Deerhaven Campground

Florida, with its unique blend of lush natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a climate that invites year-round outdoor activity, stands as a prime destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure. For locals and groups looking for a versatile and welcoming space to host events, embark on outdoor excursions, or simply escape into nature, Deerhaven Campground in Paisley offers an exceptional and multifaceted solution. More than just a traditional campsite, Deerhaven presents itself as a comprehensive retreat and conference center, providing a heavenly escape for various gatherings and personal rejuvenation.

A campground typically serves as a base for outdoor enthusiasts, offering sites for tents and RVs. However, Deerhaven Campground elevates this concept by integrating robust facilities for events, conferences, and diverse recreational activities. It's a place where the tranquility of the Ocala National Forest meets the convenience of modern amenities, creating an environment that caters to family reunions, youth camps, weddings, and individual escapes. The emphasis on community, cleanliness, and diverse offerings truly sets Deerhaven apart in the Florida camping landscape.

With glowing testimonials highlighting its beauty, the warmth of its staff, and the sheer variety of activities available, Deerhaven Campground has cultivated a reputation as a cherished destination. From children safely playing to couples celebrating their special day, this facility promises memorable experiences. Understanding the specifics of its location, the extensive services it provides, and its unique features will undoubtedly showcase why Deerhaven is considered a "heaven on earth" for many who visit.

Location and Accessibility

Deerhaven Campground is situated at 47924 Nfs 540-2, Paisley, FL 32767, USA. This address places the facility deep within the captivating Ocala National Forest, a vast and biologically diverse area in Central Florida. The Ocala National Forest is renowned for its sand pine scrub, countless lakes, and unique spring-fed waterways, offering an authentic Florida wilderness experience.

While nestled in a natural setting, Deerhaven's location provides practical accessibility. It is approximately one hour north of Orlando, a major metropolitan hub, making it conveniently reachable for residents from across Central Florida and beyond. The access roads, though leading into a forested area, are generally well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for various types of vehicles, including those with trailers or RVs. Paisley, a smaller community, offers local amenities, but visitors should plan to bring most supplies or utilize services in larger nearby towns before arriving.

The strategic position within the Ocala National Forest means guests have direct access to a plethora of outdoor activities. The forest itself is crisscrossed with trails ideal for hiking, biking, and even off-road vehicle (OHV) riding, catering to the adventurous spirit. The proximity to numerous lakes and springs, including the famous Alexander Springs and Juniper Springs, provides opportunities for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. This natural backdrop enhances every visit, offering stunning scenery and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.

Services Offered

Deerhaven Campground, operating as Deerhaven Retreat and Conference Center, provides a comprehensive suite of services and facilities that extend far beyond typical camping grounds. This makes it exceptionally versatile for various types of stays and events:

• Diverse Accommodations:
  • RV and Tent Campsites: Offers 5 RV sites with full water, sewer, and electrical hook-ups. Tent space is also available around the grounds for primitive camping.
  • Residence Center Rooms: Features motel-style rooms (Peace Hall with 12 rooms sleeping up to 3 each, Justice Hall with 12 rooms sleeping up to 5 each), all with private baths, and some handicapped accessible. Justice Hall also has full laundry facilities.
  • Dormitory Cabins: Four duplex buildings, each sleeping 10 per cabin (20 per duplex), with shared bathroom facilities, ideal for youth groups or larger gatherings.
• Event and Conference Facilities:
  • Assembly Building: Flexible seating for up to 200 persons, equipped with modern A/V equipment, an attached commercial kitchen, and a sunroom. Suitable for dining, worship, classes, and recreation.
  • Modern Commercial Kitchen: Fully stocked with commercial-grade appliances, including a 6-burner stove, ovens, industrial dishwasher, walk-in coolers, and more, available for rental for groups.
  • Barbeque Building: Large meeting room with two large hooded grills and handicapped accessible restrooms.
• Recreational Amenities:
  • Swimming Pool: A beautiful 2500 square foot pool with a beach entry, pool volleyball, competition lanes, and ADA-approved chair lift, lighted for night swimming. Complete with a bathhouse.
  • Lake Access: A lake on the grounds used for canoeing and fishing.
  • Nursery Building: A large nursery area with a bathroom, fenced play yard, and canteen with outside access, specifically designed for younger children.
  • Sports Court/Pole Building: A soft playing surface for volleyball, basketball, and foursquare.
  • Group Activity Area: Includes an Octoball (Gaga) Pit and outdoor campfire sites.
  • Children's Playground: A dedicated outdoor play area for kids.
  • Hiking Trails & Natural Areas: Undeveloped forest areas with hiking trails, ideal for wildlife viewing and environmental activities.
• Additional Conveniences:
  • Staff Support: Highly praised, friendly, and helpful staff, including camp managers and cooks, who ensure guest needs are met.
  • Food Services: Capable of serving up to 200 persons, with options for on-site cooking.
  • Environmentally Friendly Practices: Promotes recycling, water conservation, energy-efficient lighting, and use of Fair Trade products.
  • Pet-Friendly Policy: While not explicitly stated for all areas, reviews suggest a welcoming environment for "fur babies."

  Features / Highlights

  Deerhaven Campground stands out with a multitude of features that make it a truly special destination in Florida:

  • Versatility for Events: Its primary highlight is its capability to host a wide range of events, from "any kind of parties" and "weddings" with receptions, to "family reunions," "youth camps," and "non-profit group" retreats. This makes it a one-stop solution for organized gatherings.
  • Exceptional Staff: Consistently praised by reviewers, the staff are described as "nice," "amazing," and incredibly helpful, going above and beyond to assist guests and ensure a "safe, clean, and fun" environment.
  • Comprehensive Recreational Facilities: The presence of both a swimming pool and a lake for canoeing and fishing provides diverse water-based activities. The "nursery building for the lil ones," playground, and recreation room with "pool table & arcade games" ensure entertainment for all ages.
  • Outdoor Adventure Opportunities: The ability to go "riding on your 4 wheeler, dirt bike etc." (likely on designated trails within or near the Ocala National Forest) adds an exciting dimension for thrill-seekers. The undeveloped forest areas offer hiking and wildlife viewing.
  • Beautiful and Peaceful Setting: Described as "beautiful" and "like heaven on earth," the natural surroundings within the Ocala National Forest create a serene and re-energizing atmosphere.
  • Cleanliness and Organization: Reviewers note the facilities are "incredibly clean and organized," highlighting the dedication to maintaining high standards for guest comfort.
  • Home-Away-From-Home Comforts: With various accommodation types, a commercial kitchen, and a focus on meeting needs, Deerhaven truly aims to be a comfortable and welcoming place for all guests.

  Contact Information

  For inquiries regarding events, bookings, or general information about Deerhaven Campground (Deerhaven Retreat and Conference Center), please use the following contact details:

  • Address: 47924 Nfs 540-2, Paisley, FL 32767, USA
  • Onsite Office Phone: (352) 669-3791 (for group event bookings only)
  • Reservations & Business Office Phone: (407) 971-8540 (for general inquiries and bookings)
  • Email: fmcbartlett@gmail.com (for reservations and information) or deerhavencr@yahoo.com (for scheduling tours)

  It is highly recommended to contact the reservations and business office for comprehensive information and to check availability.

  Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

  For Floridians, Deerhaven Campground in Paisley stands out as an exceptionally suitable and versatile destination for a multitude of reasons. Its prime location within the vast and beautiful Ocala National Forest offers an immediate escape into nature without requiring extensive travel for most Central Florida residents. This provides unparalleled access to hiking, exploring, and engaging with Florida's unique ecosystems.

  What truly makes Deerhaven ideal for locals is its dual function as both a recreational campground and a full-service retreat and conference center. This versatility caters to diverse local needs: families can host memorable birthday parties or reunions with dedicated facilities like the nursery and playground; youth groups can organize camps with various activity areas; and even large-scale events like weddings or corporate retreats can find comprehensive support, including accommodation and catering capabilities.

  The extensive range of recreational amenities—from a refreshing swimming pool and a lake for canoeing and fishing, to areas for ATV riding (on designated trails) and sports courts—ensures there's something for every member of the family or group. The consistent praise for the "nice" and "amazing" staff highlights a welcoming and supportive environment, a crucial factor for a truly enjoyable experience. For a cook who finds themselves "reenergized" by their time there, it speaks volumes about the positive atmosphere.

  Ultimately, Deerhaven Campground offers Floridians a "heaven on earth"—a clean, beautiful, and fun environment that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with modern comforts and event capabilities. It's a place where communities can gather, families can bond, and individuals can recharge, all within the stunning natural embrace of the Ocala National Forest.

Deerhaven Campground

47924 Nfs 540-2, Paisley, FL 32767, USA