289 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near DeLand, Florida range from state parks to private resorts, with a variety of accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. Blue Spring State Park Campground and Hontoon Island State Park offer natural settings with access to crystal-clear springs and wildlife viewing opportunities. Most campgrounds in the area feature developed facilities with electric and water hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, though Hontoon Island offers a more primitive experience accessible only by boat or ferry. Several campgrounds, including Highland Park Fish Camp and Wekiva Falls RV Resort, provide cabin rentals for those seeking alternatives to traditional camping.
The Florida climate shapes the camping experience in DeLand, with year-round accessibility being a key feature of most sites. Summer brings hot, humid conditions while winter months attract manatees to the springs. According to one visitor, "Blue Springs State Park has manatees to swim alongside, particularly from November to February when the water remains a constant 72 degrees." Water-based recreation forms a central part of the camping experience, with the St. Johns River and natural springs providing opportunities for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during winter months when northern visitors seek warmer temperatures and manatee viewing peaks.
Campers consistently highlight the unique water features as standout aspects of camping in the DeLand area. The crystal-clear springs and abundant wildlife create memorable experiences, with several reviews mentioning manatee encounters as highlights. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, Hontoon Island State Park offers "a unique and rustic camping experience that is totally worth the extra effort" with supplies transported by wheelbarrow after arriving via ferry. Proximity to Blue Spring State Park is mentioned as a benefit for multiple campgrounds in the area, allowing visitors to experience the springs even when not staying directly in the park. While some locations like Orange City RV Resort provide convenient access to Interstate 4 and urban amenities, others like Highland Park Fish Camp offer more secluded settings focused on fishing and water recreation, giving campers various options depending on their preferred balance of convenience and natural immersion.
"There’s a parking lot directly adjacent to the launch and you can either rent kayaks or bring your own."
"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."
from $24 - $95 / night
Check Availability"This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida. The facilities were clean and provided showers."
"This is a typical Florida spring."
from $38 - $70 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $38 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"From the initial encounter with the ranger at the entrance to the staff running the camp store everyone was super-chill. Campground was well maintained and our neighbors were all well behaved."
"This is my favorite Florida State Park so far. Sites are small. Some are very shallow. There is plenty of greenery between sites. Camp road and sites may be difficult to maneuver into."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $40 - $73 / night
Check Availability"This is really getting away from it all. The only way to reach the island is via the ferry (free, and runs all day) or bring your own boat. There are boat docking facilities."
"Would not recommend walking with all your camping stuff). I came here for my birthday weekend last year and it was a great choice!"
"Johns River KOA in DeLand, FL is a great find for those looking for everything properly arranged for a riverfront encampment with EZ access to the frackish waters."
"Lots of permanent sites takes away from the typical campground. Staff member was nice and helpful. NO internet and phone service so spotty that hotspot was useless."
"This family run location has bee in operation for over 50 years and is working on their 4th generation! They offer 50 sites with full hookups (some 50 amp), tent sites and hot showers."
from $25 - $32 / night
Check Availability
ScoutExercise caution with this reservation. The website says pet friendly but only after you reserve the site do they make you aware of pet size limit and breed restrictions. And your reservation is not refundable.
GuideSpent two nights here again. Sept. 27th and 28th. During the day time there were a lot of Love Bugs. My camping kitty loved chasing them. At night or at sun down I was bombarded with bugs. Even if I tried to attract them to a higher light and I was in the dark, didn't help. So this time of the year, sunset = go inside.
Also, the description above is wrong.
This dispersed camping area within Ocala National Forest DOES NOT provide water hookups, restrooms, and picnic tables along with standard amenities like trash service and campfire permissions.
The campground DOES NOT maintain water availability throughout the site and DOES NOT HAVE ANY clean restroom facilities.
Other than that, I will be back.
GuideSpent two nights here again. September 27th and 28th. This is a great dispersed camping area. You only need to know your limits with soft sand. During the day there were a lot of love bugs and the water was great. As soon as the sun sets, at this time of the year the bugs were terrible. Even if you tried to attract them up in the air with a Devos light you will be bombarded. Sunset = go inside. Other than the night time bugs, it's a great place. I will be back.
GuideThis place is out nice roads getting in here as a brackish Creek great fishing boats very clean spots are spread out nicely, groomed, fire pits, and picnic tables easy access right off 95
ScoutSo far it's been great, everything works as it should, sites are private while still being open. Electric and water hookups at all sites
TravelerOver the summer we’ve stayed at many places along the east coast of Florida from campgrounds to privately own locations. Coral Sands was great, small clean and very friendly. Michelle is the one that takes care of the restrooms and she does a wonderful job. I really have nothing to complain about.
TravelerGrass is beyond high. Little dogs can get lost in the grass. Some of the pavers near the pool stairs are lifting to where you need to watch your step or it pinches your foot.
The pros- centrally located. Clean pool. Not too busy of a campground. Large places.
GuideGreat little spot, easy access to silver springs. Glass boat tour was cool - just the right amount of cruising time before little ones breaking points! Ice cream afterwards of course and good local pizza joint.
LegendDelivering a blend of riverside charm and campground convenience to the banks of the St. Johns River, St. Johns River KOA in DeLand, FL is a great find for those looking for everything properly arranged for a riverfront encampment with EZ access to the frackish waters. Located just off State Road 44, it's an easy exit from Orlando or Daytona, but once you're settled, it feels like a peaceful riverfront retreat. First impressions? Pull into a shaded site, breathe in the river air and instantly realize you've landed in a camper’s version of lakeside serenity.
This KOA pulls no punches on amenities. You'll find full RV hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water, sewer), spacious back-in and pull-through sites that fit up to 80' rigs, clean bathhouses, laundry, Wi Fi, a dog park and a center pavilion. At the water’s edge, there's a marina with boat and kayak rentals, a boat ramp and even a restaurant serving riverfront fare and weekend live music. All the staff you come into contact with here are friendly locals and a relaxed yet well-maintained environment that keeps you both entertained and relaxed. The crown jewel of this place? The Tiki Bar that sits atop John’s River Grille on-site at this location comes with just one rule: don’t show up late for the Happy Hour sundowning sessions!
Where this KOA shines is on the water. The St. Johns River is full of life, so expect to see manatees, turtles, great blue herons and even gators. Kayaking or paddling right from the campground is a breeze, and guided tours offer a closer look at local wildlife and quiet stretches of river. And when you want to stretch beyond the river, historic downtown DeLand, De Leon Springs State Park and the Ocala National Forest are all within easy reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) River-view pull-through sites are prime real estate for sunrises and quick water access, so book early for the best sites; (2) Kayak or paddle launch right from the boat ramp for ideal for wildlife spotting and scenic calm; (3) Guided river cruises (available on-site) unlock insider encounters with manatees and osprey at low cost; (4) Prefer quiet? Request a site farther from the pool and marina because foot traffic can rise near those areas; (5) Bugs gather at sunset, so bring repellent for riverside evenings; and (6) Nearby dining options include Shady Oak Restaurant (you could walk to from St. Johns River KOA), Gator Bites, Emmy’s Time Out Tavern for an old school supper club menu or Hyder Head Brewery for locally brewed hops and Haggis.
Happy Camping!
DeLand, Florida camping destinations offer varied terrain within the subtropical climate zone. Average temperatures range from 50°F in winter to 90°F in summer with humidity often exceeding 80%. The surrounding area sits at approximately 36 feet above sea level, creating excellent drainage at most campgrounds even during Florida's frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
Paddle the St. Johns River: Hontoon Island State Park Campground provides easy river access for kayakers. "You can rent a pontoon boat, bass boat for a half or full day and explore the rivers and lakes connected to the camp. Freshwater fishing anywhere along here is just amazing! Lots of wildlife including manatee, shorebirds, bears and more can be seen," notes a reviewer at Highland Park Fish Camp.
Hike through nature preserves: Several campgrounds offer hiking trails through varied ecosystems. "We spent three nights and loved it! Yes it rained most of the time but our site never flooded!! Such a nice view of the sunset from where we were. Saw lots of animals. Everyone was very nice!" shares a camper from Tomoka State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Cast your line at Clearwater Lake Campground where the fishing is productive. "Caught a nice sized shoal bass at sunset from the shore," reports one visitor, adding that the "lake is dope and facilities are well maintained."
Natural swimming areas: Campers consistently mention swimming as a highlight at Alexander Springs Recreation Area. "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," reports one visitor. Another adds that "the springs are amazing. Camping facilities are nice."
Wildlife viewing: Many visitors come specifically for animal encounters. At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, campers report extensive wildlife sightings: "We're staying at the family campground as the primitive was full, so word of advice, book well in advance. Beautiful place love the springs!! Hoping to see some Florida native black bears fingers crossed..."
Campsites with privacy: While site layouts vary between parks, many offer vegetation buffers. "The sites were all spacious and well kept. All other faculties were clean and well maintained. The Springs were incredible with a large ripped off area for swimmers," notes a camper at Alexander Springs Recreation Area.
Reservation timing matters: The most popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during winter. "Book well in advance," advises one camper at Wekiwa Springs State Park. For Blue Spring State Park Campground, a reviewer notes, "What I love most about camping here at Blue Springs SP is that during heavier tourist season, a reservation will guarantee you access to the spring, which sometimes gets full."
Water quality varies: Some springs have natural mineral content. At Wekiva Falls RV Resort, campers mention "the water smelled like sulfur. Kids still had a blast."
Accessibility considerations: Many campgrounds offer accessible options. "Being handicapped, the springs were a mile from the campground, which is a problem for people having difficulty walking... once we got there, Jane, one of the park rangers informed us about the ramp for wheelchairs, and a lift into the water!"
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in DeLand, FL for tent camping?
Alexander Springs Recreation Area offers excellent tent camping with large sites that can accommodate multiple tents. Located in beautiful Ocala National Forest, it provides clean shower facilities and access to natural springs. Highland Park Fish Camp is another good option for tent campers near DeLand, offering waterfront sites with easy access for fishing enthusiasts. For a unique experience, tent campers might consider Hontoon Island State Park, accessible only by boat or ferry, providing a more secluded camping atmosphere with primitive sites nestled among Florida's natural landscape.
How much does it cost to stay at campgrounds in DeLand, FL?
Camping costs around DeLand vary by amenities and location. Blue Spring State Park Campground charges approximately $24-28 per night for sites that can accommodate both small RVs and tents with water and electric hookups. For a more rustic experience, Hontoon Island State Park Campground offers more affordable primitive sites around $18 per night. Commercial RV parks like Holiday Travel Park typically range from $45-75 nightly depending on season, with monthly rates available. Many campgrounds also charge a reservation fee ($6.70 for state parks) and some have day-use fees ($6 per vehicle) separate from camping costs.
What RV parks and campgrounds are available in DeLand, Florida?
DeLand and the surrounding area offer several options for RV enthusiasts. International RV Park & Campground is conveniently located for travelers, providing standard hookups and basic amenities. For a more scenic experience, Salt Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest (within driving distance of DeLand) offers over 150 sites with 50-amp service, water, and sewer hookups. Other options include Lake Monroe Park with big-rig-friendly sites, and for those seeking oceanfront camping, Coral Sands RV Resort provides beachfront access less than an hour from DeLand with full hookups and amenities like an oceanfront pool.
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