Best Campgrounds near Lake Helen, FL

Campgrounds near Lake Helen, Florida provide a mix of natural springs, lakefront settings, and forested environments within a short drive of the small town. Blue Spring State Park Campground, located about 5 miles west of Lake Helen, offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations with access to the crystal-clear spring that maintains a constant 72-degree temperature year-round. Other nearby options include Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, approximately 25 miles southwest, and Hontoon Island State Park Campground, accessible only by boat or ferry about 10 miles northwest of Lake Helen. The region includes several state parks and recreation areas with varying levels of development, from primitive sites to full-service RV resorts.

Florida's subtropical climate shapes the camping experience throughout the year, with most campgrounds in the Lake Helen area remaining open year-round. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September. "This campground is in Ocala National Forest, which is always beautiful. The campsites are large, we fit 3 4+ person tents. This was one of the busier places I have camped in Florida," noted one visitor about nearby Alexander Springs Recreation Area. Winter months (November through March) offer milder temperatures and lower humidity, making this the peak season for camping in the region. Many campgrounds require reservations well in advance during this popular winter period, particularly for RV sites with hookups. Hurricane season officially runs from June through November, with potential for severe weather and temporary closures.

The natural springs represent the most distinctive camping feature in the Lake Helen area, with several campgrounds providing direct access to these unique ecosystems. Campers consistently highlight the crystal-clear waters and wildlife viewing opportunities as major draws. A review on The Dyrt described Wekiwa Springs State Park as having "nicely wooded sites" that "provide a ton of much-needed shade from the Florida sun." Water-based activities dominate the recreational options, with swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing available at most campgrounds. Clearwater Lake Campground, about 20 miles northwest of Lake Helen, receives particular praise for its "well-shaded, private and spaced apart" sites and "excellent visibility to the mostly sand-bottomed swimming area." Several campgrounds in the area feature full hookups for RVs, while others maintain a more natural setting with primitive tent sites and minimal amenities, allowing campers to choose their preferred balance of comfort and immersion in nature.

Best Camping Sites Near Lake Helen, Florida (259)

    1. Blue Spring State Park Campground

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

    $24 - $95 / night

    "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."

    "It was still very hot and buggy in Florida so be warned If this is an issue for you. Large campsites with a picnic table, electric, and water."

    2. Lake Monroe Park

    15 Reviews
    DeBary, FL
    11 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."

    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. Wekiva Falls RV Resort

    21 Reviews
    Mid Florida, FL
    17 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."

    5. Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    34 Reviews
    Astor, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 669-3522

    $37 - $60 / 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."

    6. Clearwater Lake Campground

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

    $37 / 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."

    7. Tomoka State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Ormond Beach, FL
    26 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."

    8. Hontoon Island State Park Campground

    5 Reviews
    Orange City, FL
    8 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. Orange City RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort

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

    10. Highland Park Fish Camp

    4 Reviews
    De Leon Springs, FL
    10 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."

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Showing results 1-10 of 259 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lake Helen, FL

1327 Reviews of 259 Lake Helen Campgrounds



Guide to Lake Helen

Camping near Lake Helen, Florida, offers a mix of natural beauty and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore the outdoors: Many campers enjoy hiking and biking in the area. At Anastasia State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "Bike to the Old City or see it from the water in your kayak. A beautiful beach is just minutes away by foot or bike."
  • Visit local attractions: If you're near Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, you can easily access Disney parks. A reviewer said, "Can’t beat the convenience & amenities of the Disney parks are on your itinerary."
  • Enjoy water activities: At Blue Spring State Park Campground, you can swim with manatees during the cooler months. One camper shared, "The facilities, the manatees, the fireflies, the sites…everything was wonderful."

What campers like

  • Privacy and space: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Private sites, nice amenities, great park. Perfect!"
  • Clean facilities: Many reviews highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. At Tomoka State Park Campground, one camper said, "Showers and restrooms are clean."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Salt Springs Recreation Area remarked, "Staff and guests were all so friendly and helpful."

What you should know

  • Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Lake Louisa State Park Campground advised, "These campsites average about $45 a night."
  • Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full hookups. At Jetty Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "Sites are a bit small, but wow, it's got everything."
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially at Juniper Springs Recreation Area. One camper noted, "Quiet little campground with plenty of wildlife and trails."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, a reviewer said, "There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy."
  • Pack for the beach: If you're near the coast, bring beach gear. A visitor at Jetty Park Campground mentioned, "Short 200 yard walk to the beach!"
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of things to do. A camper at Anastasia State Park Campground said, "Tons of spiders (nature). The bathrooms and showers are right at average."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground noted, "The site backs up to an area of low grasses, bushes and palms with tall pines nearby."
  • Bring leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Tomoka State Park Campground mentioned, "Dirt sites ours was level."
  • Use the dump station: Make sure to utilize the dump station before leaving. A visitor at Lake Louisa State Park Campground said, "The bathrooms are very clean and upgraded!"

Camping around Lake Helen, Florida, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lake Helen, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lake Helen, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 259 campgrounds and RV parks near Lake Helen, FL and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lake Helen, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lake Helen, FL is Blue Spring State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 45 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lake Helen, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Lake Helen, FL.

What parks are near Lake Helen, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Lake Helen, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.