Hontoon Island State Park

Tucked into the St. Johns River near DeLand, Hontoon Island State Park is one of Florida’s few island state parks — accessible only by a free passenger ferry or private boat. That sense of arrival by water sets the tone for a visit defined by seclusion and old Florida charm across 1,648 acres of river hammock, flatwoods, and swamp.

The island’s standout feature is its rich cultural history. A replica of a 13th-century owl totem, carved by the Timucuan people, stands near the dock — the original was discovered here in 1955 and now resides in a museum. Interpretive trails wind through ancient shell mounds that tell the story of thousands of years of human habitation along the river.

Paddlers love Hontoon for its access to the St. Johns and connecting springs. Kayak or canoe through cypress-lined waterways where manatees surface in cooler months and great blue herons stand sentry along the banks. The 2.5-mile hiking trail loops through moss-draped hammock that feels worlds away from the theme park corridor an hour east.

The park offers rustic cabins and tent camping sites — book early during spring and fall, when mild temperatures and lower humidity make for ideal conditions. Summer brings intense heat and mosquitoes, so plan accordingly.

Established in 1960 and holding a strong 4.6-star rating from 158 reviews, Hontoon Island delivers something increasingly rare in Central Florida: genuine quiet and a deep connection to the landscape.

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