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Idlewild was founded in 1992 by William T Davis as a fish camp for those who knew how many bass are swimming and living in the spring-fed waters of Lake Panasoffkee. It’s built on 3 acres with 10 cabins, 10 RV pads. While small, it is not short on amenities. Positioned as a boutique lodge, large groups may find it ideal to host private events. Families will find the amenities to be entertaining while also serving as a unique, but truly “Floridian,” nature experience. Located on the western perimeter of Lake Panasoffkee, Idlewild sits across a 9,911 acre state park preserving Lake Panasoffkee's vast floodplain forest, natural springs, pine flat-woods, freshwater marshes and oak scrub forest.
Recognizing the beauty Lake Panasoffkee has to offer, the current owners revitalized Idlewild in 2022 welcoming residents and tourists alike to enjoy the natural beauty and fishing opportunities Lake Pan has to offer. In addition to cabin renovations and pavered RV sites, Idlewild now features additional premium amenities including pontoon boat rentals, kayaks, bait & tackle, a concrete boat launch, boat slips, vending, recreational area, laundry machines, an on-site café, pool-side cabanas, and the most spectacular views of Lake Pan while sitting around the gas-fired fire pit. For those seeking a bit more adventure, Idlewild is host to Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures. Swamp Fever guests can sign up for the interactive alligator experience and ride an airboat deep into the shallow waters of the Lake Panasoffkee enchanted forest where snakes, turtles, cranes, and alligators are aplenty.
Such a lovely setting. We stayed in one of the cabins. The cabin was spotless, tiled floors, kitchen with microwave, refrig and coffee maker. TV in sitting area and in bedroom area. Beautiful lake and firepit. We will definitely be back. Staff was extremely helpful.
Being a newbie in the RV would we found this little gem while looking fir somewhere close to home to do our maiden trip. It's a little off the beaten path but it's well worth it if your looking for an extremely small campground. We stayed in one of their premium RV sites. Lots of space, level paver covered site. They also have some cabins for rent, a pool and loads of seating inside and outside of their recreation hall. The grounds are well manicured with many colorful flowers and herb gardens. Matt, Emily and Ashlynn were very welcoming and helpful.
I had the pleasure of visiting this amazing location yesterday to perform a wedding, as Donna's Mobile Notary Services. As I was leaving I met the management staff and they were friendly and interested in my business.
If you've not visited them do so. Their cabins are fresh and clean. The grounds had been chalk decorated for Halloween and were quite imaginative. The game area was in use when I arrived. There is an open and welcoming activities building for their guests. Sitting right on Lake Panasoffkee, it created the perfect backdrop for their guests.
We had a wonderful experience at Idlewild - the facilities were very clean and staff was extremely attentive. This is definitely a 'pup friendly' lodge, so bring your 4 legged friend!
They were smoking brisket all day and serving it out of the food truck, along with the yummy truffle fries.
There is no risk staying here - excellent service, great views, and just a very relaxing time.
My family spent New Years Eve weekend at Idlewild Lodge. We stayed in one of the cabins. The staff did a great job renovating and modernizing the cabins. Very comfortable to live in for a few days.
The Lodge is on a beautiful piece of property. All of the staff were very friendly and spent time with their guests. The BBQ was amazing.
We really enjoyed our time and will be visiting again in the near future.
