Campers visiting the Ormond Beach area have access to both riverside and oceanfront accommodations within a subtropical environment. The region sits at sea level with over 20 miles of accessible coastline bordering the Atlantic Ocean, with inland waterways creating diverse camping options. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-70°F while summer brings humidity levels frequently exceeding 80% and afternoon thunderstorms from June through September.
What to do
Kayak and canoe rentals: Tomoka State Park Campground offers watercraft for exploring the Halifax River directly from the campground. "I really enjoyed Tomoka state park! The outpost was so fun! They have their own beer brewed for them, which was very tasty. You can rent kayaks and canoes via the outpost," shared Kelly R.
Manatee viewing: Blue Spring State Park Campground provides exceptional wildlife viewing during winter months. "Kayaked the river, and even swam with manatees in the spring!!!" reported Anna C. The park is particularly known for manatee sightings between November and February.
Beachcombing: Coral Sands RV Resort offers immediate beach access from your campsite. "Spot 25, direct view to the ocean. At the beach in seconds. Nice pool on the other side of hotel," notes Cody N. Morning walks along the shoreline often yield shells, sea glass, and occasionally turtle tracks during nesting season.
Biking trails: The area features multiple paved and unpaved biking routes connecting campgrounds to beaches and natural areas. "There is a path from the campgrounds to the spring. There is a shop on site as well as rentals for canoes and kayaks," mentions Jenn B. about Blue Spring State Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention site separation at Tomoka State Park. "The trees between the spaces were good buffers so you weren't looking right into your neighbors campers," notes Marie B. The campground utilizes natural vegetation to create boundaries between sites.
Oceanfront camping: Beachside Camping — Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area provides unobstructed Atlantic Ocean views. "We were only able to reserve one night but we were on the beach side, and the beach is gorgeous. We fell asleep listening to the waves crash!" explains maria I. The oceanfront sites are in high demand and typically require booking months in advance.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness receives frequent positive mentions across multiple parks. "Another nice stop on our East Coast bike tour! Spacious sites with picnic tables and water. Charge phone in the bathroom," shared Erica S. about Bulow RV Resort, showing appreciation for basic amenities.
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. "Pet-friendly, two campground areas - one beachside and one riverside. Love this area. Beautiful, quiet beach town," states Alyssa D. about Riverside Camping at Gamble Rogers. Several locations have specific dog areas or nearby dog-friendly beaches.
What you should know
Advance reservations essential: The most popular oceanfront and riverside sites book quickly, especially during winter months. "This is a second trip and stay. The first time I was on beach side, this time on river side. Both of these spot were awesome... To schedule time here is tough. You have to keep looking and attempting," advises Corey L. about Riverside Camping — Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area.
Site sizes vary significantly: Many campgrounds have tight spaces that challenge larger RVs. "The sites are small and really close together, if you are looking for privacy, this is not it," cautions maria I. about Beachside Camping at Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area.
Weather considerations: The subtropical climate means planning for afternoon storms in summer. "We had a great first experience camping in our 1975 airstream at this location. Our particular campsite was a pull through and had electric and water that was easy to hook up 5 feet away from the camper," shared Caleb R., noting the convenience of hookups during unpredictable weather.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or attractions. "Stayed for a night here on the drive down the coast. Lots of turtle nest sites blocked off and an empty beach. RVs are wall to wall with tent sites so bring your earplugs if you're a tent camper or you'll be hearing generators all night," warns Dan X. about Riverside Camping at Gamble Rogers.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access points: Bennett Field Group Camp provides a more secluded experience for families seeking privacy. "Absolutely love going here. Whether it's there to hunt or scout or just have a good time, it always its a great time," shares Jake. The primitive setting works well for families wanting to avoid crowds.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule family activities around optimal wildlife viewing times. "If you are a pet owner and looking for a dog beach (most beaches in FL don't allow dogs), Flagler Beach is a short drive from the campground," suggests Denise from Tomoka State Park Campground, showing the importance of planning for families with pets.
Educational programs: Several state parks offer ranger-led programs for children. "I recommend bringing a bike to get around. The walk from the campsite to the outpost/water can be a trek without one," advises Kelly R. about Tomoka State Park, highlighting the importance of transportation planning with kids.
Beach safety awareness: Families should note varying swimming conditions. "We stayed InterCoastal side. Outside loop has more privacy than inside the loop," reports Kevin H. about Riverside Camping at Gamble Rogers, suggesting families consider both beach access and campsite location when booking.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Experienced RVers recommend requesting specific sites based on rig size. "We were in site 4 in early January. The site had good separation from the neighboring sites and was level. The campground was mostly quiet," shares Denise about Tomoka State Park Campground, noting the importance of a level site.
Hookup limitations: Water and electrical hookups are standard, but sewer connections vary. "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.
Beach access logistics: RVers note varying distances between parking areas and beaches. "Beachside sites are tight with no sewer hookups. Only a few sites are big-rig friendly. T-Mobile reception was good. Relatively clean. Staff were very friendly," reports Guy F. about Beachside Camping at Gamble Rogers Memorial.
Seasonal considerations: Winter brings both advantages and challenges. "Stayed at both the beach side and river side. Both are excellent. Beach side is right on the beach with several access points. Dogs can go on the public beach which is attached, but not the state park beach. Went in late January. Beach was mostly empty. Camp grounds were booked solid," notes Chris C. about Riverside Camping at Gamble Rogers.
