Encore Crystal Isles RV Resort Review

The Full Review

We pulled into Encore Crystal Isles in Crystal River, FL with our 40-foot Class A and three kids ready to explore. Here is what we found across every category of our SCOUTED scoring system.

Site & Setup 17/20

The sites at Encore Crystal Isles are genuinely good. We pulled our 40-foot Class A into a level pad without needing to break out the blocks, which is always a win. Full hookups worked without issues, and the spacing between sites gave us room to actually set up the outdoor mat and chairs without being in our neighbor's living room.

Ground surfaces are well-maintained, and most sites have enough shade to keep the awning from being the only thing between you and the sun. The pull-throughs are long enough for big rigs, and back-ins, while tighter, are still manageable.

Connectivity 10/20

Connectivity is rough at Encore Crystal Isles. Verizon barely registered — we needed our WeBoost just to send a text. The campground WiFi exists in theory but barely functions for email. Streaming? Forget it.

If you need to work or stay connected, plan accordingly. Download movies before you arrive, let people know you'll be off-grid, and consider it a digital detox opportunity. Starlink users with clear sky should be fine.

Offspring & Family 11/15

The kids had a good time, but Encore Crystal Isles isn't winning any 'best family park' awards. There's a playground and some open space, which was enough for our crew. Lily found things to do, Rose made it work, and Liam just wanted to ride his scooter on the campground roads — which he did, endlessly.

The pool situation is either limited or seasonal, which is a miss for families traveling with kids who consider pool time a constitutional right.

Unity & Community 8/10

The community vibe at Encore Crystal Isles is warm. Our neighbors waved us in during setup, someone brought over firewood our first night, and the kids made friends before we finished leveling. The clubhouse has regular events — bingo nights, potlucks, holiday gatherings — that make you feel like part of something rather than just parking somewhere.

Territory & Location 14/15

Encore Crystal Isles benefits enormously from its location. You're within easy striking distance of real attractions — not just 'well, there's a Walmart' attractions, but places worth planning a day around. We did day trips every other day and still felt like we barely scratched the surface.

The scenery around the park itself adds to the experience. Whether you're sitting outside with your morning coffee or walking the campground roads, you're reminded why you chose this area.

Essentials & Facilities 7/10

Facilities are functional but nothing special. The bathhouse gets the job done, though 'sparkling' is not the word I'd use. Hot water was hit or miss depending on the time of day, and the laundry machines are older models that take forever. We've seen worse, but we've also seen much better at parks in this price range.

Dollars & Value 9/10

For what you get, the value is strong — especially if you're on a Thousand Trails membership where nightly cost is $0. Even at rack rates, the amenities and location justify the price. We've paid more for far less at other parks.

If you're considering a TT membership, parks like this are exactly why it pays for itself. We calculated our savings this trip alone covered two months of membership dues.

Site Tips

Request a pull-through if you have a big rig. Sites near the clubhouse tend to have better WiFi and cell signal. If you are visiting in summer, ask for a shaded site — it makes a real difference.