Let me tell you, when you’ve been on the road for a while, especially tooling around the backroads of Florida, you start developing a sixth sense for good dump stations. It’s not just about finding a working spigot and a hole in the ground. It’s about the approach, the room to maneuver, and the general vibe of the place. You learn to avoid the cramped gas stations with a sewer cap wedged between the propane tank cage and the air pump. That’s a recipe for disaster, especially if you’re driving anything bigger than a Class B. So, when I found myself winding down County Road 310, about eleven miles southwest of Palatka, I was intrigued by the sign for Hog Waller Campground & ATV Resort.
Now, your first thought might be the same as mine was: an ATV resort? That sounds like pure chaos. I pictured a landscape of torn-up mud bogs, the constant drone of two-stroke engines, and a general air of weekend warrior mayhem. And on certain weekends, that’s exactly what it is. Hog Waller is legendary in the off-roading community for its massive mud events, where thousands of people descend on its 1,100 acres to get gloriously, unapologetically filthy. But here’s the secret, the little piece of road wisdom I’m passing on to you: on a quiet weekday, this place is an RVer’s dream.
The real beauty of a place built for giant toy haulers and massive fifth wheels is that they don’t skimp on space. The entrance is wide. The internal roads have generous turning radii. You’re not going to be white-knuckling it, trying to squeeze your 40-footer around a tight corner while a line of impatient cars stacks up behind you. The staff here are accustomed to dealing with big rigs, so they don’t bat an eye when you pull up to the gate. It’s a private campground, which means you check in at the front office, and on a non-event day, the process is relaxed and friendly. You’re not just another customer in a frantic, 24-hour truck stop. You’re a guest.
The dump station itself is conveniently located near the front, usually close to a bathhouse. It’s a simple setup, typically a gravel approach with a solid concrete pad, which is all you really need for a stable and clean experience. During the week, you’ll likely have the place all to yourself. There’s no pressure, no one waiting behind you, revving their engine. You can take your time, go through your whole routine, and not feel rushed. This is a luxury that any seasoned RVer can appreciate. Emptying the black tank isn’t the most glamorous part of this lifestyle, but a peaceful, unhurried environment makes all the difference.
One critical piece of information, and you’ll want to write this down: there’s no dedicated rinse hose right at the dump point. This is a big deal. You absolutely cannot use your potable water hose for this job, that’s RVing 101. So, you need to come prepared. I always carry a separate, clearly marked five-gallon jug of water and a short, coiled hose just for this purpose. It’s essential for flushing your fittings, cleaning up any spills, and making sure your sewer hose is clean before you pack it away. If you need to fill your freshwater tank, you should ask about a potable water source when you check in at the office. Don’t ever assume a spigot is safe for drinking.
The amenities here are geared toward the campground experience, which is a huge plus. Having access to clean showers with tiled stalls is a wonderful thing, especially after you’ve just wrestled with sewer connections. It’s a great way to wash off the road grime and feel human again. If you decide to stay the night, which I highly recommend if you need a reset day, they have sites with 30 and 50 amp electric hookups. In the thick of Florida’s humidity, being able to run your air conditioning without firing up the generator is pure bliss. Some sites even offer full hookups, so you can just back in, connect everything, and completely relax for a night or two. Plus, they have large dumpsters, which is another one of those small things that feels like a huge win when you’ve been boondocking for a week and have a growing collection of trash bags.
For those of us traveling with four-legged co-pilots, the open space is fantastic. Just be mindful that this is an ATV park, so even on quiet days, you might have a few riders zipping around. Always keep your dog on a leash for their own safety.
Now, let’s talk about cost. The price for a dump-only service can vary, and it might be a bit higher during those big event weekends. The best practice is always to call ahead. Confirm the price, ask about their hours, and check if there’s an event scheduled. A quick phone call can save you a world of hassle. On a regular weekday, you can expect to pay a modest flat rate, which feels like a bargain given the easy access and peaceful atmosphere.
Before you just dump and run, take a look at the local area. Palatka is a classic old Florida town nestled on the St. Johns River, a massive waterway known for its incredible bass fishing. It calls itself a “Trail Town,” and for good reason. You can hop on a paved trail and explore the city’s murals or visit the stunning Ravine Gardens State Park, especially if you’re there in late winter when the azaleas are in full bloom. And if you have a bit of extra time, you’re less than an hour’s drive from the crystalline springs of the Ocala National Forest. Places like Silver Glen and Juniper Springs offer a chance to swim or paddle in refreshingly cool, 72-degree water all year round. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon after taking care of your tank chores. So, is Hog Waller the right stop for you? If you’re looking for a low-stress, big-rig-friendly dump station away from the highway madness, absolutely. Just remember to call ahead, and for goodness sake, bring your own rinse water.
454 Co Rd 310, Palatka, FL 32177
(386) 643-8042
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
No Water
hogwallerfl.com