic tables and fire-rings and there are community offerings like a riverside pavilion (also with another set of restrooms and showers), lawn games, horseshoes, pickleball court and enough space for a good game of jarts or frisbee.

      As for the campground itself, you’ll access Rivers Edge RV Park simply by following Road 309 and just as this small country road bends making way for Drayton Island, you’ll want to turn in heading westerly, wherein you’ll be greeted by the main office where you’ll check in at the office immediately on the right. The layout for the campground is a simple loop, about the size of a junior football field with sites #1-28 on the right and the other sites through #54 on the interior of the loop. Should you not have a tent or an RV, no worries, the very good folks at Rivers Edge even have a handful of cabins that they’ll rent you. Overall, I found the pricing to be VERY affordable here – no matter what type of camping you might be interested in.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Rivers Edge RV Park offers up firewood for sale for a decent price, which I always like to flag, because if you don’t need to find additional space to haul firewood with you, it frees up space for other things, right?; (2) If you’ve got kids and need a much bigger space to let them run around, nearby this campground is a very nice kid’s playground as well as a soccer field; (3) For anyone wanting a bit of an off-the-grid adventure, just south of Rivers Edge is the Drayton Island Ferry (just take your second right after the US post office), where you can cross the channel over to Drayton Island for some decent off-the-trail biking & biking as well as zip-lining, which you can access on the far western side of the island at Grands Island Resort, which is a very cool camping outpost in its own right; and (4) Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your roto-molded Cordova cooler or mini-onboard fridge, you’ll only find meager options near you that include Mel’s River Pub Italian Grille & Liquor Store that offers up a very diverse menu featuring pasta, sandwiches and pizzas, The Oaks Golf Club Café serving up glorified bar fare such as burgers, po-boys, wings, fried baskets, tacos & quesadillas and southern comfort food or Renegades on the River, which is actually another campground, but offers up a super-cool restaurant featuring pizzas, wings, peel & eat shrimp and fried foodstuffs like pickles and gator bites as well as a Tiki Hut pouring some mighty strong Daquiris and Mai Tais.

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Rodman Campground
      Jul. 1, 2024

      Rodman Campground

      Hidden Gem for Primitive Camping Solitude w/ Amenities & Reservoir Access

      Maybe it was that the light was falling at just the right time as I moseyed into Rodman Campground a good hour or so before dusk became official here just due south of Palatka, the Sunshine State’s ‘Unofficial Farmer’s Market’ and a pretty decent stretch from the endless miles of pristine white sand beaches on the Atlantic Coast or the overwhelming non-stop entertainment options of a city built on 'Mouse Magic.’ Whatever it was, there’s something that struck us as incredibly special about this particular campground outpost. I think what we left with was a surreal understanding that no matter what you come packing with, you’re gonna have just one helluva amazing camping experience here at Rodman Campground.

      This place is perfect for both the RV tribe as well as mi tent-pitching community. And I don’t often get to say that. As for the campground itself, while there’s 64 sites to choose from in all, there’s basically 3 distinct areas that you should be aware of. The first area is what I would call the VIP RV Lots, given its proximity to the Rodman Reservoir, while I’m not an RV enthusiast, but this spot feels like you’ve hit ‘the jackpot’ as it’s a single lane with 6 or so sites on either side and provides you with direct and easy access to a very well-maintained restroom and shower facility. The second area is exclusively carved out for my tribe – those that are packing their experience with them and like to unroll their version of protection from the elements while staring straight up at the blessed star-crossed sky while completely surrounded by the thick of nature and tall needle-like trees. And while Rodman Campground calls this the ‘primitive campground,’ I’ll affectionately refer to it as ‘Pitch-A-Tent Heaven.’ Admittedly, I’ve never set up camp so close to RVs that still made me feel like one with nature. The third and final campground option here at Rodman is what I will characterize as ‘RV Pavement Parking Lot Hell,’ where if you have an RV (and can’t get into the VIP RV spot, then, well, you’ll be parking yourself here, but hopefully the freshly poured flat concrete will turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

      Regardless of the camping neighborhood that you end up arriving at, Rodman Campground will impress upon you what an amazing place it is, first and foremost, by offering up what is, no doubt, some of the best FL SP staff you will ever encounter – they are friendly, helpful and incredibly proud of this patch of land that they call home. Secondly, the Rodman Reservoir offers nothing short of AMAZING kayak and canoe adventures. The amenities are pretty top notch: back-in and pull-through RV sites with full-hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage), scattered picnic tables, fire rings and BBQ grills, paved bicycle paths (and miles of additional pavement via Rodman Dam Road, boating within the 9K acre Rodman Preserve, designated dump stations, five reservable pavilions and an excellent boat ramp, freshwater fishing (license required), 5.1 miles of trail hiking (actually part of the Florida National Scenic Trail that runs adjacent to Rodman Campground, picnicking at waterfront pavilions (need to be reserved). 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.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If I was an RV’er (and let’s be clear, I’m not) and I was looking to book a spot here at Rodman Campground, I would absolutely be looking at the VIP RV Lots wherein I would chose any of the spots that are backed up against the wilderness (that would be on the west), which offer a greater degree of connectivity with nature (and thus additional privacy) where, in particular, I would book one of these amazing sites: #2, #5, #9, #10 and #12. While the other sites in this spot aren’t bad, they just don’t offer the amount of privacy that these other 5 sites do; (2) For mi tent-pitching bredren, while almost all of these camp sites offer you a pristine au naturale experience (apart from the few sites that are front-facing (#14-17; #38) you’ll want to prioritize any other site (#18-37) as best you can; (3) If you come bringing your boat, please be aware that there’s submerged logs and other underwater obstructions to be aware of, so motor with caution!; (4) When you get tired of staring down the bottom of your Cordova roto-molded cooler or the emptiness of your on-board fridge, and want to try out some of the local fare, then look no further than Hog Wild Country Café back in Interlachen (no, we’re not in Switzerland, but if you head back NW, you’ll find this spot on County Road 310) where all the traditional BBQ plates are being served (smoked brisket, smoked turkey, smoked pork, OK, smoked EVERYTHING) along with killer southern sides like mac-n-cheese, potato salad, slaw and, my favorite, Vidalia onion rings!; and (5) If you come hauling watercraft, you’ll have no shortage of great launches here at Rodman Campground, but if you are looking to dip your canoe or kayak in some different places, I would highly recommend Marjorie Harris Carr (just follow the Kenwood Boat Ram Road till it reaches a parking circle, from which you’ll easily see the boat launch) or over across the reservoir as well as just heading a bit further west to Rodman Recreation Area where you can drop in there or over at the Rodman Dam Kayak Launch, which has tons of tributaries to navigate.

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort
      Jul. 1, 2024

      Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort

      Single-Lane RV Parking Strip w/ Direct Access to St. Johns River

      If you find yourself up in the northeastern corner pocket of the Sunshine State, and for some reason end-up here in Palatka (a.k.a. The Farmer’s Market of the entire State of Florida) and looking for a spot to park your mobile living room on solid ground, then Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort might just be the spot for you. Careful though, as there are only about 8 spots here to choose from (although this RV riverside stand is promising 40 more tree-lined RV slots in the near future), but all sites come with full hook-ups including 30 / 50 electrical, water and sewage. There are no picnic tables, BBQ grills or any other amenities to speak of, but you will have direct access to St. Johns River with an amazing boat launch. That’s about it.

      Other than the pavement that you will drive on upon entering this spot or the flat and level sandy locations that you will park upon, there’s not a whole lot to this particular place, although there is an incredibly nice restaurant / bar scenario called ‘The Lighthouse’ (formerly named ‘Captain’s Cove Bar’) which is a decent bar with all of the usuals on tap and on shelf. There’s food trucks and live music on the weekends, but bear in mind that your RV will be parked in the same spot as said food trucks along with all of the local parking traffic that overruns the parking lot you will find yourself in.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While there’s not much to offer in these parts, you are right near Palatka, which is kind of an overgrown town, that has a number of standard drive-by restaurants that you’ll expect (Chili’s … add every standard fast-food restaurant chain here), but there are a few hidden gems, of which, I highly recommend Corky’s Bell Seafood @ Gator Landing, which I would encourage you to try the fried whole catfish or the mahi-mahi served grilled or blackened; (2) Despite the bar offering here at Crystal Cove, which might keep you rooted because it’s just so dang easy and close, I would highly recommend a trip to Welatka Lodge Resort, which for a 25 minute ride south along the St. John's River will certainly impress; and (3) If you’re looking for a great slice of nature to discover and hike / fish / kayak / etc. then head on over to Etoniah State Forest, which is less than a 20 minute drive from Crystal Cove and there’s 4-5 amazing hiking trails to explore as well as Georges Lake with which to cast a line.

      Happy Camping!

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Kate’s Fish Camp
      Jul. 1, 2024

      Kate’s Fish Camp

      Roadside Fish Camp Draped in Spanish Moss

      Typically up here in northern Florida, whether you are on the coast or further inland, when you hear or see the name ‘fish camp,’ depending upon where you are from (or honestly, where you're at), the name typically conjures up one or two images - a mossy covered waterside restaurant serving up some freshly caught fish, typically fried, and with a whole lot fo southern fixin’s like grits, black-eyed peas, fried okra and the like. Or, it’s a reference to an actual campground that just so happens to be located right alongside a nice stretch of water, which could be a massive river like St. Johns in these parts, or a smaller, meandering outlet that either connects to a larger body of water, say a lake, or even the ocean. So let’s set the record straight, when visiting this particular fish camp, we are definitely talking about the latter, rather than the former.

      Heading towards Gainesville recently, I came across Kate’s Fish Camp, very conveniently located in the the middle of nowhere, but altogether, sitting on a very nice bit of a water trail called Prairie Creek, which I was told, would eventually, through perseverance and timing your luck between low and high tide, have you arrive at the ocean, but I have to admit, I don’t know how that is even possible, as we were only able to make our way to Orange Lake, but hey, it was my first try. Maybe you will have more luck, or perhaps I got it wrong and at some point, you just need to strap your kayak or canoe on top of your vehicle and drive it closer to a ‘frackish’ inlet that will allow you to ultimately reach some salt water.

      As far as Kate’s Fish Camp go, the wonderful duo of Mike & Monica run this roadside camping rest stop and upon entry, you will marvel at just how intimate and compact the place is complete with substantial shade that blocks all of the harsh Floridian sunshine from otherwise roasting you in its humid inferno. The main office looks like something out of Duck Dynasty and is an old-schooled wooden single-story structure with restrooms and shower facilities (both pretty basic, but clean, albeit poorly lit) towards the front, and the entrance to the actual office on the rear-side, closer to the creek access point. On the subject of water access, let’s just say that while the meandering creek is definitely of interest and should be explored, the real find here is the nearby access to Newnans Lake, which just sits north of Kate’s Fish Camp and, unfortunately, requires a quick drive to Palm Point Park (around the corner from here) in order to access this body of water, but it’s totally worth it, especially if you have an engine-powered fishing boat and are looking to get out on the water to do some decent fishing.

      Back at the campground, here’s what you need to know. For starters, there’s about a dozen or so sites that are offered with each being pull-through ready. While this campground feels more geared towards the RV driving or 5th Wheel toting crowd, as a tent pitcher myself, this place is pretty OK from a tent camping standpoint. You’ll definitely appreciate all the shade that is offered here, as well as close proximity to the basic amenities (showers/ bathrooms) and river access. The picnic tables are pretty standard and there are scattered BBQs and fire rings. There’s also some pretty great WiFi here for those that need it. One of the huge upsides apart from direct river and bike path access is a number of really great hiking trails that you can explore both flora and fauna alike.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) One of the huge upsides to Kate’s Fish Camp is the direct access you’ll have to the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Bike Trail, which if you wanted to, could lead you all the way into Gainesville to enjoy the UF campus and surrounding area without having to put up with traffic; (2) While Kate’s Fish Camp boasts about providing you with DIRECT access to Newnan’s Lake, it was our experience that you could not access the lake directly and that eventually, you would have to return to camp, pack your kayak on your vehicle and drive a quarter mile to the actual boat launch in order to access the lake - I don’t know why they tell folks that they provide direct access; (3) For RVers you will want to take note that Kate’s doesn’t provide sewer hook-ups, just water and electric (20 / 30 / 50 amp) for all of their pull-through sites; (4) You should take note that this campground is literally located right next to a fairly busy 4-lane highway, so if P&Q is important to you, consider another location, otherwise, bring some earplugs!; (5) It’s Florida, it’s the summer, and unless you weren’t already aware of it, you’re landlocked here in the middle of the state, so what does that mean? Mosquitos and bugs, so yeah, come prepared (and don't complain about mosquitos - they are endemic to FL)!; (6) When you get tired of sifting through your on-board mini-fridge or toto-molded Cordova cooler to conjure up what your next meal is going to be, then check out nearby dining options such as Antonio’s Made In Italy, Georgie’s Lakeside or Eagles Nest - and of course, there’s all the generic restaurant-fare that you’ll find in nearby Gainesville, but I’ve tried to suggest some slightly off-the-beaten path joints. If you want an Instagram-worthy dining experience that also lives up to the hype when you bite into their succulent pies, then head on over to Satchel’s Pizza for their deep dish pizza and local brews.

      Happy Camping!

    • Scott B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Black Prong Equestrian Village
      Jun. 30, 2024

      Black Prong Equestrian Village

      Great Place

      Stayed here for 4 nights and really enjoyed it. Large paver sites with plenty of space. Beautiful horse farm setting. Pool and amenities were awesome. Can’t wait to come back!

    • Jeff E.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground
      Jun. 26, 2024

      Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Campground

      Immersed in Nature.

      Quiet, lots of wildlife (wild horses, bison, alligators, deer, birds, turtles); plenty of hiking and biking trails with beautiful sunsets on the lake. Restroom facilities are showing some age but clean.  Walk-in tent sites are pretty close to the Restrooms.

    • Lorilee S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Santos Trailhead & Campground
      Jun. 24, 2024

      Santos Trailhead & Campground

      Very nice

      This campground is the perfect size. Our site had shade about 95% of the day! We had the perfect size of an area behind our RV. Loved hearing all of the birds chirping. You can hear traffic since it’s right off of the highway. There are plenty of trees around. The bathroom was very clean. It’s nice and dark at night!! We did the hike to see the historical part of the Island. That was neat to read about. We also took the biking trail to say we went above i75 on the bridge. That was a round trip of 15.5 miles, if anyone is interested. It’s a really nice campground, especially if like doing trails and biking.

    • Greg B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Ocean Pond Campground
      Jun. 23, 2024

      Ocean Pond Campground

      Ocean Pond Spot 9

      Nice quite campground. Well maintain. Clean bathrooms and working laundry machines (1 each) 1.75 for wash and 1.75 for dry. Lake and beach access are nice and maintained.

    • A
      Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Silver Springs State Park Campground

      Amazing kayaking & trails

      Campground is basic, very few sewer spots but there is a dump station. Big rig friendly, several pull thru spots, easy paved entry, gravel sites, I think all are 50/30. Plenty of space between sites. Clean bathroom, washer/dryer, soda machine. Very dark at night which I love. No lights except the bath house. Dog poo bag stations. Very friendly staff (Melinda & John, camp hosts were amazing) 1 mile from amazing kayaking. Great, woodsy hiking trails. Maybe 3 miles to Publix/Wawa.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground
      Jun. 14, 2024

      Otter Springs Resort Park and Campground

      Be prepared for cramped buddy sites

      Site# 54 Check in: 1pm Check out: 11am Full hook- up Easy to level Gravel back-in (Most, if not all sites are Buddy sites - so be prepared to face a neighbor you do not know. -We were literally looking at each other for ten weeks - with us having two dogs and neighbors having three dogs-complete bark fest). We were so close our awnings would not go out all the way or we would touch.

      Lot is Shaded with lots of trees. Not a big lot since you have to share space with your neighbor

      • No concrete patio - no picnic table but had a fire ring

      Located in the middle of nowhere- Dollar General is four miles away and Walmart is 11 miles (doesn’t seem far but on all back roads, it takes a while) Closest highway (75) is 45 miles away & I-90 is an hour

      Zero WiFi or Zero cell service (1 tiny bar but not enough to do a basic internet search) - once we purchased Starlink ($599), we were able to stream. No Cable TV- limited channels No Outdoor kitchen No Outdoor community sinks to clean big pots

      They do not pickup garbage at site daily, Must walk to garbage dumpster - not too far

      Allowed to ride personal golf carts Not Able to rent golf carts or pedal bikes from them Golf cart not really needed- smaller campground Indoor heated Swimming pool Natural Spring within park but due to rain & flooding of the Suwannee River over the ten weeks we were there, we were unable to access the spring or experience kayaking or the few amenities of the park. Very disappointing.
      Had a Playground No Bocce ball, shuffleboard, There was basketball court and volleyball court.

      Good general store with basics No Activity Center for kids Unsure if there are activities for kids (there were not from January-March). There is not a snack bar/restaurant . Not a Game room, putt putt, or jumping pad for kids No Workout room

      Streets are gravel/sand -not great for riding bikes in campground Great places to ride bikes outside of campground (not near this campground) though- look for Nature Coast State Trail

      Lots of cabin and tent space Individual bathrooms with own sink, shower, toilet & clean

      Laundry machines (one washer & one dryer) per bathhouse- only two bath houses

      Dog area - not fenced in - they have a huge field behind the campground that they keep the outside mowed & is a great place to walk dogs

      There were not bugs/flies initially but as it has started warming up, it has slowly gotten worse

      There were trails to hike off of the campground.

      The most disappointing aspect is that they were selling presidential hats in the general store. One - politics and recreation don’t go together and two- if you’re going to sell one candidate but not the other, you’re a biased business

    • VThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Island Oaks RV Resort
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Island Oaks RV Resort

      Island oaks camping

      I have stay at Island Oaks several times and we love it We had some issue when first stayed but I chalked that up to a teaching lesson. Now I have 30 amp extension and a longer 50 amp power cord. Yes it is a dry county on Sunday but that’s only one day. You will not be disappointed to stay there. They also have live music on Saturday and so far it’s never been disappointing You will enjoy it.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Silver Springs State Park Campground
      Jun. 10, 2024

      Silver Springs State Park Campground

      Beautiful campground

      Loved this campground. We had sites 22 & 24. Site 22 has lots of sun; site 24 was full shade all day. I thought site 20 was the best. All campsites are very roomy. Bring your paddleboard or kayak. We drove to Silver Springs park and put in. Lazy river ride for 2 miles where we got out at the River trail. If you do this, bring your kayak wheels as it is a 1 mile walk back to the campground (or 1/2 mile to the River Trail trailhead). Then went to pick up truck where we started. Highly recommend this campground. There are also lots of trails to hike, but it was so hot when we were there we did not do any but the river trail.

    • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Twin Lakes Fish Camp
      Jun. 9, 2024

      Twin Lakes Fish Camp

      Fishing Bliss in Swamp-Like Single Lane Camping Outpost

      Like the opening for 'Waterboy' (starring Adam Sandler), when you first rock up to Twin Lakes Fish Camp, somehow you feel as though you are visiting family in the very deep south with the likes of Bobby Bocher (pronounced BOO-Shay) greeting you upon arrival with a dilapidated golf cart eager to show you around this fairly minuscule one lane, dead-end campground that is more swamp outpost than pine forested campground. While definitely geared more towards the slightly semi-permanent resident than the overnight camping crowd, you’ll find a mixture of heavily seasoned RV trailers that don’t look as though they’ve moved anywhere in the past several years(or decades) along with a small handful of cabin rentals. Sure, there are a few spots here and there that you might park a 5th wheeler, RV or even see a pitched tent, but those spots are far and few between, if available at all.

      As you make your way down this single lane refuge, on the right, you’ll notice fairly tightly packed together RVs or 5th wheelers lining the tree-ensconced periphery, where on the left you’ll spot sites that have a bit more space to them and with less crowded confines. Also on the left, you’ll easily notice a decent inlet that is perfect should you be towing any form of small watercraft with you, be that a kayak, canoe or even small engine boat. As you make your way down this single lane, pass the river inlet boat parking structure on your left, you’ll spot the 4-5 cabins that are for rent before making your way to the very end of the lane, which you’ll discover the manager’s office on the right. It’s here where you’ll check in. Just beyond this spot is where the waterline begins, albeit for the first 20 or 30 yards, completely encased by Spanish moss of every variety hanging from ancient Oaks, Palmettos and the odd Pine. For dramatic effect, there’s even a partially sunken house boat (or two) in the rather shallow waters just off this small inlet, where you can easily walk on and cast a line or two from.

      With regards to amenities, apart from the swamp-like, down-home feel to this place, you’ll encounter fully-furnished cabins equipped with Direct TV, a small general store (that was closed when we visited), a tackle shop, WiFi (albeit incredibly weak), a recreation room (that didn’t have much but incredibly well-worn paperback books and a single fold-up table accompanied by the prerequisite ashtray), TV, scattered fire pits, covered picnic pavilion, small laundry room (that was closed while we were there), horseshoe pit, restrooms (that were anything but clean), full hook-ups with 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage as well as a designated dump station and a fish cleaning station alongside that fishing boat parking structure.

      If you can get past the overall dilapidated condition of this place that transports you to a swamp-like wonderland, the upside is that Twin Lakes Fish Camp places you smack dab right in the heart of some pretty amazing fishing country. With Twin Lakes situated between Lochloosa and Orange Lakes, it’s the mouth of the famous Cross Creek that will return you right back here to Twin Lakes Fish Camp. Nearby, there’s the very quaint town of Micanopy, where you can load up on sundries and groceries as well as, if need be, travel further afield to either Gainesville to the north or Ocala to the south for many more dining and entertainment options.

      Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Rather than stay here, what I would HIGHLY recommend, whether you have an RV or are looking to pitch your tent, is to instead, seek another location for your camping adventures. If it were me, I would double-back to Paynes Prairie SP and book a spot there and simply come here to Twin Lakes Fish Camp to disembark on a fishing odyssey. Remember, it’s always important to note and differentiate a place that might be nice to visit versus a site that you want to call home for the night!; (2) Should you want to rent a 'jon boat', kayak, canoe or sumptknocker, you can easily do that here for $35/ day (and something tells me, you could probably talk the owner down a bit); (3) This place is fairly economical at $35 per night / $175 per week / $375 per month, but I would definitely recommend you look at the photos I’ve posted as well as do a bit of research on-line before booking anything here; (4) When you grow weary of cooking up ‘franks& beans’ for your next meal, and want to check out some local fare, just down the road is a very nice, quaint and actually somewhat upscale joint called The Yearling that serves up low-country delights like fried green tomatoes, fried gator bites and conch fritters in addition to main entrees like blackened red fish or shrimp & grits; and (5) While you won’t find any decent hiking in or around Twin Lakes Fish Camp, if you double-back to Paynes Prairie SP, you’ll find a ton of really great paths to both hike & bike.

      Happy Camping!

    • DThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Holiday Trav-L-Park RV Resort
      Jun. 5, 2024

      Holiday Trav-L-Park RV Resort

      Short overnight stay

      Easy to find, close to I-75 Freeway. Older RV park with many permanent sites. Pull through, full hook ups with cable TV. Not too quiet but building on East side blocks much of the Freewaynoise. Large shade trees. Intermixed temp and permanent sites. Didn't see a store nor sites showers and restrooms. Pool is closed. Looks permanent.

    • Amy P.
      Camper-submitted photo from Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park
      May. 9, 2024

      Magnolia Campground — O'Leno State Park

      Great Park, but mind the ticks!

      This is the second time that we've been back to the state park and we love it more every time. Bath houses are clean, lots of wooded spaces, plenty of trails for biking or hiking. Appreciated the history of the old town which is within walking distance of the campsites. We also enjoyed the geological mystery of a river vanishing before our eyes!

      There are signs at the bathhouse about ticks. Take heed of them! I am sure we are in the height of season, but it was really bad if you went on any of the trails. Thankful the dog is on tick meds!

      We cycled from OLeno to Ichetukee Springs. 30 miles round trip! Next time we will leave early, bring swim gear and enjoy a float trip in that area.



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