This island, located in the St. Johns River in Volusia County, welcomes visitors to enjoy nature and history in quiet solitude.
The island is accessible only by private boat or park ferry. Evidence of Native American habitation over thousands of years can be witnessed as visitors hike through the park. Stop in and walk through the impressive visitor center to learn more about the many inhabitants and uses of Hontoon Island over the years.
Boating, canoeing and fishing are popular activities and canoe rentals are available. Picnic areas include tables, grills and a playground.
Overnight boat slip rentals are also available. The park's ferry operates daily from 8 a.m. to one hour before sunset. Located six miles west of Deland off State Road 44.
Experiences
Camping Boat
Hontoon Island State Park has 42 accessible boat slips available with water and shore power. Our largest berth can accommodate a 60’ yacht. Reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Camping Primitive
Hontoon Island has 12 tent sites in a primitive environment. Each site has a picnic table, a ground grill and access to potable water. There are no sites with electricity. Restroom facilities are located nearby with hot\cold showers and flush toilets. Pets are permitted in accordance with our Pet Policy.
Reservations: Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Book online or call (800) 326-3521 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) or TDD (888) 433-0287.
Camping on the island park is reservable year-round, but the park is only accessible by private boat or passenger ferry service.
In order to protect our park and camping areas, please remember that no items (i.e. tent lines, wires, ropes, etc.) may be affixed to vegetation. Thank you for helping to protect your Florida State Parks.
Generators are not allowed in the campsites.
Camping, Primitive Group
The Organized Youth and Adult Group Camping area is available to non-profit organized groups, of six or more people, of all ages. At least one adult chaperone is required per ten youths. Chaperones must be at least 21 years of age. This camping area will accommodate up to 30 people. The site has a fire circle, benches, picnic tables and a potable water faucet. There is no electricity at the site. Restrooms and hot showers are available. Pets are allowed in accordance with our Pet Policy. Reservations for this camp may be made no earlier than 60 days in advance for youth groups and no earlier than 30 days in advance for adult groups, by calling the Park at 386-736-5309 .
Fishing
For a fun family activity, come fishing at the Island. There are plenty of target species like Catfish, Brim, Bass, Sunfish, Perch and Crappie - some of the most common catches in this area of the St Johns River.
All fishing within the park must conform to regulations concerning size, number, method of capture and season. A fishing license may be required. More information is available at the Florida Wildlife Commission’s Fishing in Florida.
Hiking
Explore the park using the three-mile round-trip, self-guided trail that begins at the Ranger Station and follows the Hontoon Dead River to the large Indian mound at the southwest corner of the island. We have eight miles of trails that lead to a variety of points of interest, including Bear Tree Landing, where you can appreciate one of the largest oak trees on the Island.
Picnicking
Bring a picnic basket and spend the day in our day use area, complete with 13 picnic tables and BBQ grills. It's the perfect area to read a book while the kids run around and play nearby.
Amenities
Cabins
Hontoon Island State Park, located on the St. Johns River, is accessible only by boat or park ferry. Six one-room rustic cabins have bunk beds with vinyl-covered mattresses, a ceiling fan, overhead lighting, and one electrical outlet. In addition to a picnic table and ground grill, each cabin has a screened porch with table and chairs. Visitors should provide their own linens and be aware that there are no restrooms, cooking facilities, or heating and cooling units inside the cabins. Cooking is permitted outside the cabins, either in the ground grill or on a personal camp stove. Restrooms and showers are located in the center of the campground.
Cabin Number 3 has ramp access and is adjacent to restroom facilities.
For the guest’s relaxation, televisions and phones are not provided.
Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance through ReserveAmerica. Book online or call (800) 326-3521 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) or TDD (888) 433-0287. Pets are not permitted in cabins. Service animals are welcome.
There is a minimum two-night stay in cabins on weekends and holidays, either Friday and Saturday night, or Saturday and Sunday nights. A single Friday or Saturday night may be reserved only if the following Saturday or Sunday night is already reserved.
Museum
Come to the Island and visit our beautiful museum. Learn about the first inhabitants, understand their past and learn about the natural habitats.
Parking
Parking for Hontoon Island State Park is located at 2309 River Ridge Road in Deland, FL 32720. On the river side of the parking area, you will find a short deck to the dock for the Park Passenger Ferry that conveys visitors to the island. The Ferry is wheelchair accessible.
Pets
Bring your best friend to the park. Pets on leash only.
Picnic Pavilion
Our pavilion is located in the day-use area overlooking the St. Johns River. Pavilion use is first-come, first-served or you can reserve it (for a small fee) for special occasions, including weddings and birthday parties. Accessible picnic tables and cooking grills are available. For more information, please contact the Ranger Station 386-736-5309.
Playground
Our recently-completed, accessible playground has a swing, three slides, monkey bars and other gadgets that will keep the kids entertained for hours. It's a great area for them play while everyone gets to enjoy The Real Florida.
