Best Campgrounds near Lake Mary, FL

State parks and natural springs dominate the camping landscape within 30 miles of Lake Mary, Florida. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offers wooded sites with access to crystal-clear spring waters, while Blue Spring State Park provides similar amenities with the added benefit of manatee viewing during winter months. The region includes a mix of county-managed facilities like Magnolia Park Campground and Lake Monroe Park alongside private RV resorts such as Wekiva Falls. Most campgrounds in the area feature water access, with swimming, kayaking, and fishing opportunities available at nearly all locations. Tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and those seeking cabin accommodations can all find suitable options within a short drive.

Reservations are essential during winter months when snowbirds and manatee-viewers converge on the area's campgrounds. Most state park campgrounds maintain consistent occupancy year-round, with weekends requiring bookings 2-3 months in advance. Summer brings intense heat and afternoon thunderstorms, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons for many visitors. As one camper noted, "The campgrounds are nicely wooded and provide a ton of much-needed shade from the Florida sun." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with one reviewer mentioning, "I brought my T-Mobile home router and had plenty of signal to work, stream, etc." Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be problematic, particularly near water features during warmer months.

Natural springs represent the primary attraction for campers in the Lake Mary area. Several visitors highlight the 72-74 degree spring waters as perfect for swimming year-round. Clearwater Lake Campground in the nearby Ocala National Forest receives consistently high ratings for its well-shaded, private sites and excellent water visibility. Site spacing varies considerably between campgrounds, with some visitors noting proximity concerns at busier locations. According to one camper at Wekiwa Springs, "The sites did seem rather close to those around us... the group next to us was getting a little loud and it definitely made it seem less secluded." Wildlife viewing opportunities include alligators, various bird species, and occasional manatee sightings at certain springs during winter months.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Mary, Florida (285)

    1. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Apopka, FL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 553-4383

    "Close to home and took a drive through one day. Haven't been camping yet this year due to illness but getting ready to get on the road."

    "We camp a lot during the summer but since this is Florida it's HOT regularly and sizzling during the summer months."

    2. Blue Spring State Park Campground

    45 Reviews
    Orange City, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 775-3663

    $24 - $95 / night

    "Not a ton of hiking available here but a decent 3.5 mile one way trail through Florida scrub and oak hammock. The rare and endangered Florida Scrub Jay can be found here."

    "It was still very hot and buggy in Florida so be warned If this is an issue for you. Large campsites with a picnic table, electric, and water."

    3. Wekiva Falls RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Mid Florida, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 269-6839

    $40 - $73 / night

    "There are beautiful walking trails, beautiful and refreshing cool springs, kayak rentals for $20. There are also some small caves there for anyone who free dives or snorkels."

    "I have steps that will not allow us to close the door to the camper if there is not enough room. See second picture. If you have young ones or teenagers this place gives them lots to do."

    4. Lake Monroe Park

    15 Reviews
    DeBary, FL
    6 miles
    Website

    $15 / night

    "Had water and electric hook up and the near by walking trail was absolutely awesome. The staff could not have been more helpful. Next time I’m visiting family in Florida, I will definitely stay here"

    "Small grounds, beautiful lake that allows fishing and boating. Sites are very close to each other, good for making friends, not good if you like your privacy. Drive up right next to your site."

    5. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    129 Reviews
    Windermere, FL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 939-2267

    $56 - $201 / night

    "Big park so lots of walking if you don’t have the cart (or you can bring your own and/or bikes).  Our grandsons loved the golf cart!"

    "The best campground in Florida ! Fun beautiful and lots to do even without going to the parks Wildlife is abundant Bunnies deer turkey"

    6. Kelly Park Campground

    12 Reviews
    Apopka, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 254-1902

    $15 - $18 / night

    "We had a tent site near the bathhouse. The bath house is very nice and clean. The sites are all pretty much shaded."

    "There is access to the park springs area, which is the main draw for the public. This is a beautiful area so bring the camera."

    7. Magnolia Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Clarcona, FL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 886-4231

    "While located a bit off the beaten path in a part of Florida that few find themselves in, Magnolia Park Campground, featuring 56 acres of pristine Florida wilderness, is located on an elbow curve where"

    "You can hear a small amount of highway traffic in the distance, but totally tolerable. No pull thru sites. We stayed in site #8 and could barely see the neighbor next to us thru the trees/brush."

    8. Clearwater Lake Campground

    23 Reviews
    Paisley, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 669-0078

    $37 / night

    "Clearwater Lake Recreation is one of the few National Forest Service managed campgrounds located at the southern end of Ocala National Forest. Campsites are well-shaded, private and spaced apart."

    "Clearwater Lake Recreation Area was recommended to us as a backup option to nearby and popular Alexander Springs for our small group of scouts."

    9. Trimble Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Mount Dora, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 254-1982

    "Just a note of caution: Keep animals away from the water's edge."

    "I stayed in site 11 that was positioned so I had a magnificent view of the lake and the little gator that lived at the waters edge."

    10. Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites

    6 Reviews
    DeBary, FL
    10 miles
    +1 (352) 360-6675

    $9 - $18 / night

    "This site is in a really pretty oak canopy, situated next to an open field. This is the only site in Seminole State Forest with a latrine."

    "This is a really nice spot situated between the spring and Blackwater Creek. The site is 100 yards down a path from where you park. It's a great spot if you want to paddle the creek."

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Recent Reviews near Lake Mary, FL

1310 Reviews of 285 Lake Mary Campgrounds


  • Alex L.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Tomoka State Park Campground

    Beautiful but noisy

    Stayed in site 69. Bugs were decent honestly. Temps were very warm. Bathroom closed (only found out after check in) but campground is small so not too long of a walk. Road noise is moderate and some sites are very close together but others do a good job of having a barrier. There is plenty nearby in terms of hiking and kayaking.

  • ENRIQUE T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Wonderful Summer Spot

    Friendly and professional hostesses, clean bathrooms and sites are very spacious and private. The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable. Just watch for coons stealing your food.

  • Nicole W.
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Encore Sherwood Forest

    Tent camping spring trip

    I booked this for a first time car camping with my 4 year old. The tent spots are ok just placed on corner spots with traffic. The spot I got was close to restroom with kids is a must if you don’t have other options. Front people were nice and tried to help. Got rained out of my check out time. Had to extend check out.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Bass World Lodge & Marina

    Backwater Bayou Fishing Hole

    Located so close to the St. Johns River that if you were any closer to it, you’d be swimming in it! For those anglers that are looking for no frills accommodations – whether those be from the confines of your own RV or 5th Wheel… or in the event that you need to rent a place for the night – then Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up one of the 4-5 RV slots it has or by renting you one of its basic cabin rentals (up to 10 people can be accommodated). Fishing is coveted in these parts that will place you on the northernmost tip of Lake George in the very itty bitty enclave of Georgetown, which if you want to discover what Old Florida looks like, then just stop on by here for a spell.

    Given the weather conditions in this part of Central Florida, you can check-in to Bass World Lodge & Marina year-round and within minutes of getting set up, you’ll easily have access to the St. Johns in no time by leveraging one of 2 boathouses that sit adjacent to the property here. If you’ve got angling on your mind, you’ll have no problems casting for big- and small-mouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, pickerel, bluegill, lake trout, landlocked salmon, yellow perch, bluegill, panfish, northern pike and even American eel. While on the lake, you can enjoy all sorts of watersports like waterskiing, tubing, paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding, canoeing, boating and even gator hunting (permit required).

    Amenities include: 2 individual boat houses, fish cleaning stations complete with running water, boat slips for rent, non-ethanol fuel, FHU’s offering water, sewage & electric, bait & tackle, community grills, makeshift car rim fire pits, fish cleaning stations, lakefront seats & benches, fishing pier, boat docking, boat rentals, scattered card tables, assorted dock seating and on-site market with souvenirs, cold beverages, beer, ice, snacks and all the fishing gear you can swing your fishing pole at. There’s even a guide you can hire here to show you around the nearby fishing holes.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While brackish, somewhat darker-than-usual waters makes for just mediocre (at best) swimming accommodations, you’re in luck if coming here as nearby, there are gorgeous springs like Silver Springs, Juniper Springs and Alexander Springs, which all 3 will offer crystal-clear snorkeling and swimming options unlike you’ve ever experienced; (2) Because Georgetown is tiny, there’s barely any restaurant options, although we were able to find nearby a few really good spots like Idle Awhile for Cajun Fried Pickles & Blackened Haddock chased down by Rum Runners, Fatboy’s Saloon for Peel & Eat Shrimp, Hawg Burners with iced Tall Boys and Renegades on the River serving up Gator Tail and the best Shepherd’s Pie on the St. Johns – all within reach of a proper Tiki Bar where the Mai Tais pour freely; (3) This RV outpost on the St. Johns River has been up and running by the same family for 3 decades, so when it comes to knowledge of where to cast your line or how to get to a secluded area and away from the crowds, you can ask any one of the family here for some spartan tips and recommendations; (4) IMHO the best RV spots are those closest to the inside loop (#6 and #7), while if you are wanting to rent a cabin, I actually rate those a bit further away from the main office / riverfront, where it is quietest (#3 - #5); and (5) If you’ve come without a boat to get on the water, no worries, Bass World Lodge & Marina has you covered by offering up Pontoon and Bass Boat rentals, which at $175 - $315 per day is incredibly affordable.

    Happy Camping!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    Great spot

    Very narrow trails but really easy access, you will leave with some new pinstripes

  • L
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Orlando/Kissimmee KOA

    Nice child friendly campground

    Very Friendly staff. Several activities possible for children eg pool, skating jumping etc. Late arrival possible. Good WiFi and laundry facilities and even a gym. Very close to Disney world and to restaurants or supermarkets.


Guide to Lake Mary

Camping near Lake Mary, Florida, offers a mix of fun activities and beautiful nature. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Explore the springs: Visit the stunning Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground for hiking and swimming. One camper mentioned, "The trails are absolutely gorgeous. Natural palms growing among tall pines."
  • Kayaking and canoeing: Head to Tomoka State Park Campground for kayaking adventures. A reviewer noted, "Whether you like to get on the water in a kayak, canoe or fishing boat, you are in for a treat here."
  • Wildlife watching: At Blue Spring State Park Campground, you can see manatees in the spring. One visitor shared, "This beautiful state park has a secluded old Florida feel."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Lake Louisa State Park Campground said, "The shower facilities are recently remodeled and impeccable."
  • Friendly staff: Many campers rave about the helpful staff. At Silver Springs State Park Campground, a visitor mentioned, "The park staff we interacted with were very friendly and informative."
  • Privacy between sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of the sites. A review for Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground highlighted, "There’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Alexander Springs Recreation Area, lack electric and water hookups. A camper noted, "For the price, no electric or water hookups and the facilities were not well maintained."
  • Noise levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially during busy weekends. A review for Juniper Springs Recreation Area mentioned, "Over Thanksgiving weekend it got pretty noisy due to one large multi-site group."
  • Reservations recommended: Popular spots like Jetty Park Campground can fill up quickly. A visitor advised, "If you find yourself out-of-luck in finding an available campground site to reserve, try your luck at booking one of the cabins."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and swimming areas. At Lake Louisa State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "There’s a playground and a small beach to put your feet into water."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check out nearby restaurants. A review for Salt Springs Recreation Area suggested, "The pizza place across the street was really good."
  • Pack for comfort: Bring extra blankets and layers, as temperatures can drop at night. A camper at Juniper Springs Recreation Area noted, "Got surprisingly cold when I visited."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Tomoka State Park Campground mentioned, "Most sites are exceptionally private, especially those found on the outside of the loop."
  • Use a leveling system: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A visitor at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground said, "The sites were big, clear and clean."
  • Plan for dump stations: Know where the nearest dump stations are located. A camper at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "Cell service was good, and the campground is about a mile from the Springs."

Camping around Lake Mary, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV parks or camping facilities near Lake Mary?

Yes, several RV-friendly options exist near Lake Mary. Holiday Travel Park is conveniently located off I-95 and caters to fifth wheels and larger RVs. For overnight parking, Cracker Barrel — Sanford is just 25 minutes north of Orlando and provides a convenient stopping point. International RV Park & Campground is another option in the vicinity that accommodates RVs of various sizes.

How far is Lake Mary camping from Daytona Beach?

Lake Mary is approximately 45-50 miles from Daytona Beach, making it about a 45-60 minute drive depending on traffic conditions. If you're looking to enjoy both areas, Coral Sands RV Resort offers beachfront camping in Daytona Beach with vintage Florida charm, clean facilities, and an oceanfront pool. Another option for those traveling along I-95 is Cracker Barrel — Titusville, which provides convenient overnight parking for those making the journey between Lake Mary and the coast.

What campgrounds are available at Lake Mary?

While there aren't campgrounds directly on Lake Mary itself, several excellent options are available in the surrounding area. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground offers wooded sites with plenty of shade and is relatively close to Lake Mary. For those seeking a quiet experience, Moss Park Campground provides spacious sites with fire rings set back from the camping area. Both locations offer clean facilities and make great base camps for exploring the Lake Mary region.