- Family
The best family-friendly camping near Lake City
99% (911) • 24 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake City
4A River Camp
1. 4A River Camp
98%
(352)
20mi from Lake City · 1 site · Tent, RV
This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world.
Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers.
Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience.
Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum.
Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away.
Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee.
Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore. The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles.
Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Glenn Farm
2. Glenn Farm
100%
(480)
20mi from Lake City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of 4 spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow, North Hall Pasture or Magnolia Sink). We also have a 1 bedroom Tiny home that used to be the farm office. Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1824), Magnolia sink and The North Hall Pasture are also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Bowman's Landing
3. Bowman's Landing
100%
(185)
21mi from Lake City · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River.
We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances:
Ginnie Springs - 6 miles
Blue Springs - 9 miles
Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles
Gainesville - 38 miles
Rum 138 - 8 miles
Lake City - 27 miles
White Springs - 38 miles
Branford - 13 miles
High Springs - 12 miles
Dollar General - 3 miles
Publix - 15 miles
Bobs River Place - 20 miles
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Suwannee River Green Acres
4. Suwannee River Green Acres
98%
(41)
24mi from Lake City · 1 site
2 RV sites available one 50amp on site 1 and one 30amp on site 2 located on 3 acres with some old oaks and river birch and has 2 acres of pasture. Property is just after the bridge in Downtown Branford and close to the public boat ramp. We have a private dock to park your boat for your stay. There are several springs close by, Little River and Troy Springs just 5-10 minute boat ride away. We are just north of Branford which is a little less busy for kayaks and boards.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Blackwater Ranch - River Camping
5. Blackwater Ranch - River Camping
100%
(60)
33mi from Lake City · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Welcome to Blackwater, Y’all!
Just 40 minutes outside Jacksonville, Blackwater is a secluded 10+ acre private riverfront property located at Georgia’s southernmost tip, right on the FL-GA line.
Surrounded by protected preserve and tucked along a quiet river bend, Blackwater delivers “Old Florida” vibes, unspoiled nature, a peaceful country feel, and privacy you won’t find at a public campground.
Across the river views, you’ll find 150+ acres of untouched Florida preserve, giving you a peaceful, remote feel while still being close to town for essentials.
We are situated on the St. Marys River, a rain-fed river flowing from the Okefenokee Swamp. Natural tannins from peat give the water its famous black appearance in deeper areas and golden “sweet tea” in the shallows.
✔️ Clean, refreshing water - safe for swimming (no gators!)
✔️ Naturally antibacterial
✔️ No pollutants or runoff
✔️ No smell, mud, or rocky bottom
✔️ Soft white sugar-sand riverbed
The property sits on Trail Ridge, an ancient coastal dune formation over 10,000 years old. This unique elevation creates a rare natural sugar-sand riverbank and swimming area perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
🌱 A Rare Southern Ecosystem
Blackwater sits at the intersection of riverfront, ancient shoreline, upland hardwood forest, and cypress wetlands, all on one property. Pines, live oaks, saw palmettos, wax myrtle, and wild huckleberry fill the landscape, creating a diverse Southern ecosystem rarely found in a single place.
🏕️ Camping for Families and Groups
Well-spaced sites across open wooded areas allow guests to spread out without the packed-in feel of state parks. Ideal for tent camping, vanlife, families, and small or large group gatherings looking to connect with nature and each other.
A large 70ft covered riverfront pavilion with power, water, hammocks, and a firepit overlooks the river.
🔎 Quick Camp Details
🏕️ Spacious sites on a 10+ acre private property
🚗 Easy vehicle access
🔥 Firepits and grills throughout
🌌 Dark, quiet nights - incredible stargazing
🐕 Dog-friendly - FREE
📶 Cell service is spotty (great to unplug)
🚣 Things To Do
Swim • Fish • Kayak • Canoe • Paddleboard • Explore
📍 Minutes from St. Marys Shoals Equine Park
📍 Close to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Artists Nature Retreat
6. Artists Nature Retreat
98%
(123)
43mi from Lake City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
Nestled under the old oak forest and longleaf pines, listen for the owls and woodpeckers. Walk the path or relax in the couch swing. Quiet, secluded, close to Gainesville yet eons away. Heartwood Soundstage, downtown Gainesville, "The Swamp" - Go Gators! and UF 1/2 hour away. Blue Springs, Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, and Ichetucknee Springs parks all within an hour's drive. Equally close to Fanning, Manatee and Rainbow Springs. If you just need a quick getaway or a base camp for vacation explorations, this is the place for you. Enclosed dog park for off leash pups. Fenced paddocks and covered stalls available at additional cost. 2 mile dirt road leads you back into the woods and away from the noise into a paradise time forgot. RTC Tiny Theater and workshop also
available at an additional cost for bands, theater, circus and dance rehearsals and performances. Self-funded residencies available.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$41
/ night
99% (911) • 24 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lake City
4A River Camp
1. 4A River Camp
98%
(352)
20mi from Lake City · 1 site · Tent, RV
This area was inhabited by indians many years ago and the remnants of their civilization are scattered about in the rivers and land. The Ichetucknee River was named by a tribe of Creek Indians who came down from north Georgia and Alabama, and means "place of the beavers". This area is rich in history and beautiful nature.With over 1/3 acre of dedicated riverfront property on the Santa Fe River, you’ll have all the peace and quiet you can handle in this single spot campsite. The campsite was purpose-built for friends and family who come to visit this slice of paradise we call home. Ideally located in the heart of spring country in North Central Florida, we have over 18 major springs within a 50-mile radius of this location, which allows for all the outdoor exploration and watersports you desire. With tubing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, swimming, boating, and fishing available within feet of the campsite, you can stay nearby or venture out to some of the best springs in the world.
Boaters – Private boat ramp is 200 yards up the road on the Santa Fe, public boat ramps within 10 miles on the Santa Fe and Suwannee rivers.
Tubers – Tube the private section of the crystal-clear Ichetucknee river accessible only by the homeowners via our 3 waterfront parks. Both get-out parks are within walking distance to the campsite for your convenience.
Paddlers – Paddle the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood, or if the time of year is right, venture up to the Ichetucknee State Park to paddle the head waters and north entrance. This is limited in season and numbers to keep the impact on the river to a minimum.
Swimmers – Swim the Santa Fe or Ichetucknee rivers from within the neighborhood via our 9 waterfront parks (6 Santa Fe, 3 Ichetucknee) or venture to either entrance of the Ichetucknee River State Park just a few miles away.
Nature lovers – Explore the unspoiled conservation areas within the neighborhood that can be hiked and explored. Setup a hammock and sit by the river and watch all your worries wash away, you may get to see the occasional manatee.
Whatever your passion, this campsite accommodates it with electric (50/30/15), water, picnic table, concrete firepit, clothesline and plenty of room to spread out. The neighborhood is golf-cart and UTV friendly and has lots of dirt roads to explore. The deer can be found quite easily every morning and evening while riding around and rarely run away from the vehicles.
Area Springs and Recreation attractions include the following springs and state parks. Google search Florida Springs for more information on each.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Glenn Farm
2. Glenn Farm
100%
(480)
20mi from Lake City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The farm you’re camping on is one of the last family farms remaining in Columbia County and is named Glenn Farm after DV Glenn who married Hettie Lou Niblack in the 1930’s. Over the last 150 years it has been farmed by some of the county’s oldest families such as the Niblack and Ellis families. When DV Glenn came to Florida from his farm in Cairo, GA he took over the portion of the Niblack farm that was inherited by his wife Hettie Lou. At that time he was running native Florida cattle on over 6000 acres. Unfortunately, In 1951 he was killed in a hunting accident leaving his wife with the farm and 4 children (ages 4-11). In order to survive, Hettie Lou Niblack Glenn was forced to sell 5000 acres at $25 an acre. Holding a bachelors degree from Florida State College for Women, she was able to secure a job at the University of Florida as a secretary and with the money from the land sale she was able to raise her four children. Of the original farm, 600 acres remain intact and the Glenn family is trying to keep the farm as an agricultural operation. Your campsite is 1 of 4 spots (Arrowhead Sink, Dunagan’s Meadow, North Hall Pasture or Magnolia Sink). We also have a 1 bedroom Tiny home that used to be the farm office. Dunagan’s meadow is a pasture behind the old farmhouse (built in 1824), Magnolia sink and The North Hall Pasture are also on the main farm while Arrowhead Sink is on the edge of a hayfield about a mile down a dirt road. Glenn Farm is a place to come relax and experience a world that is rapidly disappearing. It is not a commercial campground.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$30
/ night
Bowman's Landing
3. Bowman's Landing
100%
(185)
21mi from Lake City · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a 12.5 acre campground on the Sante Fe River.
We have cabins as well as primitive car campsites directly on the river as well. See the following distances:
Ginnie Springs - 6 miles
Blue Springs - 9 miles
Ichetucknee Springs - 4 miles
Gainesville - 38 miles
Rum 138 - 8 miles
Lake City - 27 miles
White Springs - 38 miles
Branford - 13 miles
High Springs - 12 miles
Dollar General - 3 miles
Publix - 15 miles
Bobs River Place - 20 miles
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Suwannee River Green Acres
4. Suwannee River Green Acres
98%
(41)
24mi from Lake City · 1 site
2 RV sites available one 50amp on site 1 and one 30amp on site 2 located on 3 acres with some old oaks and river birch and has 2 acres of pasture. Property is just after the bridge in Downtown Branford and close to the public boat ramp. We have a private dock to park your boat for your stay. There are several springs close by, Little River and Troy Springs just 5-10 minute boat ride away. We are just north of Branford which is a little less busy for kayaks and boards.
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Blackwater Ranch - River Camping
5. Blackwater Ranch - River Camping
100%
(60)
33mi from Lake City · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
🌿 Welcome to Blackwater, Y’all!
Just 40 minutes outside Jacksonville, Blackwater is a secluded 10+ acre private riverfront property located at Georgia’s southernmost tip, right on the FL-GA line.
Surrounded by protected preserve and tucked along a quiet river bend, Blackwater delivers “Old Florida” vibes, unspoiled nature, a peaceful country feel, and privacy you won’t find at a public campground.
Across the river views, you’ll find 150+ acres of untouched Florida preserve, giving you a peaceful, remote feel while still being close to town for essentials.
We are situated on the St. Marys River, a rain-fed river flowing from the Okefenokee Swamp. Natural tannins from peat give the water its famous black appearance in deeper areas and golden “sweet tea” in the shallows.
✔️ Clean, refreshing water - safe for swimming (no gators!)
✔️ Naturally antibacterial
✔️ No pollutants or runoff
✔️ No smell, mud, or rocky bottom
✔️ Soft white sugar-sand riverbed
The property sits on Trail Ridge, an ancient coastal dune formation over 10,000 years old. This unique elevation creates a rare natural sugar-sand riverbank and swimming area perfect for cooling off on hot summer days.
🌱 A Rare Southern Ecosystem
Blackwater sits at the intersection of riverfront, ancient shoreline, upland hardwood forest, and cypress wetlands, all on one property. Pines, live oaks, saw palmettos, wax myrtle, and wild huckleberry fill the landscape, creating a diverse Southern ecosystem rarely found in a single place.
🏕️ Camping for Families and Groups
Well-spaced sites across open wooded areas allow guests to spread out without the packed-in feel of state parks. Ideal for tent camping, vanlife, families, and small or large group gatherings looking to connect with nature and each other.
A large 70ft covered riverfront pavilion with power, water, hammocks, and a firepit overlooks the river.
🔎 Quick Camp Details
🏕️ Spacious sites on a 10+ acre private property
🚗 Easy vehicle access
🔥 Firepits and grills throughout
🌌 Dark, quiet nights - incredible stargazing
🐕 Dog-friendly - FREE
📶 Cell service is spotty (great to unplug)
🚣 Things To Do
Swim • Fish • Kayak • Canoe • Paddleboard • Explore
📍 Minutes from St. Marys Shoals Equine Park
📍 Close to Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Artists Nature Retreat
6. Artists Nature Retreat
98%
(123)
43mi from Lake City · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:
Nestled under the old oak forest and longleaf pines, listen for the owls and woodpeckers. Walk the path or relax in the couch swing. Quiet, secluded, close to Gainesville yet eons away. Heartwood Soundstage, downtown Gainesville, "The Swamp" - Go Gators! and UF 1/2 hour away. Blue Springs, Ginnie Springs, Poe Springs, and Ichetucknee Springs parks all within an hour's drive. Equally close to Fanning, Manatee and Rainbow Springs. If you just need a quick getaway or a base camp for vacation explorations, this is the place for you. Enclosed dog park for off leash pups. Fenced paddocks and covered stalls available at additional cost. 2 mile dirt road leads you back into the woods and away from the noise into a paradise time forgot. RTC Tiny Theater and workshop also
available at an additional cost for bands, theater, circus and dance rehearsals and performances. Self-funded residencies available.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$41
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
S
Sharla
4 days ago
Tent
With pets
It’s hard to put into words how my camping experience was at Blackwater Ranch Campground… serene, relaxing. Three days wasn’t enough, so I extended it two more days and I had the campground to myself the whole time, just me and my doggie and he didn’t have to be on a leash. The host was awesome! He welcomed me and gave me a complementary bundle of wood to get me started. I came to rejuvenate myself and I’m so incredibly sad to leave! But I’m sure anyone would be sad leaving here to go back to Minnesota 😭. It was such a blessing. I recommend it to everyone! The perfect little getaway! White sand beaches along the river. Nice little walking paths in the woods. I’ll definitely be coming back!
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R
Robert
5 days ago
Weekend Trip to Bowman's Landing
The cabin is clean, we'll kept and comfortable. The hosts are very accomodating and ensure you enjoy your stay. I stayed solo this night, but I think this will be a great place to bring my wife and daughter in the future
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Meg
1 week ago
Tent
Beautiful campground with excellent amenities. We enjoyed our time here immensely. Will definitely camp here again!
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Meg
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
We had a lovely time here! The campground was well laid out and the bathrooms were clean and well-stocked. Waking up and hanging out on the banks of the Santa Fe river was more delightful than I imagined. This an excellent site and we would happily stay here again!
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C
Christopher
1 week ago
Tent
With kids
This was our third trip out here. We usually book one of the larger sites, but this one was perfect for a weekend with my son.
Site #2 is simple, quiet, and private. Easy drive up access. Plenty of room for a tent and a solid fire setup. The river access is the highlight. Calm water. Clean shoreline. Great spot for morning coffee and winding down at night.
If you are bringing a larger group, book one of the bigger sites on the property. For two people, this one is dialed in.
Host communication was clear and consistent as always.
We will be back.
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B
Bruno
1 week ago
23 ft Class C
A very clean and nice campground. We had an absolutely wonderful time. Jessy gave us great tips of the Santa Fe River and drove us up to the bridge so we could take our kajak out on the river and got back to the campground. we saw oter and turles
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Michelle
2 weeks ago
31 ft Class A
Beautiful property. Very well maintained. So quiet and peaceful and right on the River.
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M
Matthew
2 weeks ago
13 ft pop-up camper
With pets
Thank you to Lynn and David for making us feel welcome on the property. We spent 3 nights camped at Artists Nature Retreat. The property was quiet from road noise but alive with sounds of birds, chickens and roosters. The campsites were spaced apart for privacy. Lynn and David greeted us on arrival and showed us the campsite, bathroom , walking paths, etc. They borrowed us a longer extension cord to reach our camper. Lynn and David were both very kind and shared stories about life in the circus with us. We're looking forward to another visit in the future.
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A
Aimee
2 weeks ago
33 ft travel trailer
We have reserved 4A River Camp multiple times during February and each time we have loved this beautiful and peaceful site! Being right on the banks of Santa Fe River is amazing! The site is spacious and private as well as being accessible to Ichetucknee Springs SP. We always enjoying canoeing, snorkeling, bicycling right from our camp.
Michael is a gracious host and always willing to do whatever he can to accommodate our needs.
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C
Colin
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful Land, very accommodating and friendly. Would absolutely visit again
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T
Tori
2 weeks ago
Tent
Loved Bowman’s and will definitely go back! Site #2 was right next to the launch so it was easy to get our kayaks in the river. The site was tucked just enough away from the rest of the property that you had some quiet without feeling completely isolated. The hosts were kind and available to help. They have wood for purchase on site which was really nice. The indoor bathroom was a great feature especially with the hot shower. They also have a microwave and coffee maker in a communal space. Ichetucknee Springs park was only a ~10 min drive away too if you want to explore outside of camp.
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S
Sergey
2 weeks ago
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
We had a nice stay, and all the hookups worked well. There are actually three RV sites total: two with hookups (one including sewer) and a third spacious spot near the river if you are okay boondocking. A huge bonus is that the owner does not rent the other spots to anyone else—all three are yours to enjoy during your stay! Our dogs loved having such a big grassy field to run in. Plus, it’s only a 3-minute drive into Branford for any stores or supplies you might need.
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Bonnie
2 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
Fun place to stay. Nice bath house, fire pit and dog park.
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James
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Tom and Judy were amazing hosts, very kind and helpful. The property was beautiful. Our large group enjoyed exploring and spending time with cows, sheep, and donkeys (especially the kids). At night, the stars dominated the sky, like a cloak studded with sparkling diamonds. I highly recommend this property.
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K
Katherine
2 weeks ago
3 nights at Bowman's Landing
Staff was so friendly and helpful, beautiful location, tons of amenities and nice bathrooms!
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M
Michelle
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great, peaceful space. Nice open area for dogs to run and play off leash
See moreM
Michelle
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Great space and comfortably private. My dogs loved the freedom of chasing each other thru the large, open space and I didn't have to worry about not being able to see them!
Star gazing is phenomenal!
Thanks Judy & Don and I'm looking forward to another visit here!
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Reilly
3 weeks ago
1 night at Bowman's Landing
Absolutely fantastic hipcamp, this is was the exact reason why we love to hipcamp: connection, safety, and adventure. By far my favorite so far. The host was so lovely and immediately made this place feel safe and like home. From the thoughtful details like a tree swing and coffee station to the cozy cabin itself with a fire pit, we felt at home miles from our own. I will most definitely be back with my family and friends.
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R
Rachel
3 weeks ago
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
Great hosts and beautiful surroundings. Very peaceful and the art added a unique appeal. We would definitely stay again!
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A
Annie
3 weeks ago
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
This space is awesome!! Great for families or big groups - we can't wait to return with some friends and take advantage of all of the fun stuff - trampoline, kayaks, play area for kids... we had the whole place to ourselves and our dogs loved running and playing in the river.
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