Camping near Bunnell, Florida offers year-round access to both freshwater and saltwater recreational activities, with most sites situated between 20-50 feet above sea level. The area's sandy soil conditions create level campsites in most locations, though drainage can be problematic after heavy rainfall. Sites throughout Flagler County typically experience minimal temperature variations between day and night compared to inland camping locations.
What to do
Kayaking at Tomoka State Park: Just 20 minutes from Bunnell, paddlers can rent equipment directly at the outpost. "You can rent kayaks and canoes via the outpost. The sites are private but not far from the neighboring sites. I recommend bringing a bike to get around. The walk from the campsite to the outpost/water can be a trek without one," shares Kelly R. from Tomoka State Park.
Swimming in natural springs: Salt Springs Recreation Area offers crystal-clear 72-degree water perfect for cooling off on hot Florida days. "The campground has large spots and are easy to back into. There was no reservation required. The spring is a short walk from the campground or a quick bike ride," notes Miranda R. from Salt Springs.
Beach exploration: Multiple campsites offer Atlantic Ocean access. "We were only able to reserve one night but we were on the beach side, and the beach is gorgeous. We fell asleep listening to the waves crash! The sites are small and really close together," reports Maria I. about Gamble Rogers beachside camping.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Many Bunnell-area campgrounds feature natural vegetation barriers between sites. "The sites had good separation from the neighboring sites and was level. The campground was mostly quiet. There are a couple of small trails right in the campground to see the Halifax River," explains Denise from Tomoka State Park.
Water access: Faver-Dykes State Park provides boating opportunities away from more crowded locations. "Nice place! Has a great drive in. Plenty of wild life. Has a great 2.6 mile trail. Very secluded and quiet. Watch out for those no see'ms," mentions Bryan in his review.
Riverside camping options: Alternative water views beyond oceanfront sites appeal to many campers. "Got lucky with a riverside spot last minute! Pet-friendly, two campground areas - one beachside and one riverside. The park rangers/campground check-in were super friendly. Bathroom was spectacularly clean," writes Alyssa D. about Riverside Camping at Gamble Rogers.
What you should know
Campsite availability challenges: The most desirable locations fill quickly, especially during winter. "This place is great and hard to schedule. We have tried a few times and finally got in. Travelled from Arizona and wanted a place on the beach. This was it and they had an opening. Limited camp sites on beach side," notes Corey L. about Gamble Rogers.
Insect considerations: Several campgrounds report seasonal bug issues. At Faver-Dykes, campers recommend "bug spray. The bugs were quite annoying and we returned with quite a few ticks," according to Kathy G. Similarly, Rusty R. advises about Gamble Rogers: "It was a good time camping and enjoying the sites to see. At night if sleeping in a tent make sure your tent doesn't let in the no see ems. It made for a long night."
Rustic amenities at some locations: Not all campgrounds provide full hookups. At Juniper Springs Recreation Area, Lisa O. notes, "This campground charges more for sites than the state campgrounds which actually offer water and electricity. The nearest grocery store was a good 14 minutes away so come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Family-friendly swimming spots: The natural springs around Bunnell provide safe swimming environments. "The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles. Very sunny during the day and very cool at nigth," shares Marisol R. about Juniper Springs.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Many parks have paved paths ideal for children. At Tomoka State Park, campers report: "Sites were plenty big enough. Bathrooms were clean. Park had places to ride bikes. Had a nice camp store that had just about anything you could need on a camping trip."
Pet-friendly beaches: Not all waterfront areas permit dogs. "If you are a pet owner and looking for a dog beach (most beaches in FL don't allow dogs), Flagler Beach is a short drive from the campground," advises Denise from her Tomoka State Park stay.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for oceanfront camping: At Beverly Beach Camptown RV Resort, site choice is critical. "This is a no thrills over priced campground on the beach. We did not have a spot on the beach (across the street) but a very short walk. The spots are very close to each other and the power pedestal is a plug only (no breaker)," explains Bill B.
Local fishing spots: Bull Creek Campground provides unique angling opportunities. "Words can't express how much we enjoy our time at the place. The grounds are as good as it gets. The only draw back is the water is not potable but we bring bottled water. The lake and tributaries are beautiful and definitely describes old Florida," notes Bill T.
RV pad surface considerations: Site conditions vary throughout the region. "Wide open camping area, no buffers between people. but full hook ups and decent bathrooms," says Nate D. about Salt Springs, while at Faver-Dykes State Park, Annell N. reports, "Our site (28) was loose sand," which can affect leveling and stabilization.
