Highland Park Fish Camp
Step back in time at this preserved Old Florida gem, offering rustic cabins, river access, and fantastic fishing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for fishing
Highland Park Fish Camp
Best Time
Pleasant weather for fishing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at this preserved Old Florida gem, offering rustic cabins, river access, and fantastic fishing.
"Experience Florida as it once was, with a preserved, down-to-earth atmosphere that transports you back in time."
🎣 Bait Up for Success
Grab live bait like wild shiners from the tackle shop for the best fishing results.
🛶 Explore by Boat
Rent a pontoon or small boat to discover the river's beauty and wildlife.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rustic Cabin Stays
Various locations on property
Cozy wood cabins with porches and rocking chairs, offering a true taste of Old Florida living. Perfect for unwinding.
St. Johns River Exploration
St. Johns River access
Rent a boat and cruise the scenic St. Johns River, discovering abundant wildlife and tranquil waters.
Fishing Fun for All
Stocked pond and river access
From a stocked pond for kids to guided trips on the river, it's a fisherman's paradise.
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Authentic Old Florida Vibe
Entire property
Experience Florida as it once was, with a preserved, down-to-earth atmosphere that transports you back in time.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Old Florida Charm
Book Your Adventure Early
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎣 Bait Up for Success
Grab live bait like wild shiners from the tackle shop for the best fishing results.
🛶 Explore by Boat
Rent a pontoon or small boat to discover the river's beauty and wildlife.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Bring the kids for fishing rodeos and a stocked pond – they'll love it!
🍔 Weekend Food Truck
Enjoy delicious eats from the on-site food truck during weekend visits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎣 Bait Up for Success
Grab live bait like wild shiners from the tackle shop for the best fishing results.
🛶 Explore by Boat
Rent a pontoon or small boat to discover the river's beauty and wildlife.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Bring the kids for fishing rodeos and a stocked pond – they'll love it!
🍔 Weekend Food Truck
Enjoy delicious eats from the on-site food truck during weekend visits.
🛏️ Book Cabins Ahead
Rustic cabins are popular; reserve early for your Old Florida getaway.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Highland Park Fish Camp's authentic Old Florida charm and excellent fishing opportunities. The friendly staff, particularly manager James, and the availability of live bait are frequently praised. While the rustic cabins and boat rentals are popular, some may find the amenities basic compared to modern resorts.
"Second trip out to Highland Park Fish Camp with my friends Mel and Pam, and this time I got to meet their friend James, the manager who was very welcoming. We picked up with some wild shiners and he pointed us in the right direction. Sure enough, around 3:15 in the afternoon (weird time I know) over by De Leon Springs, I landed a big one—my biggest fish yet! Hard to believe I just picked up fishing again for the first time since I was a kid. Hooked!"
Kristy Sampson
"Traveled here to get bait. Very friendly staff and great communication with customers. Was there on 6/14/25 about noon. The employee was great even asked if I wanted to pull around to load my two dozen shiners. Will definitely be back great place. Has good selection of fishing stuff in the bait house. You can't go wrong Stopping here.."
Donald Siegfried
"We rented a pontoon boat for a full day. It was a fantastic experience from the beginning, booking & arrival. James was wonderful to deal with when we arrived, showing us on the map where we should go & explore. The canals & river were beautiful & full of wildlife. Would definitely do it again."
Dot Finley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Highland Park Fish Camp is located in DeLand, Florida. While specific public transport options are limited, driving is the most common way to access the camp. Many visitors arrive by car and find ample parking available.
The camp is situated in a natural setting, so using GPS or a reliable navigation app is recommended. Look for signage as you approach the area.
Once at the camp, renting a boat is the ideal way to explore the St. Johns River and its canals. For land-based exploration, consider local driving routes.
Highland Park Fish Camp is near De Leon Springs State Park and the city of DeLand, offering additional opportunities for nature and local exploration.
Yes, the St. Johns River provides access to the fish camp, making it a destination for boaters looking to dock and enjoy the amenities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds of Highland Park Fish Camp is generally free, but there are costs associated with renting cabins, boats, and purchasing bait or supplies.
Operating hours can vary, especially for the bait shop and rental services. It's best to check their official channels or call ahead, particularly if planning a visit outside of peak hours.
Boat rental prices vary depending on the type of boat and rental duration. It's advisable to contact the camp directly for the most current pricing information.
While access to fishing spots might be free, you'll need to purchase bait and tackle from the shop. If you plan on fishing from a rented boat, the boat rental fee applies.
Yes, booking cabins in advance is highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, as they are quite popular.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
Activities include fishing (from a stocked pond or the river), boat rentals, cabin stays, camping, and exploring the natural surroundings.
Yes, there's a food truck on weekends offering meals, and you can also purchase bait and tackle for your own cooking needs.
Absolutely! You're welcome to bring your own fishing gear. The tackle shop also offers supplies and live bait if you need them.
Yes, guided fishing trips are offered, providing local expertise to help you land the best catch.
The St. Johns River area is rich in wildlife, including various bird species, fish, and potentially other native Florida animals.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic St. Johns River, the rustic cabins, and the abundant wildlife offer fantastic photo opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon light are particularly beautiful.
Yes, renting a boat provides unique perspectives for capturing the river's landscape and wildlife. Be sure to secure your equipment.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy and any posted rules.
You can capture images of various birds, fish, and other native Florida fauna in their natural habitat along the river.
The tranquil river scenes, cypress trees, and Old Florida architecture make it a great location for landscape and nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Beyond fishing, renting a boat allows families to explore the scenic St. Johns River together, spotting wildlife and enjoying the natural beauty. The rustic cabins offer a unique lodging experience, with bunk beds often a hit with younger guests. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature and each other, offering a taste of the Florida many grew up with.
+1🎣 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own fishing gear and purchasing bait from the camp can be more economical than booking expensive fishing charters. Furthermore, the on-site food truck on weekends provides a convenient and often more budget-friendly dining option compared to restaurants in town. Camping options, if available, would also present a more economical lodging choice.
🎣 Anglers & Fishing Enthusiasts
Whether you prefer casting from the shore of the stocked pond, renting a boat to explore the river's nooks and crannies, or opting for a guided fishing trip, the camp caters to diverse fishing styles. The friendly staff, like manager James mentioned in reviews, are known for their helpfulness in pointing anglers towards productive spots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Old Florida
+1This authentic atmosphere extends beyond the accommodations. The camp’s location along the St. Johns River, a vital artery of Florida's natural beauty, allows for exploration that feels untouched. Renting a boat here isn't just about transportation; it's about immersing yourself in the serene waterways, spotting wildlife, and appreciating the untamed landscapes that define this region. It’s a place where the pace slows down, and the focus shifts to nature and genuine connection.
+1Visitors often remark on the feeling of stepping back in time, a sentiment echoed in reviews praising the camp's preserved character. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking an escape that prioritizes tranquility and a connection to Florida's natural and historical roots, far from the bustling theme parks.
Fishing Adventures for Everyone
+1For more experienced fishermen, the proximity to the St. Johns River opens up a world of possibilities. The camp offers boat rentals, including pontoon boats, which are perfect for navigating the river and its canals. Anglers can also purchase live bait, such as wild shiners, directly from the tackle shop, a tip frequently mentioned by satisfied visitors for enhancing their fishing success.
Guided fishing trips are also available, providing local knowledge and expertise to help you find the best fishing spots. Whether you're aiming for bass or simply enjoying a day on the water, Highland Park Fish Camp provides the resources and atmosphere for a rewarding fishing experience.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit