Lakeside camping near Ormond Beach

Somewhere between Jacksonville, Gainesville, and Orlando, Ormond Beach sets itself apart—thanks in no small part to its coastal flair and small town appeal. Just north of Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach predominantly resides on mainland Florida, though a fraction of the city sits on a barrier island across the Halifax River. The city parallels the Atlantic Ocean, and Ormond Beach campgrounds pepper the shoreline. Campers can stop by the Ormond Memorial Art Museum & Gardens before continuing to an equally stunning campsite. You’ll also find various parks and forests within driving distance, so you’re never far from adventure.

You won’t see any tigers at Tiger Bay State Forest—but you will see white-tailed deer, sparrows, and the occasional bald eagle. Beyond its wildlife, this forest comes with all of the fixings. Think: equestrian access, lakes and ponds ripe for fishing, and, of course, plenty of hiking trails. The final perk of the forest? Campsites, available for both you and your horse.  

Brush shoulders with Ormond Beach during the shoulder months. Fall and spring are ideal for a Florida camping getaway, as summer brings bugs to the area’s forests and parks. Likewise, August is the rainiest month, so come when the weather—and the mosquitoes—won’t work against you. As if you needed another incentive, the shoulder months also see bird migrations, so you’re likely to spot some of Florida’s most interesting species.