Ben's Hitching Post Campground

For many Floridians, the appeal of RV travel lies in the freedom to explore our beautiful state, from its pristine beaches to its lush state parks. When planning an adventure in Central Florida, particularly near the iconic Silver Springs area, finding a suitable and welcoming RV park is key to a successful trip. Ben's Hitching Post Campground in Silver Springs, Florida, positions itself as an option for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Ben's Hitching Post Campground, helping our local Florida users understand what this RV park offers and what to consider for their next outing.

RV parks in Florida serve as more than just a place to park your rig; they are often hubs for outdoor recreation, community interaction, and convenient access to local attractions. Ben's Hitching Post Campground is situated in a location that suggests a focus on the natural environment, being surrounded by the majestic Ocala National Forest and just a short distance from Silver Springs State Park, which boasts the largest artesian spring in the world. This setting indicates a peaceful, rural atmosphere, ideal for those seeking tranquility and opportunities to connect with Florida's unique ecosystems.

However, like any accommodation, understanding the nuances of Ben's Hitching Post Campground requires looking at various perspectives. While the natural surroundings are a definite plus, some guest experiences highlight areas for potential improvement regarding amenities and pricing. Our goal here is to present a balanced view, drawing on available public information and customer feedback to help you, our fellow Floridians, make an informed decision about whether Ben's Hitching Post Campground is the right fit for your RV adventures in Silver Springs.

Location and Accessibility

Ben's Hitching Post Campground is located at 2440 NE 115th Ave, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA. This strategic location places it in Central Florida, offering residents and visitors a quiet, rural setting while still being conveniently close to essential amenities and major attractions. The campground boasts its proximity to the vast Ocala National Forest, a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts in Florida, providing ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the state's natural landscapes.

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of its location is its closeness to Silver Springs State Park. This renowned park is famous for its crystal-clear spring-fed waters, glass-bottom boat tours that have been a Florida tradition since the 1870s, and opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the Silver River. Being "just down the road" from such an iconic Florida landmark makes Ben's Hitching Post a practical base for exploring one of the state's oldest and most beloved natural attractions.

Despite its rural feel, the campground is also described as being "just minutes from town," offering convenient access to shopping, restaurants, cinemas, and other urban necessities. This balance allows campers to enjoy the tranquility of nature without being completely isolated from modern conveniences. For Floridians traveling from various parts of the state, accessing the campground via major roads like Highway 40, and then a short turn onto NE 115th Ave, appears straightforward, making it an accessible destination for your RV. The setting, characterized by "beautiful well maintained property with green grass and lots of shade trees," enhances the overall appeal for those seeking a relaxing outdoor experience.

Services Offered

Based on publicly available information and common RV park offerings, Ben's Hitching Post Campground provides several key services aimed at making your RV stay comfortable. It's important for prospective visitors to verify the current status and condition of all amenities directly with the campground.

• RV Sites: The campground offers full hook-up sites. While specific amperage details vary across sources, some mention 30 amp service, and other general amenities usually include water and sewer connections at each site.
• Tent Sites: In addition to RV sites, the campground also accommodates tent campers.
• Pull-Through Sites: Available for easier access and departure for larger RVs.
• Showers: Restroom and shower facilities are provided for guests.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry services are typically available for guest convenience.
• RV Dump Station: For wastewater disposal.
• Propane: Propane is sold on-site, a significant convenience for RVers.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground welcomes pets, though restrictions may apply (e.g., leash requirements, specific areas).
• WiFi: Internet access is listed as an amenity.
• Picnic Tables: Provided at sites for outdoor dining and relaxation.
• Fire Pits: Available at some sites for campfires.

While a swimming pool is listed as an amenity, recent reviews indicate that its condition has been an issue, with mentions of it being "a mess" and needing repair. Prospective guests should inquire about the current operational status and condition of the pool and other shared facilities.

Features / Highlights

Ben's Hitching Post Campground offers several features that might appeal to RVers and campers, though some aspects have received mixed reviews. Here are potential highlights:

• Proximity to Silver Springs State Park: This is a major draw, offering easy access to glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, hiking, and exploring one of Florida's most historic natural attractions.
• Surrounded by Ocala National Forest: Provides a peaceful, natural backdrop and opportunities for extensive outdoor activities.
• Quiet, Rural Setting: Ideal for those seeking a serene escape from urban noise and crowds.
• Shade Trees and Green Grass: The property is described as "beautiful well maintained" with ample natural landscaping.
• Accessibility to Town Amenities: Despite its rural feel, it's conveniently located "minutes from town" for shopping, dining, and other services.
• Big Rig Friendly: The campground can accommodate larger RVs, offering both back-in and pull-through sites.
• Jacuzzi Hot Tub: Some sources mention a hot tub, which could be a relaxing feature if operational and well-maintained.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Indicated as a "Family RV Park," suggesting amenities and an atmosphere suitable for families.

It is important to acknowledge that some customer reviews express concerns regarding pricing in relation to the perceived value of amenities, and issues with pool maintenance and park aesthetics ("old campers there falling apart"). Recent management changes are noted, with new managers "trying" to improve conditions. These aspects should be weighed by potential visitors.

Contact Information

Address: 2440 NE 115th Ave, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA

Phone: (800) 382-1169

Mobile Phone: +1 800-382-1169

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Floridians, especially those of us who appreciate the natural wonders of our state and seek a convenient base for exploring them, Ben's Hitching Post Campground in Silver Springs offers a compelling proposition. Its primary strength lies in its enviable location. Being surrounded by the vast Ocala National Forest means direct access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and a genuine sense of being immersed in Florida's unique wilderness. More significantly, its close proximity to Silver Springs State Park—a true Florida icon with its stunning clear waters and historic glass-bottom boats—provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of our state's most cherished natural attractions with minimal travel time.

This geographic advantage is particularly appealing for local RV enthusiasts who might be planning weekend getaways or longer stays focused on outdoor activities. While some recent reviews highlight concerns about pricing versus amenities, and the condition of certain facilities like the swimming pool, it's worth noting the feedback about "new managers trying" to make improvements. This suggests a potential for positive changes that could enhance the guest experience over time.

For a Floridian looking for an RV spot that serves as a practical launchpad for exploring the Silver Springs area's natural beauty, Ben's Hitching Post Campground provides the fundamental necessities. The availability of full hookups, laundry facilities, and on-site propane addresses core RVing needs. For those who prioritize being close to nature and Florida's iconic springs, and are willing to engage directly with management about current conditions and any ongoing improvements, Ben's Hitching Post offers a relevant option for their next Central Florida adventure.

Ben's Hitching Post Campground

2440 NE 115th Ave, Silver Springs, FL 34488, USA