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.
$24 - $95 / night
"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."
$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."
$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."
$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."
$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."
$24 / night
"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."
$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."
"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!"
$25 - $32 / night
"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."
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.
ScoutThere is 5 tent only sites without water or electric. There is also RV sites with water and electric.
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
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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