Highland Park Fish Camp

Highland Park Fish Camp offers convenient access to the St. Johns River near DeLand, with a boat ramp adjacent to the 30-acre park where kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats can launch. The ramp is located at the river terminus of French Avenue and provides access to the scenic Norris Dead River section of the St. Johns River, which borders the 23,000-acre Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge. This setting makes it an excellent starting point for paddlers interested in exploring protected wetland habitat and observing migratory birds.

The park itself features fishing docks, picnic areas, and restrooms, making it a comfortable base for day trips. Paddlers launching here can explore a relatively undeveloped stretch of the St. Johns River, though conditions and water levels can vary seasonally. The proximity to Lake Woodruff National Wildlife Refuge means wildlife viewing opportunities are excellent, particularly for birdwatching. Before launching, check current water conditions and any refuge regulations that may apply to paddling in adjacent areas.