River Forest Haven is a 55+ mobile home community in Punta Gorda, Florida. This resident-owned cooperative provides members a direct stake in the property and its governance. With access to the Peace River watershed, it offers an active, engaged lifestyle. The cooperative structure helps foster a strong sense of community among its residents.
Community Amenities and Activities
River Forest Haven offers amenities for daily living and social connections. The community features a small, six-dock marina situated on Alligator Creek, which provides access to Charlotte Harbor and subsequently the broader Peace River system. Residents can utilize boat slips and a designated boat storage yard, making it convenient for those who enjoy boating and fishing in the local waterways. A fishing area and picnic spots are also available for outdoor enjoyment.
Beyond the waterfront, the community’s central gathering point is the Haven Hall Community Center. This facility, alongside a caged swimming pool, provides spaces for both relaxation and organized activities. Residents can engage in friendly competition on the shuffleboard courts or horseshoe pits, promoting an active and social environment. A diverse calendar of social events helps foster community bonds, including musical entertainment, dances, weekly Bingo sessions, and community picnics and barbecues. Monthly coffee hours, “Galley Gang” breakfasts, and various art classes further enrich the communal experience.
Residency and Homes
Residency at River Forest Haven operates under a resident-owned cooperative model. Instead of owning the land, residents purchase a share in the corporation that collectively owns the community’s land. This structure grants residents voting rights in community matters, allowing them to participate in decisions affecting their shared living environment.
While the land is cooperatively owned, homes are individually owned manufactured or mobile homes. The community is recognized for its well-maintained appearance, featuring neatly kept streets and landscaped areas. Residents contribute to the upkeep and amenities through a monthly maintenance fee, which covers the operational costs of the cooperative and the shared facilities.
The Punta Gorda Location
River Forest Haven is located in Punta Gorda, a city known for its Southwest Florida charm and recreational opportunities. The community is close to historic downtown Punta Gorda, offering access to dining, shops, and cultural attractions. Fisherman’s Village, a popular waterfront destination, provides additional options for shopping, dining, and entertainment, all with scenic views of the harbor.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous local parks, such as Laishley Park with its fishing pier and event lawn, or Gilchrist Park offering waterfront views and recreational courts. Access to essential services, including healthcare facilities and the Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), is readily available. The wider area is celebrated for its boating and fishing opportunities within the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor, with Gulf Coast beaches, such as Englewood Beach, typically within a 40-minute drive.