Florida's Lakeside Camp Has Resort-Style Amenities With Cute Cottages, Island Views, And Fishing

Being outdoorsy doesn't mean you have to forgo certain necessities and luxuries. For some, sleeping on the ground in a tent sounds like the best getaway ever. For others (like myself), the idea of a cute cottage with resort-style amenities sounds more appealing. As a longtime Florida resident, I've traveled around the state and found ways to enjoy nature without fully forgoing modern comforts. During summer 2026, I stayed at Crescent Fish Camp in Crescent City, Florida, and found just the type of accommodations I was looking for. 

Crescent Fish Camp hugs the shores of Crescent Lake. This 15,960-acre body of water connects to the St. Johns River, Florida's longest and one of the laziest in the world. You can of course get out on the water and fish, but when I stayed, I felt like the other amenities made this place feel more like a resort than just another lakeside fish camp. You can lounge by the pool, play cornhole, work out in the fitness center, go paddling, or hang out in the clubhouse and challenge your friends and family to a game of pool, darts, or air hockey. There's even a fenced-in area where your pups can play. I also took along my binoculars to spot several avian species at Crescent Fish Camp and get great views of the cool island in the middle of the lake. 

Full disclosure: My overnight stay was comped by Crescent Fish Camp when I was in town. I had so much fun that I lost track of time and actually ended up being late for a business meeting. The very "oh-so-Florida" reason? I was too busy hanging out on the dock and snapping pictures of a small alligator swimming in the lake. 

With its location by the lake, you'll likely want to try your hand at fishing at some point. Some of the species you can catch there include largemouth bass (also referred to as Florida bass), bluegill, sunfish, and crappie. The lakeside camp has a fishing pier on-site, which was just a few steps from my tiny home. I found it easy to roll out of bed, grab my rod, and drop a line in the water. 

On TrophyCatch, Florida's free fishing program that gives anglers rewards for logging their catches, anglers at Crescent Lake have reported some 10- and 11-pound bass caught on artificial lures. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's forecast for Crescent Lake says live shiners can help you catch fish there, too. The store located at Crescent Fish Camp has both live and artificial bait, so you can try your luck with either. You can also book a private fishing charter through Crescent Fish Camp. 

Feel free to bring along your own boat if you want to go out on your own. There's an on-site boat ramp that overnight guests can use for free, as well as boat slips for rent and a fueling station. If you get out on the water, you can also get good views of Bear Island, a piece of land with a quirky story. Part of the island was actually given away as a prize on "The Price is Right" in 1961, per Florida Memory. A couple from New York won it, and according to local folklore, they visited once and never came back. Since it is privately owned, getting off of your boat and exploring isn't allowed. 

During my time at Crescent Fish Camp, I stayed in one of the tiny homes that are located close to the lake. I loved sitting outside on the screened-in porch, listening to the sweet birds chirp while the sun reflected over the water. My tiny home had a kitchenette and everything I needed. It even had a cute loft area. However, other cottages offer even more space, with some that can accommodate up to six people. There's also a 1,150-square-foot, two-bedroom home for rent. All of the accommodations have cute furnishings and decor. If you're traveling with an RV, you'll also find sites with concrete pads, 20- to 50-amp hookups, grills, and firepits. 

While Crescent Fish Camp has no restaurant, there is a bar by the lake open Friday through Sunday. The homes and cottages have kitchens and private grills. You can also get snacks at the on-site store. If you want to try the local fare, 3 Bananas and The Lochside are popular restaurants less than 2 miles away by car. However, both are located on the water, and you can also reach them by boat. 

Many people know Florida for its iconic tourist destinations and beaches, but personally, I've had a lot of fun hanging by the lake, too. This lakeside camp serves its purpose for anglers, and even those who never intend to make a single cast can still enjoy the pool, games, and epic sunrises. Crescent Fish Camp also sells day passes and memberships for locals who just want to come out and take advantage of the resort-style amenities.