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."
