HFF Opposes Camp Margaritaville on Orange Lake

HFF Opposes Camp Margaritaville on Orange Lake

by | Feb 5, 2026 | News, Ongoing, Watching

Proposed Margaritaville Themed Park Conflicts with FPA 

Horse Farms Forever® OPPOSES the application by 8M Holdings, LLC to re-zone their 141-acre parcel located at 18365 NW 45th Avenue Road in Citra from an RV park with amenities reserved for the RV guests to an RV/themed park with amenities open to the public daily for a fee.

 

View Our Position Statement

Imagine stepping outside to feed your horses—and finding a full-blown Margaritaville themed RV park with extensive water rides, restaurant, bar, and live entertainment.

In January, 8M Holdings applied to re-zone their 141-acre parcel from an RV park with amenities reserved for the RV park users to an RV Park with themed SUPER-SIZED recreation amenities open to the public.

This change of use from a quiet RV park to a Margaritaville themed RV park and water park is incompatible with the rural community of Orange Lake, surrounding horse farms, and the Farmland Preservation Area.

Horse Farms Forever OPPOSES the re-zoning application for three main reasons: 

1) The proposed increase in the intensity of the approved uses,

2) The change in the intent and character of the approved development, and

3) Inconsistent with the Farmland Preservation Area Comprehensive Plan Policy 3.3.1: Elements of Rural Character

View the Zoning Change Application
Marion County Growth Services Staff Report for the PUD Rezoning Application

NEXT STEPS:
On January 26, 2026, the Marion County Planning & Zoning Commission recommended approval of the application by 8M Holdings, LLC to re-zone their 141-acre parcel located at 18365 NW 45th Avenue Road in Citra from an RV park with amenities reserved for the RV guests to an RV/themed park with amenities open to the public daily for a fee.

The County Commission will consider the rezoning request at an upcoming public hearing soon. Horse Farms Forever will keep our members updated on the date and time of the County Commission public hearing.

The approved 2024 Site Plan states: “The proposed development on this site will be 489 RV units along with a club house and amenity facilities.” The Building Use is stated as: Clubhouse and Bath House.

8M Holdings has built SUPER-SIZED amenities (themed RV park with extensive water rides, restaurant, bar, live entertainment) that far exceed the needs of the traditional RV park model.  The Rezoning request is to open up the amenities for a daily admission fee to the public.

  • The intent and character of the RV Park has substantially changed.

The square footage on the 2024 Site Plan for the Proposed Buildings and Amenities totals 45,467 S.F. This is an INCREASE of 18,000 S.F. from the approved 2017 PUD Master Plan for the convenience store and clubhouse. 

  • This is a significant change in the density and intensity from the RV Park. 

 

Credit: https://www.ocala-news.com/2026/01/29/water-park-north-of-ocala-will-also-feature-restaurant-dog-park-430-rv-sites-60-cottages-live-entertainment/

Not the Happiest Place on Earth

Not the Happiest Place on Earth

by | Jul 16, 2025 | News, Ongoing

Ocala/Marion County is world-renowned for its equine heritage. From Pony Club kids to Kentucky Derby winners, horses and riders come here to train, compete, and thrive in the Horse Capital of the World®.

But that global reputation—and the rural character that sustains it—is under threat.

A proposed 236-acre sports and entertainment complex would bring intense commercial development to horse farms and quiet rural neighborhoods adjacent to the Farmland Preservation Area (FPA).

This proposal risks far more than scenic views. It endangers our community’s identity, the private property rights of nearby landowners, and the livelihoods of those who have invested in preserving and living within the FPA

For some neighbors, Ocala would become anything but “the happiest place on earth.”

Greg and Donna Wheeler, owners of Bridle Oaks Farm, relocated from South Florida to Ocala in 2003 to escape the sprawl and overdevelopment they saw consume their former community.

“We absolutely embraced Ocala’s old Florida culture, grace, and charm,” said Greg. “We’ve seen what happens when unfettered development starts to grab ahold. First an area loses its heart, and then its soul slowly turns off like a light. When a community loses its soul, it’s gone forever, never to return.”

“We see what’s happening—and we’re living it again,” he added. “We’re worried about what’s happening to the soul of our home… again.”

Patrick Kuebler, a lifelong Ocala resident and member of one of the area’s pioneer families, owns 150 acres next to the proposed complex.

“The Commissioners say they support the Farmland Preservation Area, but they’re changing it—taking all of it away,” said Patrick. “So what’s the purpose of having a Farmland Preservation Area if you aren’t going to preserve the land?”

“I grew up here. It’s getting to the point where you can’t go anywhere—it’s just gridlock. And with all these new developments, it’s only going to get worse. Our infrastructure can’t handle it.”

What Are the Core Issues?

  • Wrong Location: This isn’t about the value of youth sports—it’s about placing intense commercial development in the wrong location, directly next to our world-renowned Farmland Preservation Area.
  • No Horses: This is not an equestrian project. It brings no benefit to the local equine industry and instead threatens to displace it.

What’s at Stake?

  • Urban Sprawl: This type of development pressures nearby landowners to sell their land for commercial uses, fueling a domino effect that chips away at the FPA and encourages urban sprawl.
  • The roadways are already overburdened. According to a preliminary staff report, seven roadway segments along SR 40 already exceed—or nearly exceed—their traffic capacity.
  • Concerts, stadium lighting, and commercial activity would replace the quiet, rural lifestyle with constant disruption.

𝗨𝗣𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: 𝗕𝗢𝗖𝗖 𝗩𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗨𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗺𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 & 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘅 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀

After 𝟲.𝟱 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗲𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗲, the Marion County Board of County Commissioners 𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝟱-𝟬 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗺𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 & 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘅 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀 to the state for review.

Stay tuned for future updates.⁣

Why It Matters

Preserving the integrity of the Farmland Preservation Area means preserving the identity of Marion County. Responsible growth is possible—but only if we stay committed to thoughtful planning that protects the land, lifestyle, and legacy that define this unique region.

Victory for the Farmland Preservation Area: BOCC Unanimously Denies RAC Expansion

At the July 15th Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting, we’re proud to report a major win for the Farmland Preservation Area. In a unanimous vote, the Commissioners denied Thomas Moore’s proposal to expand the Rural Activity Center (RAC) on a 20-acre parcel adjacent to Gilbert’s Hardware—land located deep within the heart of the Farmland Preservation Area.

This proposed “Piggyback RAC” would have opened the door to over 35 commercial uses, including fuel stations, storage facilities, and large-scale buildings totaling more than 350,000 square feet. It was a clear threat to the rural character and conservation purpose of the Farmland Preservation Area.

By rejecting this proposal, the Commissioners reinforced their commitment to protecting Marion County’s rural landscape and set a strong precedent against sprawl in inappropriate areas.

This is a significant victory for Horse Farms Forever and everyone who values the unique sense of place our farmland provides. Thank you to all who stood with us, showed up, and spoke out. Your support continues to make a difference.

Hearing on Thomas Moore’s application on July 15th, 2025.

Busy Shires, HFF Director of Conservation, spoke at the County Commission meeting in opposition to the application to rezone the 20-acre parcel in the FPA.

List of concerns from growth presented at hearing.

Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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P&Z Commission Meeting Update: Sports & Entertainment Complex + “Piggyback the RAC”

P&Z Commission Meeting Update: Sports & Entertainment Complex + “Piggyback the RAC”

by | Jul 2, 2025 | News, Ongoing

At the June 30 Planning & Zoning (P&Z) Commission meeting, the Commission made two important recommendations:

✅ Recommended Approval – Golden Ocala’s 236-acre Sports & Entertainment Complex

❌ Recommended Denial – Thomas Moore’s proposal to expand the Rural Activity Center (RAC) adjacent to Gilbert’s Hardware

Despite overwhelming public opposition, the Sports Complex application was unanimously recommended for approval. We are grateful to the many Horse Farms Forever members and local residents who filled the McPherson Auditorium to speak out against both proposals.

⚠️ Important: These recommendations are not final. The Board of County Commissioners will vote on both applications at the following hearings:

Golden Ocala Hearing: Monday, July 21st at 1:30 p.m. at McPherson Auditorium

Thomas Moore Hearing: Tuesday, July 15th at 2:00 p.m. at McPherson Auditorium (Due to the large number of zoning cases, the Thomas Moore applications were moved to the July 15th County Commission meeting instead of July 21st.)

 

Update from the Thomas Moore Hearing:

At the July 15 BOCC meeting, County Commissioners unanimously denied Thomas Moore’s proposal to expand the RAC near Gilbert’s Hardware, protecting the Farmland Preservation Area from inappropriate commercial development. This victory preserves the rural character of our community, and we’re deeply grateful for your continued support.

🏟️ The Sports and Entertainment Complex

Horse Farms Forever opposes the Sports and Entertainment Complex for two key reasons:

1. It’s in the Wrong Location

This facility is proposed on land within the World Equestrian Estates, which was approved as a low-density equestrian residential area. These lands were removed from the Farmland Preservation Area (FPA) to serve as a buffer—not to be repurposed for intense commercial development.

This application violates prior agreements made by Golden Ocala and threatens the integrity of our community’s planning vision.

2. There Are No Horses

Ocala is the Horse Capital of the World, and while the World Equestrian Center has significantly benefited our equine economy, this new proposal strays from that mission.

“Horses don’t play hockey, and they don’t ride roller coasters either.” This is the World Equestrian Center — not the World Sports Center.

The proposed uses are not equestrian in nature and are incompatible with the surrounding horse farms and rural neighborhoods. The development poses serious threats to:

  • The $4.3 Billion equine industry
  • Marion County’s rural character
  • Our global equestrian brand

The Sports and Entertainment Complex

Horse Farms Forever opposes the Sports and Entertainment Complex for two key reasons:

1. It’s in the Wrong Location

This facility is proposed on land within the World Equestrian Estates, which was approved as a low-density equestrian residential area. These lands were removed from the Farmland Preservation Area (FPA) to serve as a buffer—not to be repurposed for intense commercial development.

This application violates prior agreements made by Golden Ocala and threatens the integrity of our community’s planning vision.

2. There Are No Horses

Ocala is the Horse Capital of the World, and while the World Equestrian Center has significantly benefited our equine economy, this new proposal strays from that mission.

“Horses don’t play hockey, and they don’t ride roller coasters either.” This is the World Equestrian Center — not the World Sports Center.

The proposed uses are not equestrian in nature and are incompatible with the surrounding horse farms and rural neighborhoods. The development poses serious threats to:

  • The $4.3 Billion equine industry
  • Marion County’s rural character
  • Our global equestrian brand

🚫 “Piggyback the RAC” Proposal Denied

Horse Farms Forever strongly supported the P&Z Commission’s recommendation to deny the RAC expansion proposed by Thomas Moore.

This nearly 20-acre parcel lies deep within the Farmland Preservation Area, and the proposed land use change does not meet the criteria for RAC designation.

Why We Opposed It:

  • Not Needed: Only 30% of the existing 73-acre RAC is developed. There is no current or foreseeable demand for expansion.
  • Encourages Sprawl: County staff warned that the expansion would promote inefficient and premature sprawl.
  • Opens the Door to Intense Commercial Uses: Approval would allow over 35 commercial uses, including fuel plants, storage facilities, and 350,000+ sq. ft. of buildings.

Rural Activity Centers are intended to support rural life with limited, community-serving uses, not to introduce industrial-level development.

According to staff, this proposal violates multiple provisions of the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code and is not in the public interest.

“Piggyback the RAC” Proposal Denied

Horse Farms Forever strongly supported the P&Z Commission’s recommendation to deny the RAC expansion proposed by Thomas Moore.

This nearly 20-acre parcel lies deep within the Farmland Preservation Area, and the proposed land use change does not meet the criteria for RAC designation.

Why We Opposed It:

  • Not Needed: Only 30% of the existing 73-acre RAC is developed. There is no current or foreseeable demand for expansion.
  • Encourages Sprawl: County staff warned that the expansion would promote inefficient and premature sprawl.
  • Opens the Door to Intense Commercial Uses: Approval would allow over 35 commercial uses, including fuel plants, storage facilities, and 350,000+ sq. ft. of buildings.

Rural Activity Centers are intended to support rural life with limited, community-serving uses, not to introduce industrial-level development.

According to staff, this proposal violates multiple provisions of the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code and is not in the public interest.

📣 Take Action

Your involvement makes all the difference. Here’s how you can help:

📧 Email your concerns to the County Commission:

countycommissioners@marionfl.org

 

🗣️ Attend the County Commission Hearing:

Monday, July 21st at 1:30 p.m. @ McPherson Auditorium – 601 SE 25th Avenue, Ocala

🙌 Support Our Work

Join Horse Farms Forever today and help us protect what makes Marion County special.

Join Today!
Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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HFF Opposes Golden Ocala Sports and Entertainment Complex

HFF Opposes Golden Ocala Sports and Entertainment Complex

by | Jun 12, 2025 | Development Threats, Ongoing, Watching

Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, L.L.C. has submitted applications to allow for an intense commercial sports and entertainment complex on 236 acres of land with a low residential land use adjoining the Farmland Preservation Area. These parcels were previously inside the Farmland Preservation Area until they were removed at the request of Golden Ocala to allow for the low residential World Equestrian Estates.

Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, L.L.C. has submitted applications to allow for an intense commercial sports and entertainment complex on 236 acres of land with a low residential land use adjoining the Farmland Preservation Area. These parcels were previously inside the Farmland Preservation Area until they were removed at the request of Golden Ocala to allow for the low residential World Equestrian Estates.

In 2017, Golden Ocala applied to remove almost 1,000 acres from the Farmland Preservation Area to build the World Equestrian Center on 480 acres and to allow for low residential development on the remaining acreage. The Urban Growth Boundary was also moved west to NW 100th Avenue. The County Commission granted the changes conditioned upon the low residential World Equestrian Estates serving as a stepdown buffer for the new Farmland Preservation Area boundary. The proposed applications seek to undo those promises and agreements.

  • Horse Farms Forever® opposes the application by Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, L.L.C. and its related entities (collectively, Golden Ocala) to convert 8 parcels totaling 236 acres from a low density residential land use reserved for the World Equestrian Estates into a high-intensity commercial land use for a regional sports and entertainment complex.
  • Horse Farms Forever® further opposes the applications by Golden Ocala to change the WEC Future Land Use classification to allow non-equestrian sports facilities.

The proposed conversion of the World Equestrian Estates for an intense commercial sports and entertainment complex and the addition of intense non-equestrian commercial activities in the WEC Future Land Use classification runs in direct conflict with the agreements previously made by Golden Ocala to ensure compatibility of the World Equestrian Center complex with the surrounding horse farms and the Farmland Preservation Area.

What’s Proposed?

The proposed sports and entertainment complex to be built on the low residential World Equestrian Estate lots has no equestrian-related activities. Instead, it includes:

  • Outdoor sports fields: 17 multi-purpose fields for soccer, softball, and football, and a soccer stadium with increased seating.
  • Expo and Indoor Facility:  2 full-sized ice sheets, 8 full-sized basketball courts with the ability to function as 16 volleyball courts, and a full-sized synthetic turf soccer pitch.  
  • 1 hotel, 2 restaurants, and multiple other support buildings.
  • Unlimited concerts.

Watchdog Alert!

Horse Farms Forever will be attending the Monday, July 21st, BOCC meeting at 1:30 PM to oppose the applications by Golden Ocala Equestrian Land to change the land use on 236 acres from low residential to allow for an intense commercial sports and entertainment complex.

The County Commission meets at the McPherson Governmental Campus Auditorium, 601 SE 25th Avenue, Ocala, FL.

The Location – Why it Matters

The issue with the proposed applications by Golden Ocala is not what is proposed, but rather where it is proposed. It’s in the wrong place. These activities belong on land designated and zoned for commercial uses, not residential uses.

The Farmland Preservation Area is located directly South of the site plan.

Read Our Position Statement

SCAN OR CLICK TO EMAIL THE MARION COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

CLICK TO EMAIL THE MARION COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Email the Commissioners

Read the Applications

Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, LLC, et. al., Requests a Comprehensive Plan Large Scale Text Amendment to Amend Policy 2.1.28 - World Equestrian Center, Table 2-1 - Summary of Future Land Use Designations, and Policy 10.5.1 - Golden Ocala, Map 15.H - Golden Ocala
Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, LLC, et. al., requests a Comprehensive Plan Large Scale Map Amendment to change Future Land Use Map on ±250.86-acre land from Low Residential (LR) to World Equestrian Center (WEC)
Golden Ocala Equestrian Land, LLC, et. al., requests a Zoning Change, Articles 2 and 4, of the Marion County Land Development Code, to amend two existing Planned Unit Development (PUD) projects to combine the PUDs into a single united PUD and amend a portion of the united PUD to allow for an indoor/outdoor sports complex and event venue facility, along with establishing and modifying development standards for the new and existing uses, on a ±4,276.21 Acres consisting of 391 parcels.
Protect – we are always watching. When a threat is identified, we quickly assemble a threat response.
Promote – we are out in the community and on social media, raising awareness and inspiring appreciation for all that we have here in Marion County.
Preserve – we guide and encourage landowners who wish to conserve their land.
Plan – we are working with the County on changes to the Comprehensive Plan that will make conservation easy and financially advantageous for farm owners.
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View Current Threats