Black Horse Resort Ranch

For Floridians with a passion for both the great outdoors and equestrian pursuits, Black Horse Resort Ranch in Umatilla offers a truly exceptional and well-rounded destination. More than just a campground, this resort ranch provides a distinctive blend of comfortable amenities, a vibrant community atmosphere, and unparalleled access to the vast natural beauty of the Ocala National Forest. It's a place where you can bring your RV or tent, enjoy campfire evenings, and even bring your beloved horses along for an adventure. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Black Horse Resort Ranch, helping local users in Florida discover this unique retreat for their next outdoor escapade.

Florida's natural landscape is remarkably diverse, from its sparkling coastlines to its sprawling forests and numerous natural springs. The Ocala National Forest, in particular, is a gem, offering hundreds of miles of trails and a rich ecosystem for exploration. Black Horse Resort Ranch is strategically nestled into a nook of this forest, making it an ideal base for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature. What sets this ranch apart is its specialized focus on horse lovers, providing top-notch facilities for both human and equine guests, while also extending a warm welcome to non-riders.

Our goal is to shed light on the impressive array of features and services that Black Horse Resort Ranch provides, drawing upon positive customer reviews and publicly available information. We'll explore its unique amenities, its direct connection to extensive trail networks, and the palpable sense of community that visitors consistently praise. By understanding what makes this ranch so special, prospective visitors can fully appreciate its value as a "home away from home" and plan a truly memorable trip to one of Central Florida's most appealing outdoor destinations. Whether you're an experienced equestrian, a family looking for a unique camping experience, or simply someone who loves spending time in nature with excellent facilities, Black Horse Resort Ranch offers something for everyone.

Introduction / Overview

Black Horse Resort Ranch is a highly-rated and unique campground located in Umatilla, Florida, uniquely positioned right next to the Ocala National Forest. It operates as a resort-style camping destination that strongly caters to equestrian enthusiasts, offering extensive facilities for horses alongside comfortable accommodations for human guests. The ranch provides a variety of lodging options, including full hookup RV sites (30 and 50 amp), tent camping areas, and even cabin and RV rentals. Beyond individual campsites, the property boasts a wealth of shared amenities designed to enhance the guest experience, such as a community kitchen, a screened pavilion, a swimming pool, and a clubhouse. Visitors consistently praise the friendly atmosphere, the well-maintained facilities, and the direct access to hundreds of miles of trails within the Ocala National Forest. The ranch prides itself on creating an inviting community where guests feel like family, making it an ideal spot for both short getaways and longer stays, year-round.

Location and Accessibility

Black Horse Resort Ranch is located at 22651 SE Hwy 42, Umatilla, FL 32784, USA. This prime location places it directly adjacent to the Ocala National Forest, providing unparalleled access to one of Florida's most expansive natural treasures. Umatilla is a small town in Lake County, Central Florida, offering a serene, rural setting while still being conveniently accessible. The ranch is easily reached via State Road 42. Its strategic position means that guests can literally step off the property and onto a vast network of equestrian and hiking trails within the Ocala National Forest. Beyond the immediate natural surroundings, the ranch is also within a 20-minute drive of popular local attractions such as The Villages, offering extensive shopping, dining, and activities, and historic Mount Dora, known for its charming artsy downtown. Larger metropolitan areas like Orlando (home to Disney World) and the beaches of Daytona and New Smyrna are approximately an hour's drive away, providing options for day trips while maintaining a peaceful base camp.

Services Offered

• RV Sites: Full hookup RV sites are available with both 30 and 50 amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections. Both back-in and pull-through sites are offered, accommodating large rigs.
• Tent/Dry Camping: Dedicated spaces are available for tent camping, with options for dry camping (no hookups) as well.
• RV & Cabin Rentals: For those without their own RV or who prefer a cabin experience, the ranch offers RV and fully-stocked cabin rentals, complete with kitchens, living areas, and private outdoor seating.
• Community Kitchen: A fully stocked community kitchen is available for all guests to use, providing ample space for cooking and meal preparation.
• Bathhouses: Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with full bathrooms, hot showers, and good water pressure are provided.
• Laundry Room: On-site laundry facilities are available for guest convenience.
• Swimming Pool: A refreshing swimming pool is open to guests, complete with a screened-in poolhouse and bathroom.
• Clubhouse: An air-conditioned clubhouse serves as a communal space with couches, games (including Pac-Man), and Wi-Fi access.
• Screened Pavilion: A large, screened-in pavilion with overhead fans and restaurant-style seating (accommodating ~80 people) is available for meals, gatherings, and relaxation.
• Fire Pits/Communal Bonfire: Individual fire pits are available at sites, and during the winter season, a large communal fire pit is a popular gathering spot for guests. Wood is often provided.
• Horse Stalls & Paddocks: For equestrian guests, the ranch offers two barns with multiple stalls (both large indoor and outdoor), individual water spigots at each stall, wash racks, and various sized paddocks. Shavings for stalls can be purchased or brought by guests.
• Riding Arena: An extra-large riding arena with a crow's nest, bleachers, and stadium lighting is available for equestrian training and riding.
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available in the clubhouse and potentially in other areas of the property.
• Golf Cart & Kayak Rentals: When available, golf cart and kayak rentals are offered for exploring the property and nearby waters.
• Day Passes & Memberships: Day passes are available for those wishing to use the arena, trails, and amenities without an overnight stay. Annual memberships offer unlimited day passes.

Features / Highlights

• Direct Ocala National Forest Access: The ranch's most significant highlight is its direct adjacency to the Ocala National Forest, with multiple trailheads right on the property, offering hundreds of miles of equestrian, hiking, and biking trails.
• Equestrian Paradise: Designed with horse lovers in mind, the ranch provides excellent facilities for horses, allowing guests to bring their equine companions and explore the vast forest trails directly from the property.
• Resort-Style Amenities: The impressive array of amenities, including a pool, full community kitchen, spacious clubhouse, and clean bathhouses, elevates the camping experience to a resort level, offering comfort and convenience.
• Vibrant Community Atmosphere: Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and the "family" atmosphere, where visitors often gather for communal bonfires, yoga sessions, and other social activities, fostering a strong sense of community.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Catering to various preferences, from tent camping and RV sites to well-appointed cabin and RV rentals, ensures that a wide range of visitors can enjoy the ranch.
• Proximity to Natural Springs: The ranch is conveniently located near many beautiful natural springs, offering opportunities for crystal-clear water activities like kayaking, tubing, and swimming.
• World-Class Fishing Nearby: The St. John's River, known for its excellent fishing, is a short distance away, appealing to anglers.
• Close to Local Attractions: The proximity to towns like The Villages and Mount Dora provides easy access to additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
• Year-Round Destination: With its varied amenities and access to the forest, Black Horse Resort Ranch is suitable for visits throughout the year.

Contact Information

Address: 22651 SE Hwy 42, Umatilla, FL 32784, USA

Phone: (352) 434-2526

Mobile Phone: +1 352-434-2526

Website: For reservations, detailed pricing, and more information on all amenities and horse facilities, it is highly recommended to visit their official website.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Black Horse Resort Ranch is an outstanding choice and exceptionally well-suited for locals across Florida, particularly those in the central region, seeking a unique and amenity-rich outdoor experience. For many Floridians, the ability to seamlessly blend comfortable camping with direct access to the state's natural treasures, all within a welcoming community, is an ideal scenario. This ranch perfectly embodies that blend, offering a "home away from home" atmosphere that encourages repeat visits and fosters lasting memories.

Its prime location bordering the Ocala National Forest is a significant draw, providing immediate access to hundreds of miles of diverse trails for horseback riding, hiking, and exploring Florida's unique ecosystems. This is a massive advantage for horse owners who want to ride directly from their campsite into the wilderness, eliminating the hassle of trailering to distant trailheads. Even for non-equestrians, the forest offers endless opportunities for nature immersion.

The extensive list of amenities, including full hookup RV sites, tent camping options, cabin and RV rentals, a refreshing pool, and a fully equipped community kitchen and bathhouse, ensures that every type of camper can find comfort. The vibrant social atmosphere, with communal bonfires and organized activities, makes it easy for locals to connect with fellow campers and build a sense of community. Its relatively central location within Florida also means that major attractions like Orlando's theme parks or the East Coast beaches are within a reasonable day trip, offering a balanced vacation experience. For Floridians looking for a well-rounded, amenity-rich, and community-focused outdoor retreat, especially if horses are part of the family, Black Horse Resort Ranch is an unparalleled local gem.

Black Horse Resort Ranch

22651 SE Hwy 42, Umatilla, FL 32784, USA