Entire home

Nature Lover’s Cottage at Penner Pond, Ocala Forest/ Rodman Dam

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Where to?

Dates

July 2025

August 2025

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6936 sq ft

Popular amenities

Parking available
Dryer
Washer
Pet friendly
Air conditioning

Explore the area

Fort McCoy, FL

Rodman Reservoir
Orange Springs Park
‪44 min drive‬
Silver Glen Springs Recreation
‪50 min drive‬
Gainesville, FL (GNV-Gainesville Regional)
‪90 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Interlachen

This cottage places you next to Ocala National Forest and within a 3 miles (5 km) of Rodman Reservoir. The cottage includes a kitchen, a patio, and a fenced private yard.

View more Cottages in Interlachen

What's nearby

Ocala National Forest - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
Palatka Welcome Center - 40 min drive - 23.6 miles
Orange Springs Park - 44 min drive - 23.2 miles
Royal Manor Winery - 44 min drive - 22.4 miles
Silver Glen Springs Recreation - 50 min drive - 30.3 miles

Getting around

Palatka Station - 33 min drive
Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV) - 76 min drive

Restaurants

‪Hog Wild Country Cafe - ‬27 min drive
‪Pig Pen Saloon - ‬20 min drive
‪Hog Heaven - ‬11 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Nature Lover’s Cottage at Penner Pond, Ocala Forest/ Rodman Dam

Calling all nature lovers! Hiking, four-wheeling, fishing and more... create your base camp for a long weekend, a week or more. Looking for a few month’s stay? Ask about our multi-month discounts! House offers three bedrooms plus one and a half baths. First bedroom has the half bath and queen bed, second bedroom has queen bed, plus a third bedroom is equipped with twin over twin bunks with walk through to full bath.

Back patio overlooks grassy pond which brings in a variety of wildlife a special treat for birdwatching. A true forest escape, many activities are nearby. Enjoy the local springs, fishing, hunting, hiking or ATVs. ***Please check ATV trail status prior to booking. *** They were closed following the 2024 hurricanes.

Pet friendly with a $50 non refundable pet fee. Please keep pets on a leash when outside in. Neighbors’ dogs and wildlife roam through the yard.

THINGS TO DO: simply enjoy getting away from life's hustle & bustle and enjoy a fire (in the fire ring please). Firewood is provided. Smart TV and wifi are available. Wild animals are around, please do not feed or harass.

Rodman Dam is 2 miles away and offers great fishing. Bring your fishing gear as the ponds at Penner Pond are known to have great fishing too! Various four-wheeling trails surround the area (please trailer your ATVs to appropriate parking for trailheads). For hikers, several trails will take you through the Penner Ponds area or other Florida trails nearby. A popular spot is Hopkins Prairie for trails and observing wildlife.

LOCAL INTERESTS: Other nearby activities include the Hog Waller Mud Bog, events at Rodeheaver Boys Ranch, Palatka Bass fishing Tournaments and a variety of festivals in nearby Ocala, Gainesville or Palatka. If going to the springs (Salt Springs or Juniper) arrive early as they reach capacity quickly on weekends!

ACCESS INFORMATION: Discover what is beyond forest roads. Penner Pond Drive is a narrow dirt road that leads to a small community and your home for a few days. Once there, a partially fenced yard with a grassy pond and forest space as your boundaries on one side. A quiet neighborhood with farm animals as well as wildlife welcome you. The property offers over an acre of outdoor space. We have charcoal grills for outdoor cooking too!

Owners are licensed Florida real estate agents. We invite you to like and follow our Facebook page for events and weather updates: @NatureLoversCottageONF Feel free to tag yourself, share your photos and rate your stay. Thank you for your interest!!! We hope you enjoy!

*All-Wheel Drive and 4WD suggested if planning to explore the forest roads away from the cottage.

**Monthly option is available. Inquire for details including actual month/ months needed.

***Please take note you may not have WiFi-GPS services as you approach the area. Google Map is best but not accurate for our turn. Directions will be sent to you in advance. Please print them for your trip in case you loose your signal. ***

The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 1.5 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 3 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fenced private yard, and a coffee maker.

Property manager

Tina Arant

Similar properties

Fridge, microwave, stovetop, coffee/tea maker

Kitchen
Pet friendly
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi

$275 nightly

Jul 25 - Jul 26

Total includes taxes and fees

Property amenities

Internet

Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

Parking on site

Kitchen

Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Spices
Stovetop
Toaster

Dining

Dining table

Bedrooms

3 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

1.5 bathrooms
Bathtub
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided

Living spaces

Dining table

Entertainment

Books
DVD player
Games
Smart TV
Video library

Outdoor areas

Barbecue grill
Fenced yard
Firepit
Patio

Laundry

Laundry facilities
Washing machine

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

Pet friendly
Welcoming dogs only
2 pets total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

Smoking not allowed
Note from host: No smoking inside. $150 penalty held from deposit.

Location highlights

In a rural location

Things to do

Birdwatching nearby
Ecotours nearby
Fishing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Hunting nearby
Jet skiing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Snorkeling nearby
Water tubing nearby
Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock

General

Unit size: 936 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM

Contactless check-in available

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:

Strip any used beds and gather used towels

Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks, and take out the trash

Lock the doors

Turn off bedroom A/Cs and set dining room A/C to 78 prior to leaving.

Wednesday or Thursday check outs, please take garbage can to outside of gate for Friday pickup.

Thank you for staying. Be sure to book future dates with us soon!

Pets

This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
2 total (50 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Note from host: Previous huntcamp, keep eye on small ones please

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Long-term renters welcome

Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock

This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

Long-term renters welcome.

Property is also known as

Ocala Forest Escape

Ocala Forest Escape rodman Dam Area

Ocala Forest Escape-Rodman Dam area (Ft. McCoy/ Palatka) Cottage

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do around this cottage?

This cottage is located in Interlachen, just steps from Ocala National Forest. Rodman Reservoir is also within a driving distance of 2.3 mi.

Is there parking available at this cottage?

No, there isn't parking at this cottage.

Is this cottage adjacent to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Nature Lover’s Cottage at Penner Pond, Ocala Forest/ Rodman Dam?

Couples staying at this cottage will appreciate amenities like a kitchen and a smart TV as well as a firepit.

Are there hot tubs at Nature Lover’s Cottage at Penner Pond, Ocala Forest/ Rodman Dam?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Are there connecting rooms at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Nature Lover’s Cottage at Penner Pond, Ocala Forest/ Rodman Dam?

Yes, every accommodation at Nature Lover’s Cottage at Penner Pond, Ocala Forest/ Rodman Dam comes with a deck.

Nature Lover’s Cottage at Penner Pond, Ocala Forest/ Rodman Dam Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10 Excellent

Sarah P., East Taunton USA

Apr 17, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Lovely cabin!

Nice quiet area, and Cabin was fantastic. Cabin was very clean and not far from areas for hiking etc. Owners were very responsive and always responded very quickly. Thank you! We will definitely consider returning the next time we are in the area!

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Christine H.

Oct 11, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Tina is such a gracious host! The property was as described in the middle of the National Forest. It is a perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The home was quite accommodating for all five of us. The kitchen is rather small, it is not a complaint, however, an observation. There is limited counter space so plan meals accordingly. We had hoped that the weather would've been a little cooler for late November, but the property was a lot of fun. The swing was a great addition and all three of our teenagers took turns swinging on it! One thing more, we were grateful we had a Jeep Wrangler to get to this property, if we had had a car, it would've been a challenge to get there. All in all, it was a fabulous weekend and we quite enjoyed ourselves.

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

Feb 7, 2022

Getaway from Maine winter

My husband and I spent 35 nights here. We had no ATVs and do not fish. We went for the remoteness and to experience the Ocala forest, as well as to play disc golf and get away from Maine snow. Definitely recommend a 4 wheel drive capable vehicle. It is a dirt road in and out with many many dirt side roads. If you want a getaway to ride and experience the forest and many trails this place is perfect! . We only gave it 4 stars because we found the cabin furniture uncomfortable and don't feel the property was quite ready for guests. Minor repairs are needed inside with a kitchen fan that does not turn off, a sliding screen door that doesn't close correctly, a living room fan that is very loud and is on its last leg, broken rocking chair, etc. Also, the outside entrance lighting at night was intermittent. Washer and dryer are not inside the main building. The " deck" needs cleanup and has no railing. Neighbor's dogs roam freely and were occasionally on our lot. I did mention the chair, lighting, and fan to Tina so she was aware. The lot also could use a good clean up. We lost water and Tina immediately addressed the issue as well as refunding us the two days it took to repair the well. We lost it a second time due to the unusual cold temps but that was fixed within a short time as the sun came up and warmed things. To prevent another loss of water, Jerald insulated the pipe and there were no more issues. Tina was awesome in communication and got back to us promptly with concerns. The camp was stocked with necessities. The sounds of nature at night were wonderful! You have to provide your own firewood which we didn't do so had no fires. Also, there is a bird feeder.which is fun to watch with plenty of action! We purchased one bag of food and it didn't last long! We play disc golf and visited many courses in Ocala, Gainesville, and St Augustine! Also loved the Marion County flea market in Bellevue! All of these locations are at least an hour away with Palatka and Fort McCoy closest at about 30 min. There are prescribed burnings in the area so if you are sensitive to smoke this would not be the place for you. Again,. I feel this would be great for getaways to just ride trails, hike, fish etc.

Stayed 35 nights in Jan 2022

8/10 Good

Kevin A.

Oct 26, 2021

Liked: Cleanliness

Enjoyed our stay

House was clean and plenty of room. Outside parking was big enough to park 2 trucks and boats. We enjoyed our stay.

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ericka S., Palmetto, FL

Oct 15, 2021

Liked: Cleanliness

Great location to enjoy Ocala National Forrest

Quiet secluded location with all the comforts of home. Clean and well kept , we had no issues or concerns the host’s were excellent communicators and friendly . My daughter and husband are avid ATV trail riders so they LOVED NOT having to pack up and go to trail head . They just hoped on the atv and went . Ocala national Forrest is a wonderful place to get away and enjoy nature .

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

JASON W.

Oct 4, 2021

Liked: Cleanliness

If you enjoy nature and being outdoors this place is for you!

Perfect place to stay if you love fishing or trail riding. The house was like home away from home. Very comfortable and clean. Multiple boat ramps within 30 mins or less to Rodman Reservoir or Ocklawaha River and trails are by the house. We loved the seclusion and the feeling of it just being us. We watched a beautiful sunrise off the porch and sat in the living room and bird watched looking out the sliding glass doors while eating breakfast. It was a perfect way to celebrate our Anniversary. The owner had great communication and everything was already in detail so we didn't have to ask any questions. Our stay was smooth. Thank you so much for sharing your house. We will be back!

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021