Daytona Beach Outdoor Recreation

Daytona Beach and its neighboring cities and towns have some of the best State Parks in the Sunshine State. They offer the best facilities and amenities for all campers who enjoy nature. And who doesn’t think of the outdoor fun when they think of Daytona Beach?

Blue Spring State Park

The Blue Spring State Park (pictured) is a popular tourist destination. It is the largest spring on the St. Johns River. The spring is a Manatee refuge and a winter home to many endangered manatees. It’s closed from November 15 - March 1 to all water-related activities to give the manatees a safe, warm environment in the winter. The Blue Spring State Park is 2,644-acres of natural Florida. The park offers 51 campsites with picnic table grills and water. There are 27 sites with electric hook-ups.

Some of the activities to enjoy here are camping, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving with partners, hiking, bird watching, kayaking and canoeing. However, swimming with manatees is not permitted and is strictly enforced. For more information about the park call 386.775.3663.

Hontoon Island State Park

Located on Hontoon Island, this 1,648-acre state park can only be reached by boat or park operated ferry. The Hontoon Island State Park is less crowded than the Blue Spring State Park, but just as pretty. If you love nature and quiet, this is the state park for you.

Some of the activities many enjoy here are boating, canoeing, fishing, camping, hiking, picnicking, bird-watching and nature viewing. You can bring your bike along and ride on the island bike path.

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. For more information call 36.736.5309.

Deleon Spring State Park

The park was named after Juan Ponce De Leon, who led the first Spanish expedition to Florida in search of the fountain-of-youth. This park is a popular area for picnics, swimming, biking as well as hiking, bird watching and fishing.

Canoes, kayaks and paddleboats are available for rent through the Old Spanish Sugar Mill.

The Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill and Griddle House located inside the state park is a unique restaurant. Each table is equipped with a griddle and you can cook your own pancakes right in front of you. If you’re with the kids, they’ll love this play. Food is served weekdays 9am - 4pm and 8am – 4pm on weekends and holidays.

For more information about Deleon Spring State Park, call 386.985.4212.