Tent camping sites near Welaka, Florida range from primitive spots within the Ocala National Forest to riverfront campsites with direct water access. Lake Delancy East NF Campground offers primitive sites with vault toilets and a hand pump well situated near the Florida Trail. Most campsites feature sandy soil beneath pine forests, making this region a prime destination for best tent camping near Welaka, Florida during fall through spring when temperatures moderate and insect activity decreases.
What to do
Fishing from your campsite: At Princess Place Preserve, waterfront campsites provide direct fishing access. "Sites are spacious, spread out and on the water. The park has a small but adequate shower facility, clean campsites and plenty of wildlife," notes Justin W.
Kayaking on blackwater streams: Launch directly from campsites at many locations. "Launch your boat from your site, fish and enjoy. There are creeks meandering all through the preserve for paddleboard and/or kayaking," explains Scott S. about Princess Place Preserve.
Hiking historic trails: The Florida Trail passes within 200 yards of Lake Delancy East NF Campground, providing access to longer hikes. "Florida hiking trail is about 200 yards away. No Atv's But Lake delancy west is adjoined to campground east and you can ride atv's right out of the west side," reports Daniel S.
Wildlife viewing: Observe diverse Florida wildlife throughout conservation areas. "We saw deer more frequently than we saw other humans," Taylor shares about her Princess Place experience.
What campers like
Campsite privacy: At Etoniah Creek State Forest Green Camp, sites provide ample space between neighbors. "Six Sites have picnic tables, lots of room, fire ring with grate, bbq grills, a latrine nearby," says Brian K.
Star gazing opportunities: Clear night skies away from light pollution create exceptional star viewing. At Cedar Creek Campground in Matanzas State Forest, "Star gazing out here is absolutely immaculate. The sites here are pretty large. You could fit several tents in these sites," according to Haley L.
After-hours solitude: Some preserves close to day visitors in early evening, giving campers exclusive access. At Princess Place Preserve, "the park closes to the public at 6 pm, so that means you basically have the next three hours of daylight to roam the entire place by yourself," explains Katie M.
Equestrian camping options: Several campgrounds accommodate horse campers with special facilities. "Equestrian campsites are nice and spacious, most sites are fairly big-rig friendly. The equestrian campsites have a garbage or two, fire ring, picnick table, 14 x 14 horse pens," notes B H. about Princess Place.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many primitive tent sites near Welaka have limited potable water. At Haw Creek Preserve State Park Dispersed, "there's a running water line with hose, where you can use as much of the non-potable water as you desire," but campers should "bring plenty" of drinking water as Stuart K. advises.
Reservation requirements: Most quality tent camping near Welaka requires advance booking. For Princess Place Preserve, "sites are reserved well in advance, especially for the weekends so book early," cautions Kippy N.
Firewood considerations: While gathering fallen wood is permitted at some locations, supply varies. "You are allowed to gather wood if it has fallen, however it's a good idea to buy some locally as none is sold by the campground," suggests Aida K. about Princess Place.
Road conditions: Access to remote campsites often involves unpaved roads. At Matanzas State Forest, "roads are rough but not terrible (i have a jeep wrangler - but 4 wheel drive not necessary)," reports Gary G.
Tips for camping with families
Seek out shaded sites: During warmer months, tree coverage provides crucial relief from heat. Lake Delancy East offers "very nice Primitive campground. Great shade trees and tent spots," according to Daniel S.
Consider wildlife encounters: Be prepared for potential wildlife sightings, including bears. At Lake Delancy East, campers "have seen Black Bears but no problems," notes Daniel S.
Plan for bathroom facilities: Research bathroom options before arrival as they vary widely. Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area offers "a potable water station, cleaning table and an odd hanging hook configuration that is for cleaning game that has been caught," according to Stuart K.
Bring wagons for gear transport: Some sites require short walks from parking areas. At Haw Creek Preserve, "there's a perfectly fabricated wooden plank pathway to follow (read: whatever you typically plan to HAUL to your primitive campsite, here, rest assured, you can pull with a wagon or hand-trailer)," advises Stuart K.
Tips from RVers
Honor system payment areas: Some forest service campgrounds use self-service payment. At Lake Delancy East, there's a "$10 nightly fee for a campsite with restrooms close by, honor system payment method (e.g. cash only)," reports Kristin T.
Nearby supplies access: Research nearby towns for resupply options. Lake Delancy East is "only a few miles from Salt Springs so if you forgot a toothbrush, you're in luck," notes Kristin T.
Cellular connectivity: Remote camping areas may have limited service. In Matanzas State Forest, campers report being "10 minutes from a major highway yet feel like you are 1000 miles from anywhere," according to Gary G., suggesting variable connectivity.
Consider seasonal timing: Winter camping offers the most comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. For Matanzas State Forest, January was "definitely the time of year to be there — no bugs, no animals," notes Gary G.
