Lake Delancy West Ohv Campground
4.0829 reviewsLake Delancy West Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest, Florida
Lake Delancy West Ohv Campground
$6.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Camping fees range from $6 per night for seniors and some discounted categories to $10 per night for single sites with water access. Payments must be made via cash or check.
About this campground
Tucked away on the western shores of Lake Delancy, this primitive campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Florida wilderness experience. As a gateway to the renowned Ocala North OHV Trail System and the legendary Florida Trail, Lake Delancy West has become a beloved basecamp for off-road enthusiasts, through-hikers, and anglers alike. Here, beneath towering pines that whisper ancient forest songs, campers find solace in simplicity—gathering around fire rings under star-filled skies, sharing stories at weathered picnic tables, and embracing the raw beauty of the Ocala National Forest.
Lake Delancy West OHV Campground is a primitive campground focused on tent and small RV camping. It offers minimal amenities, making it ideal for those seeking a basic outdoor experience.
Historical SignificanceLake Delancy West holds the distinguished honor of serving as a crucial access point to the Florida Trail, one of only eleven National Scenic Trails in the United States. This connection places the campground at the heart of Florida's outdoor heritage, where countless hikers have begun or ended their epic journeys across the Sunshine State's most pristine landscapes.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with Florida's distinctive seasons, offering year-round adventure possibilities. Winter brings crisp, crystal-clear days with temperatures hovering between a comfortable 66°F and 75°F—perfect for trail riding and hiking without breaking a sweat. As summer arrives, the forest comes alive with warmth and humidity, temperatures climbing to a toasty 90°F, while afternoon thunderstorms roll through like clockwork, bringing dramatic skies and refreshing relief to the sandy trails below.
ElevationThe campground rests at the gentle elevations characteristic of Central Florida's subtle topography, where ancient sand ridges meet pristine lakeshores.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where towering longleaf pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their needles carpeting sandy trails that wind through the forest like secret passages. Lake Delancy's shoreline reveals a tapestry of marshlands where herons stalk through shallow waters and wildflowers paint the edges in seasonal colors. This is bear country—where Florida black bears roam freely through their ancestral homeland, reminding visitors that true wilderness still thrives here. The interplay of shade and sunlight creates an ever-changing canvas throughout the day, while the lake mirrors the sky in perfect tranquility.
Geological RegionSituated within the vast Ocala National Forest, the campground showcases the region's signature landscape of ancient sand ridges crowned with majestic longleaf pines. These sandy soils, deposited over millennia, support a unique ecosystem where pine forests transition seamlessly into wetland marshes along Lake Delancy's edges. The terrain tells the story of Florida's geological past, where prehistoric seas once covered the land, leaving behind the sandy foundation that now supports this diverse forest ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not explicitly mention ADA accessibility features, and no reviews elaborate on this topic.
Sites SizeSites are suitable for tents and small trailers. Several reviewers point out spacious lots; for example, Adam Johnson Jr. notes, 'Large lots that connect. Great for groups.'
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as being shaded by pine trees along the western shore of Lake Delancy. Privacy varies as some campers observed it as quiet and peaceful while others highlighted noise concerns during busy weekends.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the entrance are quieter compared to those further inside due to lower OHV traffic.
Best Campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 3 p.m.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11 a.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests allowed per site is unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 30 sites arranged in a loop, with three vault toilets located around the loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, except for temporary closures due to capacity or maintenance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may be possible but must be confirmed on-site; fees apply.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come-first-served basis; expect full capacity during weekends.
Cancellation Policy.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Lake Delancy West OHV Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Notably, it serves as a key point for OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) riding due to its proximity to the Ocala North OHV Trail System. Visitors can also engage in hiking, fishing, and picnicking. However, swimming is not mentioned as an available activity, and boating opportunities are not explicitly described.
Hiking
The campground is a designated trailhead on the Florida Trail, with direct access to segments heading both north and south. The campsite is 0.3 miles from the main hiking trail. As reviewed by Francesco Del Principe, 'From the camping, you have access to the national scenic trail. I really suggest you hike it northward.'Fishing
Fishing is allowed along the lakeshore marshes, and it is noted as 'perfect for tossing one on the fire for dinner.'Wildlife viewing
Bears frequent the area, and other wildlife sounds are often heard. Amanda Sapp mentions, 'You can hear the sounds of many wild animals. It's a true wilderness camping experience.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but subject to seasonal regulations; campers should confirm rules upon arrival.
- Quiet hours are reported but not strictly enforced, causing disturbances on holiday weekends.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are common; campers must store food and trash securely. Other hazards include sandy trails difficult for smaller vehicles and occasional horseflies.
Active alertsActive alerts include potential capacity closures during weekends and holiday periods.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain showers
Precipitation: 2.4%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13.8 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (2.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain showers
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services include Salt Springs Fire Department and a clinic approximately 10 miles away, Ocala Regional Medical Center around 35 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates are mentioned, but weekends are reported to be busier.
Trash and recyclingThere are no on-site trash or recycling facilities. Campers are required to pack out their trash as emphasized by multiple sources, including the official site.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is adjacent to Lake Delancy, providing access to marshy lakeshores suitable for fishing.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include noise from OHV traffic, lack of running water, and primitive amenities such as vault toilets and no showers.
HostNo host currently available as of recent user reviews; however, a host was present in earlier years.
Campground Map
Lake Delancy West Recreation Area, Ocala National Forest, Florida
Driving directionsThe campground is accessible via approximately 3 miles of dirt road, which is reported to be in good condition and suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles.
Access roads are in awesome shape, requiring approximately 3 miles of dirt road to reach the campground.Nearby places
Salt Springs: Approx. 10 miles (travel time: 15 minutes)
Ocala: Approx. 35 miles (travel time: 45 minutes)
Gainesville: Approx. 55 miles (travel time: 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Salt Springs (10 miles away), including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
4.1
29 reviews
Lake Delancy West Ohv Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is praised for its primitive charm and outdoor activities, but it lacks modern conveniences like potable water and electricity. The OHV trails and Florida Trail access are major draws, while noise levels and lack of enforcement of quiet hours are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
- Excellent access to OHV trails
- Designated trailhead for the Florida Trail
- Scenic surroundings with shaded pine trees
- Peaceful and quiet during less crowded times
- Affordable fees: $10 per...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- No potable water or electrical hookups
- Poor enforcement of noise regulations, particularly on busy weekends
- Vault toilets only; some visitors noted maintenance issues
- Limited cell phone...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own water as there are no water hookups.
- Store food in bear-proof containers or your vehicle.
- Avoid holiday weekends if seeking peace and quiet.
- Be prepared for a primitive...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is quieter and more peaceful during weekdays or off-peak seasons. Busy weekends often bring crowded conditions and elevated noise levels.
Based on 29 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Sunrises are beautiful over the lake!' - Cody Hudson
2. 'If you like solitude, this is your place.' - Just Mona
3. 'Bears are known to go into the campground (we have witnessed them).' - Amanda...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are rare, but larger lots are noted as being ideal for groups. For instance, Adam Johnson Jr. mentions, 'Large lots that connect. Great for groups.'
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and must be kept on a leash. Lisa Weaver describes the campground as 'pet-friendly.'
Based on 29 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025