Dustin M.
Traveler
TravelerBennett Field Campground — Tiger Bay State Forest
Nice super spacious
Quite a bit of ticks. The camping table had a bee hive …
Best Campgrounds near New Smyrna Beach, FL
Campgrounds near New Smyrna Beach, Florida range from state parks to private RV resorts, with many offering cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping options. Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park and Gold Rock Campground provide convenient options within a few miles of the Atlantic beaches, while Blue Spring State Park Campground offers a more natural setting about 20 miles inland. Most facilities maintain year-round availability, with full hookups for RVs and designated areas for tent camping. The Canaveral National Seashore, located at the southern edge of the region, provides more primitive camping experiences accessible by boat.
Many campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during winter months when seasonal residents and tourists arrive in greater numbers. Most private campgrounds feature full amenities including electric hookups, water, and sewer connections, though cabin availability is limited and should be booked well in advance. The coastal environment brings typical Florida weather patterns—hot, humid summers with afternoon thunderstorms and mild winters that attract numerous seasonal campers. Sites near the beach tend to fill quickly, especially during holiday periods and special events in nearby Daytona Beach. As one camper noted, "From the time I called to the time I checked in the staff was very friendly and courteous. The campground was clean and peaceful."
Proximity to beaches represents the primary draw for most visitors, with New Smyrna Beach's drive-on shoreline located approximately 15-20 minutes from most local campgrounds. Several campgrounds feature swimming pools as alternatives to ocean swimming, with Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park offering a Florida-shaped pool that receives positive mentions in reviews. Campers frequently cite the convenience of having grocery stores and restaurants nearby while maintaining a camping atmosphere. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist at nearby natural areas, particularly at Blue Spring State Park where manatees gather during cooler months. Internet connectivity varies significantly between locations, with several reviewers noting poor cellular coverage at certain campgrounds. A camper mentioned that "The campground was clean and well maintained. Many snowbirds in the winter, but they had room for us to stay a week."
Best Camping Sites Near New Smyrna Beach, Florida (185)
1. Tomoka State Park Campground
55 ReviewsOrmond Beach, FL23 milesWebsite+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."
2. Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park
9 ReviewsNew Smyrna Beach, FL2 milesWebsite+1 (386) 427-2284$40 - $50 / night
"If you’ve landed on this review hopefully its because of a primary decision to visit one of the greatest beach communities in all of Florida – New Smyrna Beach."
"Pool is heated, and shaped like the state of Florida. Nice playground for the kids."
3. Blue Spring State Park Campground
46 ReviewsOrange City, FL24 milesWebsite+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."
4. Gold Rock Campground
5 ReviewsNew Smyrna Beach, FL2 milesWebsite+1 (386) 424-7332$25 - $35 / night
"The space is completely surrounded by trees, so when you pull in you feel like you're way off the grid, but when you pull out of the park you're right in the middle of stuff."
5. Indian Mound Fish Camp
8 ReviewsOak Hill, FL11 milesWebsite+1 (386) 345-9845$68 / night
"was pleasantly surprised to find Indian Mound Fish Camp offered all of these elements, so If you’ve got an RV, camper en tow or looking for a ready-made cabin on the water, then this particular RV location"
"It not very big, but gives great access to good fishing and fun family times. This has been the rainy season this trip, but mornings until 12pm, the weather is great."
6. Daytona Beach RV Resort
5 ReviewsPort Orange, FL8 milesWebsite+1 (386) 761-2663"Great spot if you are looking for easy access to the beach. We were able to ride our bikes there. The bathrooms and outdoor pool were extremely nice!"
"Laundry is a very nice space with good clean machines. easy access to stores, food and a short drive to the beaches. The price was a nice surprise for all you get."
7. Daytona's Endless Summer Campground
4 ReviewsPort Orange, FL8 milesWebsite+1 (386) 767-9170"As I rock up to this roadside campground destination, I’ve got Don Henley’s ‘Boys of Summer’ playing on the old Spotify, which is just the perfect soundtrack to this multi-faceted campground refuge."
"You're only a 10-15 min drive to the closest beaches (further for the lighthouse and Ponce Inlet). It had a great pool, a playground, and a dog run. Great rates for monthly and seasonal."
8. Nova Campground
4 ReviewsPort Orange, FL8 milesWebsite+1 (386) 767-0095"For $50 a day (and that was event pricing because we were at a music festival nearby) we had an igloo, basically a tiny cabin, AC, a bathroom very nearby, electric, AND a pool!! We were thrilled!"
9. Encore Rose Bay
4 ReviewsPort Orange, FL6 milesWebsite+1 (888) 707-147710. Canaveral National Seashore
3 ReviewsOak Hill, FL11 milesWebsite$25 / night
"We kayaked using the map and GPS around the other islands and explored new territory. There is also a canoe trail through the islands which it nice to use when winds got bad."
"You can also do the Shipyard Island Canoe trail which begins directly across from the visitors center."
Recent Camping Photos near New Smyrna Beach, FL
210 Photos of 185 New Smyrna Beach Campgrounds
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Gold Rock Campground
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Bennett Field Campground — Tiger Bay State Forest
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Luna Sands Resort
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Tomoka State Park Campground
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Blue Spring State Park Campground
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Recent Reviews near New Smyrna Beach, FL
942 Reviews of 185 New Smyrna Beach Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendSonrise Palms RV
Peaceful Pocket on the Space Coast
There is something instantly calming about pulling into Sonrise Palms RV Park (you will want to note that misspelled 'Sonrise' otherwise you won't find this place on your GPS), tucked just off I-95 in Cocoa, where the pace slows down and the setting feels more like a quiet neighborhood packed with RVs than a busy campground, with spacious, mostly level sites, palm trees and greenery scattered throughout along with an EZ layout that makes settling in feel effortless. With around 80 to 90 full hookup sites, a heated pool, clean bathhouse and laundry, and even small touches like a dog park and canal fishing, this spot has all the essentials covered without feeling overwhelming. One evening, we grabbed a casual dinner nearby called The Grass Shack and came back to let the boys unwind at the pool while my hubby and I walked the grounds, spotting little bits of wildlife and enjoying that warm Florida night air before heading back for a cozy wind-down at our site. I would absolutely recommend this campground for families looking for a relaxed, low-key stay thanks to its quiet atmosphere, very clean bathroom and shower facilities as well as EZ access to nearby beaches, rocket launches and Space Coast adventures just a short drive away.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Joy RV Park
No-Frills, But Family-Friendly EnoughThere is something comforting about pu
There is something comforting about pulling into a place that feels simple and straightforward after a long day, and JOY RV Park in Cocoa has that kind of easygoing charm, tucked just off I-95 with a modest layout of mostly level sites, wide enough spacing and full hookups that make settling in feel quick and stress-free. The campground leans more practical than resort-style, but with clean restrooms, a pool, laundry, and a small clubhouse, it covers the essentials well and while there is not a playground and shade can be limited (OK, to be honest, there's no shade anywhere, which is important to note, because you're in FL!), it still felt safe, quiet enough at night, and manageable for families. We grabbed a casual dinner nearby at The Filling Station Cafe (which was awesome) and let the boys wind down with snacks while talking about rockets and hoping to spot one of those famous Space Coast launches, which somehow made the whole stop feel a little more special. I would recommend this campground for families looking for a convenient, no-fuss place to stay thanks to its EZ access, full hookups, and proximity to beaches and space-themed adventures nearby.
Stuart K.LegendRivers Edge RV Park
St. Johns River Basecamp Done Right
Just outside the tiny river village of Georgetown, where Road 309 bends toward Drayton Island, you will find Rivers Edge RV Park sitting exactly where its name promises, right on the banks of the St. Johns River. With roughly 50 or so sites arranged in a simple, easy to navigate loop, this campground feels intimate without being cramped and it books quickly for good reason. The setting is classic 'Old Florida' with long bearded Spanish moss draped over ancient oaks, wide river views and that slow moving, fish-filled water stretching out toward Lake George.
Sites here cater primarily to the RV and 5th wheel crowd, offering full hookups with 30- and 50-amp electric, water & sewer, along with a mix of back-in and pull-through options, many with concrete pads and patios. There is also a designated tent area, thoughtfully placed closer to the river, which gives tent campers a front row seat to sunrise over the water. Restrooms and showers are notably clean, laundry facilities feature newer machines and there is also a propane station on-site. Add in a small dog park, trash stations, a riverside pavilion, lawn games, horseshoes and even pickleball courts and it becomes clear that this is a well-managed, well-maintained operation. Complimentary WiFi reaches most of the park, though streaming can be a bit slow at peak times.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Direct access to the St. Johns River with private boat launch and guest-only slips; (2) Clean, well-kept facilities including modern laundry and shower buildings;(3) Distinct tent area positioned closest to the river; (4) Simple loop layout that makes navigation easy even for larger rigs; (5) Fishing is abundant here with local finds including: largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, shellcracker bream and striped bass; and (6) Affordable pricing compared to many waterfront parks in Florida, but for the area, this is either on par or slightly more $ for what you would typically find, however, IMHO completely worth it!
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Limited availability due to the park’s small size and popularity; (2) WiFi can slow down during busy periods; (3) Fewer restaurant and retail options immediately nearby, because, well, you're completely out in 'the sticks' here in Georgetown, which is admittedly, part of the allure (as well as the downside); (4) Sites, while organized, are not heavily screened for privacy; and (5) This CG is best suited for river lovers and boaters rather than those seeking resort style amenities.
Happy Camping!
- Stuart K.Legend
Blue Spring State Park - Cabins
Old Florida Comfort Without the Tent Stakes
The cabins at Blue Spring State Park offer a rare way to experience one of Florida’s most iconic spring-fed rivers without camping by RV or tents. Tucked well away from the busy springhead and day-use crowds and surrounded instead by hardwood hammock and palmetto flats. Arriving is straightforward via Orange City, just a stone's throw from I-4, and once you’re checked in, the cabins feel intentionally removed from the main campground loops, trading generator hums and tent zippers for solid walls, screened porches along with a noticeable sense of calm once the park gates close for the evening.
Each cabin is simple but thoughtfully laid out with climate control, real beds, a small kitchen setup, picnic tables and screened outdoor space that invites slow mornings with a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee and unhurried evenings over a nice iced glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. While these are not luxury accommodations by any stretch of the imagination, they are very clean, well maintained and ideal for families or couples who want immersion in nature without having to 'rough' it. Restrooms and showers are integrated into the cabin setup rather than shared campground facilities and nearby trails make it easy to step directly into the woods for a walk without ever starting the car.
Beyond the cabins themselves, Blue Spring’s broader amenities shine. Hiking trails wind through shaded forest and along the St. Johns River while the spring run offers some of the clearest freshwater paddling in the state. A small concession area and nearby Orange City like Fire on the Bayou, The Salted Goat and Orange Social provide tempting and hyper-local dining options, but most guests will find themselves lingering longer at the cabins, listening to owls at dusk or catching early morning river mist before the park stirs back to life.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you’re visiting during manatee season, the cabins are a ‘golden ticket’ for early and late viewing when crowds thin and the river feels most deserted and almost reverent; (2) For kayaking, launch at the Blue Spring Run canoe and kayak launch and paddle upstream early in the morning for glassy water, manatee sightings in season and wading birds like blue and grey heron, kingfishers, bald eagles and ospreys along the river banks; (3) The cabins closest to the interior trail network tend to feel the most secluded and quiet compared to those nearer service roads; (4) Plan simple meals rather than elaborate cooking, as kitchens are functional but hoestly, quite modest (read: just bare bones); and (5) If you want a true Old Florida day trip, head a short drive north to DeLeon Springs after breakfast for swimming and pancakes at the local restaurant there.
Happy Camping!
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Looney Acres
Quiet, Rustic, and Very Bare-Bones
Looney Acres sits tucked just off US-1 in Mims and immediately feels like a throwback to truly primitive camping, with about three dozen simple sites scattered through the woods of what looks to be freshly cleared land that accommodate tents and smaller RVs, all on grass and dirt with minimal leveling. Amenities are extremely limited, with a portable toilet, a basic outdoor shower setup and very little in the way of landscaping or defined walkways, which made getting around on foot a bit tricky for the kids. The boys enjoyed a short wander through the trees and a bit of free-range exploring before we realized this spot wasn’t the best match for our family’s comfort level or setup needs. From what we saw, the quieter sites farthest from the entrance offer the best sense of seclusion, but for families wanting easier access, cleaner facilities, and a more relaxed stay, we ultimately recommend passing and heading down the road to Indian River RV Park in Titusville instead.
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Willow Lakes Golf & RV Resort
Where RV Living Is A Way Of Life
While exploring Florida's 'Space Coast' we decided to pull into Willow Lakes Golf & RV Resort just off US-1 in Titusville, which immediately sets you up for a comfortable and relaxed stay, with well-maintained RV sites nestled among shady tree-lined paved pathways and plenty of space between rigs that feels restful after a long travel day. The resort itself is one of the most highly polished RV communities we have ever visited with thoughtful amenities like a small swimming pool, shuffleboard and bocce ball courts, offering clean bath and shower facilities, roomy paved sites that provide shelter for even the tallest and longest of RVs along with a peaceful layout that feels safe and welcoming for families – but one huge watch out: this is a 55+ community, so while we instantly fell in love with this place, we knew the only way we could stay was if we brought one set of grandparents! One of the highlights of our visit was taking the boys down to the Space Coast to watch a satellite launch from nearby Cape Canaveral, their eyes wide as the rocket lifted into the sky. Dinner at Shilohs Steak & Seafood, a short drive away on US-1, gave us all a chance to enjoy hearty meals and fresh local fare before heading back to our rig, where we eventually found a much better, family-friendly place to stay in Manatee Hammock CG. We’d recommend Willow Lakes for 55+ RV campers who appreciate EZ access from the highway, a friendly RV vibe with clean amenities and proximity to unique local attractions like space launches and great local dining that make every day feel like a part of the adventure. My hubby and I decided this is one of the places we would consider retiring to when our boys are all grown up!
- MMichael H.
ScoutBull Creek Campground
Quiet, rural, and plenty of water
Last minute getaway. 20 minutes from palm coast. We enjoyed being by the lake. You could bring your boat to this one for sure.
Doreen G.
GuideMoss Park Campground
Clean and cheap!
Other than the airplane noise overhead it’s fantastic large sites are amazing with water and electric.
Guide to New Smyrna Beach
Camping near New Smyrna Beach, Florida ranges from primitive island experiences to full-service RV resorts within a 20-mile radius of the Atlantic shoreline. The region features a subtropical climate with average summer temperatures of 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. Most campgrounds in the area sit at near sea level elevation, with sandy soil conditions requiring proper tent stakes and ground pads.
What to do
Kayak to private islands: At Canaveral National Seashore, campers can paddle to secluded island campsites. "We kayaked to Shipyard Island and stayed 3 nights. Fishing was superb. I caught lots of trout ranging 10" to 29" on topwater lures," reports one camper who enjoyed the pristine waters.
Watch rocket launches: Indian Mound Fish Camp offers prime viewing for Kennedy Space Center launches. A camper noted, "If there is a launch from Kennedy Space Center you can see that too, although you're about 20 miles away, still really impressive."
Observe manatees: Winter months bring manatees to Blue Spring State Park Campground. "Went to Blue Springs with my granddaughter. We spent three nights! We had so much fun! She swam in the springs and loved it. Then we went to the swimming hole, and there were five manatees there," shares a grandparent whose family had a memorable wildlife encounter.
Explore historical sites: The area contains numerous historical points of interest, including actual sugar mill ruins near Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park. Many campers use these campgrounds as a base for visiting nearby historical attractions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tomoka State Park Campground receives high marks for site separation. "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," notes one camper who appreciated the natural buffers.
Florida-shaped swimming pool: "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," shares a camper at Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park.
Waterfront views: Several campgrounds offer waterfront sites with views of various waterways. "The campground is small and quiet. The views are amazing," commented a visitor to Indian Mound Fish Camp, where sites overlook the Intracoastal Waterway.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between locations. "Bathrooms are spotless and cleaned 3x a day," reported a camper at Blue Spring State Park, while others noted less satisfactory conditions at other campgrounds.
What you should know
Cell service challenges: Multiple campgrounds report connectivity issues. "This is a great spot. Plenty of trees. Most sites have some space to spread out. Many pull-through spots. The wi-fi repeaters are good for remote workers. This is a paid option and worth it," shared a camper at Sugar Mill, while another noted, "If you work remotely, I'd suggest a different location."
Weather considerations: The subtropical climate brings afternoon thunderstorms during summer months. Hurricane season officially runs June through November, with highest activity August through October.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during winter months (December-March) when temperatures are milder. Several reviewers mention booking difficulties during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there RV parks with full hookups in New Smyrna Beach?
Are there RV parks with full hookups in New Smyrna Beach?
Yes, New Smyrna Beach offers several RV parks with full hookups. Holiday Travel Park provides full-service sites conveniently located just off I-95 at Exit 278, making it perfect for travelers with fifth wheels or larger RVs. International RV Park & Campground also offers full hookup sites in a convenient location. These parks typically provide water, sewer, and electrical connections, along with amenities like WiFi, though connection quality may vary. Most RV parks in the area are well-maintained and accommodate big rigs, with many offering both short-term and seasonal stays for travelers exploring the New Smyrna Beach area.
What are the best campgrounds in New Smyrna Beach, Florida?
What are the best campgrounds in New Smyrna Beach, Florida?
New Smyrna Beach offers several quality camping options. Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park stands out for its convenient location near the area's stunning white sugar sand beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Another excellent option is Gold Rock Campground, which provides a comfortable base for exploring the Atlantic-side shoreline. For those wanting additional recreational opportunities, consider venturing to nearby Alexander Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest, known for its large campsites and beautiful natural setting. All these campgrounds offer different amenities and proximities to attractions, so your choice depends on whether beach access, natural surroundings, or specific facilities are your priority.
How close is camping to the beach in New Smyrna Beach?
How close is camping to the beach in New Smyrna Beach?
Camping proximity to New Smyrna Beach's shoreline varies by location. New Smyrna Beach RV Park & Campground is about a 15-20 minute drive from the beach, offering affordable accommodation with easy access to one of Florida's most glorious drive-on beaches. For those seeking beachfront camping, Coral Sands RV Resort provides a rare opportunity to camp directly on the beach with access to an oceanfront pool and beach chairs. Most campgrounds in the area require a short drive to reach the shoreline, but the spectacular white sugar sand beaches make the brief journey worthwhile.
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