Discover the best beach campgrounds near Sanford, Florida with hiking

Halfway between the waves of Daytona Beach to the north and Orlando’s theme parks to the south, Sanford is decidedly quieter and more laid back by comparison. Escape into nature through a network of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, or travel alongside lush riverbanks at Blue Spring State Park to spot Florida’s iconic manatees. Snorkeling and scuba diving in the warm Florida waters are more great ways to spend a day, as is renting a canoe or kayak to paddle among crystal-clear emerald springs at Wekiwa Springs State Park. Group primitive campsites, RV camping with full hookups, and stylish glamping sites are all available near Sanford.

Where to go

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Take time to explore over 40 miles of nature trails in Wekiwa Springs State Park by hiking, biking, or even horseback riding among the oak trees and spotting wildlife along the banks of Rock Springs Run and the Wekiwa River. Look for everything from belted kingfishers and ospreys to river otters and aquatic turtles. Swimming, canoeing, and kayaking the emerald springs are other popular activities. To really get away from it all, consider setting up at a primitive campsite in one of the more remote areas.

Blue Spring State Park

Over 700 West Indian manatees flood Blue Spring State Park every winter thanks to ongoing protection efforts. Here, limestone aquifers bubble up to feed the St. Johns River and create a warm and comfortable environment for the grazing sea cows. Observe the creatures in their natural habitat from boardwalks and observation decks, then dive into the water for summer snorkeling, scuba diving, and inner tubing. Hipcampers can select from a full range of camping options including primitive tent campsites, cabins, and RV sites with full hookups, plus amenities like fire rings and picnic tables.

Lake Monroe Park

Campers don’t need to go far from Sanford to discover a little slice of nature’s sanctuary. Set on the shores of the lake for which it is named, Lake Monroe Park is both right in the heart of town and miles away from the everyday. With both tent and RV camping options, there’s easy access to miles of biking trails, including the scenic Sanford RiverWalk running along the lakeshore. The lake itself offers attractive largemouth bass fishing year-round, as well as the chance to catch black crappies, bluegill, and massive channel catfish. If the fish elude your lure, historic Sanford’s local restaurants are mere minutes away.

When to go

Florida summers can be very hot and humid, not to mention that it’s also hurricane season. The mosquitoes can be a nuisance, as well. The rest of the year may be a more comfortable choice for camping near Sanford. Spring weather is especially pleasant, adorning park areas with wildflower displays. For manatee viewing, high season runs from November to April, peaking between December and February. Check with local parks and campgrounds for seasonal closures or reduced hours, as water activities may be restricted during manatee season.