Best Campgrounds near DeLand, FL

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.

Best Camping Sites Near DeLand, Florida (279)

    1. Blue Spring State Park Campground

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

    $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."

    2. Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    35 Reviews
    Astor, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 669-3522

    $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."

    3. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Apopka, FL
    24 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."

    4. Clearwater Lake Campground

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

    $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."

    5. Lake Monroe Park

    15 Reviews
    DeBary, FL
    13 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."

    6. Tomoka State Park Campground

    55 Reviews
    Ormond Beach, FL
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 676-4050

    $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."

    7. Wekiva Falls RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Mid Florida, FL
    18 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."

    8. Hontoon Island State Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Orange City, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 736-5309

    "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!"

    9. Highland Park Fish Camp

    4 Reviews
    De Leon Springs, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 734-2334

    $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."

    10. Orange City RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Orange City, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 775-2545
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Recent Reviews near DeLand, FL

1489 Reviews of 279 DeLand Campgrounds


  • J
    Jan. 10, 2026

    Whimcycle Trail Resort At Santos

    Great Commimication, Large Sites

    Beth was super responsive to questions I had before arrival. Easy access to large, flat, dirt/grass sites with hookups. I usually stay at Santos State Park nearby for lower cost, but this was available with less notice and a pleasant surprise. No Verizon service, so bring Starlink or AT&T. Will def consider WhimCycle again.

  • Sherry The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 8, 2026

    Davenport Landing

    Small

    Small area, close camping so No privacy, I you are nearby the water, First come first serve spots, has walking trail in the area. Beware of Bears.

  • Sherry The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 8, 2026

    Rodman Campground

    Peaceful

    Quiet, clean, well maintained, friendly people

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Lake Delancy West Campground

    Full-Throttle Campground Fun

    There’s a real sense of forest solitude when you turn off the pavement and roll into Lake Delancy West Campground, a wooded public campground tucked beside the lake’s quiet west shore and surrounded by massive oak and towering pine trees. This is a beautifully natural setting with EZ access to water play, fishing, hiking and woodsy exploration with the campground layout being simple and open with shaded tent sites and roomy RV spots that make you feel like you’re out in the woods rather than in a parking lot. That said, this peace doesn’t come without its lively side: the area is also a popular ride zone for off-highway vehicles (OHVs) during the day, which means you’ll often hear ATVs revving and roaring through the forest corridors nearby before things calm down at night, giving this campground an energy that’s a mix of wilderness quiet and outdoor playground bustle. The best sites are those closer to the lake’s edge where you can sit with a morning coffee and catch the light on the water before traffic stirs, although if silence is a priority you’ll want to plan your day’s adventures around the heavier daytime OHV hours. We’d recommend Lake Delancy West for families who appreciate lakeside access, plenty of outdoor recreation, and don’t mind a bit of daytime horsepower mixed in with their bird calls, but keep in mind that the lively noise from trail riders can be part of the experience if you’re here earlier in the day.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost & Resort

    Coastal Creek Vibes Connected to the Ocklawaha

    Pulling into Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost near Fort McCoy feels like arriving somewhere that doesn’t rush you, where the tall trees and wide river channels invite the kind of slow, unhurried breathing that only a riverside campground can. Nestled along the banks of the Ocklawaha River with direct access to the Silver River and Salt Springs Run, this place sets you up in a mix of shady tent sites and roomy RV spots that make it EZ to wake up to the sound of birds and fall asleep to nothing more than whispering water and occasional night critters exploring nearby. There’s a real sense of connection to the landscape here, with picnic spots and fishing docks near the river’s edge, canoe and kayak launches right inside the campground and the big new bathhouse and restroom facilities that strike the right balance of clean and rustic. One evening the boys and I packed some snacks, launched our canoe at the campground’s dock, and drifted out toward a bend in the river where we watched small ripples on the water as turtles bobbed up to greet us. This simple, shared moment became our favorite memory of the whole trip. From what we saw, the best sites are the ones tucked closest to the riverbank (which only tent campers can stay at) where you can hear the slow-moving river at night and step right out into the kayak without any fuss, which makes waking up here feel a bit like being handed a secret you didn’t know you were searching for. We would recommend Ocklawaha Canoe Outpost for families who enjoy water-based play, peaceful scenery and active days on a river for paddling, fishing, swimming or exploring, combined with campground facilities that feel thoughtfully placed and welcoming rather than too polished or commercial.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    The Griffin Ranch

    Old-Florida Charm Meets Ranch-Life Calm

    Arriving to Griffin Ranch just outside Fort McCoy feels like stepping into a page of classic Florida history, where 30+ acres of shaded woods, ponds, pastures and trails invite you to slow down long before you ever unpack your bags. The ranch’s cabins, Airstream camper and cottage rentals, each with antique-inspired interiors, set the tone for a timeless, unhurried stay. The accommodations are rustic in the very best way: solidly built, thoughtfully equipped spaces that feel cozy rather than pretentious, and the hosts are genuinely welcoming, making you feel like part of the ranch family rather than just a guest. During our visit, we watched the kids wander out toward the pasture at sunset, chasing fireflies and laughing at the horses’ gentle nickers, while the sun dipped behind the trees in that golden light only old pastures seem to have. While this isn’t a ‘back-to-barebones’ campground in the primitive sense, it is more of a cabin-centric ranch stay than a full-service campground, so if you’re coming with a big RV or tent setup in mind, you’ll want to book one of the on-site cabins instead of relying on typical campsites. The best lodging options are the cabins tucked deeper into the woods or near the ponds, which offer the most serenity and EZ access to the ranch trails and wildlife watching. Nearby you can easily stock up on supplies in Fort McCoy or make short drives to local eats like Rocco’s Italian or a long list of options in nearby Gainesville.  Also, the closeness to Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs makes this a great base for exploration. We’d recommend Griffin Ranch for families who appreciate quiet evenings under ancient oaks, authentic old-Florida ranch character, space for kids and pets to run wild and host hospitality that turns a simple stay into lasting memories. This place is one part history, one part nature retreat and entirely welcoming.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 7, 2026

    Bass Champions Lodging and Rv

    Rustic Lakeside Hideaway Near Salt Springs

    We pulled into Bass Champions in Salt Springs expecting a simple outpost nestled near the lake, and while there were only two or three basic RV spots (which led our family to choose one of the cozy cabins instead), that choice turned out to be just right for our slow, Florida nature weekend. The setting along the oaks along with the quick and EZ access to nearby Lake Kerr and Salt Springs created that gentle, deep breath you hope for when camping away from the city. The layout here is understated and peaceful, with a handful of modest, but well-kept cabins and just a few RV pads tucked into shade trees, and though the RV spaces are limited, the cabins felt welcoming, clean and full of a relaxing vibe that instantly put us in vacation mode. It was a delight to find a bustling farmer’s market on Saturday morning right next to the property where the boys wandered with us between stalls filled with colorful produce, homemade treats and friendly locals, followed by lunch at a nearby local diner where the boys declared the burgers ‘epic.’ Later in the afternoon we drove over to Salt Springs itself, splashing in the clear, cool water and watching turtles bask on logs while dragonflies zigged and zagged overhead, a memory I know the boys won’t forget. The best cabins are the ones furthest from the nearby Salt Springs Highway, where noise is at the lowest. We’d absolutely recommend Bass Champions for families who value peaceful charm near Salt Springs and Lake Kerr, the joy of small community experiences and EZ access to swimming, paddling and nature exploration with just enough local activity to make each day feel full without ever feeling rushed.

  • Blue B.
    Jan. 3, 2026

    Encore Tropical Palms

    Very well kept park

    This is a great park very well maintained and clean. Close to all the Disney parks and great eats. Sometimes it is hard to get a booking but well worth it when you do.

  • Blue B.
    Jan. 3, 2026

    Encore Southern Palms

    Nice

    It's a nice spot to stay for a short period of time, Mount Dora is close and we come during there art festival and it's a nice place to spend the day, there's also the water plane airport on the lake.


Guide to DeLand

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.

What to Do

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."

What Campers Like

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.

What You Should Know

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.