Private Waterfront Compound Near Gainesville

Welcome to CAMP DECLAN, a secluded waterfront retreat with total privacy • Waterfront cabin w/ fireplace + dock + canoes, kayaks & pedal boat • Bunkhouse for sleeping and recreation (ping pong, card table, etc.) • Excellent swimming, fishing, boating & grilling • Outdoor kitchen w/ large patio • Indoor & outdoor hot showers • Fully equipped kitchen(s) • Washer & dryer Rowdy parties are NOT welcome at Camp Declan. No loud music, noise, fireworks or illegal drug use. Strictly enforced. The space • Features a 2-bedroom waterfront cabin with fireplace plus a separate 12-bed bunkhouse for group stays • Perfect for guests seeking a fresh-air, down-to-earth “Old Florida” retreat away from crowds and noise • Exceptional privacy beneath a fenced canopy of majestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss • Accommodations are simple, rustic, and comfortable, designed to highlight the natural setting rather than luxury • Ideal for groups of six to 18 who value peace, quiet, privacy, nature, birdlife, fishing, boating, swimming, and tent camping • Ample secure space for guests bringing paddleboards, boats, RVs, or other outdoor gear Guest access The entrance is a simple 12-foot cattle gate (on the left) along a quiet dirt road. • RV's, motorboats, jet skis, kayaks, canoes, etc. are all welcome • Boat and watercraft launching onto 70-acre lake is possible with an all-wheel-drive vehicle • Safe, secure parking is abundant Other things to note The Spirit of Camp Declan Camp Declan is a place to disconnect from the pressures of modern life and reconnect with fresh air, nature, and the people you came with. Tucked inside a private forest, the camp invites you to slow down—watch wildlife move through the trees, freely take your jet ski out on the lake, or simply claim a hammock and drift into an afternoon nap. This is an unpretentious, Old Florida lake house retreat compound with strong appeal for groups who value space, privacy, and outdoor living. It is intentionally rustic and relaxed, designed for shared meals, fireside conversations, swimming, fishing, boating, grilling and quiet evenings under the oaks. Camp Declan is not a commercial, brand-name hotel. It has quirks and imperfections that reflect decades of real use—what we call "character". Guests seeking spotless floors, luxury finishes, or a pampered resort experience may be happier elsewhere. Guests who appreciate authenticity, simplicity, and nature tend to love it here. FAQ 1. Is fishing gear provided? No. Please bring your own rods, tackle, and bait. 2. Where can we buy live bait? Bass Capital Tackle or Ace Hardware—both about 2 miles away. 3. Are the canoes, kayaks, and rowboat included? Yes, they are provided at no extra charge. Life vests are stored in a box near the dock. 4. Are sheets, pillows, and blankets included? Yes, but please bring towels. 5. Is there a grill? Gas or charcoal? Yes—there is a charcoal grill. Please bring your preferred charcoal and lighter. 6. How close is the nearest grocery store? Hitchcock’s Grocery, Dollar General and CVS are approximately 2 miles away. 7. Is swimming safe? What about alligators? The lake is commonly used for swimming, fishing, and boating. In over six years, we had not seen an alligator. Our family continues to swim in the lake regularly. As with all natural Florida lakes, guests should use good judgment and common sense. 8. May we play outdoor music? Only at low volume. To respect neighboring properties and preserve the peaceful setting, loud outdoor music is not permitted.