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141 campgrounds and RV Parks near Palatka, FL. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
141 campgrounds
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From $15/night
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Best campgrounds near Palatka, FL
St. John's Campground
East Palatka, FL (4 miles away)
Lynchs Landing RV Park and Cottages
Florida (4 miles away)
(30 sites)
+2
Half Shell Resort and Marina
Florida (4 miles away)
(34 sites)
Welaka Lodge and Resort
Welaka, FL (12 miles away)
$$$$$
(23 sites)
+6
Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort
Palatka, FL (12 miles away)
$$$$$
(56 sites)
Rodman Campground
Palatka, FL (13 miles away)
$$$$$
(64 sites)
+6
4 Lakes Campground
Hastings, FL (13 miles away)
$$$$$
(50 sites)
+7
Cherry Blossom RV Resort
Crescent City, FL (15 miles away)
$$$$$
(80 sites)
+5
Cherry Blossom RV Resort
Crescent City, FL (15 miles away)
Crescent Fish Camp
Crescent City, FL (16 miles away)
$$$$$
(17 sites)
+7
Rivers Edge RV Park
Florida (18 miles away)
$$$$$
(40 sites)
+3
Port Cove RV Resort
Florida (18 miles away)
$$$$$
(74 sites)
Most common amenities
Showers Pet friendly Toilets Laundry Internet Tables Dump station Pool Cable TV Fishing
Camping near Palatka, Florida
Palatka sits on the west bank of the St. Johns River in Putnam County, about an hour south of Jacksonville and roughly the same distance west of St. Augustine. The river is the dominant feature of the area, and most campgrounds within a short drive are oriented toward fishing, boating, and river access rather than beach traffic.
RV travelers have a mix of options nearby. St. John's Campground, Lynchs Landing RV Park and Cottages, Half Shell Resort and Marina, and Welaka Lodge and Resort all cluster along the river corridor and cater to anglers and long-stay guests. Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort sits inland and is built around off-road vehicle trails rather than the water.
Public land in the surrounding region includes Ravine Gardens State Park inside Palatka, Dunns Creek State Park to the east, Rodman Recreation Area on the Ocklawaha River, and the Ocala National Forest to the southwest. Together they give visitors a wide range of day-use scenery within about a half-hour drive of most base camps.
Things to do around Palatka
The St. Johns River drives most of the activity. Bass, bream, and catfish fishing is a year-round draw, and small marinas along the river rent boats and sell bait. Manatees move into warm-water refuges in the cooler months, and airboat tours run from several nearby landings.
On land, Ravine Gardens State Park has paved and dirt trails through a steephead ravine and is best known for its azalea bloom in late winter. Dunns Creek State Park offers primitive hiking, and the Ocala National Forest to the west has swimming springs at Salt Springs, Silver Glen, and Juniper Springs.
Families traveling with kids often pair a river day with a trip to the springs or the historic downtown Palatka riverfront. Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort is the main option for guests bringing UTVs or dirt bikes.
Camping spots and RV parks near Palatka, FL
When to visit Palatka
- spring
March - May
81° / 61°F 75 mmWarm and dry; azalea bloom draws weekend crowds
- summer
June - August
91° / 73°F 170 mmHot, humid, daily thunderstorms; peak mosquito season
- fall
September - November
81° / 63°F 100 mmHurricane risk peaks; parks may close for storms
- winter
December - February
68° / 50°F 70 mmMild and dry; prime RV season and snowbird bookings
North-central Florida has a long shoulder season, and Palatka is most comfortable for RV travel from late October through April. Daytime highs stay mild, humidity is manageable, and mosquito pressure drops sharply after the first cool fronts. The Florida Azalea Festival in Ravine Gardens brings a spike in weekend bookings in late winter.
Late spring and summer are hot and humid, with afternoon thunderstorms almost daily from June through September. Storms usually build in the afternoon and clear by evening, which still leaves mornings usable for fishing and paddling. Biting insects are heaviest in the wet months.
Hurricane season runs June through November, with the highest risk from August into October. Reservation holders should watch National Hurricane Center advisories, as Florida State Parks routinely close campgrounds ahead of tropical systems and issue refunds for storm-related cancellations.
Top Hosts near Palatka, FL
Jeffrey19 trips - Joined Oct 2020 - Superhost
Very nice camper & owners. Highly recommend.
Angela M. - Jul 2026
The camper was clean and had everything needed to enjoy. Would rent again.
Beth M. - Feb 2026
Robert14 trips - Joined Mar 2021
It was a good expirience.
Roberto P. - Mar 2024
Excellent Service
Carlos E. - Mar 2024
How to book campgrounds near Palatka
Private parks along the river, including St. John's Campground, Lynchs Landing RV Park and Cottages, Half Shell Resort and Marina, and Welaka Lodge and Resort, book directly through their own offices by phone or website. Many hold monthly and seasonal sites for returning snowbirds, so calling ahead is more reliable than expecting online availability in winter.
Florida State Park campgrounds are booked through the Florida State Parks reservation website, which opens the window up to eleven months in advance for Florida residents and ten months for non-residents. Ocala National Forest sites, including Salt Springs and Juniper Springs, are booked through Recreation.gov on a six-month rolling window.
Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort takes reservations directly and often sells out on event weekends.
What to expect on the ground
Most riverside parks near Palatka are working fish camps rather than resort destinations. Expect full-hookup sites, a boat ramp, a small store or bait shop, and simple bathhouses. Sites can be tight and shaded by mature oaks and cypress, so drivers of larger Class A rigs should confirm length limits and low-branch clearance before booking.
Cell coverage is generally good in town and along US-17, but drops off in the national forest and on the west side of the river. Grocery runs are easiest in Palatka itself, which has full-size supermarkets, hardware stores, and marine supply.
Wildlife is part of the experience. Alligators are present in every waterway, snakes are common in warm months, and food should be stored securely to avoid raccoons.
Own an RV? Earn up to $35,319/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Palatka, FL
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Palatka, FL?
RV rental in Palatka is one of the most affordable ways to explore Florida's St. Johns River country. Travel trailers typically run about $75 to $150 per night, Class C motorhomes around $150 to $250, and luxury Class A rigs from $250 to $400, depending on season and amenities. Because Palatka is a small river town rather than a tourist hub, you'll often find a cheap RV rental Palatka travelers won't find in Orlando or Daytona. Book mid-week stays or shoulder months like September and early November to save even more. Pro tip: filter by Instant Book to lock in your dates fast, especially around the Blue Crab Festival on Memorial Day weekend when demand spikes.
visitflorida.com/places-to-go/northeast/palatka/What license do I need to rent an RV in Palatka, Florida?
Good news: a regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in Palatka, FL. Florida does not require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) or any special RV endorsement for personal motorhomes or trailers under 26,000 pounds, which covers virtually every rig on RVezy. You'll need to be at least 25 years old with a valid license, and your ID is verified securely through the RVezy platform during booking. Visiting from abroad? Bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your home-country license. That's it. Most first-time renters are surprised how simple the process is, so you can spend less time on paperwork and more time planning your float down the St. Johns River.
flhsmv.gov/driver-licenses-id-cards/what-to-bring/Is insurance and roadside assistance included with my Palatka RV rental?
Yes, every RV rental in Palatka, FL booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance. The protection plan covers most damages to the vehicle during your trip, giving you real financial peace of mind without arranging coverage on your own. You choose your preferred level of protection during checkout, so you can pick the option that matches your comfort level and budget. RVezy sets these plans, not individual hosts. If you get a flat on US-17 or need help at your campsite near Rodman Reservoir, one phone call gets you live support, day or night. It is the kind of safety net that makes first-time renters relax and seasoned travelers book with confidence.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat if I need to cancel my Palatka RV rental?
Booking is low-risk because RVezy sets the cancellation policy for every reservation, not individual hosts, so you get consistent, transparent terms across the platform. There is a money-back grace period right after you book, and additional protections apply for certain situations like hurricanes, tropical storms, or other natural events, which matters in North Florida during summer and early fall. If a host ever cancels on you, RVezy refunds you or provides travel credits. Pro tip: book early to lock in your favorite rig for festival weekends like the Florida Azalea Festival in early March, knowing you have RVezy's cancellation framework in your corner if plans shift.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a Palatka RV trip?
Absolutely, a pet-friendly RV rental Palatka offers is easy to find on RVezy. Just toggle the Pet-Friendly filter when searching and you'll see rigs from local hosts who welcome four-legged co-pilots. Many Putnam County destinations are dog-friendly too: Ravine Gardens State Park on Twigg Street allows leashed dogs on its trails, and Palatka's Riverfront Park along Memorial Parkway is a great spot for a sunset walk with your pup. Rice Creek Conservation Area also welcomes leashed dogs along its boardwalks. Bring proof of vaccinations if you're staying at Florida State Parks, and pack a tie-out and shade cover, the North Florida sun is no joke. Your dog will love the new smells along the St. Johns River.
floridastateparks.org/learn/pets-florida-state-parksCan the RV be delivered to my campground in Palatka?
Yes, RV delivery is one of the most popular options on RVezy and a game-changer for first-time renters. Many local hosts will drive the RV to your chosen campground, such as Rodman Campground or a nearby private RV park, level it, hook up water and power, and walk you through every system before they leave. You just show up with your groceries and start your vacation. Delivery fees vary by distance, and for nearby campgrounds within Putnam County they are often very reasonable. Look for the Delivery filter when browsing, or message a host directly from their listing to confirm. It is the easiest entry point for anyone nervous about driving a big rig in Palatka.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Palatka%2C%20FloridaHow far can I drive on my Palatka RV rental, and where should I go?
Plenty far, and Palatka's central location makes it a fantastic launching pad for a Florida RV road trip from Palatka. Each host sets their own daily mileage allowance, with many offering generous limits or RV rental with unlimited mileage, just check the listing details. Popular routes include St. Augustine (about 30 miles east, 45 minutes), Daytona Beach (about 55 miles southeast, 75 minutes), Jacksonville (about 60 miles north, 75 minutes), Ocala National Forest (about 35 miles west, 50 minutes), and Orlando (about 95 to 105 miles southwest, under 2 hours). If you're craving springs, Silver Glen and Salt Springs are quick day trips. Message hosts to discuss longer itineraries, many will customize mileage for road-trippers.
visitflorida.com/places-to-go/northeast/palatka/Where are the best campgrounds near Palatka, FL?
You're spoiled for choice when it comes to RV camping Palatka. Top picks include Rodman Campground at 410 Rodman Dam Road, a peaceful state-managed site with electric and water hookups along the Rodman Reservoir, famous for bass fishing. Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort offers riverfront full-hookup sites with marina access on the St. Johns River. Welaka Lodge & Resort sits just south of Palatka with shaded sites and easy river access. For a state park experience with cabins and lake swimming, Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park is about 40 minutes northwest. Etoniah Creek State Forest offers more rustic, quiet options. Insider tip: Rodman is a top largemouth bass fishery, so anglers should book months ahead.
fs.usda.gov/recarea/ocala/recarea/?recid=83624When is the best time of year for an RV trip in Palatka?
Palatka is a year-round RV destination, but the sweet spot runs October through April, when daytime highs sit between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit with low humidity and few mosquitoes. Late December through early March is magical at Ravine Gardens State Park, when hundreds of azaleas bloom and the Florida Azalea Festival takes over downtown the first weekend of March. Memorial Day weekend brings the famous Blue Crab Festival to the waterfront. Summer (June to September) is hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms and a chance of tropical weather, perfect for early-morning paddles and lazy afternoons under the awning. Book your Palatka RV trip for the cool season and you'll wonder why anyone visits Florida in summer.
weather.gov/jax/I have never rented an RV before. Will I be okay in Palatka?
Yes, Palatka is one of the friendliest places in Florida for first time renting an RV. Traffic is light, US-17 and SR-100 are flat, straight, and easy to navigate, and there is none of the big-city stress you would hit in Orlando or Jacksonville. Every RVezy host provides a thorough walkthrough at pickup covering how to operate the generator, dump tanks, extend slides, level the rig, and switch between propane and electric. You can message your host anytime, and RVezy support is one call away during your trip. Choose a smaller Class C motorhome or travel trailer for your first outing, take delivery if you are nervous about driving, and you will be a confident RVer by the end of day one.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat happens if something goes wrong with the RV during my trip?
You are covered. Every RV rental in Palatka through RVezy includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the renter protection plan, with no extra signup needed. If you get a flat tire on US-17 near the Memorial Bridge, the generator quits at Rodman Campground, or you lock yourself out at Riverfront Park, one phone call connects you with live help. Tow service, locksmith help, tire service, and battery jumps are all part of the program. Your host is also a great first resource for quick questions, they know their rig better than anyone and most respond within minutes. Between the host, roadside assistance, and RVezy customer support, you have three layers of backup so a hiccup never derails your St. Johns River adventure.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my Palatka RV rental to other states or across the border?
Yes, most hosts allow interstate travel, so you can plan a true Florida RV road trip from Palatka into Georgia, the Carolinas, or down toward the Keys. Confirm with your host before booking by sending a quick message and they will let you know about any state restrictions. Travel into Canada may be possible with some hosts depending on insurance, so ask directly. One important note: travel into Mexico is not permitted on RVezy rentals because insurance coverage does not extend there. Popular multi-state routes from Palatka include heading north to Savannah, Georgia (about 3.5 hours) or south along the Atlantic coast through Cape Canaveral. The St. Johns River corridor is one of Florida's most scenic launch points for cross-country adventures.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityHow much should I budget for fuel on a Palatka RV trip?
Fuel is one of your biggest variables, but Palatka makes it manageable thanks to flat terrain and short drives to top attractions. Expect roughly 8 to 10 miles per gallon (MPG) for a Class C motorhome, 6 to 8 MPG for a Class A, and 12 to 15 MPG if you're towing a travel trailer with a capable truck. Florida gas prices typically run close to the national average, and Palatka has plenty of stations along US-17 and SR-19 with easy RV access. For a 5-day trip averaging 60 miles per day, budget around $150 to $250 in fuel. Pro tip: fill up before heading into Ocala National Forest, stations get sparse once you're deep in the woods.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near Palatka?
For the best campgrounds near Palatka, book as early as possible, especially Florida State Parks like Mike Roess Gold Head Branch and Ravine Gardens day-use, which open reservations 11 months ahead through ReserveAmerica's Florida State Parks system. Rodman Campground accepts reservations through Recreation.gov and fills fast for bass tournaments and cool-season weekends. Private resorts like Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort book directly and have more weekday availability. For the Florida Azalea Festival (early March) and Blue Crab Festival (Memorial Day weekend), aim for 3 to 6 months in advance. Mid-week stays in the off-season often have day-of openings. Insider move: if a state park shows full, check back daily, cancellations happen constantly.
floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ravine-gardens-state-parkWhat are driving conditions like around Palatka?
Driving an RV in and around Palatka is refreshingly stress-free. The terrain is dead flat, the roads are wide, and the main routes, US-17, SR-100, SR-19, and SR-20, were practically designed for trailers and motorhomes. The US-17 Memorial (Doughboy) Bridge over the St. Johns River has 65 feet of clearance, no issue for any RV. Watch for occasional summer thunderstorms that can dump heavy rain quickly; pull off and wait them out if visibility drops. Hurricane season runs June through November, so monitor forecasts. Wildlife crossings (deer, gators near water) are real, especially at dusk near Ocala National Forest. Otherwise, you'll find Palatka one of the most relaxed RV-driving destinations in all of Florida.
fdot.gov/traffic/What hookups and amenities should I expect at Palatka-area campgrounds?
Most campgrounds around Palatka offer solid infrastructure for a comfortable stay. Rodman Campground provides electric and water hookups with a centralized dump station. Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort offers full hookups (water, electric 30/50 amp, and sewer) right at the site, plus Wi-Fi and laundry. Welaka Lodge & Resort and other private parks typically include full hookups as well. State parks like Mike Roess Gold Head Branch have water and electric but require dumping at a central station on departure. Need to fill fresh water in town? The Palatka city marina at Riverfront Park has accessible spigots. Pro tip: bring a 25-foot drinking-water hose, a 30-to-50-amp adapter, and a sewer hose support, your host will tell you exactly what's already in the rig.
floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/mike-roess-gold-head-branch-state-parkWhat's actually inside a typical Palatka RV rental?
You'll be impressed by how complete most RVs on RVezy are. A typical motorhome rental Palatka guests book includes sleeping for 4 to 8 (queen bed, convertible dinette, bunks), a full kitchen with fridge, stove, microwave, and sink, an enclosed bathroom with shower and toilet, climate control (roof AC and furnace), and 12-volt plus shore-power electrical systems. Many rigs add a generator for boondocking, an awning for shade, outdoor speakers, a flat-screen TV, and DVD or streaming setup. Wi-Fi is hit-or-miss in rural Putnam County, so don't count on streaming Netflix deep in Ocala National Forest, but cell service along US-17 is generally strong. Every passenger must have a seatbelt, so confirm the sleeps count matches your passenger count when booking.
nhtsa.gov/road-safety/recreational-vehicle-safetyWhat add-ons and pickup options should I know about?
RVezy hosts in Palatka offer a buffet of helpful add-ons that make your trip smoother. Common extras include kitchen kits (dishes, pots, utensils), bedding and linen packs, camping chairs and outdoor mats, bike racks, generators, propane refills, and pet packages. Fees vary, you'll see everything itemized on the listing before you book. Pickup is typically at the host's address, often somewhere along US-17 or just outside downtown Palatka, with a 60 to 90 minute walkthrough included. Daily mileage allowances usually run 100 to 200 miles, with overage fees clearly stated. If you want zero hassle, pick a host offering delivery and setup at your campground. Pro tip: ask about a campervan rental Palatka host who includes everything, some bundle add-ons for free.
visitflorida.com/places-to-go/northeast/palatka/How does payment and the security deposit work?
Payment is simple and secure. You pay through RVezy at the time of booking using a credit or debit card, with no cash exchanges with the host. The total includes the nightly rate, any add-ons you select, taxes, fees, and your chosen renter protection plan. A refundable security deposit is held separately from your booking payment, typically between $500 and $1,500 depending on the RV class and host, and it is released after your trip once the rig is returned in the agreed condition. To avoid deposit issues on your family RV trip in Palatka, document the RV's condition with photos at pickup, follow the host's instructions for dumping tanks and refueling, and return on time. Easy steps, total peace of mind, and you are ready to enjoy the St. Johns River.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksWhat's a perfect first weekend itinerary for an RV trip in Palatka?
Here's a local-favorite 3-day plan to kick off your Palatka RV trip. Day 1: pick up your rig (or have it delivered), settle in at Rodman Campground or Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort, then grab dinner at Corky Bell's Seafood at Gator Landing on the east side of the Doughboy Bridge with riverfront views. Day 2: wander Ravine Gardens State Park at 1600 Twigg Street to see the 120-foot ravines and azalea trails, then explore the St. Johns River Center and Riverfront Park downtown for the murals, fishing pier, and Puc Puggy Playground. Stop at Azalea City Brewing Co. for a cold one. Day 3: paddle a section of the Bartram Trail on the St. Johns or drive 30 minutes east to St. Augustine for the day. You'll be hooked.
palatka-fl.gov/150/Parks-RecreationNearby cities with campgrounds
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