A new water park that is nearing completion in northern Marion County will look to fill the void left by the closure of Wild Waters in 2016, with the developer asking for permission to allow the facility to sell day passes to the general public.
The water park is part of the new Camp Margaritaville Resort Orange Lake, a luxury outdoor resort positioned on 150 acres that is currently under construction at 18365 NW 45th Avenue Road in Citra.
While the resort, which features 430 RV sites and 60 cottages, was originally approved as a private amenity for RV guests, the developer, 8M Holdings, LLC, has filed a request to modify the property’s planned unit development (PUD) agreement to open the water park and other facilities to the general public.
If approved, the changes would allow the resort to sell day passes to local residents and visitors who are not staying overnight at the RV park.
The resort is situated on the shores of Orange Lake, just off Interstate 75 in Central Florida’s renowned horse country. In addition to the water park, the site is expected to feature a resort-style pool, a “lazy river,” a bar and restaurant, live entertainment, and a “Barkaritaville” dog park.
According to county staff reports, the developer indicated that public access to the Margaritaville amenities would likely be prioritized during the “off-season,” when RV occupancy is lower, ensuring year-round use of the facilities.
The resort is currently under construction and is anticipated to open in early 2026, according to county records.
The Marion County Planning & Zoning Commission reviewed the request on Monday, Jan. 26. Although video of that meeting was unavailable this week, the final decision will rest with the Marion County Board of County Commissioners. That board is set to vote on the proposal next month.
Marion County residents have clamored for a local water park in the years since Wild Waters permanently closed its doors in Silver Springs State Park in September 2016.
Since 2021, Ocala-News.com has received over a dozen letters to the editor on the topic, with many in favor of a water park’s return to the area.
Make sure to view our video at the site of the new facility and share your comments below. If you have more to say on the issue, write a letter to the editor.
UPDATE: This story was amended to remove language about a slide that was removed from the developer’s plans.