Bennett Field Campground — Tiger Bay State Forest
Nice super spacious
Quite a bit of ticks. The camping table had a bee hive …
The St. Johns River region surrounding Welaka, Florida encompasses diverse camping options from primitive sites to full-service RV resorts. Welaka State Forest, established in 1935, offers equestrian-focused camping with 24-stall horse stables and nearly 20 miles of riding trails, including the 6-mile Sandhill Horse Trail. The forest provides both primitive tent sites and full hookup RV spots along with access to hiking trails like Spring Trail and John's Landing Trail. Salt Springs Recreation Area, located within Ocala National Forest about 30 minutes northwest, features paved RV sites with complete hookups alongside a primitive camping area closer to the kayak launch. Rodman Campground and Renegades on the River provide additional waterfront options with varying levels of amenities.
Camping facilities vary significantly throughout the area, with humidity and insects presenting challenges during summer months. Many waterfront sites require advance reservations, particularly during winter when temperatures moderate and snowbirds arrive. As one camper noted, "Welaka State Forest feels as though you've escaped the crowds to discover a truly pristine natural jewel." Forest service roads accessing some campgrounds like Hopkins Prairie can be rough, potentially challenging for larger RVs. The sandy soil throughout the region can become problematic during drought conditions, occasionally forcing closure of boat ramps and access roads. Cell service remains spotty in more remote locations, particularly in national forest areas.
Fishing opportunities dominate the camping experience around Welaka, with the St. Johns River and connected waterways offering prime bass fishing. Several campgrounds provide direct water access, boat ramps, and fishing docks. "This part of Florida is basically unkept jungle that will grow in any and all directions if left untended," observed one reviewer about the natural environment. Campers frequently report wildlife sightings including alligators and, during winter months, manatees in the springs and river runs. The 72-74°F year-round temperature of nearby Salt Springs makes it a popular swimming destination regardless of season. Tent campers find the most privacy and natural settings at Hopkins Prairie and within Ocala National Forest campgrounds, while RV enthusiasts have numerous options ranging from basic water/electric sites to resort-style accommodations with pools, restaurants, and organized activities.
$38 - $70 / 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."
$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."
$38 - $70 / night
"The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles. Very sunny during the day and very cool at nigth."
"The Florida Trail runs right through this spot and has a natural spring connection as well. We camped out near the facilities and am happy to report everything was maintained and clean."
$10 / night
"There’s a real sense of forest solitude when you turn off the pavement and roll into Lake Delancy West Campground, a wooded public campground tucked beside the lake’s quiet west shore and surrounded by"
"Other reviews had suggested that this campsite was largely used by ATV and other off highway vehicle enthusiasts using the adjoining trail system and it was loud and unpleasant."
$16 / night
"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."
"Great view of lake and Hopkins Prairie from most of the sights. Has a large bat house. Florida trail runs thru campground. Pay at the pipe system."
"Pulled in around 9:30 pm. Big open spot. Last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV. But great Tent/van spot."
"Had no one around and nice and cool in the forest"
$80 - $190 / night
"Great access to the lake."
"Plenty of bars and restaurants within a short drive."
$10 - $15 / night
"Please note there isn’t much close by, so stop at the grocery and get fuel before you turn off 17."
"The location itself was very quiet and peaceful with good trails. There were a several other campers at the hookup sights."
$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."
$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."












Quite a bit of ticks. The camping table had a bee hive …
Friendly hosts and clean, centrally located property
Great small RV park. Very clean and super friendly & helpful staff. We stayed 3 nights and will definately return. Approximately 60% full-time residents.
Quiet beautiful laid back, let's keep it that way!
Just outside the tiny river village of Georgetown, where Road 309 bends toward Drayton Island, you will find Rivers Edge RV Park sitting exactly where its name promises, right on the banks of the St. Johns River. With roughly 50 or so sites arranged in a simple, easy to navigate loop, this campground feels intimate without being cramped and it books quickly for good reason. The setting is classic 'Old Florida' with long bearded Spanish moss draped over ancient oaks, wide river views and that slow moving, fish-filled water stretching out toward Lake George.
Sites here cater primarily to the RV and 5th wheel crowd, offering full hookups with 30- and 50-amp electric, water & sewer, along with a mix of back-in and pull-through options, many with concrete pads and patios. There is also a designated tent area, thoughtfully placed closer to the river, which gives tent campers a front row seat to sunrise over the water. Restrooms and showers are notably clean, laundry facilities feature newer machines and there is also a propane station on-site. Add in a small dog park, trash stations, a riverside pavilion, lawn games, horseshoes and even pickleball courts and it becomes clear that this is a well-managed, well-maintained operation. Complimentary WiFi reaches most of the park, though streaming can be a bit slow at peak times.
While my review from a few years ago provides a ton of detail, I thought I would follow up that review with a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.
HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Direct access to the St. Johns River with private boat launch and guest-only slips; (2) Clean, well-kept facilities including modern laundry and shower buildings;(3) Distinct tent area positioned closest to the river; (4) Simple loop layout that makes navigation easy even for larger rigs; (5) Fishing is abundant here with local finds including: largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill, shellcracker bream and striped bass; and (6) Affordable pricing compared to many waterfront parks in Florida, but for the area, this is either on par or slightly more $ for what you would typically find, however, IMHO completely worth it!
LOWLIGHTS: (1) Limited availability due to the park’s small size and popularity; (2) WiFi can slow down during busy periods; (3) Fewer restaurant and retail options immediately nearby, because, well, you're completely out in 'the sticks' here in Georgetown, which is admittedly, part of the allure (as well as the downside); (4) Sites, while organized, are not heavily screened for privacy; and (5) This CG is best suited for river lovers and boaters rather than those seeking resort style amenities.
Happy Camping!
The cabins at Blue Spring State Park offer a rare way to experience one of Florida’s most iconic spring-fed rivers without camping by RV or tents. Tucked well away from the busy springhead and day-use crowds and surrounded instead by hardwood hammock and palmetto flats. Arriving is straightforward via Orange City, just a stone's throw from I-4, and once you’re checked in, the cabins feel intentionally removed from the main campground loops, trading generator hums and tent zippers for solid walls, screened porches along with a noticeable sense of calm once the park gates close for the evening.
Each cabin is simple but thoughtfully laid out with climate control, real beds, a small kitchen setup, picnic tables and screened outdoor space that invites slow mornings with a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee and unhurried evenings over a nice iced glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. While these are not luxury accommodations by any stretch of the imagination, they are very clean, well maintained and ideal for families or couples who want immersion in nature without having to 'rough' it. Restrooms and showers are integrated into the cabin setup rather than shared campground facilities and nearby trails make it easy to step directly into the woods for a walk without ever starting the car.
Beyond the cabins themselves, Blue Spring’s broader amenities shine. Hiking trails wind through shaded forest and along the St. Johns River while the spring run offers some of the clearest freshwater paddling in the state. A small concession area and nearby Orange City like Fire on the Bayou, The Salted Goat and Orange Social provide tempting and hyper-local dining options, but most guests will find themselves lingering longer at the cabins, listening to owls at dusk or catching early morning river mist before the park stirs back to life.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) If you’re visiting during manatee season, the cabins are a ‘golden ticket’ for early and late viewing when crowds thin and the river feels most deserted and almost reverent; (2) For kayaking, launch at the Blue Spring Run canoe and kayak launch and paddle upstream early in the morning for glassy water, manatee sightings in season and wading birds like blue and grey heron, kingfishers, bald eagles and ospreys along the river banks; (3) The cabins closest to the interior trail network tend to feel the most secluded and quiet compared to those nearer service roads; (4) Plan simple meals rather than elaborate cooking, as kitchens are functional but hoestly, quite modest (read: just bare bones); and (5) If you want a true Old Florida day trip, head a short drive north to DeLeon Springs after breakfast for swimming and pancakes at the local restaurant there.
Happy Camping!
Last minute getaway. 20 minutes from palm coast. We enjoyed being by the lake. You could bring your boat to this one for sure.
Awesome open spots for dispersed camping. Not too busy and camp host is a really nice dude.
75 women campers rented the parking lot at Mill Dam used for large group camping. I believe it was $100 a night. Currently a 'burn ban' on fires but they are otherwise allowed. Most of us have dogs and cats, but must check you and you pets for ticks, they are prevalent. There is a lake with a beauriful beach. There are restrooms and changing rooms with floor drains, so if you bring your own shower you can use that. There are no power hookups or dump stations that I saw, but there are dumpsters. There is a resident black bear so MUST observe bear safety. Great place, very nice camp host, kept bathrooms clean and stocked.
The St. Johns River basin around Welaka offers camping opportunities in a region dominated by sandy soil and subtropical vegetation. Campsites in this area sit at elevations under 100 feet above sea level, with many waterfront locations susceptible to seasonal water level fluctuations. During summer months, thunderstorms typically develop in the afternoons, making morning activities preferable from June through September.
Kayaking Juniper Springs Run: Navigate this 7-mile downstream route through crystal-clear spring water and dense forest. "The main springs are great but go explore! Watch for wildlife! If you are anywhere near here...go! You will not be disappointed! It is COLD though..be warned!" notes a visitor to Juniper Springs Recreation Area.
Hiking the Florida Trail: Access segments of the Florida National Scenic Trail that runs through the region. "There's a 1.2 mile interpretive hiking trail called Davenport Landing Trail that will take to you to the former steamboat landing, which makes for a medium-grade hike with some interesting history," reports a camper at Davenport Landing.
Biking to Rodman Dam: Explore paved pathways suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. "Road our bikes to the dam. Beautiful site! Full shade and very level. Water directly in front of our site," shares a visitor at Rodman Campground who enjoyed the easy access to cycling routes.
Private wooded sites: Many campsites offer natural screening between neighbors. "The sites are roomy but fairly private or very private depending on the site, and well-kept with a fire ring and picnic table. The bathrooms were extremely clean, lit, and well maintained," describes a camper at Rodman Campground.
Constant spring water temperature: The region's springs maintain 72°F year-round regardless of season. "The spring pool is gorgeous and quite, very pretty trails to watch spring boils and turtles. Very sunny during the day and very cool at nigth," explains a camper at Juniper Springs Recreation Area.
Sandy soil for tent camping: The forest floor provides naturally soft tent sites in many primitive camping areas. "Pretty much all of the sites are shady and most have good privacy between them, especially the sites that face out onto the prairie. I usually see more adult campers than families, so it is a pretty quiet area in my experience," notes a camper at Hopkins Prairie Campground.
Spotty cellular coverage: Cell service deteriorates significantly in forest areas. "We've been there four times now, and just love it there!" mentions a Rodman Campground visitor, but many campers note that staying connected requires driving to nearby towns.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many dispersed camping areas lack basic amenities. "No picnic tables. No fire ring. No stand-up grill. No potable(or for that matter, non-potable) water spigot. Nothing," describes a visitor to Davenport Landing, highlighting the need for complete self-sufficiency.
Wildlife encounters: Native animals frequently visit campsites throughout the area. "We saw deer at dusk meandering through the woods," reports a visitor to Salt Springs Recreation Area, while others note regular alligator sightings near waterways.
Springs accessibility: Choose campsites with manageable walks to swimming areas for young children. "The spring is a short walk from the campground or a quick bike ride," explains a Salt Springs camper, making it convenient for families with small children.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant noise from nearby recreation areas or highways. "If there is an 'ALL HOURS WEEKEND' at the nearby Hog Waller Campground and ATV Resort (right across the river), then the trails remain open 24 hours and you will not have any tranquility or relaxation all night," warns a Rodman Campground visitor.
Shower facilities: Only select campgrounds offer shower amenities. "The bathhouse was not the greatest and there was minimal privacy," notes a visitor to Half Shell Resort, highlighting the importance of checking facility conditions before booking with children.
Site leveling challenges: Many RV pads require additional leveling equipment. "Sites have paved pads but most are not level. Wifi very spotty. Springs are nice," mentions a Salt Springs visitor, suggesting the need for extra blocks or levelers.
Road conditions: Forest service roads can damage larger rigs during rainy seasons. "The last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV," cautions a Davenport Landing visitor, indicating the need for careful route planning.
Campground infrastructure: Some riverfront campgrounds offer excellent docking but limited site amenities. "Peaceful friendly camp. Sights are close in most spots. A bath house with 1 each man and women private bathroom. With sink shower toilet. Water was warm. On-site laundry," describes a Half Shell Resort camper, suggesting the tradeoffs between location and facilities at camping spots near Welaka, Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Welaka, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Welaka, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 291 campgrounds and RV parks near Welaka, FL and 10 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Welaka, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Welaka, FL is Salt Springs Recreation Area with a 4.4-star rating from 60 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Welaka, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 free dispersed camping spots near Welaka, FL.
What parks are near Welaka, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Welaka, FL that allow camping, notably Ocala National Forest and National Forests in Florida.
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