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 (237)

    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

    113 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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Showing results 1-10 of 237 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near San Mateo, FL

1191 Reviews of 237 San Mateo Campgrounds



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 237 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.