Jacksonville, FL

pat8839

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Apr 18, 2008
Messages
270
Hey guys,
Just wondering if any of you can give some suggestions on where we may be able to take the boat to camp here in Jacksonville, FL. We are interested in pulling up to shore and tent camping as well as trying to sleep on the hook. I have really wanted to try but have no idea where to go, or where it may be allowed.

Thanks in advance!
 

Fireman431

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 17, 2007
Messages
4,292
Re: Jacksonville, FL

How far south are you willing to go? Look into the Ortega river, or if you don't mind heading a little further, go under the railroad tressel into Palatka. Very quiet and peaceful.

If you want nightlife, go to the Landings just southwest of the Stadium. You can tie up there free for 72 hours. No electricity or freshwater, but you're tied to a dock and plenty of after hours partying.
 

robert graham

Admiral
Joined
Apr 16, 2009
Messages
6,908
Re: Jacksonville, FL

Keep heading South to Lake George, hang a right into Silver Glen Springs...beautiful crystal clear water for swimming, snorkeling, anchor up/overnight, etc.
 

pat8839

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Apr 18, 2008
Messages
270
Re: Jacksonville, FL

We have a smaller 19ft boat and the further distances likely won't happen. I have heard of Lake George and it sounds like a sweet place to go-likely trailer to that destination. I have wanted to try taking it over to the Landing but have not attempted that yet. We typically put in at Beach Marine, Julington Creek, or Sister's Creek...
 

Fireman431

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 17, 2007
Messages
4,292
Re: Jacksonville, FL

Lake George/Silver Glen Springs is doable, but it would be easier to trailer unless you plan on spending the night. You are going to take 4-6 hours to get there, depending on speed. There are a few small hotels and camp sites on the river north og Lake George and in Astor to the south. Don't let it NOT be an option, it's a great getaway.

The Landings is a piece of cake trip. I'm not familiar with the places you said that you launch, but the Landings is only a couple hours from the Jax inlet, if you go slow. Speed up and claim your spot for the night. If you go there during a football game, you can party with 5000 of your closest friends. We made it there at the end of the Florida/Georgia game and were rafted 3 deep into the dock.

IMG_0220.jpg
 

pat8839

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Apr 18, 2008
Messages
270
Re: Jacksonville, FL

hey Fireman431 that link won't load, can you repost it for me? By the way, that is a CRAZY large crowd there at the landing!
Thanks!
 

robert graham

Admiral
Joined
Apr 16, 2009
Messages
6,908
Re: Jacksonville, FL

We put in at Welaka and cruise South as far as Sanford....prettiest parts of St.Johns River. When you get to Welaka, be sure and cruise up the Oklawaha River...Really Beautiful! Also check out Salt Springs down in the Lake George area. Tip...avoid Lake George on a windy day!...it can be whitecaps from one end to the other(about 18 miles)...not much fun in a small boat! Lots to see and do down there!
 

raveng60

Cadet
Joined
Mar 23, 2005
Messages
23
Re: Jacksonville, FL

hi, anyone knows a pwc friendly ramp in jacksonville? all the ramps i have seen leave a huge gap under the dock.
 

pat8839

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Apr 18, 2008
Messages
270
Re: Jacksonville, FL

raveng60-I have seen a lot of PWC's launched at Clark's fish camp ramp on Julington Creek as well as at Beach Marine on ICW. I have seen them launched at Sister's Creek too now that I think about it.
 

Fireman431

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 17, 2007
Messages
4,292
Re: Jacksonville, FL

We put in at Welaka and cruise South as far as Sanford....prettiest parts of St.Johns River. When you get to Welaka, be sure and cruise up the Oklawaha River...Really Beautiful! Also check out Salt Springs down in the Lake George area. Tip...avoid Lake George on a windy day!...it can be whitecaps from one end to the other(about 18 miles)...not much fun in a small boat! Lots to see and do down there!

Next time you're gonna be in Sanford area, PM me first. We are moored at the Monroe Harbor Marina in Lake Monroe. We'll even meet up and raft up. I have some great places.

P.S. Lake George is 6 miles x 12 miles, but on a crappy day, it sure can feel like 18!!
 
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