The tent camping options near Bunnell, Florida occupy a unique geographic position with proximity to both freshwater and brackish ecosystems. Located in Flagler County where the elevation averages just 16 feet above sea level, these camping areas experience mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 50°F. Winter camping season from November through March offers the most comfortable conditions with significantly fewer mosquitoes than summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area, campers can access fishing spots along tributaries flowing from St. Johns River. "Located just due south of tributaries flowing eastward from St. Johns River and Rodman Dam," notes Stuart K., making it ideal for anglers seeking freshwater species.
Kayaking from your campsite: Several sites at Princess Place Preserve - Moody Campground offer direct water access. As Louis B. explains, "The camp sites are huge. The tent sites are elevated which should help keep the soil dryer in case of rain." This elevation feature makes launching watercraft particularly convenient after rain.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple trails through Matanzas State Forest provide opportunities to spot native species. One camper described their experience: "If you love getting on the trails as much as I do, you'll want to keep quiet in order to allow for nature to come out and take a peak at you – I took an amazing video with a doe and her fawn peacefully eating shrubbery!"
Historical tours: Princess Place Preserve offers tours of historic buildings when available. According to Aida K., "The Ranger who was working when we were there was really helpful. He gave us a private tour of the historic buildings because no tour was scheduled during our stay."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent camping areas near Bunnell feature well-spaced sites. At Moody Campground, "Sites are huge. The tent sites are elevated which should help keep the soil dryer in case of rain," according to Louis B.
Star gazing opportunities: The remote location of Cedar Creek Campground — Matanzas State Forest creates excellent night sky viewing. Gary G. notes, "Amazing stars -- great view of incredible moon. As one of the other commenters wrote --- its amazing you are 10 minutes from a major highway yet feel like you are 1000 miles from anywhere."
Water access: Campers appreciate the proximity to various waterways. Taylor at Princess Place Preserve shares, "You'll see from the photos (all taken from my site) that the sites are expansive and beautifully shaded. I stayed in equestrian site 1 (EQ1) and was amazed by how much space there was and how far we were from others."
Natural shade: The ancient oaks with Spanish moss create natural cooling. Katie M. described her experience at Princess Place: "The peace and serenity that Princess Place provided was the perfect ending to this road trip."
What you should know
Water availability challenges: Many campgrounds near Bunnell require campers to bring their own potable water. At Princess Place Preserve, Louis B. advises, "Keep in mind that there is no water available at the camping sites or the entire park for that matter. Potable or non potable so you have to bring in all drinking water and water for washing dishes."
Weather considerations: Winter camping (November-March) provides the most comfortable experience with fewer insects. As one camper at Freak Creek Dispersed Camping notes, "It's super secluded and quiet. Depending when you stay there's at times people who show up to party and then leave."
Access challenges: Some campsites require specific vehicles or preparation. Hilary G. warns about Freak Creek: "The main road in has huge deep ruts, the other road has a water crossing that was over my bumper on my lifted Mojave... If you don't have 4wd and recovery gear I wouldn't risk it."
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom options vary widely between campgrounds. Aida K. notes at Princess Place Preserve, "It is primitive camping. Water is non potable so bring plenty. You are allowed to gather wood if it has fallen, however it's a good idea to buy some locally as none is sold by the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly option: For families new to tent camping in Bunnell, consider Haw Creek Preserve State Park. Stuart K. notes, "Unlike many other primitive campground sites, this particular spot is somewhat easy to access – in that there's a perfectly fabricated wooden plank pathway to follow... whatever you typically plan to HAUL to your primitive campsite, here, rest assured, you can pull with a wagon or hand-trailer."
Wildlife education: Turn wildlife sightings into learning opportunities. At Princess Place Preserve, Taylor mentions, "We saw deer more frequently than we saw other humans lol. My dog & I were truly at peace here!"
Space for active kids: Choose sites with ample room for play. Angie A. at Moody Campground shares, "Sites are well spaced with a lot of well cared for nature park areas between. Moody sites are all on the water. Beautiful! Lots of palm trees to provide shade."
Rain shelter options: For unpredictable weather, Stuart K. notes that Haw Creek Preserve offers "a single-standing lodge that features a promenade with a single picnic table, and further inside, a fairly wide open picnic area... offering up a single deck opposite of which, you'll find a restroom and shower facility."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: For small RVs, Lake Delancy East NF Campground offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. As Daniel S. explains, "Very Primitive grounds, No electric or running water, but not a lot of crowds. Want electric bring generator."
Power options: Most tent camping areas near Bunnell lack hookups. At Lake Delancy East, campers note, "$10 nightly fee for a campsite with restrooms close by, honor system payment method (e.g. cash only)."
Route planning: Access roads to many campgrounds can be challenging. Haley L. advises about Matanzas State Forest, "Took some rough dirt roads to get to this campsite. If you value peace and quiet you will love this campsite."
Water management: RVers should plan to bring all needed water. As one reviewer notes about Princess Place Preserve, "The water provided is non-potable," making it unsuitable for drinking or cooking.
