Exploring Hontoon Island State Park

If you love day trips and hiking, exploring Hontoon Island State Park is the adventure for you. Hontoon Island is located in Deland, Florida, making it a great day trip from Orlando.

The island is only accessible by boat. Take your own private boat or the ferry. Keep in mind the ferry’s last trip is 7:00 at night, but that can change so be sure to check with the park rangers.

Hiking

Hontoon Island has several hiking trails to explore. We hiked the Hammock Hiking Trail to Indian Shell Mound.

This was a fairly easy hike, a bit wet in places, but manageable. It was a long hike, about 3 miles to the shell mound. The trail meandered through lush vegetation that I knew held the venomous snakes the signs kept warning us about. We didn’t see any, thank goodness. They must have been well hidden.

Our favorite find was this tree growing on top of a fallen tree. We found it just before the start of the trail. It is amazing to me how nature always finds a way to live and grow.

Camping

Primitive camping is available on the island. There are also several cabins to rent as well. Go to the Hontoon Island State Park for more information.

We hiked through the campground on our way back from the shell mound. It looked like a well shaded campground with lots of room between camp spots. It also had bear proof cages for your food and supplies. This is such a great idea when camping in Florida.

Helpful Hints

A couple of things to keep in mind when exploring Hontoon Island. Use bug spray, mosquitoes are everywhere. Apply sunscreen. Bring water on your hike, you will need it.

Be aware of your surroundings. The island is home to different types of wildlife, some that can be dangerous when surprised. The animals are protected, do not approach them and keep in mind they are wild, therefore unpredictable.

Finally wear hiking shoes or comfortable closed toed shoes. The hiking trails go through areas that can get wet and muddy.

Go Explore

Hontoon Island State Park has a fascinating history to learn about and a diverse nature to discover. This is a beautiful Florida state park to explore. Check out other parks we have visited, Blue Spring State Park and Ravine Gardens State Park. Find your next adventure and go exploring!