Best RV Parks & Resorts near New Smyrna Beach, FL

While just a short jaunt from I95, in under 7 minutes from 3-lane express highway traffic, you’ll find yourself sauntering south on a meandering paved entranceway with white picket fences and swear that you were driving onto the set of Dallas (for those of us that remember that Texan drama series!). Once you swing around the bend, a blockade of Ancient Oaks and Magnolias draped in an excessive amount of Spanish Moss are there to greet you to Bulow RV Resort (which is run by Encore RV Resorts). And WOW! does this place pack a lot in! 

For starters, this RV campground is MASSIVE with nearly 400 back-in and pull-through slots to choose from. Nestled on the banks of the Bulow Creek and nearby to the Intracoastal, with the famed Flagler Beach just beyond, this campground is perfect for those seeking water (of any kind). And for those that prefer land, no worries, out here, you are completely surrounded by 6+ golf courses and a ton of great hiking trails. Don’t have an RV? Cringe at the thought of setting up a tent? Absolutely not a problem here at Bulow RV Resort, where they’ll rent you 1 of 5 types of cabins / cottages (note: no pets allowed on these premises though). 

Really, the only downside to this entire place is the lack of privacy that you’ll encounter here – apart from being surrounded by Florida’s most amazing natural wilderness.  Once inside this RV compound, it is quite barren and therefore doesn’t offer much in the way of privacy or a sense of seclusion. So if living in an RV city, complete with road signs and attractions is your idea of paradise, then Bulow RV Resort could be ideal for you. 

As for amenities here, you won’t be disappointed – although you may be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of things to do! Starting with the basics, there are scattered picnic tables and BBQ grills and very well maintained restrooms and clean shower facilities. For RVers, all of the basic water, sewage and electric (30 / 50 amp) hook-ups are available and most of the spaces are fairly wide-open and barren, so you won’t have much privacy anywhere in this campground. In addition, there’s RV storage, ballroom/ banquet hall (because you never know when you might need to throw a big party, right?!), horseshoes, mini-golf, sand volleyball court, designated picnic / bbq areas, clubhouse / lounge, dog park and all the WiFi for your social media surfing pleasure. There’s also a fairly well-stocked market on-site, propane refill station, plenty of designated dump stations, shuffleboard, full service bar (yes, I couldn’t believe it either!) and an activities center that has a full lineup of daily events. And if that wasn’t enough, there’s also a fairly decent sized pool that has an absolutely pristine laundr-O-mat located right next to it. I know! Mai Tais, floaties and running a load of whites all-in-one! 

Insider’s Tips? Here’s a few: (1) For those that are spending just a few nights (or even a week), you’ll want to find a spot much closer to the front of the property – as the back of the property is organized more for longer-term monthly ‘residents’; (2) For those that enjoy hiking, I strongly recommend heading just due south of this RV resort to Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic Park, where you can hike Bulow Creek Canoe Trail, which is quite short and basic, or head further south to Boardman Pond where there’s a pretty cool observation platform for bird-watching; (3) For tent campers, you’ll discover that this resort has isolated a place directly in front (near those white picket fences), where you will be separated from the RV community.  Again, because there is ZERO ground coverage, you will feel a little like a ‘spider in a bathtub,’ so I would recommend if you are going to camp here, to opt for a site as far west as you can (towards those Ancient Oaks and Magnolias I first mentioned – in fact, I would just go primitive and head in that direction anyway); (4) If you’re looking to drop a kayak or canoe in the water, you can either do that directly on-site where the Bulow Creek merges with the Halifax River (nearby the swimming pool) or further afield and southernly, you can drop your watercraft in Tomoka Marsh Aquatic Preserve where you’ll enjoy much wider expanses; and (5) When you get tired of firing up the grill for each meal and want to venture out into the local area, go try out Flagler Fish Company which has been a local (funky) favorite for years or The Anchor, both of which serve up just amazing seafood done up any which way you can imagine. 

Happy Camping!

The park itself was really nice. Lots of trees. Sites were not huge, but had enough room. Lots of long term residents and regulars, so it was easy to get the local scoop.

But— and it’s a big one for those of us in the 21st century— the internet is worse than pathetic. NONE of the carriers have consistent coverage. I have ATT, and most if the time I had nothing. Sometimes I’d get 1 bar with barely enough to see if an email came in. As soon as we got on the street outside the park, text messages we had missed would start showing up. Users with other carriers said the same.

There is a paid WIFI available in the park. Talking with other residents it was good enough to stream movies, but nothing more. I work remotely (hosting zoom meetings) so I didn’t bother paying the daily rate.

If you work remotely, I’d suggest a different location. If you’re looking to get away for a bit- this is the place.

Bathroom and showers were modern and clean. Coin laundry is on site. Swimming pool was good. There’s even a bar by the pool to order drinks, ice cream cones, and hot dogs.

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. This super-slim archipelago boasts some of the most perfect white sugar sand beaches anywhere – plus, the best part is that this beach is a proper ‘drive-on’ beach, so whatever you would normally have to haul in a cart or wheeled by trolley to the beach, you can simply keep in the trunk or bed of your SUV / car / truck. And if you are here, hopefully you have planned to be here for some time – or, upon seeing how simply amazing New Smyrna Beach is, have decided that you need a place to stay ... but unfortunately, you and a couple thousand other people have come to the same conclusion. So what do you do? 

Well, you look for simple and affordable accommodations nearby, and that’s what will attract you to Sugar Mill Ruins Travel Park, which is conveniently located only 15 minutes drive or so from beachside bliss. While this is definitely an RV-laden outpost, the vibe here is quite contagious, with its main office greeting you immediately upon arrival, where just past this wooden log cabin structure pure hedonism awaits with vibrant bouncing beach balls popping up and down in this overgrown campside Florida shaped-pool bursting with loud southern country music (yee-haw!) and nearly everyone en towe brandishing a coozie with some cheap domestic beer and endless “hey y’all’s” and smiles to boot at the ‘Tiki Hut’ (warning – there’s nothing here that resembles a ’Tiki Hut’ apart from the drinks they pour, although even here, no umbrellas!). This place feels like Spring Break for the adults toting 2-3 kids with them as they dwell in their mobile manufactured temporary housing. 

With all the proper hook-ups being provided (30 / 50 amp electric, sewer, water), this oversized RV menagerie feels like it’s been carved out of a forest of tall needle-pine trees sheltering its residents from the sweltering heat of NE Florida. The family-friendly restrooms and shower facilities are fairly clean and there’s picnic tables and BBQ grills sporadically littered all over the place. Sugar Mill Ruins also rents out very affordable cabins (12 x 20) with twin bunk beds and fold-out futon (nice) complete with mini-fridge, table, chairs, microwave and even a porch with deck chairs. There’s more than 200 sites to choose from complete with a playground for the kiddos, game room with 2 billiards tables, plus 3 acres of lake fishing along with a cool pavilion with games and events (this is the main building that you’ll first encounter). 

Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While not exactly a destination, Sugar Mill Ruins is so dang convenient to some of the best beach experiences you might ever encounter, depending upon your leaning, leave early and spend as much time as you can at New Smyrna Beach; (2) If you’re looking for a different place to soak some suds, I highly recommend Norwood’s Treehouse Bar, which has fantastic cocktails and local live music; and (3) For simply sublime food, check out Outriggers Tiki Bar& Grille, which has a pretty gracious happy hour where you can spot manatees and dolphins while biting down on some of the freshest catch in Florida, but with outstanding accoutrement, like key lime coconut beurre blanc and sticky bamboo rice or pineapple and peppadew rhum butter infused fish entrees. 

Happy Camping!

This is another KOA on our extended road trip around Florida. This one is a little older, and shows wear, but they are doing some construction, rebuilding some of the sites. The internet was hit or miss, mostly miss! The bathroom/showroom is dated, but adequate. It reminded me of a high school shower room. There is a small office/store with basics. Also a pool and laundry (most of the washers were out of order) Some of the roads are rough, and a few sites don’t look like they are useable. We were here in late October, between the summer family crowds and the winter Snowbirds. They do have long term rates for Snowbirds. It’s about 20 minutes from a manatee rehabilitation park, and also a manatee overlook pier. It is 30 minutes from Cape Kennedy and the NASA Space Center.

If you were any closer to Daytona Speedway, you’d be feeling the constant swoosh! of cars racing by non-stop. This RV pitstop conveniently located just off Florida’s main interstate highway I-95 and just due north of its second most well-driven highway 4 (the gateway to Orlando), you’ll discover Daytona RV Speedway, which is just a few hundred yards walk to the reason likely you’ve come here in the first place – the Daytona 500 (or any of the other spectacles that call this car track home). And if you are just passing by, then Daytona RV Speedway offers a quick and convenient place for you to drop anchor for the night. 

Apart from its easy access and proximity to the Daytona Speedway, you’ll enjoy the flat, well-laid out pet-friendly RV park here along with all of its amenities: the typical RV hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage), 80’ (max) pull-through sites, on-site mini-mart / store, WiFi& Cable, restroom & bathhouse facilities (from the 80’s but clean nonetheless), firewood and propane (for purchase), coin-operated laundry as well as scattered picnic tables and BBQ grills. As for the campus itself, the RV slots have pretty decent space between them with just OK shade (with an odd tree here and there). 

Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you find yourself lucky enough to be here on the weekend, you’ll want to check out Daytona Flea & Farmers Market conveniently located right across the street from Daytona RV Speedway; (2) While you couldn’t find a place more heavily trafficked in the entire state of Florida, in just a short 20 minute drive further west, you can discover Tiger Bay State Forest, which has an amazing hiking trail called Buncombe Hill Trailhead that’s a nice distraction from this otherwise concrete jungle; (3) As you’re a stone’s throw away from Daytona Beach, arguably, one of the best beaches in the state, if not the country, you’ll want to hit one of these ‘drive-on’ white sand beach destinations – but get there early!; and (4) While you are surrounded by a ton of franchise restaurant chain eateries like Cracker Barrel, BJ’s, Tijuana Flats and Waffle House, I highly recommend Double Barrel Grill, which functions as one part whiskey distillery and also operates a shooting range – who says you can’t shoot and eat your meal too?! 

Happy Camping!

Lake Dorr, NF campground in Ocala NF, FL Some sites are pretty secluded. This is not necessarily super attractive campground to me. I don’t know why for sure. It may be because a portion of the campsites seem unattractive due to thick vine growth surrounding the sites. However, the campground right near a pretty lake. Many sites are private. The lake is not visible from the campsites.
Bathrooms are currently out of order. 11/2023 (Scale 1- bad, 5-Very good

(70 yr olds in 17’ trailer with a desire for a campsite that has at least some visual privacy - after the trailer is in the spot.)

Overall Rating: 3..75 Price 2023: $ 10 w interagency pass Usage during visit: Almost empty. Site Privacy: Some very private sites Site Spacing: Good Site surface: Grass Reservations: Yes Campground Noise: Quiet Road Noise: 1/4 mi from main road - No road noise Through Traffic in campground: No reason. Electric Hookup: No Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: No Potable Water Available: Spigots Generators: Allowed. Bathroom: OUT OF SERVICE Showers: No Pull Throughs: No Cell Service (AT&T): 1 bar Setting: Near lake shore. Many sites are surrounded by low growing vegetation Weather: Nice day Bugs: None Solar: Some Host: On-site. Rig size: Surely under 25’ Sites:1,4,5,7,,10,12,13,,19*,23,24,27,29,31 are among the best.

This was the first RV campground we stayed at when we became Full time. We stayed an entire month and LOVED it. *This review is prior to COVID so there may be changes since.

Pros

Super family-friendly! This used to be a KOA but now is privately owned and operated. 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. The location is close to grocers, shops, beaches, and more. People are kind in the camp store, and our kids were very welcomed. Also, there was cable, which is a fun plus for rainy days. Trash pickup service and Community events!

Cons:

We luckily didn't have anyone besides us for the month, but the sites are rather tight and not all have shade. Prices do fluctuate because of high volume season (snowbirds).

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. The bathrooms are cleaned often but some guests don’t clean up after themselves- leaving hair and trash behind- rude! The staff is wonderful as and the permanents are welcoming. Laundry is pay by phone. There is a dog park. Only downside is lack of concrete pads- roads and parking spots are sandy. Minor issues with heavy rains. Quick drive to the beach. Must haves: outdoor mat, above ground camp fire ring, longer hoses.

Located within a stone’s throw (or two) of I95 – Florida’s major highway artery running due north and south – you’ll come across Sunshine Holiday Daytona just due west of the main exit to Daytona Beach and the Daytona Speedway. Here you will discover a massive RV depot that has 2 distinct campuses to choose from with altogether 602 individual RV, tent camping, cottage and cabin spots to choose from. If you think this sounds like an overcrowded, RV parking lot too close to a major highway interstate with all of the fast food restaurants you can throw a rock at all within walking distance (and a Harley Davidson dealer to boot) then you would be correct! 

About Sunshine Holiday Daytona specifically, you’ll find that this RV campground is basically two very large concentric circles separated by a canal, with Circle A, the first encircled campground space that you will come to upon entry, where the main lodge, shower / restrooms, laundr-O-mat, market and swimming pool is located in the center, is organized by sites #1– 100, and on the outer periphery, you’ll find a dozen and a half or so sites designated for tent campers, but as a fellow tent-pitcher, I wouldn’t recommend this. For those that don’t have an RV or a tent, no problem, as there’s also a handful of scattered cottages and cabins that you can rent for the night. 

The second concentric circle, located just due west of the first large circle, which you’ll come to after first crossing a small canal, is organized in the same fashion as the first circle with a basic hub-like structure in the center with restrooms / showers (but no market or swimming pool here). Both circles have 4 - 5 expanding rings all with intersecting lanes that surround the center, so obviously, the outer rings provide the most amount of shelter and privacy, although you should note that the southernmost part of each external ring is closest to the 4-lane US1 highway from whence you came, so if possible, for Circle A, you’ll want to be on the northern or eastern side and for Circle B, you’ll want to be on the northern or western side. 

Amenities: Clubhouse / lounge, swimming pool, near Daytona’s beaches (biggest upside), pet-friendly, horseshoe pits, bocce ball, WiFi, dog park, playground, restroom / shower facilities, market / store, RV and boat storage, mini golf, badminton, shuffle board, tennis, basketball, bingo / card playing, activities center, volleyball, laundr-O-mat, designated dump station, propane refueling station, as well as full hook-ups for RV (30/ 50 electric amp, sewage, water). 

Insider’s tips? Here’s a few:(1) If you love watching canines battle it out for who’s the fastest, then head on over to Daytona Beach Kennel Club for a good half day at the races along with some hefty pints of Guinness being poured; (2) If fast food isn’t your thing (and you’re not alone here), then check out Colt’s Pig Stand for some pretty great (not excellent) BBQ or if in need of a decent and quick no frills breakfast, then check out Honey Bee Café – both are located just down the street on US1 towards I95; (3) While en route to your destination and find yourself hauling some ATVs or 4X4’s, then you may have hit the jackpot as just down the road from Sunshine Holiday Daytona, you’ll come across Florida Cracker Ranch (and you just have to love that name, right?!), where for some small change, you too can get your off-roading muddin’ driving pleasures realized and if that’s not really your thing, they also have hiking, biking, horseback riding, skeet shooting and many other activities that will keep you out enjoying nature for as long as possible; and (4) When looking for some great trails to hike or ravines to navigate, head on over to Bulow Creek State Park, where you’ll have no shortage of Ancient Oak trees and submerged lands to navigate, complete with a pretty amazing primitive running trail and isolated campground. Further afield, you’ll discover Tomoka SP, which is one of my favorite little hidden gems in all of Florida, so be sure to give them both a look. 

Happy Camping!