Welaka, Florida camping offers a variety of natural experiences centered around Lake George, the second largest lake in Florida at 46,000 acres. The surrounding wetlands and forest areas maintain a subtropical climate with summer temperatures averaging 90°F and winter temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F. Several campgrounds near Welaka provide yurt accommodations and specialized glamping options beyond traditional tent and RV sites.
What to do
Water sports on Lake George: At Pine Island RV & Marina, visitors can rent kayaks or bring their own boats to explore the lake. "Great place if you're looking for a peaceful stay in the middle of nowhere. The lake views are beautiful. Staff and owner are very friendly," shares camper Elisa J.
Wildlife viewing at Paynes Prairie: The prairie ecosystem offers unique wildlife observation opportunities. According to visitor Jenn B., you can spot "Buffalo, deer, eagles, alligators, owls" while hiking the extensive trails at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park.
Glass bottom boat tours: Experience underwater ecosystems without getting wet. Carlos R. recommends, "The glass bottom boat tour is an absolute must, we had such a wonderful time and the boat captain had lots of interesting information. We have a 4 year old and a 10 year old and they both really enjoyed the boat tour also."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the generous sizing of sites in the area. At Silver Springs State Park Campground, John R. notes there are "Wonderful large private sites. Showers, laundry, store, restaurants and glass bottom boats and canoe, kayak rentals. Equestrian section also."
Yurt accommodations: Comfortable yurt camping in Welaka offers a blend of outdoor experience with indoor comfort. The Grateful Hammock provides a unique yurt rental option with reviewer Archie J. noting they offer "lots of fun with amenities, hippie decorations."
Hot water facilities: Unlike many primitive camping areas, several sites provide hot water amenities. Donna B. highlights that Grateful Hammock has an "Outdoor kitchen and shower both with hot water! Flush toilets."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings intense heat and insects. A Grateful Hammock host mentions, "We have lots of fun out here, especially in the Fall, Winter and Spring. If you are true champions like us and can handle the Florida bugs and heat then the summer is fabulous here too."
Local springs access: The area provides easy access to natural springs. According to Alicia B., "It's 30 minutes to Juniper Springs or Salt Springs where you can swim in crystalline waters."
Limited dining options: Food options can be limited in this rural area. Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort visitor Mark A. notes it's "Absolutely the best place to camp right on the beach in north Florida! Kinda pricy but unforgettable views and experience."
Tips for camping with families
Paddle boat rentals: Several locations offer family-friendly water activities. St. Augustine Beach KOA has "paddle boats you can rent to go into the pond with. Also bikes and other bike related things to rent," according to Doug E.
Kid-friendly trails: Choose hiking routes suitable for children. At Lake Waldena Resort, Robin S. recalls, "We camped here many times in the 80-90's when our girls were young, we always enjoyed it there."
Free water recreation: Some campgrounds include complimentary water equipment. Dayanis P. shares about Lake Waldena Resort: "Free to use kayaks and water sports, my son learned how to ride a bicycle for the first time today with one of their bicycles! The lake was really a joy to swim on, the kids were in it all day."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking an RV site, consider topography. Doug E. advises about St. Augustine Beach KOA: "Some of the pull thru site had a decent incline hill/drop at one end or the other. I seen some guys using fully extended leveling gear and 4-8 leveling blocks to fill the voids to get level."
Water depth considerations: Lake George has unique characteristics to be aware of. Julian G. recommends Pine Island RV & Marina for its "Friendly staff and well maintained Park and facilities with great fishing and an amazing view of Lake George."
Connectivity limitations: Internet access varies across the region. Daniel G. notes about Compass RV Park, "The only down side is that the cell service (for both T-Mobile and Verizon) didn't work very well, and the Wi-Fi is iffy at best."