Camping options near New Smyrna Beach span diverse ecosystems from coastal dunes to inland pine forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while winter brings milder 60-75°F days. The area's sandy soil drains quickly after rain, though some waterfront campsites experience higher humidity and more persistent mosquito activity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Indian Mound Fish Camp, you'll find waterfront sites with direct lagoon access. "Super friendly staff. The moment we checked in they greeted us with a complimentary beer. Our site had a great view of the lagoon. We spent most of the time fishing and relaxing," notes Nelson G., who appreciated the well-stocked bait shop.
Manatee viewing: Blue Spring State Park provides seasonal manatee observation from designated platforms. "Visited to see Manatees from the land. Cooler temps best for manatee numbers," explains Emily C., who also mentions the "nice paved road around campground and short trail to main park area" that connects you to wildlife viewing zones.
Kayaking: Launch directly into Mosquito Lagoon from several campsites at Canaveral National Seashore. "We kayaked to Shipyard Island and stayed 3 nights. Fishing was superb. I caught lots of trout ranging 10" to 29" on topwater lures. We kayaked using the map and GPS around the other islands and explored new territory," shares one visitor who also spotted over 100 ospreys and dolphins near their campsite.
What campers like
Tree canopy: Tomoka State Park offers shaded campsites with natural buffers. "The trees between the spaces were good buffers so you weren't looking right into your neighbors campers," notes Marie B., who found the campground "beautiful and clean."
Pool facilities: Nova Campground provides affordable accommodations with swimming amenities. "For $50 a day we had an igloo, basically a tiny cabin, AC, a bathroom very nearby, electric, AND a pool!! We were thrilled!" says Faith F., who stayed during a nearby music festival.
Wildlife viewing: Campers at Indian Mound Fish Camp appreciate the natural surroundings. "You can spend an afternoon on the deck with a beverage. There will likely be some folks fishing, and there's a good chance you'll see Dolphin, and maybe Manatee. If there is a launch from Kennedy Space Center you can see that too, although you're about 20 miles away, still really impressive," notes Mark S.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Gold Rock Campground, one reviewer mentions, "We tent camped for 1 night on our East Coast bike tour. There was an open field w a fun artisric tree stump, fire pit, picnic tables, and water. We charged phones in the bathroom," indicating the need to plan for limited connectivity.
Site sizes vary: Campgrounds may have tight spaces for larger rigs. "I like all the vegetation around the campsite which gives you a little privacy. The ground is level and it includes a fire pit and picnic table. Has water hook up and 30 amp power; no sewer on site. There is a dump station nearby...so close we can smell it while sitting outside," explains Nelson G. about Tomoka State Park.
Flooding concerns: Some campgrounds have drainage issues during heavy rain. At Daytona's Endless Summer Campground, "This road that we were on does flood during rain, as you see in pictures," according to Kasey M., highlighting the need to check weather forecasts.
Tips for camping with families
Cooling options: Blue Spring State Park offers water activities during hot months. "There is swimming in the park as soon as it opens, but you can only access the spring head and get into the clearer water before 11:00am and after 5pm. It is well worth it to go early as the park fills up fast," advises a reviewer who found morning visits less crowded.
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities are available at several locations. "Very family friendly campground. 30/50 sites, Some are pull through. Pool is heated, and shaped like the state of Florida. Nice playground for the kids," mentions Rodney M. about his experience at Gold Rock Campground.
Budget accommodations: Nova Campground offers affordable options for families. Their small cabins called "igloos" provide air conditioning and nearby restrooms, which one visitor described as "amazing" for the price point, especially during event weekends when other accommodations might be costly.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Daytona Beach RV Resort provides varied site surfaces. "Sites are paved, have pavers or gravel. Nice pool, too," notes Carol B., who appreciated the modern restrooms and outdoor picnic areas.
Hookup configurations: Check connection details before booking. At Tomoka State Park, "The only other issue is our site (#2) has a large oak tree in the middle that prevents us from opening the awning," warns Nelson G., pointing out the need to verify site layouts for equipment compatibility.
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies widely between campgrounds. At Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park, "The wi-fi repeaters are good for remote workers. This is a paid option and worth it," states Nell D., contrasting with other locations where connectivity is limited even with paid options.
