Hitching Post Trails

hitching post trails

Introduction / Overview

Nestled within an inviting oak hammock in the heart of Florida’s renowned horse country, Hitching Post Trails offers a truly peaceful, clean, and quiet campground experience in Ocala. This unique destination is specifically designed to cater to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, from those who prefer primitive tent camping to RVers, and most notably, equestrians who wish to camp with their horses. It's more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to Florida's stunning natural landscapes and an ideal base for exploring the famous Cross Florida Greenway and Santos area trails. The consistent feedback from visitors highlights the welcoming atmosphere, with owners and staff often described as incredibly kind and accommodating. This attention to guest comfort, combined with the serene natural setting, creates an environment where visitors can truly relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy their passion for the outdoors. Whether you're planning a quiet weekend escape, an extensive horseback riding adventure, or a cycling trip on Florida’s premier trails, Hitching Post Trails provides a comfortable and convenient base in the heart of the Sunshine State.

Location and Accessibility

Hitching Post Trails boasts an exceptional location at 10623 SE 19th Ct, Ocala, FL 34480, USA, making it incredibly accessible for locals and visitors alike. Its prime position places it "very near to the Cross Florida Greenway, Santos area," and "east of the I-75 land bridge," providing unparalleled access to some of Florida's most extensive and diverse trail systems. For equestrian enthusiasts, the camp is literally just a few steps away from the Cross Florida Greenway Horse Trails, offering over 100 miles of scenic riding opportunities. Cyclists will appreciate its close proximity to the Santos bicycle trails and the new multi-use paved path through the Greenway, ideal for all skill levels. Furthermore, the campground is "very close to the Florida Horse Park," a major equestrian venue, making it an ideal staging ground for events or simply enjoying the equine culture of Ocala. Despite its rustic charm and natural setting, Hitching Post Trails is conveniently located just minutes from Interstate 75, ensuring easy travel to and from the area. This strategic placement allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of a natural escape while still being within a reasonable drive of Ocala’s town amenities, including shopping, restaurants, and other attractions. The easy in-and-out access, even for larger rigs like horse trailers, further enhances its appeal, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure for all guests.

Services Offered

Hitching Post Trails focuses on providing essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, particularly for those traveling with horses. The services are designed to cater to both primitive campers and those requiring hookups, emphasizing convenience and cleanliness.

• Power Hookup Sites: Several roomy sites are available with 30-amp electric hookups for RVs and trailers, offering convenience for modern campers.
• Water Hookup Sites: Each powered site also includes a water hookup, ensuring easy access to fresh water.
• Primitive Camping Options: Ample space is available for tent camping, catering to those who prefer a more traditional, off-grid experience.
• Clean Restrooms: Dedicated, well-maintained restroom facilities are provided for all campers.
• Shower House: A super clean and well-appointed shower house offers hot showers, a highly appreciated amenity for both primitive and hookup campers.
• Horse Pens: Six convenient and easy-to-use horse pens are available, providing secure accommodation for equine companions.
• Ample Space for High Ties or Portable Pens: For those who prefer alternative horse containment, there is plenty of room for high ties or setting up personal portable pens.
• Easy Trail Access: Direct and easy access to the Cross Florida Greenway trails, often just a 5-minute walk away, is a primary service for equestrian and cycling visitors.
• Friendly and Attentive Hosts: The owners, Barbara and Bill, are consistently praised in reviews for being super nice, kind, and accommodating, offering personalized service.
• Peaceful and Quiet Environment: While not a tangible service, the serene atmosphere fostered by the campground's design and location is a key offering for relaxation.

Features / Highlights

Hitching Post Trails distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that make it a standout choice for campers in the Ocala area, particularly those with equestrian interests:

• Oak Hammock Setting: The campground is nestled in a beautiful oak hammock, providing abundant shade, a peaceful ambiance, and a classic "Old Florida" feel.
• Proximity to Cross Florida Greenway: Being "only a few steps away" from the Cross Florida Greenway trails is a major highlight, offering over 100 miles of equestrian and multi-use trails, including the Santos bicycle trails.
• Dedicated Equestrian Facilities: The provision of horse pens, along with ample space for high ties or portable pens, makes it exceptionally horse-friendly and a top choice for equestrians.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Consistently praised for its clean restrooms and a newly added "super clean and well appointed" shower house, ensuring comfort for all campers.
• Friendly and Accommodating Owners/Staff: Reviews frequently highlight the exceptional hospitality of the hosts, Barbara and Bill, who go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.
• Shady Sites: Most sites are shaded by trees, offering relief from the Florida sun and contributing to a more comfortable camping experience.
• Easy In-and-Out Access: The layout is designed to be easily navigable, even for large vehicles and horse trailers (e.g., 4-horse 31 ft box goosenecks), making arrivals and departures stress-free.
• Versatility for Campers: Offers options for both primitive tent camping and RV/trailer camping with electric and water hookups, catering to diverse preferences.
• Close to Florida Horse Park: Its near proximity to the Florida Horse Park makes it an ideal base for attendees or participants in equestrian events.
• Nature Immersion: Borders the 110-mile Cross Florida Greenway corridor, providing opportunities to experience a variety of natural habitats and local wildlife.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about staying at Hitching Post Trails, you can easily reach their accommodating team. The campground is located at 10623 SE 19th Ct, Ocala, FL 34480, USA. You can contact them directly by phone at (352) 551-4362. They also list a mobile phone number, which is +1 352-551-4362. It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially if you have specific needs regarding hookups, horse pens, or larger rigs, as the owners, Barbara and Bill, are known for their helpfulness and can provide the most current availability and information. Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, reaching out directly will ensure a smooth planning process for your Ocala camping adventure.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Floridians, particularly those residing in the Central Florida region, Hitching Post Trails in Ocala stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing campground destination. Its strategic location is a significant draw, offering immediate access to the expansive Cross Florida Greenway. For local equestrian enthusiasts, this means literally walking or riding minutes from their campsite to over 100 miles of trails, a convenience that is hard to match elsewhere. Cyclists and hikers from nearby cities will also appreciate the easy access to the renowned Santos bicycle trails and the diverse multi-use paths. This direct connection to nature's playground makes it an ideal spot for a quick weekend escape or a longer, immersive outdoor adventure without the need for extensive travel. Beyond its prime location, the campground itself fosters a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. The "super nice and attentive" owners, Barbara and Bill, create a personal touch, ensuring that both new and returning campers feel right at home. The availability of both primitive and hookup sites, combined with the cleanliness of the restrooms and the newly added shower house, caters to a wide range of camping preferences, ensuring comfort for all. For horse owners, the convenience of on-site pens and ample space for high ties removes much of the logistical challenge of traveling with equines. This makes Hitching Post Trails not just a campground, but a true home base for Floridians eager to explore their state's natural beauty, partake in equestrian activities, or simply unwind in a quiet, well-maintained outdoor setting, making it an invaluable local resource for outdoor recreation.

Hitching Post Trails

10623 SE 19th Ct, Ocala, FL 34480, USA