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Words by Steve Fennell
At 18 ha (44 ac) just outside of Lake Placid in Highlands County, FL, Sunshine MHRV Resort’s size, services, and amenities surpass many of the RV resorts in Tampa and along the Gulf Coast. But for visiting snowbirds, there are some special qualities to make it extra accommodating this winter.
With 320 premium RV sites and 83 manufactured home and park models, some of which are listed for purchase, the resort has completed several upgrades in addition to a strong focus on events and extracurricular activities. At the time of the writing, manager Birdy Whitehouse explained they are accepting reservations for the upcoming winter season. To secure a booking for 2023/2024 visit https://www.campspot.com/book/sunshinervresort.
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“We have a lot planned for snowbirds and are anticipating a great season,” says Whitehouse. “New and existing social activities as well as additional services are a big part of the experience here. The upgrades that we have so far completed will provide even more comfort, and value.”
The first of the many renovations was the resurfacing and adding new tiling on the in-ground pool followed by landscaping and signage, bright new exteriors on its facilities, and the remodelling of the clubhouse and recreation hall. Plans are in the works to replace the sports courts.
With a fresh aesthetic appeal, the modifications provide a comfortable environment to partake in the many activities and social programs. The new sports courts will be an excellent platform for guests to play and practice their pickleball game; the recreation hall has a relaxing atmosphere to shoot darts or pool; Ridge Lake (on site) offers fishing and relaxation; and the landscaped grounds provide a nice atmosphere to socialize or partake in other activities like bocce ball, shuffleboard, and cornhole.
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“We will once again host our popular horseshoe and pickleball tournaments with other local RV parks for some fun competition,” says Whitehouse. “Plus, we schedule bingo events, non-denominational church services every Sunday, monthly potluck dinners, and more.”
Whitehouse continued to explain that guests can participate in card games like Texas Hold’em, bridge, and mahjongg in the clubhouse, while line and square dancing are scheduled weekly in the recreation hall. Aquacise classes, yoga, aerobics, plus crafts and activity classes are even hosted throughout the week.
In addition to the services, guests have a choice of either back-in, pull-through or big-rig premium sites with parking for a tow (or towed) vehicle, full hookups, 30- and 50-amp power, and WiFi. All are easily accessible and nearby to other amenities like the library, storage areas, self-service RV wash stations and laundry facilities.
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The Appeal Extends Outside of the Resort
The resort is a mere 10-minute drive to the heart of Lake Placid, a quaint yet active community that will provide eventful day trips. It has been named ‘America’s Most Interesting Town’ by Reader’s Digest, is known as the Caladium Capital of the World, and is appropriately called ‘the Town of Murals’ with its ensemble of 40-plus artistic creations throughout its business district. They are hard to miss and easy to admire.
Of special interest will be the Journal Plaza or the ‘Shops on Main’ featuring unique retail stores and restaurants. A farmer’s market is even held at the plaza on the second Saturday of each month from October through to March.
Visit Sebring
A favourite pastime among many snowbirds is the excellent golfing. Two courses, the Placid Lakes Country Club and Lake June West Golf Course in Lake Placid, are open for public play and are within a 20-minute drive from the park.
Other choices (and more services) can be found in Sebring. The Sebring International Golf Resort has 36 holes across two courses where you can really practice your short game on one of the largest greens in the world. Also, try to visit the Highlands Ridge Golf Course in Avon, which is considered one of the best tracks in Central Florida. Both are part of the popular Citrus Golf Trail, the ‘Value Golf Capital of America,’ and within a 40-minute drive from the Sunshine MHRV Resort.
Visit Sebring
Off the fairways, Highland County encompasses 27 freshwater lakes. Many are ideal for day trips to enjoy watersports, boating, and swimming. If you like to fish, you won’t be the only one casting. Many guests at the resort bring a cartop or boat in tow to access the popular waterways and Placid Lake is a good choice. There are two boat ramps and once on the water, chances are likely to land catfish, bluegill, and nicely-sized largemouth bass.
Back at the Sunshine MHRV Resort
Although many attractions are in Lake Placid and throughout Highlands County, Whitehouse explains another appealing feature of the Sunshine MHRV Resort is the relaxing, peaceful community and warmer weather. Due to its central location, Highlands County experiences temperatures approximately 2-4 degrees Fahrenheit higher than other parts of the central region and Gulf Coast.
Visit Sebring
“One of the main benefits of Sunshine MHRV Resort is its location,” says Whitehouse.
“There is much less traffic compared to Fort Myers and Tampa, and we have a very relaxed atmosphere. When guests visit, they always say how quiet and peaceful it is. It’s like a hidden oasis.”
For more details on Highlands County and Lake Placid visit www.visitsebring.com and for more information about the Sunshine MHRV Resort and manufactured home sales go to www.sunshinervresort.com. To book a stay, visit https://www.campspot.com/book/sunshinervresort.