RV Camping through Northern Florida
TL;DR: Escape the cold and explore Northern Florida in your RV. Highlights include charming towns like Madison and St. Augustine, unique attractions in Tallahassee and Gainesville, and beachfront relaxation in Jacksonville and Panama City Beach. Enjoy diverse activities and cozy stays at Harvest Hosts locations and RV parks.
One of the best parts of owning an RV is the ability to vacation almost anywhere in the comfort of your own rig. Has the snow got you down? Let's refocus to some warmer weather! Florida is an excellent place to cruise in your RV if you're tired of the snow. Since the state is so large and diverse, let's focus on Northern Florida. Want to see all Harvest Hosts locations? See what we offer for RV camping in Florida.
1. Madison, Florida
Our first stop is Madison, Florida. As one of the northernmost cities in the state, it offers the perfect blend of Florida life and Southern hospitality. Madison has plenty of small-town charm but also has lots to do because it is home to North Florida College.Downtown you will find a historic district filled with antique shops, locally-owned restaurants, two museums, and a theater. If you're an avid bicyclist then you're in luck. Madison has a twenty-five mile out-and-back paved Four Freedoms Trail that takes you to the Florida-Georgia line. There is also a marked 100-mile loop bicycle ride. Now is the perfect time to sign up for a Harvest Hosts membership or break out your existing one. Just about ten minutes away in the town of Pinetta, Florida, you can stay with no camping fees at Serenity Acres Farm. This goat farm works hard to provide quality soaps and body products while also reducing their environmental footprint, and providing their animals with the highest quality of life. This Host has four reservable spaces for rigs under twenty-nine feet in length and has potable water available. They do not allow dogs but other pets are okay.
2. St. Augustine, FL
If you've never been to St. Augustine, then you're in for a treat. There's something for everyone in this charming, vibrant, and historical town.One popular attraction is the St. Augustine Distillery. Here, they handcraft their own vodka, rum, bourbon, whiskey, and gin made from local products, offering tours and samples seven days a week. Another popular attraction is the http://staugustinelighthouse.org/, which allows you to tour a lighthouse and shipwreck for a new perspective on the town. If you want a true taste of Florida, then be sure to check out the Alligator Farm Zoological Park. Or if you'd like to do some shopping, St. George Street is a popular stop. When you're ready to relax, head back to your rig and enjoy the beach at North Beach Camp Resort. Talk about getting your rest _and _relaxation! This resort offers shaded spots with full hookups and have a restaurant on site.
3. Tallahassee, Florida
Let's start heading across the panhandle to Tallahassee. There is such a wide range of activities here,; from several museums to outdoor wildlife refuges. One popular stop for all ages is the Tallahassee Museum which combines science, nature, and fun while staying educational. They have outdoor habitats, a pioneer farmstead, ziplining, dinosaurs, and so much more. Another great place to visit is the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge which provides a wintering habitat to migrating birds. It has diverse ecosystems and wildlife alike, including eagles and alligators. One of the most unique Harvest Hosts locations is located right in Tallahassee: the Tallahassee Automobile and Collectibles Museum. This museum has a collection of classic cars, pianos, golf collectibles, motorbikes, Native American artifacts, and more. They have four reservable spaces for rigs of any size, perfect for a night’s stay after exploring the museum.
4. Gainesville, FL
Did someone say, "chomp, chomp"? Gainesville, Florida is home to Florida University and the Gators sports team. Gainesville is more than just a college town though, with many different attractions for the whole family. The Florida Museum of Natural History hosts incredible exhibits including mammoth and mastodon skeletons. Depot Park is another great spot to visit for all ages with a splash park for kids, and other usual city park activities. They also routinely have food truck events, art festivals, and other performances available. After a long day of exploring, you can retire to a lovely KOA campground. Starke/Gainesville KOA has all the expected amenities of a KOA such as full hookups, wifi, cable, a dog park, a year-round pool, and more. This is the perfect place to stay when visiting the town of Gainesville.
5. Jacksonville, FL
One of our last stops is Jacksonville, Florida. This area has been a winter destination vacation for Westerners and Northerners since the late nineteenth century and still continues to attract visitors. A popular stop is the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. This highly-rated zoo has over 2000 animal species and over 1000 plant species, plus an on-site wellness team to care for the animals. If you're ready to shop ‘til you drop, then the St. Johns Town Center outdoor shopping area is a necessary stop. They have over 150 stores and dining options for visitors to choose from. Harvest Host members are in for a treat when staying at Eden Gardens. This community farm is dedicated to growing healthy and nutritious food, while also educating the public on their farming practices. They have five reservable, pet-friendly spaces for rigs of any size. Be sure to patronize your host by making a purchase!
6. Panama City Beach, FL
Our last stop brings us to the emerald coast of Panama City Beach, Florida (PCB). Any imaginable water sport or boating is available here, all with a view of some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. If you're ready to let your dog have his day, then check out the PCB dog beach. Beach entrance #56 allows dogs to romp in the sand or hit the waves to cool off. The pier can get a little hot for their paws in the summer, so be aware of this, especially on a sunny day! After a day at the beach, you can unwind at Panama City Beach Winery with wine tasting. This winery offers a large variety of all-fruit wines and champagnes without any added sugars.Sun RV Resorts in Panama City Beach offers the perfect place for RV camping when visiting the area. This gated, pet-friendly campground offers full hookups, WiFi, cable, restrooms, showers, coin-operated laundry, a heated pool, and a hot tub, so you can really feel like you're on vacation when staying here.Winter doesn't have to be all grey and snowy. Just head down to Northern Florida to find your ultimate relaxation destination. Check out our previous posts exploring Southern Florida and Central Florida for more fun in the sun inspiration. Where is your favorite place in Northern Florida to visit in your RV? Do you prefer warmer weather or do you enjoy the snow and four seasons? Tell us about it in the comments!
