Gentle and inspiring oasis.
A very special place, lovely and charming people, and friendly & welcoming creatures with wings, paws, and hooves. I pitched my tent and took a couple of delightful days of rest here, visiting the manatees at their winter gathering place in Blue Spring State Park. I'd meant to camp at the park itself and when I found it was full I booked a spot on this farm thru HipCamp. It's very close to the vibrant college town of Deland, so very convenient, and about 20 minutes or so from the park. Kathryn and Mike were as warm and good-humored as people can be, relaxing to be around. I was visited by goats, pups, and turkeys, and was invited to feed the donkey and goats in the enclosure. Another very sweet and mellow couple had their RV there too and made nice neighbors.
The place is on a relatively busy road, but the lush cover of live oaks and palms provides shade, privacy and enveloping beauty. Truly an oasis. I was comforted by the tinkling bells of the goats as I could hear them gradually settling down for the night, and the lot next door is all woods. Sometimes there are loud cars going by, and the roosters start early. The roosters were great for me as I wanted to get to the park at the opening of the gate. You might bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper. The second night my neighbors' RV A/C provided soothing white noise and I slept like a baby. The outhouse building is adorable and functions very well. Shower is nice and hot!
I'll come back again any chance I get.