Lake Delancy West OHV Campground

Are you a Florida outdoor enthusiast who loves the thrill of off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, or perhaps a hiker seeking a true wilderness experience? Then Lake Delancy West OHV Campground in Fort McCoy, Florida, is a destination you absolutely must explore. Nestled within the vast and beautiful Ocala National Forest, this campground offers a unique opportunity to combine rustic camping with direct access to an extensive network of OHV trails and scenic hiking paths.

Lake Delancy West isn't your typical resort-style campground; it's a place designed for those who appreciate a more authentic and self-reliant outdoor adventure. Visitors consistently highlight its cleanliness and functionality, with one review from 2017 noting, "The camp grounds was very clean, had vault toilets (3 or 4). 13 camping spots with large trailer size driveways and plenty of picnic tables and fire pits." Whether you're bringing your ATV, UTV, or Jeep, or lacing up your hiking boots, this campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Ocala National Forest.

While it's primarily known as an OHV-friendly campground, providing direct access to sandy trails suitable for all skill levels, it also welcomes non-riders. As one reviewer aptly states, "If you are not a rider you are still welcome but know that you will hear the motors from various OHVs throughout the day, especially on weekends. If there aren't many people in the camp it can get really quiet and peaceful. There is a smaller camp directly next to this one... where the OHVs aren't allowed and therefore you won't hear them as much. You can hear the sounds of many wild animals. It's a true wilderness camping experience." This versatility, combined with its direct connection to the Cross Florida Trail for thru-hikers, makes Lake Delancy West a multi-faceted gem for Floridians seeking an immersive outdoor escape.

Lake Delancy West OHV Campground is strategically located at Fort McCoy, FL 32134, USA, deep within the picturesque Ocala National Forest. This prime Central Florida location makes it an accessible yet secluded wilderness retreat for residents across the state. Ocala National Forest itself is a massive expanse of diverse ecosystems, including sand pine scrub, longleaf pine forests, and numerous springs, offering a unique Florida outdoor experience.

Access to Lake Delancy West is typically via paved and then unpaved forest roads off State Road 19, which runs north from Salt Springs. While within a national forest, the roads leading to the campground are generally manageable for vehicles, including those towing small trailers, as noted by reviewers mentioning "large trailer size driveways." This ensures that even larger OHV trailers can navigate to the campsites. The rural setting means essential services like major grocery stores, gas stations, and medical facilities are not immediately adjacent, but are within a reasonable driving distance in nearby towns such as Fort McCoy, Salt Springs, or Palatka.

The campground's location is a key highlight for its primary users. It serves as a major entrance point for the Ocala North OHV Trail System, allowing riders to directly access miles of designated trails from their campsite. For hikers, the Florida Trail, a federally designated National Scenic Trail, runs right by the camp, making it a convenient stop for backpackers and day hikers. This integration of camping with direct trail access for both motorized and non-motorized recreation is a significant advantage of Lake Delancy West, truly embodying a wilderness experience while still being within reach for Florida adventurers.

Lake Delancy West OHV Campground, as a primitive or rustic campground within a National Forest, focuses on providing essential services for a self-sufficient outdoor experience rather than extensive modern amenities. The services are designed to support camping and trail access while preserving the natural environment:

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers 30 sites suitable for tents and small trailers. These sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire pits/rings, providing basic infrastructure for camping. The sites also feature "large trailer size driveways," making them convenient for OHV users with trailers.
• Vault Toilets: Reviewers consistently mention the presence of "vault toilets (3 or 4)," which are non-flush, odor-controlled latrines. These are regularly serviced and provide essential sanitation facilities for campers.
• Water Pump: A "water pump" is noted at the campground, providing non-potable water that can be used for various purposes like washing or extinguishing fires. Campers should be prepared to filter or bring their own potable drinking water.
• OHV Corrals: Large OHV corrals are available near the campground, providing a designated and secure place for riders to park their ATVs, UTVs, or Jeeps overnight, ensuring separation from the main camping areas.
• Direct Trail Access: A key service is the direct access to the Ocala North OHV Trail System immediately from the campground, allowing riders to easily embark on their adventures without having to transport vehicles.
• Camp Host (Intermittent): Reviews indicate the presence of a "camp host" during some visits, who can provide information, assistance, and help maintain the campground. However, their presence may not be constant.
• Pet-Friendly: As with all Ocala National Forest campgrounds, pets are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet and are not allowed in designated swimming or picnicking areas.

It's important for visitors to arrive prepared, bringing their own drinking water, food storage (bear-proof containers are recommended as bears frequent the area), and any other necessities for a rustic camping experience. There are no showers or electric hookups available at this campground, reinforcing its primitive nature.

Lake Delancy West OHV Campground offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for specific types of outdoor enthusiasts in Florida:

• Premier OHV Access: This is arguably the most significant highlight. The campground provides direct, ride-in/ride-out access to the extensive Ocala North OHV Trail System. It's explicitly designed for riders of ATVs, UTVs, and Jeeps, offering miles of sandy trails suitable for various skill levels.
• True Wilderness Camping Experience: For those seeking an immersive nature retreat, Lake Delancy West delivers. It offers a rustic, no-frills camping experience within the beautiful pine forests of the Ocala National Forest. Hearing the "sounds of many wild animals" adds to the authentic wilderness feel.
• Proximity to the Florida Trail: The Cross Florida Trail, a segment of the hiking-only Florida Trail, runs right by the camp. This makes it an excellent stop or trailhead for thru-hikers and backpackers looking to explore Florida's diverse landscapes on foot.
• Peaceful Atmosphere (Off-Peak): While it can be busy with OHVs on weekends, reviewers note that "if there aren't many people in the camp it can get really quiet and peaceful," especially during weekdays. This offers a chance for tranquil reflection and nature appreciation.
• Spacious Campsites: The sites are described as having "large trailer size driveways" and "plenty of picnic tables and fire pits," indicating ample space for campers and their vehicles/equipment. There are 30 sites available for tents and small trailers.
• Bear Country Experience: While requiring careful food storage, the presence of bears adds an element of true wilderness and wildlife viewing potential, appealing to those who appreciate encountering Florida's natural inhabitants.
• Affordable Camping: At a fee of $10 per vehicle camping fee, it offers a very economical option for camping, especially when compared to more amenity-rich campgrounds or day-use fees at nearby springs.

The campground's focus on off-highway vehicle recreation, combined with its rustic charm and accessibility to extensive trail systems, makes it a unique and highly desirable spot for adventurous Floridians.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Ocala National Forest, Lake Delancy West OHV Campground does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the marketing sense. Its pricing structure is standard for federal recreation sites and focuses on providing public access to natural resources.

However, the inherent value proposition and "offers" that make this campground appealing, particularly to locals in Florida, include:

• Affordable Camping Fees: The camping fee is stated as $10 per vehicle per night. This is a highly competitive and affordable rate for a designated campsite within a national forest, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for extended stays.
• Bundled Value for OHV Riders: For OHV enthusiasts, the fact that you can camp and directly access miles of trails from your site provides immense value. While an OHV Operator Pass is required for riding (which is a separate fee, e.g., $75 annual, $25 for 7-day, or $10 for 1-3 days per operator), the ability to "ride right out of the campground" without additional transport is a significant convenience and cost-saver.
• Access to Free Natural Amenities: The natural beauty of the Ocala National Forest, including Lake Delancy for fishing (Florida state fishing license required), and the diverse trail systems for hiking and OHV riding, are "offered" as part of the experience. These natural attractions provide vast recreational opportunities without additional per-use fees once within the forest (though day-use fees apply at some specific springs/recreation areas).
• True Wilderness Experience at Low Cost: For those seeking primitive camping, the lack of extensive amenities like showers or electric hookups means a lower fee, providing access to a genuine wilderness experience that might otherwise be harder to find or more expensive.

Prospective campers should always check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Ocala National Forest or Recreation.gov for the most current information on fees, any temporary closures (such as those due to hurricane damage, as mentioned in a review from early 2025), and permit requirements for OHV use. This ensures a smooth and compliant visit.

For official information, current conditions, fees, and any specific inquiries about Lake Delancy West OHV Campground, it is best to contact the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the Ocala National Forest. While the campground itself does not have a direct phone line for reservations or detailed information, the managing district office can provide the most accurate and up-to-date details.

• Managing Office Phone: (850) 523-8500
• Address: Fort McCoy, FL 32134, USA (This is the general location for the campground, but for postal mail or inquiries, it's best to use the relevant Forest Service office address, typically the Lake George Ranger District office).

When calling the provided phone number, which appears to be a general information line for the National Forests in Florida, be prepared to specify that you are inquiring about Lake Delancy West OHV Campground within the Ocala National Forest. They can provide details on current operating status (including any temporary closures), camping fees, OHV permit requirements, bear safety guidelines, and general forest information. For booking or checking specific site availability, visiting the Recreation.gov website for Lake Delancy West OHV Campground is often the most direct method, as it is a federally managed site.

For Floridians, Lake Delancy West OHV Campground represents an ideal and highly suitable destination for a wide array of outdoor adventures, particularly for those who cherish a rustic experience and enjoy motorized recreation. Its prime location within the vast Ocala National Forest offers unparalleled access to a true wilderness setting, making it a fantastic escape from the state's more developed areas.

The primary suitability for locals, especially OHV enthusiasts, lies in the direct, ride-in/ride-out access to the extensive Ocala North OHV Trail System. This eliminates the hassle of trailering vehicles long distances to separate staging areas, allowing for maximum time spent on the trails with ATVs, UTVs, or Jeeps. The trails, being mostly sandy, are a quintessential Florida riding experience, offering variety for both novice and experienced riders. For Floridians already familiar with the state's unique terrain, this is a natural fit.

Beyond OHV riding, the campground’s rustic charm and connection to the Florida Trail cater to hikers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat. While the sound of motors might be present on busy weekends, the option of mid-week visits or simply embracing the wilderness sounds, including abundant wildlife, makes it versatile. The affordability of camping at just $10 per night also makes it an accessible option for frequent local getaways, allowing Floridians to regularly immerse themselves in nature without a significant financial outlay.

In essence, Lake Delancy West OHV Campground is tailored for the adventurous Floridian. It offers a genuine wilderness experience, practical access to exhilarating trails, and a peaceful basecamp to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of the Ocala National Forest. It's not just a campground; it's a gateway to Florida's wild side, perfectly suited for those who appreciate the state's unique outdoor offerings.