Florida Nature, Boating, Fishing & Biking
Rodman Campground, nestled within the Ocala National Forest, offers a delightful escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. This peaceful campground provides a serene setting surrounded by towering pines and lush Florida foliage.
The campground is immersed in the beauty of the Ocala National Forest, offering a tranquil environment for relaxation and exploration. Its proximity to the Ocklawaha River and Rodman Reservoir allows campers to enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. There are also several hiking and biking trails located nearby to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Ocala National Forest.
Bathrooms were clean (with hot showers) but were a bit of a hike if you camp riverfront (you can follow the road around or go through the woods up and over a pretty steep hill). Site 61 had a picnic table, fire ring, water and electric and was right on the river with only an access road (5mph) between the campsite and riverfront. Be advised, that you cannot access the river from the camp site, you must go to the boat ramp, there is a steep drop off and there are signs telling you there is no access. But you can put up a camp chair and enjoy relaxing at the top of the riverbank. We saw deer at dusk meandering through the woods.
Concerning the tranquil surroundings, a note of caution and something to definitely keep in mind when booking ... IF there is an "ALL HOURS WEEKEND" at the nearby Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort (right across the river), then the trails remain open 24 hours and you will not have any tranquility or relaxation all night. We were there unfortunately on one of these weekends and there was loud music, dirt bikes, ATVs and 4-Wheelers screaming through the entire night. (24-Hour riding begins Friday 8:00am- Ends Sunday 5:00pm... Gates and trails are open 24 hours during this period). So be forewarned to check the schedules at Hog Waller before booking because you will hear the all night parties and roaring engines tearing up the mud pits. This only detracts from Rodman when Hog Waller is in full swing but it's 1-2 weekends each month. Also, if there is any type of fishing tournament going on, the boats on the river will wake you in a tent very early in the morning. If you like getting up early and having a cup of coffee by the river and watching the bass boats go by then this is good fun, but don't think about being lazy and sleeping in (see video).
Overall, it's a really nice park in the wilds of Florida and we have already booked our next stay (but not riverfront and not during a Hog Waller 24 hour weekend). We look forward to visiting during the week when everything is more "chill".