Best Campgrounds near Orange Park, FL
Campgrounds surrounding Orange Park, Florida range from established RV parks to rustic cabin options within a short drive. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Jacksonville offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins approximately 20 miles northeast of Orange Park. Camp Chowenwaw Park in Green Cove Springs, just 5 miles south, features unique treehouse accommodations and traditional tent sites. Military personnel can access Jacksonville RV Park at Naval Air Station, which provides full hookup sites. The region includes several mixed-use facilities that accommodate both short-term visitors and seasonal residents.
Access to most developed campgrounds requires advance reservations, particularly during winter months when seasonal visitors increase demand. Flamingo Lake RV Resort and North Beach Camp Resort maintain full hookups year-round, while some state parks implement occasional closures for maintenance. Many camping areas near Orange Park remain operational throughout all seasons due to Florida's mild winter climate, though summer humidity and heat can be challenging. Travelers should check for hurricane-related closures during the Atlantic hurricane season from June through November. A visitor at Camp Chowenwaw Park noted that "the area near the entrance of the camp being built up for homes or business, making the entrance barren and displeasing to the eye."
The proximity to water defines many camping experiences in the Orange Park area. Several campgrounds offer direct access to creeks, lakes, and rivers, including Whitey's Fish Camp which provides boat ramps with access to Doctors Lake. According to one camper, Whitey's offers "quick and easy access to St. Johns River here if you've got a boat, kayak or canoe." Camp Chowenwaw Park includes a swimming pool, dock facilities, and fishing opportunities. Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground offers a more secluded experience with primitive sites and trail access. Campers frequently mention wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly bird watching along waterways. Military campgrounds like Jacksonville RV Park receive positive reviews for their facilities, with one visitor highlighting "access to military hospital, marina, golf course, commissary, and exchange."