Best Tent Camping near Lake Helen, FL

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Lake Helen and then fall asleep in your tent? The Dyrt is an easy way to find tent camping spots near Lake Helen. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Lake Helen, Florida's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Lake Helen, FL (39)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone

    2. Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone

    8 Reviews
    21 Photos
    84 Saves
    Oviedo, Florida

    The East Camp Zone is located within Little Big Econ State Forest (Seminole County), about 40 miles east of Orlando, FL. The East Camp Zone is only accessible by boat and consists of six suggested camp zones. There is no water, electric or amenities... Recreational activities featured here are: boating, fishing, bird watching, wildlife viewing, wildflower viewing and nature study. The Little Big Econ State Forest offers two camp areas for primitive camping. The West Camp Area is located near the Barr Street hiking trailhead and can be accessed only from the hiking trail and by canoe or kayak from the Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail. The East Camp Area can be accessed only by canoe and kayak at this time. Overnight camping is allowed by obtaining a State Forest Use Permit available at the Little Big Econ State Forest office. For more information and to get a State Forest Use Permit, please contact the forest at (407) 971-3500 or email the Little Big Econ State Forest.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park

    3. Lake Mills Park

    7 Reviews
    59 Photos
    107 Saves
    Oviedo, Florida
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing

    4. King's Landing

    5 Reviews
    38 Photos
    167 Saves
    Sorrento, Florida

    King's Landing is located directly on the pristine waters of Rocks Springs Run, one of three main tributaries that feeds the Wekiva River Basin, a designated National Wild and Scenic River. Offering a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, from self-guided rentals, adventure tours and even nightly escapes that will have you gazing under the stars. There's no better way to immerse yourself in true Florida nature, wildlife around every paddle and emerald waters below.

    The Eagle Boy Scout Retreat Campground is just steps away from King's Landing and has provided a quality camping experience for members of the Boy Scouts of America and campers across the country. We believe that scouting is adventure, family and leadership, helping one grow to their very best future self.

    CAMPSITE DETAILS

    • One tent per campsite allowed.
    • Open primitive lot. No power or water hookups.
    • No hammocks are to be hung on the trees.
    • Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit.
    • Access to the onsite outdoor shower rinse off area, cold water only.
    • Outhouse with toilet and sink, also two porta potties on site.
    • Access to many hiking trails in the area and the old fashion swimming hole.

    DYRT PRO MEMBERS 10% DISCOUNT

    • Use Promo Code: DYRTPRO10
    • At check-in, proof of Dyrt PRO Member required.
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Field Campground - Tiger Bay State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Field Campground - Tiger Bay State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Field Campground - Tiger Bay State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Field Campground - Tiger Bay State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Field Campground - Tiger Bay State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Bennett Field Campground - Tiger Bay State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorr Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorr Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorr Cabin
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorr Cabin

    7. Lake Dorr Cabin

    3 Reviews
    4 Photos
    22 Saves
    Altoona, Florida

    Overview

    Lake Dorr Cabin is set along the south shore of beautiful Lake Dorr, ideal for a family getaway. The cabin is open year-round and creates a great setting for plenty of outdoor water fun. The rental includes a private boat ramp, canoes and a fishing dock. It's located just over an hour from popular amusement parks and other exciting attractions in Orlando. The cabin entrance and bathroom is accessible. A flat section on the property fits two tents if guests wish to camp outside.

    Recreation

    Boating, skiing, jet skiing, fishing and swimming are among the most popular activities for guests. The abundance of largemouth bass, crappie and pan fish entice anglers. A private boat ramp, fishing dock, picnic table, grill and three canoes with life vests are provided.

    Natural Features

    The cabin rests on the south shores of the lake, with shady Palmetto palms and other tropical vegetation. Views of Lake Dorr, which spans 1,760 acres, are impressive from the cabin grounds. Ocala National Forest boasts more than 600 lakes, rivers and springs, including three first-magnitude springs.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (352) 669-3522.

    Nearby Attractions

    Altoona lies directly south of Lake Dorr, with gas stations and conveniece stores. Umatilla is a little farther south, offering grocery stores and pharmacies. The cabin is about 50 miles from Daytona Beach to the east and the city of Orlando to the south. Both trips take just over an hour and offer many opportunities for entertainment.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $280 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bluff Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluff Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluff Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from Bluff Landing

    8. Bluff Landing

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    48 Saves
    Paisley, Florida

    This primitive camping area above 52 Landing provides three tent sites and easy access to Alexander Run.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 39 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews in Lake Helen

961 Reviews of 39 Lake Helen Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Treasure By The Sea Mobile Home & RV Park
    Dec. 24, 2024

    Treasure By The Sea Mobile Home & RV Park

    Surf or Turf: A Tale of Two Campgrounds

    Maybe you could distinguish this RV camping lot as one part being ‘surf’ and the other half being ‘turf,’ so let me do my best to explain. As I’m a Pisces, let’s begin with the ‘surf’ side of the equation, which of the ‘two tales’ is certainly the brighter and sunnier side of the story (literally and figuratively). What you’ll discover here at Treasure by the Sea is that indeed this is an absolute gem of a location as it puts you DIRECTLY in front of the white capped Atlantic waves that you’ll experience no shortage of. The only thing separating you from the beach and ocean is the number of steps it takes you to walk there (and if you get lucky enough to get a front-row slot or spot, that’s only about 10 paces)! What little patch of land and fence did exist prior to our visit was eliminated by Hurricane Nicole.

    On this eastern side of the AIA there is nothing but a flat and sandy landing for you to park (pull-through or back-in) or pitch your camp for the night, along with a few scattered picnic tables, there’s also water and electric (30 / 50 amp) hook-ups along with a bathroom & shower facility (which were just OK to be honest – and in need of enhancement). Amenities include in addition to beachfront RV sites, cable TV, complimentary WiFi, on-site laundry, scattered fire rings and picnic tables.

    With the ‘turf’ side of the property, this is where the main office is, and apart from stopping here to register and check-in, I don’t really encourage you to spend much (if any) of your time on this side of paradise (western side of A1A), apart from dropping your kayak into the Intracoastal / Matanzas River. Additionally, what you’ll discover on this side is mostly mobile home residents, although there were a few free and open spots for RVers who couldn’t get a spot on the beachside.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) There’s not a lot in these parts, apart from what hopefully is the primary reason you are here for in the first place – beachfront access. If that’s what you are looking for, then this is a DESTINATION that you won’t want to leave anytime soon. But when you do choose to 'get off the reservation,' head north to Palm Coast for smart shops and attractions, or tract due south to a simpler, slightly more touristic experience in Flagler Beach; (2) When you get tired of preparing meals out of a cooler or on-board fridge and want to try out something locally, I highly recommend the crab cakes at Turtle Shack Café, two scoops of Wala Wala Monkey at Sally’s Ice Cream or the firecracker shrimp tacos over at Tortuga’s Kitchen & Bar; (3) The best beachfront spots at Treasure-By-The-Sea are 1, 2 & 3; 19 – 21; and 10 – 17; and (4) After getting enough salt water and beach, be sure to head south to Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreational Area for ‘frakish’ (salt and fresh) water where there’s a simply fantastic inlet to drop your kayak in to check out the Matanzas / Halifax Rivers.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area
    Dec. 24, 2024

    Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area

    Roadside Shaded Primitive Camping Outpost

    This very unassuming county-run wildlife area sits on 13,000+ acres of thick wilderness and wetlands offering a number of different hiking trails, like Outhouse Hammock Loop, which is medium-grade level hiking trail of slightly more than 5 miles. There’s a long-winding road to Little Lake George situated just due southeast of this CG with a handful of trail access points. Located just due south of tributaries flowing eastward from St. Johns River and Rodman Dam, if you are coming here to camp, this will be one of the more primitive offerings I’ve come across and offered to permitted hunters. There’s only about 5-6 designated camping spots here to choose from, all of which come with just a simple picnic table and makeshift fire ring. The land itself, for the most part, is fairly flat apart from the random tree roots and just about everywhere you might want to pitch a tent, there was substantial tree shade to block an otherwise unrelenting hot Florida sun.

     Driving south on Route 19, you’ll come across Caravelle Wildlife Area just after you pass over the county bridge crossing the Ocklawaha River, where within about a half mile, you’ll find this primitive camping outpost on the east side, but be careful as this place will sneak up on you if you’re not looking for it. While there’s no sign informing you of the upcoming wildlife area that you’re about to visit, there is a stucco-like gate (think ranch portico entrances out in the open wild west), where upon accessing, you can either turn left towards a semi-permanent covered structure (great, in the case of rain), and if you don’t, you’ll find yourself heading straight into someone’s private property (mind the signs) or taking a right and meandering down a long winding gravel road to nowhere, but will eventually open up to Little Lake George if not beforehand to Bear Creek.

    Back at the open shed-like structure, you’ll discover that there’s a few signs and diagrams explaining the ‘gaming rules’ along with schedules sorted by seasons of the year. Over here, there’s also a potable water station, cleaning table and an odd hanging hook configuration that is for cleaning game that has been caught. There’s also a spray hose as well as what looks to be like a small open-air cleaning kitchen of sorts complete with countertops and lighting. Opposite this, there’s a kiosk that explains a bit more about the place you happen to be visiting. Beyond this, there’s not much more here. If you are a kayaker, you’ll find that there’s a great launch site just due south of here at Johnson Field Ramp which is just south of this location on Highway 19.

    Happy Camping!

  • Amy P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Springs Rec Area - Fern Hammock Springs
    Nov. 21, 2024

    Juniper Springs Rec Area - Fern Hammock Springs

    Party Camp

    Overall it’s not a bad campground but I have no plans to ever return.

    The good: clean bathrooms with running, hot water; wild Florida flora; starry night skies. The spring run is one of my favorites. It’s difficult and technical and challenging and I just love it.

    The bad: the worst part of my experience was other campers being loud after quiet hours and the camp host doing nothing about it. While most people kept it down after 10 (as stated in the rules) one group of partiers was up til 3am, blasting music and hootin’ and hollerin’. I know the park can’t control individual’s behavior but, again, the camp host was on site and did nothing about it. I talked to other campers the next day who all lamented at their lack of sleep because of this one group. It was so bad we only stayed one night. We left the next day after kayaking the run because our home in the city is quieter.

    Also, there’s a general lack of information available for visitors. There are no maps available, for the campground or the run. I had to take a picture of an employee’s personal map of the grounds which ended up being inaccurate because it listed a shower facility that doesn’t actually exist. I asked the staff at the spring run for a map and they didn’t have one I could look at. I asked “how do I know I’m at the end of the run for pickup?” She said “it’s right after the bridge.” Which was true, but it’s not labeled in any kind of way so if I hadn’t asked, I would’ve just kept on paddling forever. Their website has limited information and the confirmation email I got after booking had incorrect information. It said to call if I’d arrive after hours starting in November, so I did, and was told that policy wasn’t in effect for a few weeks. None of these things are a big deal on their own but when they’re all together it becomes a pattern.

  • Julie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bee's RV Resort
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Bee's RV Resort

    Average campground

    Campground sites are very close together. Staff is friendly and helpful. Bathrooms are clean and modern. Lots of road noise, trucks and sirens.

  • Carol B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Park Campground
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Moss Park Campground

    Quiet, lots of trees, away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando

    This is a 54 site campground with hook ups at each site, fire ring, and picnic table. The trees provide a good amount of privacy from adjacent campers. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. This is about 15 min from the airport yet very removed from Orlando. Water on three sides, gates that close and lock from 6pm to 8 am (Nov-March) but an easy access code is given at check in to be able to come and go after hours. No pets, no alcohol, and quiet after 10. I will stay again! It was a mix of RVs, trailers, camper vans, car camping, and tents when I stayed. The personnel were very nice and helpful at check in.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Hammock Campground
    Nov. 10, 2024

    Manatee Hammock Campground

    Great County Park

    Great county park for our holiday weekend trip. Sites are a little tight and park is open to none campers, but otherwise no complaints (and really those aren’t a big deal). Decent rates, full hook ups, great location, friendly staff, clean bathhouse, and beautiful views of the Indian River. We plan on coming back.

  • Inanna The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Hideout and swamp are about the only truths

    Horrible for tent camping. Didn't own an RV. I'm just traveling through, and I went off of what information was listed. This place is pathetic. Not as advertised. Trash is not taken out regularly. One table on the ground, and it's not a picnic camping table. Tent campers have no showers or restroom. Freeway is very close and noisy. Campground is not really for campers. I'd stay away. This place is appearing fraudulent. Owner does not run this property accordingly. Seems like just a place to store RVs. Not for camping in tents or RVs. Stay away. There's much better camping across the state, regulated and maintained.

  • Alexandra E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alexander Springs Recreation Area
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Right across Florida Trail and cold but gorgeous spring

    Very convenient campground to go for a hike along the florida trail and cool off in the gorgeous blue spring waters. It does get crowded so plan accordingly.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    Camping at the Happiest place on earth

    Can’t beat the convenience & amenities of the Disney parks are on your itinerary. Super cost effective and direct access to magic kingdom and easy access to all the others. Sites were big, clear and clean. Amenities were wonderful. I’d stay here even if we didn’t do a Disney park. 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. Constant ground crews, sanitation work and transportation options. Pools, restaurants, shops and fun activities going on all the time. We loved it.

  • Julian G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Hammock Campground
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Manatee Hammock Campground

    Great location to Cape Canaveral

    Wonderful staff and well maintained Park, sites and facilities. Great fishing and kayaking in the lagoon with a view of Cape Canaveral.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Orlando/Kissimmee KOA
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Orlando/Kissimmee KOA

    Fabricated Camping @ Kissimmee KOA

    Why contemplate leaving the creature comforts of home when you can just haul everything that you love most to a place that provides all of the concrete paved, easy-to-access amenities that you likely have at home in the first place? If you find yourself in this dilemma, no worries, Orlando/ Kissimmee KOA has all of your manufactured outdoor camping needs covered … and what’s perhaps most interesting is that you won’t even have to drive out of the concrete jungle to encounter this experience, in fact, it’s right off a major 4-lane highway (HWY 192).

    So, if you are dreaming of escaping your domesticated life for the thrills of an outdoor camping adventure that will have you appreciating the best of what nature has to offer, then just be forewarned, this is not that place. But if you are simply looking for a change of scenery and want to be near all of the action and attractions here in Central Florida’s ‘Magic City’ and want a different experience than paying overpriced rates at Tiki-hut themed entertainment hotels and relish the idea of dusting off your RV or unpacking your tent in a pseudo nature environment complete with all the astro turf your dog can poop on within a confined, fenced-in setting, then this KOA (and let’s be frank, ANY KOA) has you covered.

    As far as amenities go, it’s a KOA, so there’s going to be more amenities here than you can shake a stick at. These include: heated in-ground medium-sized pool complete with tiled patio, lounge chaise chairs, tables with umbrellas and regular chairs, water-rinsing station, as well as a jacuzzi / spa, propane refilling station, bike rentals, 134’ max length slots, WiFi, pavilion, Kamp K9, firewood for sale, 24 hour laundr-O-mat, picnic tables, community fire pits, on-site market, recreation office, life-size Jenga, designated trash areas, fitness center, playground, dog wash, public bus service, basketball court, EV chargers, jump pad, taxi service back-in and pull-through perfectly paved, level concrete RV sites with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage). There’s even RV sites that are dubbed ‘Deluxe,’ which are larger and come with a paved connected patio.

    No RV? And REALLY don’t want to have an experience that is different than living at home? Even here at this KOA, that’s not a problem, where the proprietors will easily rent you a deluxe cabin, if there is one available. These 1BR or 2BR A/C cooled Deluxe Cabins sleep 4, 6 or 8 people and come with bunk bed set, futon / sofa sleeper and a queen-sized bed along with a private bath and shower, TV with cable offering over 20 channels, some with EV chargers, patio w/ charcoal or gas BBQ grill and fire pit, front porch with patio furniture and chairs, refrigerator, fresh linens, paw pen for the pups and a partial or full kitchen. They even have rustic cabins that are cheaper and don’t come with all the thrills for those that want some degree of ‘roughing’ it, so this means no kitchen and no bathroom or showers, although there is full bed, bunk bed, TV, mini-refrigerator, A/C patio furniture, brick fire pit with cooking grate.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) To continue with the simple, easy-to-access, manufactured experience theme here, for those that grow tired of trying to conjure up that next meal for the kiddos, who are grumbling about making every meal, head on over to any one of these nearby drive-thru windows or curb-side meal offerings: McDonald’s, Panda Express, Applebee’s, Steak ‘n Shake and Wendy’s; (2) If you want to heighten that suburban culinary experience you all have been craving though, I really do rate the silverware-free dining experience that is Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, which is literally just down the road and is actually a lot of fun for the kiddos and adults alike; (3) Should you find yourself in need of anything that you either forgot or may have run out of, then fear not, there’s a Sam’s Club that is in walking distance from this KOA and further south that definitely requires a drive, there’s a Walmart Supercenter; (4) I’ve noticed that this place has SIGNIFICANT discounts if you simply plan in advance – so for example, during the months of March OR April (it’s January now), they’re offering a whopping 25% discount; and (5) If you are looking for a slice of nature’s paradise, then I highly recommend driving a bit north to Wekiwa Springs, where you’ll be able to enjoy one of the most amazing springs in all of Florida where the water is 72 degrees year round.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rivers Edge RV Park
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Rivers Edge RV Park

    Hidden Camping Gem Truly On The River’s Edge

    One thing’s for certain, this camping outpost located just outside the itty bitty village of Georgetown couldn’t be any closer to the mighty St. Johns River, which if you don’t know, is one of the largest and most prolific fishing rivers in all of Florida. Should you find yourself in north-central Florida and / or near Lake George and looking for a spot to call ‘home for the night’ (or many as it might be) then you’ll definitely want to plan a stay here at Rivers Edge RV Park, which is a little know campground jewel in the rough, but be sure to reach out well in advance, as with only 50 or so slots, this place books up quick.

    Apart from the very close proximity to St. Johns River – so close that Rivers Edge RV Park actually offers up boat launch and slips exclusively for its guests, so if you have a boat, whether with motor or not (like those of us towing canoes and kayaks), be sure to call ahead and enquire about available boat slips – this is one very pristine, well-kept and easily organized campground. There’s a decent amount of top-grade amenities including spartan-clean restrooms, shower & laundry facilities with brand new washers & dryers, propane refueling station, a pup playground, trash stations and waterfront nature walk path.

    What I appreciated most was that Rivers Edge RV Park offers up a distinct tent area, which places mi tent-pitchin’ bredren in our own canvassed-erected environ that is actually the closest camping option to the St. Johns River here. As for the RV or 5th Wheel crowd, the standard hook-ups are offered here including 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage back-in and pull-through sites with concrete patios. Complimentary WiFi is offered everywhere and actually isn’t too bad (although our ability to stream was slow). Most sites offer up picnic tables and fire-rings and there are community offerings like a riverside pavilion (also with another set of restrooms and showers), lawn games, horseshoes, pickleball court and enough space for a good game of jarts or frisbee.

    As for the campground itself, you’ll access Rivers Edge RV Park simply by following Road 309 and just as this small country road bends making way for Drayton Island, you’ll want to turn in heading westerly, wherein you’ll be greeted by the main office where you’ll check in at the office immediately on the right. The layout for the campground is a simple loop, about the size of a junior football field with sites #1-28 on the right and the other sites through #54 on the interior of the loop. Should you not have a tent or an RV, no worries, the very good folks at Rivers Edge even have a handful of cabins that they’ll rent you. Overall, I found the pricing to be VERY affordable here – no matter what type of camping you might be interested in.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Rivers Edge RV Park offers up firewood for sale for a decent price, which I always like to flag, because if you don’t need to find additional space to haul firewood with you, it frees up space for other things, right?; (2) If you’ve got kids and need a much bigger space to let them run around, nearby this campground is a very nice kid’s playground as well as a soccer field; (3) For anyone wanting a bit of an off-the-grid adventure, just south of Rivers Edge is the Drayton Island Ferry (just take your second right after the US post office), where you can cross the channel over to Drayton Island for some decent off-the-trail biking & biking as well as zip-lining, which you can access on the far western side of the island at Grands Island Resort, which is a very cool camping outpost in its own right; and (4) Should you grow weary of trying to conjure up that next meal from the depths of your roto-molded Cordova cooler or mini-onboard fridge, you’ll only find meager options near you that include Mel’s River Pub Italian Grille & Liquor Store that offers up a very diverse menu featuring pasta, sandwiches and pizzas, The Oaks Golf Club Café serving up glorified bar fare such as burgers, po-boys, wings, fried baskets, tacos & quesadillas and southern comfort food or Renegades on the River, which is actually another campground, but offers up a super-cool restaurant featuring pizzas, wings, peel & eat shrimp and fried foodstuffs like pickles and gator bites as well as a Tiki Hut pouring some mighty strong Daquiris and Mai Tais.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Luna Sands Resort
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Luna Sands Resort

    Hillside RV Camping Near Major Blue Hole

    Only a stone’s throw away to one of the most beautiful and isolated natural springs in the entire Sunshine State, which is Blue Springs SP, Luna Sands is a uniquely hidden campground, built exclusively for the RV driving or 5th Wheel-toting crowd. If you are a tent-pitching camper, then unfortunately there is ‘no room at this Inn’ so to speak, but the good news for you is that if you are reading this review, my HUGE advice would be simply to book a camping spot over at Blue Springs SP itself. That said, if you are looking for an off-the-beaten path RV campground, then you might as well have found heaven.

    This place has a quaint, clean community pool that greets you upon entry at the front office (which also serves as a campground market of sorts and sells a number of sundries at affordable prices). Across the way from the front office, you’ll discover the very spartan laundry facilities, adjacent to what looks like a killer outdoor Tiki hut bar with enough exposed floorboards for a proper bit of barn dancing and live music entertaining, although there was neither of these when we were passing through. There’s also a club house here and bath house facilities that were also incredibly clean and very well organized. This is also one of those RV campgrounds that comes with those silly themed weekends from November to April, so if that’s another draw for you, so be it. Additional amenities include: swing set, cornhole, basketball court, WiFi and kids playground with swing set.

    As for the campground itself, it is comprised of about 120 back-in and pull-through sites with capacity for 6 additional overflow slots in case the place either gets flooded or overrun somehow. Each slot is accompanied by the standard issued picnic table, which are in fairly decent condition, along with a standard fire ring and are situated on slightly sloping land, so be sure to check out the space beforehand for being level. Typical hook-ups are offered with 20 / 30 / 50 amp electricity, water and sewage. Once on the grounds, as you meander around the place, there’s a number of intimate, little micro-neighborhoods that dot the grounds of this campground. Each space has decent room to both maneuver as well as set up your outdoor living cabana. Cozy and neighborly is how I would describe the place, which might just be perfect, given the prices.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) IMHO the best areas to secure a spot include those on the SW corner of the campground as they are far enough away from the main road and the other noise-inducing amenities on the campground. These slots include: #124– 131 as well as #A– K and #39; (2) If you hadn’t come here to access Blue Springs State Park, you should really rethink that and make sure you get over to this water wonderland, which is one of the very few 72 degree year-round crystal clear springs that offers up herds of manatees to swim alongside, particularly from November– February; (3) Should you be looking for some local fare after looking into the depths of your onboard mini fridge and coming up empty, then you are in luck as nearby there’s a sweet little Argentinian joint called Rincon del Sabor and another dive called Taste of Soul – neither of which you’ll wanna write home about, but will definitely give you a break from ‘frank& beans’ for the night. And if neither of those places do the trick for you, there is also a few other restaurants you might wanna check out like Gram’s Kitchen for low country breakfast cooked up all day, Mi Tierra Authentic Mexican as well as Fire on the Bayou for some nice, spicy Cajun; and (4) If you need to stock up on any supplies, nearby Luna Sands is a grade A Publix as well as a Walmart nearby, so you should have no problems being stocked up while staying here.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring State Park Campground
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Blue Spring State Park Campground

    Keeping Cool @ Blue Springs

    Here at Sand Pine Campground inside of Blue Springs State Park, you’ll find that while this is a fairly large campground, the substantial amount of vegetation, along with the flow of how the campground is organized, the individual campsites give off a vibe of privacy, intimacy and solitude. Upon entry to this SP, you’ll meet likely some of the friendliest park rangers of any FL state park (although, honestly, the very GREAT rangers @ Rodman Campground ultimately win the battle!), who will provide you with all of the great information you need to have a great experience here.

    As for the pet-friendly campground specifically, each of the 51 sites has its own picnic table, water and electric as well as fire ring, while the ground itself is laden with powdery grey sand (so leave your boots or flip flops at the door of your tent or RV). The individual slots are somewhat tight and narrow to navigate, but most RVs should be OK to back into these sites. What you will appreciate the most about Sand Pine is that just about every site offers a substantial amount of privacy with solid, thick Floridian jungle putting decent distance between you and your neighbors. The only downside is that it is a solid hike from this campground to the spring itself, which will require you to drive there or take a decent bike ride.

    The amenities are pretty amazing with the two bathroom and laundry room facilities appearing to be nearly brand new and there are designated dump stations scattered throughout making disposal of trash and recyclables EZ. The restroom facilities had vending machines as well. As for the sand pine scrub nature you are surrounded by, but the real gem here of course is the fresh crystal spring that is teaming with manatees, which are best to view and swim alongside between the winter months of November and February. For my float-seeking friends, there’s a solid kayak / canoe launch and if you don’t want to get some oaring in, you can partake in a guided river boat cruise.

    If you’re looking to get away from it all and enjoy some privacy, then this is a great little campground for you to consider. And if you miss anything from the non-natural world, have no fears, a short drive into town to grab a pizza or load up on groceries is easy enough to manage. What I love most about camping here at Blue Springs SP is that during heavier tourist season, a reservation will guarantee you access to the spring, which sometimes gets full and therefore requires the rangers to stop traffic flow into the park, so if you've got a place guaranteed for the night, then, well, you need not worry about the morning rush when most will just worry about getting in the park.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you find yourself out-of-luck in finding an available campground site to reserve, try your luck at booking one of the 6 often overlooked cabins, which BTW, come with their own set of parking spaces; (2) When you grow weary of digging through your onboard mini-fridge or roto-molded Cordova cooler, then check out some of the local fare where nearby in town, there’s a sweet little Argentinian joint called Rincon del Sabor, classic pie palace called Blue Springs Pizza and another ethereal dive called Taste of Soul – neither of which you’ll wanna write home about, but will definitely give you a break from ‘frank & beans’ for the night. And if neither of those places do the trick for you, there is also a few other restaurants you might wanna check out like Gram’s Kitchen for low country breakfast cooked up all day, Mi Tierra Authentic Mexican as well as Fire on the Bayou for some nice, spicy Cajun; (3) Should you need to stock up on any supplies, nearby Blue Springs SP has a 'grade A' Publix as well as a Walmart nearby, so you should have no problems being stocked up while staying here; and (4) When the kiddos get restless and the pristine nature that you find yourself surrounded by isn’t enough of a distraction, then head due east to Family Fun Town, which is a family-friendly amusement center with batting cages, mini-golf, arcade games and go cart racing. Yahoo!

    Happy Camping!

  • Haley L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area

    Jungle camp

    Nice spots for tent camping. Got surprisingly cold when I visited. Would’ve been 5 stars if it weren’t for obnoxiously loud and rude neighbors that were yelling/screaming until midnight. If you camp here, expect to hear lots of partying.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Encore Bulow RV
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Encore Bulow RV

    Pool was okay, but the staff wasn’t.

    I asked my parents to book this RV site because it has a pool and WiFi. First things first, you have to pay for WiFi. I spent $15 on WiFi for ONE DAY for 7 people because if you make only one account it allows only 3 devices to sign it with it. Doesn’t mention anything about that on their website or on here. The plants here and the views are really pretty. The pool was okay, and the one day and night we stayed there we met some friendly people who were staying there as well. The next morning, (40 minutes before checkout time) they were already calling my mom and asking us when we were leaving. Are you serious? Put an earlier check-out time on your business if you want people to leave earlier. It sucks because I recommended this site to my parents, and they treated my mom very crummy. We won’t be back here again.

  • Meghan C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp

    Drive up then walk in campsite on the water with no neighbors

    I love this site and have camped there twice (most recently Feb 2024). We packed light but not that light because we like to be comfortable; it took my BF and me about 3 trips each to get everything we needed to the site, including firewood, our 4 person tent, air mattress, camp stove, cooler, etc. The walk from where you can park to the actual site is also not that long (about a quarter mile away), but it can be prone to flooding, so I would wear waterproof hiking boots and have some gaters handy when you arrive in case you have to walk through some muddy spots or puddles as we did on this last trip.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Griffin State Park Campground
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Lake Griffin State Park Campground

    Deer flies and no lake

    Was there 5/20. Not much privacy, other campers close. The deer, yellow flies ate me alive, even with heavy duty bug spray. Not on the lake, so no breeze. Have to take a boat on Dead River to see the lake. Neighbors were loud and fighting well past midnight. The famous oak tree is up front by highway. Was a nightmare. Left early.

  • Vanessa A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    May. 15, 2024

    Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    Tourist-friendly with Activities galore

    Had a 2 night tent camp stay here during January. Great option for family reunions, we had my girlfriend’s 30th here, and with our rented golf cart, had no problems escorting our guests to our campsite to enjoy a camp cookout with us at our campsite. Was definitely an authentic Disney experience, with a never ending list of activities with plenty to keep kids and kids at heart busy, which we didn’t partake in since we were enjoying our campsite.

  • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Apr. 28, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Very relaxing out of the way and quiet

    This place is a very quiet location. The owner of the property is extremely friendly. You can hear wild turkeys in the morning. You're far enough away from the city to get an excellent view of the sky.

  • Chrystianna H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Park Campground
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Moss Park Campground

    Simple camping.

    This place was a good place for a beginner camper like me. It’s close to a Walmart, to get things I forgot. It has a few trail heads and lots of boat docks. I enjoyed fishing and wild cranes.


Drive Time


Guide to Lake Helen

Tent camping near Lake Helen, Florida, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and unwind.

Explore Scenic Trails and Waterways

Amenities for a Comfortable Stay

Prices for Tent Camping

  • Tent camping at Mullet Lake Park is affordable, with prices typically around $20 per night, providing a budget-friendly option for families.
  • Geneva Wilderness Area offers primitive camping experiences for approximately $18 per night, perfect for those looking to escape into nature.
  • For a unique experience, Bissette Bay — Canaveral National Seashore allows for primitive island camping at about $20 per night, ideal for adventurous campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lake Helen, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lake Helen, FL is Hontoon Island State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Lake Helen, FL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 39 tent camping locations near Lake Helen, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.