RV parks near DeLand, Florida provide access to Central Florida's unique freshwater springs and subtropical forests. The area sits at approximately 36 feet above sea level with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F and winter lows around 50°F. Campgrounds in this region experience high occupancy during manatee season as visitors come to observe these marine mammals in the crystal-clear spring waters.
What to do
Explore freshwater springs: Blue Spring State Park is the area's main attraction, but there are alternatives when it gets crowded. "Another nice stop on our East Coast bike tour! Spacious sites with picnic tables and water. Charge phone in the bathroom," noted a visitor to Encore Bulow RV about its proximity to nearby waterways.
Visit Mount Dora and Eustis: These historic towns offer charming downtown districts. "Mount Dora and down town Eustis are beautiful," shared a guest staying at Encore Southern Palms, noting the area's appeal beyond the springs.
Check out weekend events: Flea markets and car shows provide entertainment options. "This place is directly across the street from a huge flea market which was fun to walk around on the weekend! They also had a car show going on. That was a nice bonus!" commented a camper at Daytona Speedway RV.
What campers like
Lake access: Many campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities. "Located within a stone's throw of the Bulow Creek and nearby to the Intracoastal, with the famed Flagler Beach just beyond, this campground is perfect for those seeking water (of any kind)," according to a review of Encore Bulow RV.
Pool facilities: When natural springs are too crowded, campground pools provide alternatives. "The pool are is beautiful and well maintained. Laundry is a very nice space with good clean machines. easy access to stores, food and a short drive to the beaches," noted a visitor to Daytona Beach RV Resort.
Community activities: Social events are common at larger resorts. One camper at Encore Sunshine Holiday Daytona observed, "A lot of residents that live here can be rude. Other campers tend to be friendly," highlighting the mix of permanent and temporary residents common in these parks.
What you should know
Site conditions vary dramatically: Many parks have a mix of site types. "No angle so it's a 90deg. backup. I settled in with my slide straddling the lot line and had to pull my awning back a couple inches on the other side to keep it off my neighbour. Sitting outside I felt like I was in an alley," reported one camper at Encore Bulow RV about standard lots.
Water quality issues: Natural sulfur content affects water at some parks. "The springs swimming area water has a smell of sulfur, stay up wind..." advised a local visitor to Wekiva Falls RV Resort.
Seasonal population fluctuations: Winter brings significant crowds. "We were surrounded by empty sites which was probably due to the pandemic. This was a great central location to visit lakes, gulf coast, springs and historic towns," explained a Thousand Trails member staying at Encore Southern Palms.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer better facilities for children. "Manicured landscape, close proximity to grocers, stores, and not far (15min) to nearest beaches. Beautiful community area includes pool, fire pit, gas grill, tables, & cornholes," mentioned a family staying at Daytona Beach RV Resort.
Kid-friendly policies vary: Not all parks welcome children despite advertising. A long-term resident at Rose Bay Travel Park cautioned, "Advertised as an 'all ages, family-friendly park' but that is NOT true. This was previously a 55+ park and that mentality remains. Children are NOT welcome and that is made obvious by the additional charges for them."
Swimming options: Multiple parks offer swimming alternatives. "This place has great space and great amenities for your stay. If you have young ones or teenagers this place gives them lots to do," observed a camper at Wekiva Falls RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Timing your visit: Strategic planning helps avoid crowds. "We stayed 2 weeks with our Thousand Trails affiliate plan. This was a great central location to visit lakes, gulf coast, springs and historic towns," advised an RVer at Encore Southern Palms.
Backing assistance: Some parks provide help with difficult sites. "When we arrived we were guided back to our site and we were offered help backing in," shared an RVer who stayed at Encore Southern Palms.
Site selection strategy: Front sections often differ from back areas. "For those that are spending just a few nights (or even a week), you'll want to find a spot much closer to the front of the property – as the back of the property is organized more for longer-term monthly 'residents'," suggested a visitor at Orange City RV Resort.
Traveler
