Ocklawaha is a primarily residential area known for its stunning natural amenities and green spaces. “We’ve got Lake Weir which is lovely and quite large, and Carney Island and places to swim,” says Sara Lambert, the community engagement coordinator with Marion County Parks & Rec. “Our parks are very indicative of old Florida, with big oak trees dripping in moss and old orange groves converted to protected land.”
Gator Joe's Beach Bar & Grill is a beachfront hangout for eats & drinks.
A beautiful aerial view of Ocklawaha community park.
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Acres of old Florida land at Carney Island Park
Carney Island Park is a spacious park that hugs Lake Weir, the fifth largest lake in the state, and has boat ramps that give residents the chance to get out on the water and do some fishing. “Carney Island has trail systems and a swim beach and people can rent out picnic shelters for events,” Lambert says. “We purchased the land from Coca-Cola in the 1990s as part of the Pennies for Parks program and now it’s over 750 acres of protected islands and causeways and beaches and it’s just gorgeous.” The park is also home to the Ma Barker House which was built in 1935 and now offers private tours. For a time, the house was rented by notorious gangsters Ma Barker and her son, who would later engage in the longest FBI shootout in history when police found them hiding out in Ocklawaha.
Lake view of Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area on Lake Weir in Ocklawaha, Fl.
Lake view of Carney Island Recreation & Conservation Area on Lake Weir in Ocklawaha, Fl.
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From ranch-style to luxury lakefront
Most of the housing stock in Ocklawaha is ranch-style homes, with luxury lakefront options available as well. Home prices can be anywhere from $81,000 mobile homes to $2,600,000 waterfront estates. Home sizes range from 860 to 9,300 square feet and some date back to the early 1950s with new construction as recent as 2023. Large lots with long driveways populate winding streets through lush green land dotted with lakes. There are about 5,200 total homes in the neighborhood and the average number of days on the market in Ocklawaha is over twice the national average.
A lovely, ranch style home in a suburban neighborhood of Ocklawaha, Fl.
Luxury style lakefront ranch sitting on Lake Weir at Ocklawaha, Fl.
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Gator grub and bar food
A local dining staple is Gator Joe’s Beach Bar & Grill, a waterfront hangout built over Lake Weir with a sand volleyball court and a menu that focuses on seafood and American bar food classics. Established in 1926, the restaurant’s island cuisine includes dishes like gator tails and baby back ribs. Big Bob’s Restaurant and Pizza is a classic Italian joint with everything from pizzas and subs to pasta and soups. Good Time Bar & Grill has bar grub and locals love stopping by to catch the latest game or challenge their friends to a game of pool. Live music isn’t hard to find either and their dance floor is always busy. For groceries and additional shopping and dining, residents head to Spanish Springs Town Square. Popular locations include the movie theater, quaint boutiques and restaurants like Kilwins, known for its fudge and ice cream.
Experience live entertainment at the Spanish Springs Town Square near Summerfield, Fl.
Gator Joe's Beach Bar & Grill is a beachfront hangout for eats & drinks.
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B and C rated schools with a high school Cambridge program
Students in Ocklawaha can attend East Marion Elementary School which received a C rating from Niche and serves about 600 students with a student-teacher ratio of 17-to-1. Lake Weir Middle School is another option that received a C-plus rating from Niche and serves about 1,170 students with a student-teacher ratio of 21-to-1. Lake Weir High School received a B-minus rating from Niche and serves about 1,400 students with a student-teacher ratio of 23-to-1. The school offers a Cambridge AICE Program that gives students access to college credits and alternate pathways.
East Marion Elementary School provides education in
Eastern Marion County.
Lake Weir Middle School is a public school located in Ocala.
Lake Weir High School is a public school serving 1,413 students in grades 9-12.
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Take Highway 25 into Ocala
Residents have easy access to Highway 25 which can take them into Ocala just 17 miles northwest.
Written By
Jordan Hamner
Photography Contributed By
Philip Bicy
Video By
Brian Bernhard
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Awilda Lopez,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Ocklawaha, FL sell after 95 days on the market compared to the national average of 52 days. The median sale price for homes in Ocklawaha, FL over the last 12 months is $257,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This newly constructed 2025 home offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car garage. Built with durable concrete block and stucco, it boasts a split floor plan and water-resistant laminate flooring throughout. The master bath and laundry room provide additional closet space, while wood cabinets and quartz countertops add a touch of elegance throughout the house. The kitchen features
Charming Cottage Home with Modern Comforts, No HOA, and a 10 Year Warranty! Home is ready for you to move in! Peaceful, quiet location.• Huge, Open Kitchen: The heart of this home boasts an expansive kitchen with a remarkable 7-foot-long pony-top bar. Enjoy an abundance of counter space, perfect for all your culinary adventures.• Split Floorplan: Designed for privacy and comfort.•
Opportunity awaits with this .26-acre lot located in the growing community of Ocklawaha. Situated on a paved road, this property offers the perfect setting to build your dream home or hold as an investment. With many new homes being built in the area, this is your chance to secure land in a desirable and up-and-coming neighborhood.
Welcome to 5.30 acres of lakefront living in the community of Ocklawaha. This parcel offers a rare combination of privacy, natural beauty, and convenience, ideally located between The Villages and Ocala. Set among towering pines with a homesite ready for your vision, the property overlooks Lake Bessiola.. a private freshwater lake with no public access and excellent fishing. With plenty of space
Come and enjoy this 26+ acre property located on the beautiful Ocklawaha River. The possibilities are endless whether you are looking for the perfect family getaway or a peaceful primary residence, this property has it all. Experience nature at its finest and take in the abundant wildlife, from deer to turkeys, or bring your horses to enjoy the open space. The property offers ample storage and
COMING SOON! This home is currently occupied, but will be available to tour soon. Please respect the privacy of the current residents and DO NOT DISTURB. Ask about our ALTERNATIVE Security Deposit option!This spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom single-family home in Ocklawaha features: Keyless Locks, Smart Thermostat, Primary Suite, Open Concept Layout, Washer/Dryer Hook-Ups, and Two-Car
Be the very first to call this brand-new 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom double-wide mobile home your own! Tucked away in a peaceful country setting, this never-before-lived-in home combines modern style with comfort and convenience. The open-concept design features durable vinyl flooring throughout, creating a seamless flow from room to room.The kitchen is a true highlight, offering a island with generous
Property Id: 2132120This is a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home with many add-ons. The home is on the larger side, with new laminate flooring and fresh paint. The exterior was painted just a year ago. Quiet neighborhood, close to the Ocklawaha River, with a marina and fuel.
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