The first inhabitants of the island were the Native Indians. Snails gathered from the shallows of the St. Johns River were a staple food of these people. Through the years, the discarded shells and other material accumulated to form large mounds known as middens. The remains of one of these may be viewed on the park's nature trail. Three remarkable wooden effigies, known as totems, have been found in the vicinity of Hontoon Island. A large owl totem, a replica of which is shown at right, carved from a log, a slightly smaller totem of a pelican, and a smaller one believed to be an otter holding a fish. A replica of the pelican totem is on display adjacent to the owl. These carvings are a tribute to the artistry and craftsmanship of the extinct culture.

In later years, the 1,650-acre island was a pioneer homestead, a boat repair facility, a center for commercial fishing and a cattle ranch before being purchased by the state in 1967. Back to top

The scenery of the island varies with the elevation. Pine Flatwoods occur on the higher areas, while palm/ oak hammocks, cypress swamps and marshes border the St. Johns River and its tributaries. The abundant wildlife found here is varied as the scenery and the seasons. Back to top

Activities

A 3-mile round trip self guided trail begins at the Ranger Station and follows Hontoon Dead River to the large Indian mound at the southwest corner of the island. Allow 2 1/2 hours for a leisurely walk.

The picnic area, which overlooks the St. Johns River, includes playground equipment, picnic tables, cooking grills, and a restroom. Fishing is permitted from the banks of the island. A Florida freshwater fishing license is required for persons 16 years of age or older. Fishing licenses are not sold on the island so should be obtained before visiting the island if persons plan on fishing. Largemouth bass may be caught on artificial bait or live shiners. Most bluegills and shell crackers are caught with earthworms and crickets, but may also be taken on small artificial top water bugs. Small live minnows are the best bait for speckled perch. Channel cats are often caught on earthworms sunk to the bottom along the main river channel. Live baits (earthworms, shiners, minnows, crickets) must be brought to the island by those intending to fish with these baits. Live bait is not sold in the park.

If you bring your own bike, we have approximately 5 miles of service roads to ride on. Back to top

Camping at Hontoon Island

Cabin Rentals - We have six rustic cabins. The cabins are one room with bunk beds. You must provide your own linen. Each cabin has a ceiling fan, overhead lighting, 1 electrical outlet and a screen porch with table and chairs. Outside each cabin is a picnic table, potable water faucet, and a ground grill suitable for cooking or a small campfire. For those who would like a Capfire, firewood is available for a nominal fee at the Island Store or ask a park Ranger when you first arrive.Rest rooms and shower facilities are located in a nearby building. Pets are not allowed overnight at Hontoon Island State Park.

Fees - A deposit is required to confirm your reservation and there is a two-night minimum stay on weekends and holidays. Check out time is 11:00 a.m.    Back to top

Tent Sites

There are 12 campsites. Each site has a picnic table and a ground grill suitable for cooking or a small campfire. If planning on a campfire or cooking over wood fire/coals, firewood is avaiable at the Island Store. None is available on the island. Potable water faucets are located throughout the campground. A building with restrooms/showers nearby. Check out time is 2:00 p.m.
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Reservations

Cabins and campsites are reserved in advance. For reservations/information, call toll free 1-800-326-3521, or 1-866-I Camp FL. Cabins and campsites may also be reserved online at www.ReserveAmerica.com. Back to top

Overnight Dockage

We have 40 boat slips with shore power and water hookup available for overnight Accommodations. These slips are on a first come first served basis. No reservations will be accepted. See the dockmaster or a park ranger for registration. Back to top

Accessibility

Hontoon Island is located six miles west of Deland, off State Road 44 and is ONLY ACCESSIBLE by private boat or a passenger ferry service which operates from 8:00 a.m. until one hour before sundown from the parking area and ferry landing located at 2309 River Ridge Road, DeLand. Campers must be in by 5:00 p.m. on weekdays and 7:00 p.m. on weekends.Back to top

Weather

For on-line weather information, contact The Weather Channel, weather.com. Back to top

Contact

For any additional information please contact:

Hontoon Island State Park
2309 River Ridge Road
Deland, Florida 32720
(386) 736-5309    Back to top