DeBary, Florida provides access to several mixed-use campgrounds within a 30-minute radius of the city. Lake Monroe Park, located directly in DeBary along the St. Johns River, offers both tent and RV sites with water and electric hookups. The surrounding area features several state parks and recreation areas including Blue Spring State Park, Wekiwa Springs State Park, and Hontoon Island State Park, all offering diverse camping options including cabins. Several campgrounds near DeBary accommodate a mix of tent, RV, and cabin camping with varying levels of amenities and hook-up options.
Reservations are strongly recommended for most developed campgrounds in the region, particularly during winter months when manatee viewing season attracts visitors. "Campground sites feel secluded with vegetation but can be challenging for backing up into spots," noted one visitor about Blue Spring State Park. Most campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, with some offering sewer connections for RVs. Travelers should be aware of noise considerations, as several reviews mention train and highway sounds affecting certain campgrounds, particularly at Lake Monroe Park where industrial facilities and railway lines are nearby. The subtropical climate allows for year-round camping, though summer months bring heat, humidity, and occasional afternoon thunderstorms.
Many campers highlight the region's water features as primary attractions. The St. Johns River provides boating access at several campgrounds, while Blue Spring State Park attracts visitors seeking manatee sightings during cooler months. One reviewer emphasized that "cooler temps best for manatee numbers" when planning a visit. Campground experience varies significantly across the region, with some sites offering shaded, private spots while others feature more open layouts. Several visitors commented on the convenient access to hiking and biking trails, particularly at Lake Monroe Park which connects to regional trail networks. Wildlife viewing opportunities represent another common theme in camper feedback, with multiple campgrounds providing access to natural springs, river ecosystems, and associated wildlife habitats that characterize central Florida's unique landscape.
$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."
$24 / night
"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."
$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."
$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."
$38 / 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."
$38 - $70 / night
"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."
$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."
$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."
"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!"
$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"
GuideThe family stayed there in December. It was a great way to save money while still staying in Disney! Also, we went right before Christmas, so everyone who regularly comes at this time of year, had over the top decorations in their camping areas. It was so fun and the family wants to come back!
GuideEasy access RV park close to parks and drivable for events at the Orange County Event Center. Some reviews mentioned bikes being stolen. I put a lock cable through my outside things to be safe, but never saw any signs of anything that made me concerned. Clean pool, facilities, and park. Great service provided by the hosts. I’ll be back anytime I’m in Orlando for work.
ScoutA two day trip to be with a visit to Lake Ridge winery for a jazz and blues festival. Accommodations were as expected only thing really missing would be a picnic table and possibly a fire pit, most of the RV sites drive-through are in the front of the complex. The pool and walking area seemed very, very nice and the people were very pleasant and accommodating, and very helpful.
ScoutWe come here often. Most sites are shady. Clean shower houses. Recently paved the access road, but the campground itself is hard pack. Plenty of sand to get into everything. We are Teardrop, but see all size rigs here. Dump station currently not available.
ScoutWe stayed for 10 days and really liked the park. The pool was one of best most relaxing pools we used during our 6 weeks in FL. The park has a lot of activities and they even had a pool party while we were there with a wonderful band. The grounds appear to be well maintained and staff was friendly. Has a large dog park with a faucet in the park to wash the bowl out and get clean fresh water for the dogs. Several dog walk areas with waste bags and disposal. Very scenic areas that we enjoyed walking around. The only draw back is the site's are small. They are tight pulling out but take it slow and no issues. Some are smaller than others. The site behind us, their concrete sitting area was right at the back of our RV, the patch of grass between us was 3" wide at most. But as long as you have good neighbors it's not a big deal. We had both during the course of our stay. But that's part of camping. Only part of the sites have concrete parking pads. I think all had concrete sitting/grilling space.
GuideSpacious shady sites that offer good privacy are readily available here! Some low hanging overhead branches may cause an issue for larger rigs but I had no problem at 12 feet high. Rustic camping with very clean vault toilets, bear-secure trash bins,water spigots scattered throughout the campground and a dump station with non-portable and portable water right there. A meandering and scenic 30 mile drive off of I 75 definitely takes you off the beaten trail, though there is a bit of road noise that can be heard but not seen from the campground.
GuideChecked in yesterday and pulled up to a full park. Check in was easy at the front gate . Site 1 is tight for our 29' Class A and it took some blocking to get level. Right rear corner of the lot sits high but not terrible. We took a walk down a trail behind the campground to the springs parking lot and took the campground path back. I will update more as the week goes on. Walked down to the spring and shared videos. No manatees today but I am sure we will see some before the weeks end. Tuesday walk to the spring. Saw two Manatees. Videos loaded here. Cool rainy day had them come back up into the spring. 3 more Manatees today. rained everyday so far but got to see more Manatees. Campground is very quiet except for a rail line that runs just outside the park. 45 minutes from Daytona or Orlando. we have been here since Saturday evening and it in now Thursday.
GuideDelete night day with a nice spring. The website looks nice and clean for every size. But we have a small sprinter we didn’t need any water or electricity So we stayed in the tent area, which is much more nature. And the space in between camps are huge
TravelerStayed just one night on March. Great tent sites and mostly private. Facilities are clean with showers. Water and power at the site. Beautiful walks and lakes, Lots of birds and rabbits.
Only issue was the early morning traffic on the nearby highway (#27) was noisy.
Camping spots near DeBary, Florida range from riverside settings to natural springs within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at a low elevation of 33-36 feet above sea level, creating a wetland-rich environment where campers can access both the St. Johns River system and multiple freshwater springs. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter brings milder 70°F days that coincide with peak manatee viewing season.
Paddle the waterways: Both beginners and experienced kayakers can explore from Hontoon Island State Park, accessible only by boat or ferry. "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 one camper.
Hike forest trails: Seminole State Forest offers primitive campsites with hiking access. "This is a good place to come to see the stars! Jumper camp is a primitive area with a picnic table and a fire ring. Great for large groups or a backpacker," says a visitor, but adds an important safety note: "One thing to remember is this is a hunting area so pay close attention to the hunting schedule!"
Swim in natural springs: Multiple campgrounds provide swimming opportunities in 72°F crystal-clear spring water. 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 camper. Another mentions being "surprised with an albino squirrel sighting as an added bonus."
Natural spring access: Many campers prioritize proximity to springs for recreation. At Clearwater Lake Campground, visitors appreciate "Clear water and a nice beach make this a perfect spot. Lots of space between camping spots and nice bathroom/shower house." Another camper notes, "The swimming area on Clearwater Lake is a gradually deepening sand bottom with very clear water."
Spacious campsites: Larger sites with natural buffers rank highly among campers' preferences. "Our site, 2, was a handicapped one, and beautiful. Restrooms directly behind us. Beautiful tall shady trees. A very clean park," reports a visitor at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Others mention the "nicely organized" sites with "interesting boat shuttle access" at Hontoon Island.
Wildlife viewing: The area's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife. "We kayaked from the park's canoe launch. Here, we were able to see tons of wildlife from all sorts of fish, alligators, and yes, a manatee!" According to campers, early mornings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly during winter months when water levels are often lower.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near DeBary require advance booking, especially during winter. At Wekiwa Springs State Park, one camper advises, "If you go on a weekend, make sure you go EARLY! Line of car starts around 9am and park will close at capacity."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby infrastructure. At Lake Monroe Park, "It's close to a power plant and railroad so you hear a lot of noise at night but was perfect for a one nighter." Another camper notes, "Noise wasn't bad, just background noise that you forget is even there."
Water quality variations: While most springs maintain consistent clarity, some water features have distinct characteristics. At Wekiva Falls RV Resort, a camper mentions "The springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind..." Others note that rain can temporarily affect water clarity at certain sites.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated facilities for children. Kelly Park Campground offers "a cleared area the kids ran around/played chase right in front of the bath house. A short walk leads to a very nice playground with typical park equipment. My kiddos loved that playground."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing can become learning experiences. "We spent three nights! We had so much fun! My granddaughter didn't want to leave. She swam in the springs and loved it. Then we went to the swimming hole, and there were five manatees there," shares a grandparent about their Blue Spring State Park experience.
Safety considerations: Parents should be aware of specific hazards. At Wekiva Falls RV Resort, "Golf carts allowed and side by sides. This mixed with drunken visitors was a bit nerve wracking. Definitely didn't trust kids to ride around on bikes safely." Pack life vests for children as springs can have sudden depth changes.
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger rigs. "The only drawback I found was that we're near the airport and heard a lot of planes flying by overnight. Also heard loud cars in the area," notes an RVer at Wekiwa Springs State Park, while another mentions Lake Monroe Park has "room enough for my 31 foot RV plus car."
Hookup variations: Not all sites provide full hookups. At Alexander Springs, a camper explains, "every couple sites there was a drinking water fill up station" but notes "no water or electric" at individual sites. Another camper adds it "Would be 5 stars if they had some sites with electric hookups."
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds offer dump stations, but accessibility varies. At Lake Monroe Park, there's a "Convenient dump station" that RVers appreciate, with one noting the campground offers "$118 for a week. Water and electricity at each site."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near DeBary, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, DeBary, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 302 campgrounds and RV parks near DeBary, FL and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near DeBary, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near DeBary, FL is Blue Spring State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 47 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near DeBary, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near DeBary, FL.
What parks are near DeBary, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near DeBary, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.
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