Ocala Forest Campground

For Floridians eager to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort, The Preserves RV Park, formerly known as Ocala Forest Campground, offers an accessible and inviting retreat in Umatilla. Nestled on the edge of the sprawling Ocala National Forest, this campground provides a convenient base for exploring one of Florida's most significant natural treasures, offering a blend of affordability and essential amenities. While it has recently undergone a change in ownership and name, its core appeal remains centered around providing a welcoming environment for both short-term getaways and longer stays.

Florida's diverse landscape is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, and the Ocala National Forest stands as a prime example of its natural beauty, boasting an abundance of springs, lakes, and trails. The Preserves RV Park capitalizes on this prime location, aiming to be a family-friendly destination for all ages. It strives to offer excellent accommodations at competitive prices, making it an attractive option for those looking to experience the peace and quiet of the forest, rather than the incessant hum of city traffic.

While recent reviews indicate that the transition under new ownership may present some challenges, particularly concerning site numbering and neighborly interactions, the park's fundamental offerings remain promising. Its commitment to providing full hookups for RVs, along with tent sites, a swimming pool, and other essential facilities, forms the backbone of its appeal. The management's stated intention to foster a family-friendly atmosphere suggests ongoing efforts to improve the guest experience and solidify its reputation as a reliable and enjoyable campground.

In this article, we will delve into what The Preserves RV Park (Ocala Forest Campground) offers to Floridians. We'll cover its strategic location and accessibility, detail the range of services and features designed for a comfortable stay, and provide the necessary contact information. Despite some past concerns, the park's inherent advantages — its location, affordability, and commitment to providing a good base for exploring the Ocala National Forest — make it a place worth considering for your next Florida outdoor adventure.

The Preserves RV Park, formerly Ocala Forest Campground, is conveniently located at 26301 SE Hwy 42, Umatilla, FL 32784, USA. This address places it directly on the edge of the vast and beautiful Ocala National Forest, providing immediate access to countless outdoor recreational opportunities. Umatilla itself is a quaint town in Lake County, offering a quieter, more rural Florida experience compared to bustling metropolitan areas.

The campground’s position on SE Highway 42 ensures good accessibility for RVs and vehicles of all sizes. This state road connects directly to other major routes, making it straightforward for visitors from across Florida to reach the park. From the campground, guests are within easy driving distance of many popular Central Florida destinations.

For those who enjoy exploring, the location is a significant advantage. The Ocala National Forest provides a backdrop of natural beauty, with numerous springs, lakes, and extensive trail systems for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Nearby attractions include the crystal-clear waters of Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, and Silver Glen Springs, all renowned for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling. The charming town of Mount Dora, known for its historic downtown, antique shops, and lakeside activities, is also within a reasonable drive, offering a change of pace from the natural settings.

While offering a serene, forested environment, the campground is not entirely isolated. Umatilla provides essential services, including grocery stores and local eateries, ensuring that campers can easily resupply. The proximity to these local towns and major natural attractions makes The Preserves RV Park an excellent base for Floridians looking to immerse themselves in the region's outdoor offerings while maintaining convenient access to necessary amenities.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground offers full hookup sites, providing water, electric (30/50 amp), and sewer connections for RVs.
• Tent Sites: Dedicated sites are available for tent campers, often including water and electric hookups.
• Swimming Pool: A swimming pool is available for guests to relax and cool off, a valuable amenity, especially during Florida's warm months.
• Oversized Clean Restrooms & Showers: Well-maintained and spacious restroom facilities with hot showers are provided for comfort.
• Laundry Room: On-site laundry facilities are available for guests' convenience, particularly useful for longer stays.
• Clubhouse: A clubhouse serves as a gathering space for guests, promoting community and social interaction.
• General Store: An on-site store (though details on its current offerings under new management may vary) typically offers essential camping supplies and snacks.
• Peace and Quiet: The campground prides itself on providing a tranquil environment away from traffic noise, allowing for true relaxation.
• Affordable Rates: Aims to offer competitive and affordable pricing for daily, weekly, and monthly stays.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere: The park is committed to being a family-friendly campground, suitable for all ages.
• Park Models: Available for longer stays, offering a more permanent accommodation option.

• Edge of Ocala National Forest: Prime location offering immediate access to one of Florida's largest and most diverse national forests, ideal for hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
• Natural Surroundings: Guests can enjoy the sounds of birds and the beauty of dense forest areas, providing a genuine immersion in nature.
• Proximity to Natural Springs: Close to renowned first-magnitude springs like Alexander Springs, Juniper Springs, and Silver Glen Springs, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling in crystal-clear waters.
• Access to Local Towns: Conveniently located near Umatilla, with easy drives to charming towns like Mount Dora, offering shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
• Shuffleboard Courts: A classic campground amenity providing a fun recreational activity for guests.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open year-round, allowing Floridians to enjoy camping in any season.
• Variety of Site Types: Caters to both RV and tent campers, offering flexibility for different camping preferences.
• Community Focus: Aims to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all guests, particularly families.
• Potential for Wildlife Viewing: Being adjacent to the Ocala National Forest, there's a good chance to observe local wildlife.

While specific, short-term promotional offers for "The Preserves RV Park," formerly Ocala Forest Campground, are not widely detailed in public information, the park is known for its commitment to affordability and offers attractive pricing structures for various lengths of stay. These rates inherently serve as a form of value proposition for locals.

• Competitive Daily Rates: The campground explicitly prides itself on offering "excellent accommodations at the lowest prices in the area." Current listed daily rates are $25.00 for tent sites (water and electric) and $28.00 for full hookup RV sites (water, electric, sewer), plus tax. These rates are quite competitive for a campground with its amenities and location.
• Affordable Weekly Rates: For those looking for a longer getaway, weekly rates are available at $150.00 plus tax for tent sites (water and electric) and $160.00 plus tax for full hookup RV sites. This offers a significant discount compared to paying the daily rate for a full week.
• Economical Monthly Rates: For Floridians seeking an extended stay or a seasonal base, the monthly rates provide even greater savings. Rates are $370.00 plus tax and electric for 1-2 months, and $340.00 plus tax and electric for 3-6 months. This makes it a very cost-effective option for snowbirds or those looking for a longer-term, affordable spot near the Ocala National Forest.
• Additional Charges Transparency: It is noted that extra persons beyond two are charged $3.00 per day each, and an additional $3.00 per day applies for an air conditioner or electric heat. While not a promotion, this transparency allows guests to budget effectively.

Given the change in ownership and name, it is always advisable for interested Floridians to contact The Preserves RV Park directly to confirm current rates, inquire about any new or unadvertised promotions, and understand the terms for long-term stays. Their focus on affordability suggests that they strive to provide good value year-round.

To inquire about availability, make reservations, or learn more about The Preserves RV Park (formerly Ocala Forest Campground), you can use the following contact details:

Address: 26301 SE Hwy 42, Umatilla, FL 32784, USA

Phone: (352) 669-3888

Mobile Phone: +1 352-669-3888 (This is the same number, but provided to cover both common formats.)

It is recommended to call the park directly for the most current information regarding rates, site availability, and any updates regarding management or park policies. Given the recent change in ownership, direct communication ensures you receive the most accurate details for planning your visit.

For Floridians, The Preserves RV Park (formerly Ocala Forest Campground) in Umatilla stands out as a suitable and appealing destination for a variety of reasons, particularly for those who value affordability, natural surroundings, and a commitment to a community-focused atmosphere.

Firstly, its prime location on the edge of the Ocala National Forest is a significant draw for locals. This provides unparalleled access to one of Florida's most cherished natural assets, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring pristine springs. For Floridians seeking an escape into nature, a place where they can hear birds instead of traffic, this campground's setting is ideal. It allows for spontaneous day trips to iconic spots like Alexander Springs or Juniper Springs, making it a perfect hub for outdoor adventures close to home.

Secondly, the campground's commitment to affordability makes it an accessible option for many Florida residents. With competitive daily, weekly, and monthly rates, including options for both RVs with full hookups and tent camping, it provides flexible and budget-friendly choices. This is especially beneficial for those looking for extended stays during the cooler months or for families seeking an economical vacation without sacrificing essential amenities like a swimming pool, clean restrooms, and laundry facilities. The transparent pricing structure for additional services helps in effective budget planning.

Furthermore, despite some transitional challenges noted in recent reviews, the stated aim to make it a "family-friendly park for all ages" signals a dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive community. For Floridian families, this focus means a potentially welcoming environment where children can enjoy the outdoors and adults can relax. The presence of a clubhouse and shuffleboard courts suggests opportunities for social interaction and planned activities, which are important for building a sense of belonging during a stay.

In conclusion, The Preserves RV Park offers Floridians a practical and appealing gateway to the Ocala National Forest. While new management may bring adjustments, the core value proposition of an affordable, amenity-rich campground situated in a beautiful natural setting remains strong. For locals prioritizing a budget-friendly escape, direct access to nature, and a growing family-friendly atmosphere, this Umatilla campground provides a compelling option for experiencing the best of Florida's outdoor lifestyle.