Camping near Cassadaga, Florida offers primitive sites and cabins within a 30-mile radius of this small spiritualist community. The area sits at an elevation of approximately 33 feet above sea level in central Florida's freshwater lake region, where summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F. Several campgrounds in the vicinity don't require reservations during weekdays in warmer months, though weekend and winter availability can be limited.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: Hontoon Island State Park Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities on the St. Johns River. "We've rented pontoons at Hontoon at least a half dozen times and done the circle from there to Blue Springs, then to Dead River & back to Hontoon. Plenty of gators, BIRDS, turtles, MANATEES, bountiful green scenery," notes Rebecca E.
Hiking trails: Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground features multiple trail options for day hikes. "Wekiwa was an amazing place to camp and spend our weekend. The park offers hiking, biking, day swimming, a food grill, a canoe/kayak launch and rental, plus tons of wildlife!" shares Jenn B.
Fishing: Highland Park Fish Camp provides access to some of the best freshwater fishing in the region. "There is a free catch and release pond that is kept well stocked and a great place for the kids or beginners to learn how to fish," explains Jeanene A., adding that "freshwater fishing anywhere along here is just amazing!"
Wildlife viewing: Visiting during cooler months increases chances of manatee sightings. "During the winter you may not be able to swim because of the manatees," explains Zach G. about Blue Spring State Park, while another camper notes, "We went to the swimming hole, and there were five manatees there. We were told not to touch them, but one brushed against her leg!"
What campers like
Natural spring swimming: Alexander Springs Recreation Area features one of the largest spring swimming areas in central Florida. "The spring head is located right in the swimming area, it's bigger than any swim area at a spring that I have ever been too," shares Gabby C., who adds, "The sites were pretty big as well, no water or electric, but every couple sites there was a drinking water fill up station."
Privacy between sites: Tomoka State Park Campground offers well-separated campsites. "I like all the vegetation around the campsite which gives you a little privacy. The ground is level and it includes a fire pit and picnic table," notes Nelson G.
Clean facilities: Campground restrooms in the area are typically well maintained. "The bathhouse was clean and adequate. No neighbors, so provided the seclusion the wife and I were looking for," says Joshua W. about Alexander Springs. Similarly, at Clearwater Lake Campground, Kevin D. mentions, "Restrooms and showers were great along with the dishwashing station."
Boat access: Lake Monroe Park provides convenient water access for boats. "Small park with boat ramp, playground, and bike trails connecting to Gemini Springs," notes Diana F. Another camper adds, "This was perfect for one night in a camper van or RV. The sites were spacious and somewhat private from your close neighborhoods."
What you should know
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. At Lake Monroe Park, Chelsea R. explains, "Pretty quite in the distance you can hear the power plant but not as bad as I thought it would be it's a muffled noise so if you got tv or ear plugs you are in real good shape!"
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be spotty in many campgrounds. At Highland Park Fish Camp, one camper reports, "NO internet and phone service so spotty that hotspot was useless."
Crowding at springs: Clearwater Lake Campground offers a less crowded alternative to popular springs. "Let's keep this our secret. The staff was awesome, the grounds are very well taken care of, restrooms are clean and most of the camp sites and secluded from other guests," writes Mike G.
Wildlife precautions: Bears are active in some campgrounds. "It is an active area for bears so make sure not to leave any food out at night. The campground does have a bear proof box to store some stuff in at night but make sure to put food in containers and in your car if you can," advises Kevin D.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Many local springs maintain consistent 72-degree water temperatures year-round. "We spent three nights! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were. Saw lost of animals. Everyone was very nice!" shares Caitlyn P. about her experience at Wekiwa Springs.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Great place to camp and very friendly and helpful staff only issue was port cell service, but it was expected to be out there," notes John L. about Highland Park Fish Camp, which also features a stocked fishing pond perfect for young anglers.
Transportation considerations: At Hontoon Island State Park, prepare for the logistics of getting to your site. "All camping supplies must be brought over by boat in wheelbarrows provides by the parks services. Once on the island there is a small store where you can buy firewood and any miscellaneous items you might have forgotten then catch one of the free shuttle vans that takes you out to the actual campsite," explains Megan K.
Timing visits: For better wildlife viewing with fewer crowds, plan carefully. "Avoid weekends & holidays if possible during manatee in the springs season, it gets REALLY crowded," advises Rebecca E., while Hannah S. adds, "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Wekiva Falls RV Resort offers full hookups but can be crowded. "The premium side (for a few more dollars) has larger sites and a store. There's a few trailers that look like full timers," notes Calvert F., adding that "the springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind."
Site selection: At Tomoka State Park, tree placement can impact your setup. "The only other issue is our site (#2) has a large oak tree in the middle that prevents us from opening the awning," warns Nelson G.
Dump station access: Most parks offer dump stations, though locations vary. "Had electric and water but trash is upon exit along with dump station. Nice paved road around campground and short trail to main park area," explains Emily C. about Blue Spring State Park.
Weather preparation: Florida's frequent summer storms can impact camping conditions. "The campground was quiet and the restrooms fairly clean. However, a weekday is best to visit the spring and river. On the weekend there were tons of people in the park," notes Jenn B.
