Hontoon Island State Park floats serenely in the St. Johns River near DeLand, offering a pristine wilderness experience that feels worlds away from Florida’s crowded beaches and frenetic theme parks.

Englewood Beach (officially known as Chadwick Beach) serves as the community gathering spot with amenities like volleyball courts, picnic pavilions, and a boardwalk. The wide expanse of sand ...

Dozens of people who live in Navy Point and others who enjoy the park have emailed the board to support the measure.