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RV Dump Stations In Citra, Florida

29.4119° N, 82.1098° W

Quick Overview

Citra is a small, rural community in northern Marion County, Florida, tucked into the citrus and horse country about 15 miles northeast of Ocala and roughly 15 minutes south of Gainesville. Founded back in 1881 as the home of the pineapple orange, it still keeps that quiet, old-Florida feel. For RVers, though, the real headline is Orange Lake, one of the state's celebrated largemouth bass fisheries, ringed by several RV resorts that make this a genuine destination rather than just a pass-through. We track several RV dump station options in and around Citra, and most of the lakeside resorts here have their own dump stations, so keeping your tanks clean is straightforward.

Getting here is easy. US-301 runs north to south straight through Citra as a smooth four-lane route, with US-441 branching northwest toward Gainesville and SR-318 heading west toward I-75. That means you are never far from full services. Ocala, about 15 miles south, is your hub for groceries, big-box stores, propane, and RV repair, while Orange Lake itself offers a public fishing pier, the Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp, and famous floating islands full of wading birds. Beyond the fishing, Citra surprises visitors with the Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary, home to rescued big cats, and The Orange Shop, a seasonal citrus stand carrying on the town's heritage. Many of the lakeside parks are geared toward snowbirds too, with monthly rates and resort amenities that make a long winter stay comfortable and affordable. It is a relaxed, fishing-focused base with just enough character to make you want to stay a while.

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Traveling to Citra by RV

Citra sits right on US-301 in northern Marion County, which makes it simple to reach. US-301 runs north to south through the community as a four-lane highway that handles RVs and trucks easily, so no white-knuckle driving here. In town, US-301 meets the north end of CR 200A (Northeast Jacksonville Road), and just to the north US-441 splits off toward Gainesville while US-301 continues northeast. SR-318 runs east to west and connects you toward I-75 to the west, roughly 15 to 20 minutes away.

Distance-wise, Ocala is about 15 miles south and Gainesville is about 15 minutes north, so you are sandwiched between two full-service cities while enjoying a quiet rural setting. That is ideal for RVers: you get peaceful lakeside camping without being far from anything you might need. Fuel, including diesel, is available along US-301 in and around Citra, with full truck stops near I-75 and in Ocala. For RV repair, propane, and any major resupply, plan on Ocala to the south or Gainesville to the north. Keep in mind that summer brings near-daily afternoon thunderstorms and that June through November is hurricane season, so build weather awareness into your travel plans.

Before You Go: RV Trip Essentials

Dump stations are only one piece of the trip puzzle. Before you set out for your trip to Citra, Florida, it's worth taking thirty minutes to check that the basics are in place — the four areas below are where unprepared RVers most often get stung.

Check your RV insurance coverage

A standard auto policy rarely covers a Class A, Class C, or travel trailer the way a dedicated RV insurance policy does. If you're financing a motorhome, lenders typically require comprehensive and collision; full-timers should additionally price in vacation liability and personal belongings coverage. Rates vary widely by state and travel pattern — compare quotes from multiple RV-focused carriers before each season.

Know your roadside assistance options

RV-specific roadside plans tow motorhomes and trailers that regular AAA coverage won't touch — flat beds, mobile mechanics, tire service for duallies, and even emergency lockouts at remote campgrounds. Good plans cover your spouse and trailer even if you're driving a separate vehicle, and some include trip interruption reimbursement if a breakdown costs you a reservation.

Decide about an extended warranty early

Original manufacturer warranties on new RVs typically run 12–24 months — shorter than most buyers realize. An extended service contract (essentially a mechanical breakdown policy) covers the appliances, slides, levelling systems, and drivetrain components that can run $3,000–$10,000 to replace. The time to price one is before the factory coverage expires, not after something breaks.

Set up a travel rewards card for fuel and fees

A no-annual-fee travel or gas rewards card pays for itself on a single month of RV travel. Expect to spend $400–$800 per week combined on fuel, campgrounds, and propane — 3–5% cash back on gas alone covers the next oil change. For bigger trips, a sign-up bonus can offset campground fees for the whole season.

RVingLife is supported by advertising. Third-party ads on this page may include insurance quotes, roadside plans, warranty coverage, or financial products relevant to the topics above. We don't endorse any specific provider — compare multiple offers before you commit. Privacy policy.

Dump Station Costs in Citra

Citra is a resort-camping town, so costs run a bit higher than roughing it, but the value is good for what you get. The Orange Lake RV resorts charge typical north-central Florida resort rates for full-hookup sites, and the pricier ones like Sun Retreats bundle in real amenities such as golf, tennis, a heated pool, and a restaurant. Snowbird season, roughly November through April, is the busy and priciest stretch, and many parks offer monthly and seasonal rates that bring the per-night cost down significantly if you are staying a while, which a lot of winter visitors do.

For dumping, the several options we track are mostly at these resorts and usually included in your site fee as a guest; non-guests may be able to dump for a small charge at some. Fuel prices track the US-301 corridor and are generally cheaper than tourist-heavy parts of Florida, and you can save more by filling up in Ocala. Groceries and propane are most affordable in Ocala or Gainesville rather than the small local stores. If you want to cut costs further, the Ocala National Forest to the east offers much cheaper public camping, though without the lakeside-resort comforts. For a Florida fishing base, Citra offers solid value, especially at monthly rates.

Free: 9 stations (64%)
Paid: 5 stations (36%)

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Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.

What RVers Are Saying About Citra

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Best Time to Visit Citra by RV

❄️

Winter

Nov - Feb

45F - 70F

Crowds: High

The snowbird sweet spot: mild, pleasant days perfect for fishing and outdoor time. Resorts fill with long-term winter visitors, so book early. Occasional cold snaps dip near freezing at night.

🌸

Spring

Mar - May

56F - 82F

Crowds: Medium

Warm, greener, and drier before summer humidity arrives. Excellent bass fishing on Orange Lake and comfortable camping weather make spring one of the best times to visit.

☀️

Summer

Jun - Aug

72F - 92F

Crowds: Low

Hot and very humid with near-daily afternoon thunderstorms and lightning. June through November is hurricane season, so stay weather-aware. Full hookups with 50-amp help run the AC hard.

🍂

Fall

Sep - Oct

60F - 82F

Crowds: Medium

Still warm and stormy early, easing into lovely conditions by late October. Hurricane risk continues through November, but late fall is a great, quieter time to fish and camp.

Explore the Citra Area

Here is our local rundown for Citra. First, this is bass-fishing country through and through. Orange Lake is the reason most RVers come, so if you tow a boat, pick a resort with a private boat ramp like Old Florida RV Resort on Hwy 318, which sits right on the lake with 34 full-hookup sites, a dog park, and its own ramp. Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake is the amenity-heavy option with a 9-hole golf course, tennis, a heated pool, a restaurant, and a dump station, while Orange Lake RV Resort stays open year-round. There is a public fishing pier with a fish attractor if you would rather fish from shore, plus the Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp for larger boats.

Second, treat Ocala, about 15 miles south on US-301, as your resupply and RV-repair town, with Gainesville just as close to the north. Third, most of the several dump options we track are at the lakeside resorts, typically for guests, so plan your dumping around your stay. Fourth, save time for the non-fishing gems: the Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary lets you see rescued big cats, The Orange Shop is a seasonal must for local citrus, and the Orange Creek Conservation Area is great for kayaking and birdwatching. Finally, aim for winter or spring, since that is when the weather is at its best and the snowbird crowd proves it.

National Parks Nearby

Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Citra

How many RV dump stations are in the Citra area?

We track several RV dump station options in and around Citra, Florida. Most of them are located at the RV resorts ringing Orange Lake, including parks like Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Orange Lake RV Resort, which have their own dump stations. These are typically provided for guests, though some parks may allow non-guests to dump for a small fee. Because Citra is a resort-camping community rather than a remote town, keeping your tanks in check is straightforward. As always, we recommend confirming access and any fees with a specific park before relying on it, especially if you are not staying there.

Where can I camp with an RV in Citra, Florida?

Citra has an unusually strong lineup of RV resorts for a small town, nearly all clustered around Orange Lake. Old Florida RV Resort offers 34 full-hookup sites on Hwy 318 with a dog park and a private boat ramp. Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake is the amenity-rich choice with a 9-hole golf course, tennis, a heated pool, a restaurant, and a dump station. Orange Lake RV Resort stays open year-round, Camp Margaritaville Resort Orange Lake sits on the lake with fishing access, and Citra Royal Palm RV Park lies between Gainesville and Ocala with a club house and boat trailer parking. There is something for every style here.

What is the fishing like on Orange Lake?

Orange Lake is one of Florida's most celebrated largemouth bass lakes, and it is the main reason many RVers come to Citra. Beyond bass, anglers reel in black crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. The lake is large and deep enough for most vessels, and the Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp on the southwestern shore is the primary public launch for larger outboard boats. There is also a public fishing pier with a fish attractor for land-based anglers. The lake is known for its floating islands, which draw wading birds like plovers. You will need a valid Florida freshwater fishing license, so check current regulations before you cast.

What highways lead into Citra?

Citra sits right on US-301, which runs north to south through the community as a four-lane highway that handles RVs and trucks easily. In town, US-301 meets the north end of CR 200A, known as Northeast Jacksonville Road, and just north of Citra US-441 splits off toward Gainesville while US-301 continues northeast. SR-318 runs east to west and connects toward I-75 to the west, about 15 to 20 minutes away. Ocala is about 15 miles south and Gainesville about 15 minutes north. This gives you smooth highway access and puts two full-service cities within easy reach of your campsite.

When is the best time to RV in Citra?

November through April is prime time, the classic Florida snowbird season, when days are mild and pleasant, humidity is low, and the fishing is excellent. That is also the busiest and priciest stretch, so book resort sites early. Spring is another strong window, warm and green with great bass fishing before summer heat arrives. Summer is hot and very humid with near-daily afternoon thunderstorms, and it falls within hurricane season, which runs June through November, so it is the least comfortable time. Late fall, after the worst storm risk passes, can be a quiet and pleasant time to fish and camp.

Are there dump stations at the Citra RV resorts?

Yes. Several of the Orange Lake RV resorts have their own dump stations, including Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Orange Lake RV Resort, and these are among the several options we track in the area. For full-hookup sites, of course, you have sewer right at your site, so you may not need a separate dump station at all during your stay. Dump stations at these parks are generally intended for registered guests, though some may accommodate non-guests for a small fee. We suggest confirming with the specific resort, especially if you are just passing through and not booking a site there.

How far is Citra from Ocala and Gainesville?

Citra is conveniently located between the two. Ocala lies about 15 miles south on US-301, roughly a 20 to 25 minute drive, and it is your main hub for full grocery stores, big-box shopping, propane, and RV repair. Gainesville is about 15 minutes north and offers similar services plus the University of Florida and its attractions. This central position is one of Citra's biggest advantages for RVers: you get a peaceful, rural lakeside setting while still being a short drive from everything you might need. It also makes day trips easy, whether you want city amenities or to explore the surrounding horse country.

What attractions are in Citra besides fishing?

Quite a few for such a small town. The Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary, or EARS, is the top-ranked local attraction, where you can see rescued big cats and other exotic animals. The Orange Shop is a beloved seasonal citrus stand carrying on Citra's heritage as the historic home of the pineapple orange, with fresh fruit, jellies, sauces, and dressings. The Orange Creek Conservation Area offers kayaking, paddling, and hiking through pristine wetlands, great for birdwatching. Flyers Cafe is a well-regarded casual spot for a meal. And the surrounding horse country and citrus groves make for pleasant scenic drives between fishing outings.

Is Citra good for snowbirds and long-term stays?

Very much so. Many of the Orange Lake RV resorts are set up for extended winter stays, and the town fills with snowbirds from November through April. Parks like Sun Retreats offer resort amenities such as golf, tennis, a heated pool, and a restaurant that make a long stay comfortable, and most offer monthly and seasonal rates that make extended camping much more affordable than paying nightly. The mild winter weather, excellent fishing, and central location between Ocala and Gainesville all add to the appeal. If you are looking for a Florida base to park for a season, Citra deserves a serious look.

Where can I get propane, fuel, and RV service near Citra?

Citra itself is small, so plan most services around the nearby cities. Ocala, about 15 miles south on US-301, is the main hub for propane dealers, RV repair shops and dealers, and full truck stops with diesel. Gainesville, about 15 minutes north, offers similar services. Along US-301 in and around Citra you will find gas stations for topping off, and there are full truck stops near I-75 to the west. For any significant RV maintenance or propane refill, Ocala is your best bet. We suggest handling major service before settling in for a longer lakeside stay so you are not making repeated trips.

What is the weather like for RVing in Citra?

Citra has a north-central Florida climate. Winters are mild and pleasant, with highs around 70F and cool nights, which is exactly why snowbirds flock here from November through April. Spring is warm, green, and drier, with excellent fishing. Summers are hot and very humid, with highs in the low 90s and near-daily afternoon thunderstorms and lightning, and they fall within hurricane season, which runs June through November. Fall stays warm and stormy early before easing into pleasant conditions by late October. If you camp in summer, full hookups with 50-amp service help run the air conditioning, and you should always stay aware of tropical weather forecasts.

Is there boondocking or free camping near Citra?

Not right in Citra itself, which is developed private-resort country around Orange Lake. However, the Ocala National Forest lies to the east, roughly 30 to 40 minutes away, and offers a mix of dispersed and developed camping at much lower cost, though without the lakeside-resort comforts. If you want to trade amenities for budget and solitude, the forest is a great option and still keeps you within reach of Orange Lake for day fishing. For most visitors to Citra, though, the appeal is the lakeside resorts with full hookups and boat ramps, so free camping is more of a nearby alternative than a local feature.

Is Citra a good base for exploring north-central Florida?

It is an excellent one, especially for anglers and snowbirds. Citra puts you on Orange Lake with top-tier bass fishing and a strong choice of RV resorts, while US-301 and nearby I-75 make it easy to reach Ocala, Gainesville, and beyond. From here you can explore the Ocala National Forest, the springs of the region, and horse country, then return to a comfortable lakeside site each night. You are close to full city services yet surrounded by quiet rural charm. For travelers who want fishing, mild winters, and a relaxed pace with real amenities on hand, Citra makes a genuinely good home base.

How many RV dump stations are in the Citra area?

We track {{stationCount}} RV dump station options in and around Citra, Florida. Most of them are located at the RV resorts ringing Orange Lake, including parks like Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Orange Lake RV Resort, which have their own dump stations. These are typically provided for guests, though some parks may allow non-guests to dump for a small fee. Because Citra is a resort-camping community rather than a remote town, keeping your tanks in check is straightforward. As always, we recommend confirming access and any fees with a specific park before relying on it, especially if you are not staying there.

Where can I camp with an RV in Citra, Florida?

Citra has an unusually strong lineup of RV resorts for a small town, nearly all clustered around Orange Lake. Old Florida RV Resort offers 34 full-hookup sites on Hwy 318 with a dog park and a private boat ramp. Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake is the amenity-rich choice with a 9-hole golf course, tennis, a heated pool, a restaurant, and a dump station. Orange Lake RV Resort stays open year-round, Camp Margaritaville Resort Orange Lake sits on the lake with fishing access, and Citra Royal Palm RV Park lies between Gainesville and Ocala with a club house and boat trailer parking. There is something for every style here.

What is the fishing like on Orange Lake?

Orange Lake is one of Florida's most celebrated largemouth bass lakes, and it is the main reason many RVers come to Citra. Beyond bass, anglers reel in black crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. The lake is large and deep enough for most vessels, and the Heagy-Burry Boat Ramp on the southwestern shore is the primary public launch for larger outboard boats. There is also a public fishing pier with a fish attractor for land-based anglers. The lake is known for its floating islands, which draw wading birds like plovers. You will need a valid Florida freshwater fishing license, so check current regulations before you cast.

What highways lead into Citra?

Citra sits right on US-301, which runs north to south through the community as a four-lane highway that handles RVs and trucks easily. In town, US-301 meets the north end of CR 200A, known as Northeast Jacksonville Road, and just north of Citra US-441 splits off toward Gainesville while US-301 continues northeast. SR-318 runs east to west and connects toward I-75 to the west, about 15 to 20 minutes away. Ocala is about 15 miles south and Gainesville about 15 minutes north. This gives you smooth highway access and puts two full-service cities within easy reach of your campsite.

When is the best time to RV in Citra?

November through April is prime time, the classic Florida snowbird season, when days are mild and pleasant, humidity is low, and the fishing is excellent. That is also the busiest and priciest stretch, so book resort sites early. Spring is another strong window, warm and green with great bass fishing before summer heat arrives. Summer is hot and very humid with near-daily afternoon thunderstorms, and it falls within hurricane season, which runs June through November, so it is the least comfortable time. Late fall, after the worst storm risk passes, can be a quiet and pleasant time to fish and camp.

Are there dump stations at the Citra RV resorts?

Yes. Several of the Orange Lake RV resorts have their own dump stations, including Sun Retreats Ocala Orange Lake and Orange Lake RV Resort, and these are among the {{stationCount}} options we track in the area. For full-hookup sites, of course, you have sewer right at your site, so you may not need a separate dump station at all during your stay. Dump stations at these parks are generally intended for registered guests, though some may accommodate non-guests for a small fee. We suggest confirming with the specific resort, especially if you are just passing through and not booking a site there.

How far is Citra from Ocala and Gainesville?

Citra is conveniently located between the two. Ocala lies about 15 miles south on US-301, roughly a 20 to 25 minute drive, and it is your main hub for full grocery stores, big-box shopping, propane, and RV repair. Gainesville is about 15 minutes north and offers similar services plus the University of Florida and its attractions. This central position is one of Citra's biggest advantages for RVers: you get a peaceful, rural lakeside setting while still being a short drive from everything you might need. It also makes day trips easy, whether you want city amenities or to explore the surrounding horse country.

What attractions are in Citra besides fishing?

Quite a few for such a small town. The Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary, or EARS, is the top-ranked local attraction, where you can see rescued big cats and other exotic animals. The Orange Shop is a beloved seasonal citrus stand carrying on Citra's heritage as the historic home of the pineapple orange, with fresh fruit, jellies, sauces, and dressings. The Orange Creek Conservation Area offers kayaking, paddling, and hiking through pristine wetlands, great for birdwatching. Flyers Cafe is a well-regarded casual spot for a meal. And the surrounding horse country and citrus groves make for pleasant scenic drives between fishing outings.

Is Citra good for snowbirds and long-term stays?

Very much so. Many of the Orange Lake RV resorts are set up for extended winter stays, and the town fills with snowbirds from November through April. Parks like Sun Retreats offer resort amenities such as golf, tennis, a heated pool, and a restaurant that make a long stay comfortable, and most offer monthly and seasonal rates that make extended camping much more affordable than paying nightly. The mild winter weather, excellent fishing, and central location between Ocala and Gainesville all add to the appeal. If you are looking for a Florida base to park for a season, Citra deserves a serious look.

Where can I get propane, fuel, and RV service near Citra?

Citra itself is small, so plan most services around the nearby cities. Ocala, about 15 miles south on US-301, is the main hub for propane dealers, RV repair shops and dealers, and full truck stops with diesel. Gainesville, about 15 minutes north, offers similar services. Along US-301 in and around Citra you will find gas stations for topping off, and there are full truck stops near I-75 to the west. For any significant RV maintenance or propane refill, Ocala is your best bet. We suggest handling major service before settling in for a longer lakeside stay so you are not making repeated trips.

What is the weather like for RVing in Citra?

Citra has a north-central Florida climate. Winters are mild and pleasant, with highs around 70F and cool nights, which is exactly why snowbirds flock here from November through April. Spring is warm, green, and drier, with excellent fishing. Summers are hot and very humid, with highs in the low 90s and near-daily afternoon thunderstorms and lightning, and they fall within hurricane season, which runs June through November. Fall stays warm and stormy early before easing into pleasant conditions by late October. If you camp in summer, full hookups with 50-amp service help run the air conditioning, and you should always stay aware of tropical weather forecasts.

Is there boondocking or free camping near Citra?

Not right in Citra itself, which is developed private-resort country around Orange Lake. However, the Ocala National Forest lies to the east, roughly 30 to 40 minutes away, and offers a mix of dispersed and developed camping at much lower cost, though without the lakeside-resort comforts. If you want to trade amenities for budget and solitude, the forest is a great option and still keeps you within reach of Orange Lake for day fishing. For most visitors to Citra, though, the appeal is the lakeside resorts with full hookups and boat ramps, so free camping is more of a nearby alternative than a local feature.

Is Citra a good base for exploring north-central Florida?

It is an excellent one, especially for anglers and snowbirds. Citra puts you on Orange Lake with top-tier bass fishing and a strong choice of RV resorts, while US-301 and nearby I-75 make it easy to reach Ocala, Gainesville, and beyond. From here you can explore the Ocala National Forest, the springs of the region, and horse country, then return to a comfortable lakeside site each night. You are close to full city services yet surrounded by quiet rural charm. For travelers who want fishing, mild winters, and a relaxed pace with real amenities on hand, Citra makes a genuinely good home base.

Are there free dump stations in Citra?

Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Citra.