Best Campgrounds near Jacksonville, FL

Recent Reviews near Jacksonville, FL

901 Reviews of 117 Jacksonville Campgrounds

• 

  Stuart K.

  Legend

  Nov. 8, 2025

  Osceola National Forest Ocean Pond Campground

  Rustic Charm Meets Sandy Beach at Ocean Pond

  In general, I try to stay away from terms like ‘rustic,’ which honestly, usually just means ‘old’ (read: and in dire need of repair or refurbishment), but this place actually lives up to the word 'rustic' – so, take it from me, nothing needs fixin’ here. Everything is functionally sound. Maybe what you’ll discover is somewhat dated, but embrace it. Around here, it’s all good. All of the time. Ocean Pond Campground sits on the north shore of Ocean Pond, which is a striking 2-mile-wide lake within Osceola National Forest. The name is a bit of a misnomer as it’s more lake than pond, and trust me, the water that you will experience here isn't Ocean … but all of this confusion is actually part of the appeal. As you drive in, you’ll pass a fairly well-paved serpentine-like forest roadway lined by pine flatwoods and cypress wetlands. The lot layout is heavily forested and incredibly quiet, with a mix of shade and sun, and a natural, mellow campground vibe rather than resort polish.

  Ocean Pond offers a total of 67 campsites in three tiers: 19 with electric+ water hookups, 27 with water only and 20 primitive sites. That’s right, if you read between the lines, there’s no sewage hook-ups, but that’s OK, as there’s a proper sewage dump area as you exit the premises (free to registered campers; small fee for non-registered). The hookup sites are on paved spurs and rated up to about 50 feet capacity. Every site comes equipped with a picnic table, fire ring / grate, lantern post and access to restrooms, which honestly, are very well taken care of and, again, quite functional. Nothing to write home about, but it will get the job done. The campground includes flush toilets, hot showers in the electric & water sections, and more basic restroom access for primitive sites (in fact, these particular facilities were the only low point). For lake access, there’s a boat ramp, sandy beach swim area reserved for campers, fishing pier and a public boat launch. Camping is year-round, but there’s a 14-day stay limit within any 30-day span. Check-in is 2 p.m., checkout at 11 a.m.

  The real star here is Ocean Pond itself. It’s a playground for anglers, boaters, swimmers and paddlers. Expect to fish for largemouth bass, speckled perch, crappie and catfish. The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through here and you can take a 3-mile out-and-back hike from the campground along forest roads and a boardwalk for swamp views. Wildlife is abundant: expect herons, egrets, turtles, occasional alligators, birds in the wetlands and forest edge, where all around you, you’ll encounter the quiet hum of frogs and chorus of insects at dusk. Nearby, you’ll find Olustee Battlefield State Park just 4 miles away, an historic site with ties to the Civil War, plus various springs, state parks and rural roads to explore.

  Insider Tips? Yup, let’s do that: (1) Arrive early to snag one of the few electric + water sites as they’re HOT and in high demand and, well, because this place is ‘first-come, first-served’ let’s just say that ‘the early bird gets the worm’ here; (2) If you want more shade, pick a site tucked under the pines away from the beach; (3) Launch your kayak or boat in the early morning when the lake is calm and the mist lingers over the water; (4) Use bug spray especially near dusk and in the swampier sections; (5) Hike sections of the Florida Trail nearby with the swamp boardwalk segments being especially scenic; (6) While Ocean Pond CG is definitely pet-friendly, you’ll need to keep your domesticated furry friend on a leash at all times and not bring it swimming with you – and please do everyone a favor and don’t leave your pet tied up to a tree as this basically amounts to a ‘gator snack’; (7) Effectively there’s 3 loops here at Ocean Pond CG that I’ll refer to as Lakefront (Sites#1-19), Mosquito Hell (Sites#20-45) and Primitive Back-Country (Sites#46-67) and they are all priced ($30,$20 and $12 respectively) and preferred in that order, so IMHO the best spots are: #10, 12, 13, 16-19; and (8) Please say ‘hello’ to Katie who is absolutely one of the most amazing SP campground managers who helms the front gate with a big smile and an incredibly warm welcome.

  Happy Camping!

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• 

  Stuart K.

  Legend

  Nov. 8, 2025

  Cary State Forest Group Camp

  Where Family Reunions Meet Mosquitos

  Tucked deep into the pinewoods of Cary State Forest, the Group Campground isn’t your average weekend getaway, but more like a full-blown opportunity to gather the family together for a reunion, a game of flag football and potluck under the pines. Picture this: aunts swapping recipes over the campfire, uncles arguing over who forgot the marshmallows, and about ten tents forming a perfect (if slightly lopsided) circle of chaos and laughter. If your clan believes bonding means battling mosquitoes the size of chickadees and trying to keep toddlers from feeding raccoons, then this is your kind of paradise.

  This group campground site - and to be clear, there is ONLY one - is designed for tent camping only, so no RVs, trailers or plug-in (although, there's an easter egg hidden below) luxuries here. Amenities are basic but functional, including potable water, restrooms with showers, a group pavilion complete with a half dozen picnic tables and an old-fashioned crank BBQ grill (which is EASILY the greatest amenity I have ever encountered at ANY campground), which if you are familiar with this style of BBQ grilling, then educate yourself before arriving here and you will become legend around the campfire. The group campground here at Cary SF is rustic, peaceful and wrapped in tall pines that whisper 'you are somewhere far from civilization, so enjoy the silence (nod to DM).' Roads into the area are sandy and can get sloppy with the rain, but once you’re in, you’ll appreciate the sense of seclusion that makes it feel like your family owns the forest.  There is literally no one else around you here.

  Wildlife sightings are part of the fun here with plenty of deer, owls and the occasional armadillos wandering close to camp (likely curious about all that bacon grease). A short walk leads you to Thomas Creek, perfect for a quick morning stroll or some quiet birdwatching along that new boardwalk that was recently cleared and built. As for the patch of land that you’re big group – whether a family reunion, scout troop outing,10-year old birthday celebration sleepover or men’s church group celebration weekend – it’s about half the size of a football field with enough space for about 20 or so medium-sized tents, 5-6 wooden benches encircling a large community firepit / bonfire and a half dozen or so stand-up BBQ grills scattered throughout the area.

  The best bit about this slice of nature is that adjacent to this wide-open patch of grass is a back-in RV slot (the mysterious site #7) that has a perfect level slab of concrete along with a picnic table and access to electric outlets and running water – so even though you didn’t bring an RV here, this spot will give you those 'back-at-home' amenities that you likely thought you'd have to go without. You’ll also discover that besides the 5-story tall ranger viewing tower on the north of the site, there’s solid shade around the perimeter of this place, although little to none on the interior, so I would still encourage you to bring your own portable shade with you.

  Insider Tips: (1) Set up tents before dusk as mosquitoes clock in at exactly 6:01 PM; (2) The pavilion is your best friend during Florida’s afternoon storms and spontaneous family talent shows; (3) The restrooms are incredibly clean but rustic (but for once, in the good sense of the word), but you’ll want to bring your own TP just in case; (4) Thomas Creek is great for spotting herons and otters, just keep little ones at arm’s length; (5) Cell service is limited, which is ideal if you’ve ever wanted to see teenagers panic without Wi-Fi; (6) Stock up in nearby Bryceville or along US-301 before heading in here as there’s no store for miles, and Uncle Jim will absolutely forget the coffee; and (7) In the event that you grow weary of cooking yet another meal over the open fire, nearby there's a few modest offerings like Everybody's Restaurant serving up Southern fire in a diner-like environ or Cousin Willie's Smokehouse for some very authentic Que like smoked turkey with a side of fried pickles dipped in a cup of Brunswick stew.

  Happy Camping!

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• 

  Tisch B.

  Scout

  Nov. 6, 2025

  Osceola National Forest Ocean Pond Campground

  Great camphosts Friendly and helpful

  Im a road biker and there is almost no traffic on the roads outside of the campground. You can go for miles and miles.
  Campground quiet. Beautiful sunrise and sunsets and the full moon was amazing

• 

  Curtis D.

  Guide

  Nov. 5, 2025

  Osceola National Forest Ocean Pond Campground

  My go-to campground.

  Ocean Pond really took a turn for the better. The campground host, Kate, is truly a wonderful person. The campground itself has been updated to 5 stars. The people doing the work have done an outstanding job. Thank you all. When I first got here, there were deep potholes in the primitive camping area(gravel road). The worker came in with a milling attachment attached to a skid loader and fixed every hole. Thank you for that, sir. I could go on and on, but come stay here and find out.

• 

  Stuart K.

  Legend

  Oct. 17, 2025

  Horne Lake RV Resort

  Peaceful Paddles and Lakeside Charm

  Sitting about as close as you can to the Florida / Georgia state line, Horne Lake RV Resort near Yulee, FL offers up a serene stop for RVers looking for a laid-back 182-acre retreat just minutes from I95 (exit 380). The atmosphere here is more ‘friendly neighborhood park with a lake’ than backwoods wilderness that is more of a pitstop than a destination, but don’t let that fool you with a setting that is charming, calm and perfect for those who like a mix of easy access and natural surroundings. First impressions are tidy pavement pads, tree-lined roads, narrow gravel pathways and a central pond that anchors the entire campground with a reflective calm that immediately slows your pulse after a long spell on the road buzzing up or down the busiest thoroughfare in all of FL - I95.

  The facilities here are geared toward comfort with sites offering 73 paved, pull-through sites full hookup with water, sewer, and 30 / 50 amp electric, with most spots being level, spacious and easy to navigate. While there aren’t true lakefront sites here, the namesake is accessible by foot or a short drive, offering plenty of opportunities to stroll down, cast a line or watch the birds. Restrooms and shower facilities are well-kept, laundry is available, there's a proper dump station, community fire pit near the office, propane refueling station and the WiFi holds up for streaming or remote work. There’s also a clubhouse with community activities and shaded picnic areas if you want to mingle and on the southern flank of the property’s perimeter is a saltwater pool that is heated year-round. The park is pet-friendly, so Fido can make friends too, and the paved internal roads are handy for morning walks or bike rides.

  The lake itself is modest in size and more of a large pond than a sprawling body of water, but it’s stocked with bass, catfish and bream, making it an inviting spot for anglers who prefer a calm, easy cast albeit with a catch & release requirement. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting herons, egrets, and osprey, while turtles and the occasional otter round out the wildlife sightings. Further up the road, the broader Brunswick area adds layers of charm with historic squares, the nearby Marshes of Glynn and barrier island day trips to stellar isles like St. Simons, Jekyll and Sea Island are all within reach. And if you’re craving something hearty after a day of exploring, local favorites like Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q and Bob’s Famous BBQ for sublime, slow-smoked Q, Bohemian Bull for gastropub fare, Grumpy’s serving up fantastic low-country breakfast & brunch and Añejo Cocina with superb chimichangas serve up some of the best food in Yulee.

  Insider Tips? Here’s a few: (1) If fishing’s on your agenda, bring lightweight tackle for bass and bream when early mornings and evenings are best; (2) The nearby Brunswick Golden Isles welcome center is a fantastic stop for maps, local history and birdwatching guides; (3) Kayakers can launch into the pond, but if you want real water adventures, head to the Altamaha River or out to St. Simons for bigger paddles; (4) Don’t skip a stroll around the lake at sunset as the reflections of the trees on the water are pure tranquility; (5) Bug spray is a must in summer, especially around the pond edges; and (6) If you need to stock up, there’s a Walmart Supercenter and Home Depot along with plenty of grocery options within 10 minutes of the park back in Yulee, so convenience is never an issue.

  Happy Camping!

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• 

  Ben P.

  Traveler

  Oct. 13, 2025

  Eagle Hammock RV Park

  Eagle Hammock

  The campground is located on Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, GA. It has large full hookup site, with free laundry, and most site have fire rings. The park is well maintained and the staff and camp hosts are very friendly and helpful.

• 

  Stuart K.

  Legend

  Sep. 28, 2025

  Katherine Hannah park

  Surf, Seaside, Sun & Shady Pines Camping on JAX Atlantic Coast Shore

  On the north end of Jacksonville’s shoreline, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park blends the best of oceanside camping with a dense, wooded escape that makes you forget you’re within city limits. First impressions are impressive: over 290 sites tucked beneath a maritime hammock of pines and oaks, all within a short walk or bike ride of 1.5 miles of pristine Atlantic beachfront. The place is equal parts 'beach bum paradise' and forest retreat, which was perfect for our little family circus of six campers (my daughter Cloe, her best friend Chloe, my brother-in-law with his wife along with my wife and I). Yes, that’s right ... two girls named Cloe / Chloe, which meant every time someone yelled 'Chlo!,' we got a duet of 'What?' in stereo. 

  Facilities are solid, though they come with quirks. Most sites have water and electric hookups and while they’re roomy enough, tree roots and uneven pads will make you thankful for those leveling blocks you swore you wouldn’t need. Primitive tent sites are there for the purists, but we opted for power (you know, because teenagers don’t do 'unplugged' if they can help it!). Bathhouses are scattered around and functional, though calling them 'retro' or 'rustic' would be generous while timing a shower mid-afternoon is the trick if you don’t want to wait in line with a soap caddy. 

  Other amenities hit the sweet spot for families including laundry for sandy towels, playgrounds for younger kids, a camp store for forgotten essentials and a 60-acre freshwater lake with canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. That lake was my brother-in-law’s favorite spot, though he spent most of his time swatting ants and muttering about their conspiracy against him. Surroundings are where Hanna Park really shines though. Direct beach access gave the girls endless room for sunrise walks, sandy selfies, and attempts at surfing that ended in more wipeouts than rides. Miles of biking and hiking trails crisscross the dunes and shaded hammocks and we discovered that mountain biking is basically a guaranteed way to test your health insurance deductible. 

  Wildlife here is abundant (and I mean more than just the infinite number of ant hills you'll encounter!) with herons, ospreys, and dolphins offshore, plus mosquitoes and sand gnats that could’ve been cast as extras in a vampire movie. Road traffic near the main entrance occasionally breaks the natural vibe, but overall the park feels like an oasis, especially when dinner ends at a Mayport seafood shack instead of my half-charred hot dogs. 

  Insider tips? Yep, here’s a handful: (1) Book early and aim for shaded sites deeper in the loops where privacy is precious when you’ve got teenagers who 'need space'; (2) Bring industrial-strength bug spray and plenty of leveling blocks because they’re as essential here as sunscreen on the beach (which you should also NOT forget!); (3) Time your showers for the afternoon lull unless you enjoy the morning bathhouse rush, which resembles a theme park line without the rollercoaster at the end and plenty of people walking around in towels; (4) Treat yourself to a meal in Mayport where Singleton’s, Sandollar and Safe Harbor all serve up amazing seafood so fresh you’ll swear it jumped on your plate; (5) Stick to the lake for calmer paddles or hit the surf if you want to watch your brother-in-law get humbled by the ocean; and (6) Walk briskly near the lake unless you want to make friends with the resident ant colonies: they’re organized, fearless and seem to work in shifts. 

  Happy Camping!

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• 

  Stuart K.

  Legend

  Sep. 28, 2025

  Anastasia State Park Campground

  Sand Dunes & Sea Breezes Near Ancient City

  I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

  HIGHLIGHTS: (1) 139 shaded sites nestled under live oaks dripping with Spanish moss and palmettos with water and electric hookups; (2) Quick access to 4 miles of pristine Atlantic beach; (3) Amenities include bathhouses, dump station, camp store and rental concession; (4) Nature trails and birding along salt marshes and dunes; (5) Minutes from downtown St. Augustine’s history and attractions; (6) Nearby restaurants include O’Steen’s Restaurant, which is famous for fried shrimp, Mellow Mushroom offering hippie-themed pies and Salt Life Food Shack offering up casual seafood with rooftop views. 

  LOWLIGHTS: (1) Tight sites where large RVs may struggle; (2) No sewer hookups at individual sites; (3) Reservations book up fast, especially weekends – trust me, this is one of the MOST POPULAR CAMPGROUNDS in all of Florida!; (4) Mosquitoes and no-see-ums thrive in warm months; and (5) Road noise from A1A can be noticeable. 

  Happy Camping!

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• 

  Krystal T.

  Guide

  Sep. 24, 2025

  Ocean Pond Campground

  Great for a weekend getaway

  We stopped here as the last long leg of a 2500 mile journey. We checked in online so didn’t speak to the host as we got in after dark. We stayed in spot 39. The site is a bit of a squeeze for a bigger rig and full size suv. We were close to the bathrooms and beach access/gazebo. We were in the side closest to primitive camping so people were sparse but it had everything we needed. The washer and dryer came in clutch and we were the only ones utilizing the beach area which was super small. But worked great for a family of 3 such as ourselves. We didn’t use the shower house but they seemed clean and well maintained when checking them out. Our spot had water and electric with a fire pit and picnic table. Lovely grounds, would probably come back.

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