Southwind is a Young Life overnight camp on Long Lake at the edge of the Ocala National Forest in Ocklawaha, serving middle- and high-school students and also hosting college and adult retreats. Activities include waterfront recreation, paddleboards and canoes, a waterslide, high ropes, beach volleyball, basketball, and disc golf, with resort-style lodging. Part of the Christian youth ministry Young Life.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Young Life directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Google Reviews
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★★★★max andersonGreat experience great food clean pools. My whole church had an awesome time
★★★★★Michael BurlesonGreat camp atmosphere with a ton for the kids to do. The new dining hall is nice and spacious. We are looking forward to seeing a new or expanded auditorium as our youth ministry continues to grow.
★★★★★Vince Miller (Men's Bible Studies)A great camp for a local retreat. Great food, service, property, and rooms. Check out the photos I took of the whole facility.
★★★★★Joel WeathersI was at Southwind for a Youth for Christ Camp. The camp site is beautiful and the staff was awesome, helpful and friendly. I love the campus is set for one on ones or small group setting so you can talk and have a great discuss/talk with the youth. I really love the pools. The big slide was the center of attention. The silent attraction was the diving board. The lifeguard was really great and just allowed the kids to have fun, even using the diving board. I would love to have another visit really enjoy the campus without so much rain.. The weather was the only down side. Blessings to you and your staff Southwind!
★★★★★AleJ DroI stayed at this location during a summer time retreat with my local church group. It’s a fantastic campground! It has the perfect combination of modern facilities mixed with an old time Florida rural campground feel. The dorm room/ bunk beds were comfortable and spacious. Their was an abundance of amenities provided on the campgrounds ranging from lakefront activities such as canoeing and paddle boarding. They also have a large pool with a water slide and fun drop-swing ride. The food made by the staff was delicious and served family style on round tables. The surrounding forest and nature trails were great and one can find peace of mind and self while walking down on them. There were times that I did not feel like I was at a campground but at a destination lodge somewhere far away. I’ve been to other 3 other campgrounds in Florida and this one was by far the best!