Top Tent Camping near Sanford, FL

Searching for the perfect place to pitch your tent near Sanford? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. From remote to easy-to-reach, these Sanford campsites are perfect for tent campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Sanford, FL (39)

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone

    1. Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone

    8 Reviews
    21 Photos
    82 Saves

    The East Camp Zone is located within Little Big Econ State Forest (Seminole County), about 40 miles east of Orlando, FL. The East Camp Zone is only accessible by boat and consists of six suggested camp zones. There is no water, electric or amenities... Recreational activities featured here are: boating, fishing, bird watching, wildlife viewing, wildflower viewing and nature study. The Little Big Econ State Forest offers two camp areas for primitive camping. The West Camp Area is located near the Barr Street hiking trailhead and can be accessed only from the hiking trail and by canoe or kayak from the Econlockhatchee River Paddling Trail. The East Camp Area can be accessed only by canoe and kayak at this time. Overnight camping is allowed by obtaining a State Forest Use Permit available at the Little Big Econ State Forest office. For more information and to get a State Forest Use Permit, please contact the forest at (407) 971-3500 or email the Little Big Econ State Forest.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Mills Park

    2. Lake Mills Park

    7 Reviews
    59 Photos
    104 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing
    Camper-submitted photo from King's Landing

    3. King's Landing

    5 Reviews
    38 Photos
    164 Saves

    King's Landing is located directly on the pristine waters of Rocks Springs Run, one of three main tributaries that feeds the Wekiva River Basin, a designated National Wild and Scenic River. Offering a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy, from self-guided rentals, adventure tours and even nightly escapes that will have you gazing under the stars. There's no better way to immerse yourself in true Florida nature, wildlife around every paddle and emerald waters below.

    The Eagle Boy Scout Retreat Campground is just steps away from King's Landing and has provided a quality camping experience for members of the Boy Scouts of America and campers across the country. We believe that scouting is adventure, family and leadership, helping one grow to their very best future self.

    CAMPSITE DETAILS

    • One tent per campsite allowed.
    • Open primitive lot. No power or water hookups.
    • No hammocks are to be hung on the trees.
    • Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit.
    • Access to the onsite outdoor shower rinse off area, cold water only.
    • Outhouse with toilet and sink, also two porta potties on site.
    • Access to many hiking trails in the area and the old fashion swimming hole.

    DYRT PRO MEMBERS 10% DISCOUNT

    • Use Promo Code: DYRTPRO10
    • At check-in, proof of Dyrt PRO Member required.
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hontoon Island State Park

    4. Hontoon Island State Park

    5 Reviews
    26 Photos
    122 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Geneva Wilderness Area

    5. Geneva Wilderness Area

    2 Reviews
    67 Photos
    64 Saves
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Jumper Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Mullet Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mullet Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mullet Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mullet Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mullet Lake Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Mullet Lake Park

    8. Mullet Lake Park

    2 Reviews
    10 Photos
    9 Saves
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table
    • Showers
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Bear Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Bear Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Bear Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Bear Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Bear Wilderness Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Bear Wilderness Area

    9. Black Bear Wilderness Area

    1 Review
    20 Photos
    50 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Hal Scott Preserve County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hal Scott Preserve County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hal Scott Preserve County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hal Scott Preserve County Park

    10. Hal Scott Preserve County Park

    4 Reviews
    4 Photos
    50 Saves
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Picnic Table
Showing results 1-10 of 39 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews In Sanford

971 Reviews of 39 Sanford Campgrounds


  • Inanna The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Oct. 29, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Hideout and swamp are about the only truths

    Horrible for tent camping. Didn't own an RV. I'm just traveling through, and I went off of what information was listed. This place is pathetic. Not as advertised. Trash is not taken out regularly. One table on the ground, and it's not a picnic camping table. Tent campers have no showers or restroom. Freeway is very close and noisy. Campground is not really for campers. I'd stay away. This place is appearing fraudulent. Owner does not run this property accordingly. Seems like just a place to store RVs. Not for camping in tents or RVs. Stay away. There's much better camping across the state, regulated and maintained.

  • Alexandra E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alexander Springs Recreation Area
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Right across Florida Trail and cold but gorgeous spring

    Very convenient campground to go for a hike along the florida trail and cool off in the gorgeous blue spring waters. It does get crowded so plan accordingly.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    Aug. 8, 2024

    Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    Camping at the Happiest place on earth

    Can’t beat the convenience & amenities of the Disney parks are on your itinerary. Super cost effective and direct access to magic kingdom and easy access to all the others. Sites were big, clear and clean. Amenities were wonderful. I’d stay here even if we didn’t do a Disney park. There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy. Constant ground crews, sanitation work and transportation options. Pools, restaurants, shops and fun activities going on all the time. We loved it.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Louisa State Park
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Lake Louisa State Park

    Wonderfull

    • clean, naturally and quiet

    • no wlan and good mobil connection

    • restrooms and laundry are o.k.

    • rangers are super and nice

    • playground and a small beach to put your feet into water.

  • Julian G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Hammock Campground
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Manatee Hammock Campground

    Great location to Cape Canaveral

    Wonderful staff and well maintained Park, sites and facilities. Great fishing and kayaking in the lagoon with a view of Cape Canaveral.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring State Park
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Blue Spring State Park

    Keeping Cool @ Blue Springs

    Here at Sand Pine Campground inside of Blue Springs State Park, you’ll find that while this is a fairly large campground, the substantial amount of vegetation, along with the flow of how the campground is organized, the individual campsites give off a vibe of privacy, intimacy and solitude. Upon entry to this SP, you’ll meet likely some of the friendliest park rangers of any FL state park (although, honestly, the very GREAT rangers @ Rodman Campground ultimately win the battle!), who will provide you with all of the great information you need to have a great experience here.

    As for the pet-friendly campground specifically, each of the 51 sites has its own picnic table, water and electric as well as fire ring, while the ground itself is laden with powdery grey sand (so leave your boots or flip flops at the door of your tent or RV). The individual slots are somewhat tight and narrow to navigate, but most RVs should be OK to back into these sites. What you will appreciate the most about Sand Pine is that just about every site offers a substantial amount of privacy with solid, thick Floridian jungle putting decent distance between you and your neighbors. The only downside is that it is a solid hike from this campground to the spring itself, which will require you to drive there or take a decent bike ride.

    The amenities are pretty amazing with the two bathroom and laundry room facilities appearing to be nearly brand new and there are designated dump stations scattered throughout making disposal of trash and recyclables EZ. The restroom facilities had vending machines as well. As for the sand pine scrub nature you are surrounded by, but the real gem here of course is the fresh crystal spring that is teaming with manatees, which are best to view and swim alongside between the winter months of November and February. For my float-seeking friends, there’s a solid kayak / canoe launch and if you don’t want to get some oaring in, you can partake in a guided river boat cruise.

    If you’re looking to get away from it all and enjoy some privacy, then this is a great little campground for you to consider. And if you miss anything from the non-natural world, have no fears, a short drive into town to grab a pizza or load up on groceries is easy enough to manage. What I love most about camping here at Blue Springs SP is that during heavier tourist season, a reservation will guarantee you access to the spring, which sometimes gets full and therefore requires the rangers to stop traffic flow into the park, so if you've got a place guaranteed for the night, then, well, you need not worry about the morning rush when most will just worry about getting in the park.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you find yourself out-of-luck in finding an available campground site to reserve, try your luck at booking one of the 6 often overlooked cabins, which BTW, come with their own set of parking spaces; (2) When you grow weary of digging through your onboard mini-fridge or roto-molded Cordova cooler, then check out some of the local fare where nearby in town, there’s a sweet little Argentinian joint called Rincon del Sabor, classic pie palace called Blue Springs Pizza and another ethereal dive called Taste of Soul – neither of which you’ll wanna write home about, but will definitely give you a break from ‘frank & beans’ for the night. And if neither of those places do the trick for you, there is also a few other restaurants you might wanna check out like Gram’s Kitchen for low country breakfast cooked up all day, Mi Tierra Authentic Mexican as well as Fire on the Bayou for some nice, spicy Cajun; (3) Should you need to stock up on any supplies, nearby Blue Springs SP has a 'grade A' Publix as well as a Walmart nearby, so you should have no problems being stocked up while staying here; and (4) When the kiddos get restless and the pristine nature that you find yourself surrounded by isn’t enough of a distraction, then head due east to Family Fun Town, which is a family-friendly amusement center with batting cages, mini-golf, arcade games and go cart racing. Yahoo!

    Happy Camping!

  • Haley L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area
    Jun. 12, 2024

    Juniper Springs Rec Area - Tropical Camp Area

    Jungle camp

    Nice spots for tent camping. Got surprisingly cold when I visited. Would’ve been 5 stars if it weren’t for obnoxiously loud and rude neighbors that were yelling/screaming until midnight. If you camp here, expect to hear lots of partying.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Encore Bulow RV
    Jun. 8, 2024

    Encore Bulow RV

    Pool was okay, but the staff wasn’t.

    I asked my parents to book this RV site because it has a pool and WiFi. First things first, you have to pay for WiFi. I spent $15 on WiFi for ONE DAY for 7 people because if you make only one account it allows only 3 devices to sign it with it. Doesn’t mention anything about that on their website or on here. The plants here and the views are really pretty. The pool was okay, and the one day and night we stayed there we met some friendly people who were staying there as well. The next morning, (40 minutes before checkout time) they were already calling my mom and asking us when we were leaving. Are you serious? Put an earlier check-out time on your business if you want people to leave earlier. It sucks because I recommended this site to my parents, and they treated my mom very crummy. We won’t be back here again.

  • Meghan C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp

    Drive up then walk in campsite on the water with no neighbors

    I love this site and have camped there twice (most recently Feb 2024). We packed light but not that light because we like to be comfortable; it took my BF and me about 3 trips each to get everything we needed to the site, including firewood, our 4 person tent, air mattress, camp stove, cooler, etc. The walk from where you can park to the actual site is also not that long (about a quarter mile away), but it can be prone to flooding, so I would wear waterproof hiking boots and have some gaters handy when you arrive in case you have to walk through some muddy spots or puddles as we did on this last trip.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Griffin State Park
    Jun. 1, 2024

    Lake Griffin State Park

    Deer flies and no lake

    Was there 5/20. Not much privacy, other campers close. The deer, yellow flies ate me alive, even with heavy duty bug spray. Not on the lake, so no breeze. Have to take a boat on Dead River to see the lake. Neighbors were loud and fighting well past midnight. The famous oak tree is up front by highway. Was a nightmare. Left early.

  • Vanessa A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
    May. 15, 2024

    Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

    Tourist-friendly with Activities galore

    Had a 2 night tent camp stay here during January. Great option for family reunions, we had my girlfriend’s 30th here, and with our rented golf cart, had no problems escorting our guests to our campsite to enjoy a camp cookout with us at our campsite. Was definitely an authentic Disney experience, with a never ending list of activities with plenty to keep kids and kids at heart busy, which we didn’t partake in since we were enjoying our campsite.

  • ron R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Apr. 28, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Very relaxing out of the way and quiet

    This place is a very quiet location. The owner of the property is extremely friendly. You can hear wild turkeys in the morning. You're far enough away from the city to get an excellent view of the sky.

  • Chrystianna H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Moss Park Campground
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Moss Park Campground

    Simple camping.

    This place was a good place for a beginner camper like me. It’s close to a Walmart, to get things I forgot. It has a few trail heads and lots of boat docks. I enjoyed fishing and wild cranes.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Manatee Hammock Campground
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Manatee Hammock Campground

    Very Nice Location & Property

    Nice park and amenities. Maintained well enough. Spaces are closer together but the amount of trees and foliage make it seem more private. Don’t ask for an early check in. Even if your spot is empty. The staff was extremely rude and unfriendly. I understand policy is policy but being rude doesn’t help enforce the policy.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Monroe Park
    Apr. 5, 2024

    Lake Monroe Park

    Nice stay

    This park was really nice to camp at, you got hookups for water and electricity. Hot showers in the bathrooms, each bathroom has its own sink , mirror , toilet , and hot showers the water doesn’t go cold on you. Pretty quite in the distance you can hear the power plant but not as bad as I thought it would be it’s a muffled noise so if you got tv or ear plugs you are in real good shape lol ! For rent campers atleast!! Clean grounds, has a soda machine near the playground very nice to launch boats out as well , I also see on here it’s listed @$15 it’s not $15 thru the number it’s like $25 plus tax (: worth it for the hookups

  • Eleanor the Airstream R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from KARS park
    Apr. 4, 2024

    KARS park

    Great view for Rocket Launches

    Located on the river across from Kennedy Space Center, it's a great spot to view launches with 20 or so spots along the river.

    Water/electric sites only, but there are two dump stations available. Boat launch just outside the campground as well. Bath houses were clean and there is a small camp store.

    Spots are all first come, first serve. Only available to KSC/NASA employees and military though (and requires an annual membership of $15-20). The campground does update open sites on their facebook page daily (https://www.facebook.com/KARSPark).

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Hideout at The Green Swamp!
    Mar. 22, 2024

    Hideout at The Green Swamp!

    Quiet and secluded with lots of wildlife

    I stayed at Raphael's campground for a few days during spring turkey season. I was very impressed with how clean the grounds were and was surprised to see that they had installed 30-amp hookups for electricity and water. I was tenting so didn't take advantage of those, but they are there. The location is pretty secluded and very quiet, aside from the local wildlife that are nearby (turkey gobbles and sandhill cranes squawking), but that is what camping is all about! The other folks there were super nice and very helpful. I was very grateful for Raphael's flexibility on check out time so I could get an extra morning of hunting in. Overall, I'd highly recommend camping here and I'll be back next spring.

  • Brian and Janet S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Alexander Springs Recreation Area
    Mar. 22, 2024

    Alexander Springs Recreation Area

    Beautiful spring, pricey sites

    The spring is walking distance from campground - we saw turtles, otters, and many fish while swimming in the spring. For the price, no electric or water hookups and the facilities were not well maintained. Sites are close together and campground can get noisy. Front desk staff are amazing, so friendly and knowledgeable. The springs are worth a visit, but campground is too expensive for what you get.

  • Brian and Janet S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hopkins Prairie Campground — National Forests In Florida
    Mar. 19, 2024

    Hopkins Prairie Campground — National Forests In Florida

    Off the beaten path

    This is a beautiful campground with proximity to the Florida Scenic Trail. Ideal for tent camping, as the forest service roads were a little rough for our RV. Campground is along a beautiful and unique wet prairie. No cell service, no electric or water hookups. Worth a stay in a tent! Recommend using entrance off route 19 via forest service road 86.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Spring State Park
    Mar. 10, 2024

    Blue Spring State Park

    Manatee and Florida nature

    Visited to see Manatees from the land. Cooler temps best for manatee numbers.

    Campground sites feel secluded with vegetation but can be challenging for backing up into spots.

    Had electric and water but trash is upon exit along with dump station

    Nice paved road around campground and short trail to main park area. Canoe and kayak rentals available.

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Camper-submitted photo from Deer Lake Retreat
    Mar. 1, 2024

    Deer Lake Retreat

    New to the Dyrt!

    Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!



Guide to Sanford

Camping near Sanford, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore the springs: Visit Alexander Springs Recreation Area for a refreshing swim. One reviewer mentioned, "The spring is walking distance from the campground - we saw turtles, otters, and many fish while swimming."
  • Kayaking and canoeing: Check out Silver Springs State Park Campground for amazing kayaking opportunities. A visitor shared, "We had our own kayaks so we put in at the head springs and paddled down to the campground."
  • Wildlife watching: At Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, you can spot deer and even alligators. One camper noted, "We saw so many deer I lost count and we could hear the males in the distance."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Lake Louisa State Park Campground stated, "Shower facilities are recently remodeled and impeccable."
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Tomoka State Park Campground said, "Hats off to the Ranger staff here – you are easily the best group of nature professionals I have ever had the pleasure of engaging with."
  • Privacy between sites: Campers enjoy the spaciousness of sites at Blue Spring State Park Campground. A reviewer mentioned, "The individual campsites give off a vibe of privacy, intimacy, and solitude."

What you should know

  • Limited hookups: Some campgrounds, like Alexander Springs Recreation Area, do not offer electric or water hookups. A visitor noted, "For the price, no electric or water hookups and the facilities were not well maintained."
  • Noise levels: Be prepared for some noise, especially during busy weekends. A camper at Juniper Springs Recreation Area mentioned, "Over Thanksgiving weekend it got pretty noisy due to one large multi-site group."
  • Reservations recommended: Popular spots like Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground can fill up quickly, so booking ahead is a smart move. One reviewer said, "I’d stay here even if we didn’t do a Disney park."

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, a family enjoyed the "never-ending list of activities with plenty to keep kids and kids at heart busy."
  • Pack snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the little ones happy. A camper at Salt Springs Recreation Area mentioned, "The pizza place across the street was really good."
  • Plan for downtime: Make sure to schedule some relaxation time. One visitor at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground said, "We didn’t want to leave at the end of our trip."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have size restrictions for RVs. A reviewer at Tomoka State Park Campground noted, "Most sites are exceptionally private, especially those sites found on the outside of the loop."
  • Bring leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at Lake Louisa State Park Campground mentioned, "The sites are spacious and open."
  • Use a reservation system: Many campgrounds offer online reservations, which can save time. A visitor at Jetty Park Campground said, "The staff is accommodating and friendly."

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Sanford, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sanford, FL is Little Big Econ State Forest Primitive Camping - East Camp Zone with a 4.8-star rating from 8 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Sanford, FL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 39 tent camping locations near Sanford, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.