Camp Kiwanis Rentals Only

For Florida locals seeking a unique and versatile venue for group retreats, family gatherings, youth programs, or even a peaceful personal escape, "Camp Kiwanis Rentals Only" in Silver Springs offers an unparalleled opportunity. More than just a traditional campground, Camp Kiwanis functions as a dedicated facility available for private lease, providing a serene lakeside setting within the embrace of the forest. This makes it an ideal choice for organizations, families, and groups looking to host an event or enjoy a dedicated outdoor experience away from the bustling crowds.

While known for its long-standing summer camp programs for children, which are run in partnership with Marion County Public Schools, the availability of Camp Kiwanis for private rentals during off-peak times or specific pre-arranged periods is a significant advantage. It allows a broader range of Floridians to access its extensive grounds and facilities, enjoying the tranquility and array of activities that this historic camp provides. It’s a place where you can create your own structured retreat or simply enjoy the freedom of a private natural setting.

The essence of Camp Kiwanis lies in its ability to offer a traditional camp experience – a chance to connect with nature, engage in outdoor activities, and foster camaraderie, all within a well-maintained and private environment. Whether you envision a corporate team-building retreat, a spiritual gathering, a family reunion, or a quiet escape for a small group, Camp Kiwanis provides the infrastructure for a memorable event.

Camp Kiwanis is located at 19300 SE 3rd Street, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA. This address places it nestled within the Ocala National Forest, specifically on Mill Dam Lake. The location is strategically chosen to offer a truly immersive natural experience, characterized by the soothing sounds of the lake and the quiet embrace of the surrounding forest.

While deep within nature, the camp remains reasonably accessible for Florida residents. It is situated approximately 20 miles east of Ocala, just off State Road 40. For those traveling, the directions from the intersection of Baseline Road (CR 35) and State Road 40 in Silver Springs involve proceeding east on SR 40 for about 14.7 miles, then turning left onto SE 196 Terrace Road, and taking the second left (Forest Road 58) at the Camp Kiwanis sign. This guidance ensures a straightforward path to the camp, guiding visitors through the natural beauty of the area.

The seclusion of the location is a significant asset, allowing groups to truly focus on their activities or simply enjoy uninterrupted peace. Yet, its proximity to Silver Springs and Ocala means that essential supplies or additional regional attractions are not prohibitively far, offering a balance between remote tranquility and practical convenience.

Camp Kiwanis, when leased for private use, offers an impressive array of facilities and services designed to accommodate various group sizes and activity needs. The comprehensive nature of its offerings makes it suitable for diverse events, from youth camps to adult retreats. Key services and facilities available for rental include:

• Accommodations: The camp can accommodate over 156 people overnight.
• Air-Conditioned Dormitories: Three dorm buildings (B-Dorm, G-Dorm, M-Dorm), each with four rooms sleeping up to 11 people (total 44 people per dorm). These have large common restrooms and showers.
• Apartment Sleeping Accommodations: Two apartments (G-Dorm Apartment, M-Dorm Apartment), each sleeping 6 people, featuring two bedrooms, a living room with a fold-out sofa, a full bath, and a kitchenette.
• Cabins:
• Infirmary Cabin (4 people): Two bedrooms, small common room, kitchenette, and shower bathroom.
• Director's Cabin (4 people): Two bedrooms, small common room, kitchenette, and shower bathroom.
• Staff Cabin (4 people): Two bedrooms, small common room, kitchenette, and shower bathroom.
• Dining Pavilion: A large, multipurpose dining hall capable of seating 300 people, with a commercial kitchen, fireplace, and HVAC.
• Outdoor Kitchen: (Though not explicitly listed for rentals, a commercial kitchen in the dining hall provides full cooking facilities).
• Tent Camping Areas: Available in two Live Oak hammocks near the lakefront, each with a fire ring and benches. No electricity or water in these areas, but campers have access to dining pavilion and dormitory restrooms.
• RV and Pop-up Camper Areas: Designated areas for self-contained RVs and pop-up campers. Limited electrical and water hookups are available, but no waste dump facilities.
• Lake Access: Direct access to Mill Dam Lake for various water activities.
• Restrooms and Showers: Located in dormitories and cabins, as well as a large co-ed bathhouse in the Boys Village Complex with multiple showers and toilets.
• Activity Fields: Large activity fields suitable for various sports and games, including a football-sized field and volleyball courts.
• Multipurpose Spaces: Includes Franklin Hall, which can be divided into two smaller rooms, and a Kiwanis Pavilion (30x60 ft) with lights and water.
• Nature and Ecology Centers: Facilities like the Moore/Mosley Nature Center (two classrooms) and the Daniel Couch Forest Ecology/Photo Center (meeting room, darkroom) for educational programs.

Camp Kiwanis, with its "Rentals Only" focus for private groups, offers a wealth of features and highlights that make it an attractive venue for a wide array of activities and events:

• Versatile Accommodations: The camp's ability to host a large number of people overnight across various lodging types—air-conditioned dorms, apartments with kitchenettes, and multiple cabins—makes it suitable for diverse groups, from large youth organizations to smaller family gatherings or workshops.
• Comprehensive Facilities for Group Activities: The presence of a large dining hall with a commercial kitchen, various meeting rooms, and outdoor pavilions means that groups can easily organize meals, workshops, and communal activities. This is crucial for retreats, educational programs, and large family events.
• Extensive Outdoor Activity Options: Campers and guests have access to a wide range of traditional outdoor camp activities, including:
• Lakeside Activities: Swimming (in designated areas), canoeing, kayaking, and pedal boating on Mill Dam Lake.
• Archery Range: A dedicated area for archery.
• Hiking Trails: Trails throughout the 104-acre property, including nature trails and a "rope trail," perfect for exploration and nature observation.
• Sports Facilities: Playgrounds, basketball courts, and large open fields for games like soccer, kickball, and volleyball.
• Arts & Crafts: Dedicated spaces or opportunities for creative projects like tie-dye and friendship bracelets.
• Secluded Forest and Lakeside Setting: Nestled within the Ocala National Forest and bordered by Mill Dam Lake, the camp offers a truly serene and natural environment. This tranquil setting is perfect for disconnecting from daily life and immersing oneself in outdoor activities.
• Traditional Camp Atmosphere: Many elements of the camp retain a nostalgic, "old-school" summer camp feel. This can be appealing for those looking to recreate classic outdoor experiences, complete with campfires, skits, and group bonding activities.
• Focus on Youth Development (for summer programs): While available for general rentals, its history as a dedicated youth summer camp means its facilities and layout are inherently conducive to structured and safe programs for children and teenagers, emphasizing skill-building and personal growth.
• Friendly and Dedicated Staff: Although reviews primarily mention summer camp staff, the general positive sentiment towards the individuals managing the camp suggests a supportive environment, which likely extends to those overseeing rentals.

For inquiries regarding private rentals of Camp Kiwanis facilities, or for specific information about their programs, please use the following contact details:

Address: 19300 SE 3rd Street, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA

Phone: (352) 867-7162 (Rental Manager's line)

Mobile Phone: +1 352-867-7162

Additionally, for summer camp related inquiries or general questions, you may find the main camp phone number helpful:

Camp Clerk and General Inquiries: (352) 236-5401 (M-F 8AM-4PM)

24-hour Emergency Contact Number While Camp is in Session: (352) 625-2620

For detailed information on lease fees, availability, and to initiate a rental agreement, it is highly recommended to contact the Rental Manager directly. Information regarding security deposits, certificates of insurance, and other requirements for private use can be obtained through this contact.

Camp Kiwanis, with its "Rentals Only" model for private groups, is an exceptionally suitable option for Florida locals for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, its location in Silver Springs, nestled within the Ocala National Forest, offers a readily accessible escape into nature without requiring extensive travel for many Floridians. This proximity makes it an ideal venue for quick weekend retreats, week-long programs, or even day-use events for local organizations and families.

Secondly, the camp’s comprehensive facilities, including various accommodation types (air-conditioned dorms, cabins, apartments), a large dining hall with a commercial kitchen, and diverse activity areas, cater perfectly to the needs of different groups. Whether it's a youth group needing dormitory-style lodging and sports fields, a family reunion desiring cabins and communal dining, or an organization seeking a serene backdrop for a retreat, Camp Kiwanis offers the infrastructure. This versatility removes the logistical complexities often associated with planning large group events.

Furthermore, for those prioritizing an authentic outdoor experience, the lakeside setting, opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and wildlife observation, all within a private, dedicated space, are invaluable. It allows Floridians to foster deeper connections with each other and with the natural environment, building lasting memories. By utilizing Camp Kiwanis, local groups not only gain access to excellent facilities but also support a long-standing institution dedicated to outdoor education and community building, making it a truly advantageous choice for locals.

Camp Kiwanis Rentals Only

Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA