Best Campgrounds near San Mateo, FL

The San Mateo area in Florida provides access to a variety of camping experiences within the surrounding region. Campers can find established campgrounds like Salt Springs Recreation Area in the Ocala National Forest, which offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Other nearby options include Rodman Campground near Palatka with both tent and RV sites, and North Beach Camp Resort in St. Augustine featuring oceanfront camping. The region encompasses both freshwater and coastal camping opportunities, with sites ranging from primitive to full-service. Many campgrounds in this area provide direct access to water activities on St. Johns River, Lake Crescent, and various springs. Campers browse The Dyrt when exploring the best sites near San Mateo for detailed information on amenities and availability.

"This campground is in Ocala National Forest, which is always beautiful. The campsites are large, we fit 3 4+ person tents," noted one visitor about Alexander Springs Recreation Area. Florida's climate allows for year-round camping in the San Mateo region, though summer months bring high humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and mosquitoes. Most established campgrounds require reservations, especially during winter months when snowbirds flock to the area. Water levels can affect accessibility at some locations, particularly after heavy rainfall. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near larger towns like Palatka and St. Augustine. Many campgrounds feature sandy soil typical of the region, which drains quickly after rain but can be challenging for tent stakes.

Several visitors highlight the region's natural springs as standout features. Clearwater Lake Campground receives praise for its "water conditions typically providing excellent visibility to the mostly sand-bottomed swimming area." Campers frequently mention the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including manatees in colder months at Salt Springs. The proximity to historic St. Augustine is another draw, with Anastasia State Park described as "magnificent" with "abundant shade and privacy" cut from the jungle. Campgrounds closer to highways like I-95 tend to be more developed with full hookups but offer less seclusion than those deeper in forested areas. Sites near water bodies fill quickly during peak seasons, with reviewers consistently recommending advance reservations for waterfront locations.

Best Camping Sites Near San Mateo, Florida (238)

    1. Salt Springs Recreation Area

    57 Reviews
    Salt Springs, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 685-2048

    $37 - $69 / night

    "There are no laundry facilities but if you exit park and drive left there is a laundromat, local food, dollar store, bait tackle."

    "Located in the center of the state, you’ll have near equal access to both the Atlantic Ocean to the east as well as the Gulf shores to the west."

    2. Anastasia State Park Campground

    115 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 461-2033

    $28 / night

    "You really can have it all at this campground - with its 'next door' proximity to one of the most amazing beachheads on Florida's Atlantic coastline and quick access to the country's oldest town (St."

    "Great location & in close proximity to St. Augustine. One of my favorite places to visit in Florida. If you've never been to St."

    3. Rodman Campground

    27 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 326-2846

    $12 - $22 / night

    "Sites 1-39 are not near the Florida Trail but it was not a bad walk to the other side of the campground to get to the trail. Would stay again."

    "This peaceful campground provides a serene setting surrounded by towering pines and lush Florida foliage."

    4. Half Shell Resort

    6 Reviews
    San Mateo, FL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (901) 230-6224

    $55 / night

    "Close to town for all your needs. It's right on the St John's river. 

    We made some awesome friends while we were their. Can't wait to get back"

    "Nice restaurants nearby. No picnic table at campsites. Everyone very friendly."

    5. Faver-Dykes State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Palm Coast, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 794-0997

    $18 / night

    "Far down a dirt road and very quiet you wouldn't know you were that close to the interstate. Only complaint would be the distance the dumpsters are from the CG"

    "Close to saint Augustine and Daytona."

    6. 4 Lakes Campground

    5 Reviews
    Hastings, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 692-3762

    $40 - $80 / night

    "It’s quiet and away from any tourists. St Augustine is 30 minutes away."

    "We stayed at 4 Lakes for 6 months for work and it was really nice! Staff are super friendly and helpful and make you feel like family."

    7. North Beach Camp Resort

    47 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 824-1806

    $67 - $245 / night

    "We stayed in number 18 and we were very close to the bathroom area (which has AC) and close to the Pool."

    "Very shady spots and plenty of space for long walks on the paths, along the river or across the street at the beach. I had 2 dogs & appreciated the doggy stations with poo bags and garbage."

    8. Compass RV Park

    19 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 824-3574

    "The pull through sites were quite close to each other where the back in sites provided more room, this was especially true near the front of the CG."

    "You just leave the trash bag out anytime and the park staff pick it up during one of their normal rounds around the park.

    The whole park including all the sites were very well maintained."

    9. Celestial Acres

    2 Reviews
    Hastings, FL
    8 miles
    +1 (609) 992-0103

    $30 / night

    "Close to the beach, this is the perfect pitstop. Check them out and leave them some love here!"

    10. Renegades on the River

    5 Reviews
    Georgetown, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 524-4179

    $80 - $190 / night

    "Great access to the lake."

    "Plenty of bars and restaurants within a short drive."

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Recent Reviews near San Mateo, FL

1199 Reviews of 238 San Mateo Campgrounds


  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Arrowhead Campsites & Mobile Home Park

    Budget-Friendly Stay Just Off I-75 in the Horse Capital of the World

    Sitting quietly just off I-75, Arrowhead Campsites & Mobile Home Park in Ocala, Florida is located on one of the busiest thoroughfares that runs through Ocala. This place is a no frills, straightforward, budget-friendly campground where grass pads, shady trees and neighborly vibes create a cozy Old-Florida atmosphere. First impressions? This isn’t a resort, but while there is a community pool (that wasn’t working when we stopped by and TBH was incredibly cringe-worthy), it’s a practical, easygoing basecamp that gives you everything you need while keeping you close to Ocala’s natural gems ... as long as you manage your expectations before arriving here.

    Facilities are simple but sufficient (unless they aren't working at all). There are around 100 sites with full hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water, sewer), most on grass with decent leveling. Guests have access to free Wi-Fi, cable TV, mediocre bathrooms and subpar showers, a laundry facility, picnic tables and a recreation room. Long-term residents mix with short-stay campers, so expect a lived-in, welcoming feel. The campground also features a dining hall and small community events, adding a sense of 'cringy neighborhood' to your stay.

    Ocala itself is the star attraction nearby. Known as the ‘Horse Capital of the World,’ you’re just minutes away from equestrian centers, rolling farms and the glass-clear waters of Silver Springs State Park. The Ocala National Forest offers endless hiking, kayaking and wildlife watching, while downtown Ocala brings restaurants, art galleries and Southern charm.

    Insider Tips? Here’s a smathering: (1) IMHO the best sites are the ones with grass pads near the front loops for the easiest pull-in and better spacing, especially if you’re arriving late, which is convenient as well for those that want to make an early, discreet and trouble-free exit in the morning; (2) Should you need to stock up on anything, there’s a Walmart Supercenter, Publix, Home Depot and Lowe’s all within a 10-minute drive; (3) A nearby hidden ‘easter egg’ you’ll want to explore are the lesser-visited trails at Silver Springs State Park where you’ll find quiet boardwalks and an historic pioneer village that many tourists (and even local residents) miss; (4) If you’ve come with your kayak, a great place to launch is at Silver Springs State Park where you can paddle down the Silver River. Expect to see turtles, manatees and wild rhesus (not Reese's, but sounds the same) monkeys that somehow call the riverbank home; (5) Because there are long-term residents here at Arrowhead, it’s best to request a short-term site closer to the entrance for less foot traffic and quieter evenings; and (6) When you get tired of conjuring up that next meal from the depths of your Cordova roto-molded cooler, then check on some local joints like Big Lee’s Serious About BBQ for its nationally acclaimed BBQ brisket, ribs, and sides or Ivy on the Square with its upscale comfort food in a historic downtown building and there’s also Latinos y Mas serving up fusion Latin classics with Mediterranean touches.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Anastasia State Park Campground

    Sand Dunes & Sea Breezes Near Ancient City

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) 139 shaded sites nestled under live oaks dripping with Spanish moss and palmettos with water and electric hookups; (2) Quick access to 4 miles of pristine Atlantic beach; (3) Amenities include bathhouses, dump station, camp store and rental concession; (4) Nature trails and birding along salt marshes and dunes; (5) Minutes from downtown St. Augustine’s history and attractions; (6) Nearby restaurants include O’Steen’s Restaurant, which is famous for fried shrimp, Mellow Mushroom offering hippie-themed pies and Salt Life Food Shack offering up casual seafood with rooftop views. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Tight sites where large RVs may struggle; (2) No sewer hookups at individual sites; (3) Reservations book up fast, especially weekends – trust me, this is one of the MOST POPULAR CAMPGROUNDS in all of Florida!; (4) Mosquitoes and no-see-ums thrive in warm months; and (5) Road noise from A1A can be noticeable. 

    Happy Camping!

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 26, 2025

    Tomoka State Park Campground

    Mot as pretty as the pics

    Some spots are hard to back into, even with a 25ft rv. Don’t try to walk to the store on site, it’s kinda far!

  • Alex L.
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Tomoka State Park Campground

    Beautiful but noisy

    Stayed in site 69. Bugs were decent honestly. Temps were very warm. Bathroom closed (only found out after check in) but campground is small so not too long of a walk. Road noise is moderate and some sites are very close together but others do a good job of having a barrier. There is plenty nearby in terms of hiking and kayaking.

  • ENRIQUE T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Wonderful Summer Spot

    Friendly and professional hostesses, clean bathrooms and sites are very spacious and private. The spring is wonderful even on busy weekends is very manageable. Just watch for coons stealing your food.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    Awesomeness

    Let me start by saying park.is very clean and well maintained. Sites are big with gravel, fire pits, grill dining tabels and did I say clean. Silver springs is beautiful, go on the boat...

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Anastasia State Park Campground

    Great park

    Feels secluded and amazing and the shops are great they have everything you need that you may have forgot or fun stuff for you to do

  • Jerri K.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Black Creek Ravine

    Very nice

    Was a very nice and quiet place to camp


Guide to San Mateo

Camping near San Mateo, FL, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different preferences.

What to do:

  • Explore the Beach: Anastasia State Park Campground is just a short drive away and offers a beautiful beach. One visitor mentioned, "The beach was a 7-minute walk and easy," making it perfect for a day of sun and sand.
  • Kayaking and Biking: At Tomoka State Park Campground, you can kayak or bike along scenic trails. A camper shared, "Whether you like to get on the water in a kayak, canoe or fishing boat, you are in for a treat."
  • Visit Historic Sites: St. Augustine is nearby, where you can explore historic sites. One reviewer noted, "Bike to the Old City or see it from the water in your kayak," highlighting the area's rich history.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Salt Springs Recreation Area said, "The bathhouse by us was always clean."
  • Shady Campsites: Many enjoy the shaded spots at Tomoka State Park Campground. One camper remarked, "Beautiful campground in St. Augustine. Very shady spots."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Campers love the chance to see wildlife. A reviewer at Rodman Campground mentioned, "You’ll easily be able to spot bald eagles, foxes, wild turkey, and more."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. A visitor at Florida Juniper Springs Recreation Area noted, "Expect to hear lots of partying."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, Alexander Springs Recreation Area has no electric or water hookups, which some campers found disappointing.
  • Reservation Policies: Be aware of reservation policies. A camper at North Beach Camp Resort shared their frustration about losing a deposit due to a last-minute change.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds that offer activities for kids. Anastasia State Park Campground has a nice gift shop and restaurant nearby, making it convenient for families.
  • Plan for Wildlife: Teach kids about local wildlife. A reviewer at Florida Salt Springs Recreation Area advised, "Take necessary precautions with trash and food storage" due to raccoons.
  • Bring Outdoor Games: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games. One camper at Tomoka State Park Campground mentioned, "There are many shaded areas perfect for a secluded picnic."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Faver-Dykes State Park Campground warned, "Some sites tricky to back into if you have longer than 20-foot rig."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, Rodman Campground offers great options with 30/50 amp electric, water, and sewage.
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Many sites are dirt, so expect some dust. A visitor at North Beach Camp Resort noted, "All the sites are dirt, including the roads, so you will have dirt and dust."

Camping around San Mateo, FL, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near San Mateo, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, San Mateo, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 238 campgrounds and RV parks near San Mateo, FL and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near San Mateo, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near San Mateo, FL is Salt Springs Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 57 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near San Mateo, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near San Mateo, FL.

What parks are near San Mateo, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near San Mateo, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.