Davenport Landing
4.0427 reviewsDavenport Landing
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Free
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About this campground
Journey back in time at Davenport Landing, where the ghosts of paddlewheelers once echoed through the cypress-lined Ocklawaha River. This remote riverside retreat offers three primitive campsites nestled deep within Florida's enchanting floodplain forest, providing modern-day paddlers and adventurers with an authentic wilderness experience along one of the state's most meandering and mysterious waterways.
Davenport Landing offers primitive camping options suitable for tents and certain motorized vehicles. The sites provide no amenities and are best suited for those seeking solitude and a rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers from every corner of Davenport Landing, where ancient Timucuan shell middens tell stories of Florida's first inhabitants. The site bears witness to darker chapters too, with a Civil War-era gravesite serving as a somber reminder of the conflict that once divided the nation. Most evocative of all, the remnants of the historic steamboat landing conjure images of a bygone era when paddle-powered vessels carried passengers and cargo through these wild waters.
Weather and SeasonsWhile the floodplain location means mosquitoes are your most persistent companions (pack that repellent!), the seasonal transformations make every visit worthwhile. Spring and summer burst with vibrant wildflower displays carpeting the forest floor, while autumn's grand finale features sweetgum and red maple trees painting the canopy in brilliant crimsons and golds. Winter visitors enjoy cooler temperatures and a golden carpet of fallen leaves beneath their feet.
Natural Features and SceneryStep onto the trail at Davenport Landing and immerse yourself in a lush river bottom paradise where nature puts on a year-round show. Spring and summer transform the understory into a painter's palette of wildflower colors, while the towering canopy provides welcome shade. Come autumn, the sweetgum and red maple trees steal the spotlight, their leaves transitioning from green to spectacular shades of crimson and gold before creating a crunchy, colorful carpet across the forest floor.
Geological RegionTucked away in the heart of the Ocklawaha River's extensive floodplain forest system, Davenport Landing occupies a strategic bend in one of Florida's most serpentine waterways. This former steamboat stop sits where ancient geological forces and centuries of flowing water have carved out a twisting, turning river corridor that remains largely unchanged since the days when steam-powered vessels navigated these challenging waters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is accessible by motorized vehicles; however, narrow sandy woods roads may pose difficulty for some vehicles. Visitors are advised to proceed with caution.
Sites SizeThe campsites are small and primitive, accommodating tents and motorized vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites offer limited privacy and are described as extended spaces off the parking section under a canopy of oak trees.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Prepare for mosquitoes and pack insect repellent. Canoe launch features uneven steps down to the sandy beach."
Best Campsites"Several lovely spots under tree canopies, steps away from the river view."
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Four-day stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit 15 people (5 per campsite).
Groups
No dedicated group sites are explicitly mentioned in authoritative content or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Walk-in Availability"Expect full recreation sites during weekends. Have backup plans. Sites may close when capacity is reached."
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Davenport Landing can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and exploring interpretive areas rich in historical significance. Activities are centered around the natural and historical features of the Ocklawaha River floodplain.
Hiking
The Davenport Landing Trail is a 0.6-mile interpretive walk leading to the historic steamboat landing and includes middens from the Timucuan period as well as a Civil War-era gravesite. The trail is within the floodplain area and heavily populated with mosquitoes, requiring preparation and appropriate attire.Fishing
Fishing is permitted along the Ocklawaha River. Visitors are cautioned about the presence of alligators in the vicinity. A Florida state fishing license is required.Boating
Boating activities include paddling a canoe or kayak across the Ocklawaha River. The waterway allows small motorized boats, requiring caution for paddlers.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Paddling activities such as canoeing and kayaking are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazards"High concentration of mosquitoes within the floodplain area. Alligators are present near the river."
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Light drizzle
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Light drizzle
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to follow the 'pack it in, pack it out' rule as no trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water features"Deep in the floodplain forest along the Ocklawaha River."
Common complaintsUser reviews have reported disruptions from noise and local intoxicated individuals, especially at night.
Campground Map
"Sandy and narrow woods roads may make navigation difficult or impossible for some vehicles. Visitors should treat these roads with cautious respect."
Camper Reviews
4.0
27 reviews
Davenport Landing is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Davenport Landing are mixed, with positive feedback highlighting its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. However, multiple complaints about disruptive behavior from locals, lack of amenities, and safety concerns are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciated the scenic beauty, proximity to the Ocklawaha River, and the historical significance of the area. Comments include, 'Peaceful and pretty spot on the river!' and 'Great place for...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns raised include disruptive behavior by locals, lack of privacy, absence of amenities, and difficult access due to bumpy roads. One review states, 'There was a camp of people living at the end...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring mosquito repellent and prepare for buggy conditions. Pack out all trash as no facilities are available. Exercise caution on the sandy, narrow roads and be aware of local wildlife, including...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Buggy conditions are prevalent year-round due to the floodplain environment. Spring and summer months feature colorful wildflowers, while late fall and winter months showcase vibrant foliage from...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Great place for camping, fishing, and canoe launching.' - Haven Skye 'Bring mosquito spray.' - Michael Cemer 'Pack it in, pack it out!' - Haven Skye 'The road was very bumpy.' - Charlotte “Torch”...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews mention extended spaces off the parking lot under oak canopies as campsites. Gregory Cameron called it a 'great place for camping fun,' while others like Jesse Graham highlighted...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Narrow, sandy woods roads make some campsites difficult to access, particularly for vehicles not suited for such terrain. Visitors are advised to proceed with caution.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit mentions of pet policies or pet-related features are found in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025