For decades, Ocala was well-known only for its thoroughbred horse farms, where a number of Kentucky Derby winners were bred and trained. Although horse ranches still dot the landscape, Ocala is now considered one of the premier Florida destinations for nature lovers, campers, kayakers and those seeking the beauty of natural springs--all found in or near Ocala National Forest. And the region has embraced the RV owner, with numerous campsites on both private and state-owned land.
Manager Robert LaMont says on the park's website that he's in charge of a state park where "visitors can canoe down the crystal clear river, hike or bike along one of the nature trails, or just sit and watch for the wide variety of birds and wildlife." This park just east of downtown Ocala boasts a new 59-site campground with water and electric hookups (30-amp service, though six sites have 50 amps). Maximum RV length is 50 feet, and well-behaved pets are allowed. Reservations can be made through ReserveAmerica.
Silver River State Park
1425 NE 58th Ave.
Ocala, FL 34470
(352) 236-7148
floridastateparks.org/silverriver/default.cfm
An expanded clubhouse, full hookup sites with 50-amp electric service to accommodate even the largest of RVs, an outdoor heated pool and spa and cable TV and Wi-Fi are just a few features offered at Ocala Sun RV Resort, which almost abuts the Ocala National Forest. The clubhouse boasts a community room, kitchen and exercise room and three regular private baths with showers.
Ocala Sun RV Resort
2559 SW Highway 484
Ocala, FL 34473
(877) 809-1100
ocalasunrvresort.com
Grassy sites, shady spots, ice cream, a swimming pool and (for cooler weather) plenty of firewood--that's some of what's offered at Ocala RV Camp Resort. A number of the 150 RV sites are pull-through, and hookups include 30/50-amp electric and cable TV, as well as water and sewage. Other amenities include a hot tub and sauna, an on-site laundry facility, propane sales and other RV supplies, basic groceries and snacks, and a range of activities that include basketball and horseshoe pits, shuffleboard and a playground. The site is pet friendly (and even offers a dog run), but owners are asked to keep them on a leash, clean up after them and keep barking to a minimum.
Ocala RV Camp Resort
3200 S.W. 38th Ave.
Ocala, FL 34474
(352) 237-2138 or (866) 858-3400
rvcampocala.com
If you're looking for an adults-only RV campground, you might find yourself "on Golden Pond" in Ocala, a 55-plus manufactured home community and RV park. Located close to shopping and medical facilities, Golden Pond Village is also far enough away that campers and residents are able to enjoy "large oaks with hanging moss and serene horse farms" nearby, the website says. In addition to on-site restroom and laundry facilities, there's a private clubhouse and shuffleboard. RV sites include 30-amp electricity with full hookups, access to hot showers, a laundry and the Rec Hall/Clubhouse. Rates include water, sewer and trash removal. Pets on leashes are allowed.
Golden Pond Village RV Resort
3233 S.E. 110th St.
Ocala, FL 34480
(352) 245-2334
goldenpondvillage.com
Don't let the name scare you away--Wild Frontier Campground promises fun activities for the family. Just 2.5 miles from the center of Ocala, it offers full hookups with 50-amp electricity and cable TV, as well as a clubhouse, on-site grocery store, propane sales, hot showers, an on-site laundry and outdoor pool. It also abuts an RV dealership if you need repairs or equipment. Rates include water and sewer.
Wild Frontier Campground
3101 NW 16th Ave.
Ocala, FL 34475
(352) 629-3540
wildfrontiercampground.com/
