St. Johns River KOA
Waterfront RV Resort Just Outside DeLand
Delivering a blend of riverside charm and campground convenience to the banks of the St. Johns River, St. Johns River KOA in DeLand, FL is a great find for those looking for everything properly arranged for a riverfront encampment with EZ access to the frackish waters. Located just off State Road 44, it's an easy exit from Orlando or Daytona, but once you're settled, it feels like a peaceful riverfront retreat. First impressions? Pull into a shaded site, breathe in the river air and instantly realize you've landed in a camper’s version of lakeside serenity.
This KOA pulls no punches on amenities. You'll find full RV hookups (30 / 50 amp electric, water, sewer), spacious back-in and pull-through sites that fit up to 80' rigs, clean bathhouses, laundry, Wi Fi, a dog park and a center pavilion. At the water’s edge, there's a marina with boat and kayak rentals, a boat ramp and even a restaurant serving riverfront fare and weekend live music. All the staff you come into contact with here are friendly locals and a relaxed yet well-maintained environment that keeps you both entertained and relaxed. The crown jewel of this place? The Tiki Bar that sits atop John’s River Grille on-site at this location comes with just one rule: don’t show up late for the Happy Hour sundowning sessions!
Where this KOA shines is on the water. The St. Johns River is full of life, so expect to see manatees, turtles, great blue herons and even gators. Kayaking or paddling right from the campground is a breeze, and guided tours offer a closer look at local wildlife and quiet stretches of river. And when you want to stretch beyond the river, historic downtown DeLand, De Leon Springs State Park and the Ocala National Forest are all within easy reach.
Insider Tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) River-view pull-through sites are prime real estate for sunrises and quick water access, so book early for the best sites; (2) Kayak or paddle launch right from the boat ramp for ideal for wildlife spotting and scenic calm; (3) Guided river cruises (available on-site) unlock insider encounters with manatees and osprey at low cost; (4) Prefer quiet? Request a site farther from the pool and marina because foot traffic can rise near those areas; (5) Bugs gather at sunset, so bring repellent for riverside evenings; and (6) Nearby dining options include Shady Oak Restaurant (you could walk to from St. Johns River KOA), Gator Bites, Emmy’s Time Out Tavern for an old school supper club menu or Hyder Head Brewery for locally brewed hops and Haggis.
Happy Camping!










