Escape to the subtropical wilderness and pristine beaches of Florida, a haven for campers. With its diverse ecosystems and year-round camping weather, the Sunshine State boasts some of the best places to camp, each offering its unique allure.
Experience the Unique Flora and Fauna
Camping Amidst Biodiversity
Florida’s natural diversity ranges from dry uplands to aquatic preserves, providing habitats for an array of wildlife and plant species. Campers can revel in the beauty of the great American southeast, set up tents in the Everglades, and sleep under a canopy of stars amidst the sounds of native fauna.
Eco-Friendly Escapes
Many Florida campsites practice eco-friendly camping. They preserve the natural beauty and contribute to conservation efforts. Participate in guided naturalist tours to deepen your appreciation for Florida’s unique ecosystems.
The Best Campgrounds in Florida
The Everglades: River of Grass
The Everglades National Park offers a camping experience like no other—a chance to explore the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. Campers can stay at established sites like Flamingo Campground or backcountry camp to enjoy the sounds of nature undisturbed.
Florida Keys: Island Camping Bliss
For campers looking for a beachside getaway, the Florida Keys beckon with crystal-clear waters and heavenly sunsets. Bahia Honda State Park provides outstanding oceanfront campsites with activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing.
Central Florida: Lake Louisa State Park
Lake Louisa State Park offers rolling hills and scenic landscapes—rare sights in Florida. The park’s lush greenery and three sizable lakes are perfect for campers who also enjoy freshwater fishing, hiking, and canoeing.
Family-Friendly Camping in Florida
Fort De Soto Park: For All Ages
Voted one of the best family beaches, Fort De Soto Park has well-equipped campgrounds with playgrounds and nature trails. It’s an excellent location for families looking to combine beach fun with outdoor living.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort: The Magical Outdoors
Experience camping with a touch of Disney magic at the Fort Wilderness Resort. This campground provides a complete family-friendly experience with themed pools, horseback riding, and even archery lessons.
Adventure Camping in Florida
Ocala National Forest: A Hiker’s Dream
For those yearning for adventure, Ocala National Forest’s campgrounds offer direct access to trails, springs, and wildlife. Start your day with a hike and end with a refreshing dip in one of the natural springs.
Anastasia State Park: Watersports and Wildlife
Anastasia State Park sets the scene for an action-packed camping trip with its proximity to the Atlantic. Windsurf, paddleboard, and explore the dunes, all while keeping an eye open for the diverse wildlife.
Romantic Camping Getaways
St. George Island State Park: Secluded and Serene
Couples will find romance under the stars at St. George Island State Park, known for its private and peaceful camping spots. Enjoy beach strolls at sunset and uninterrupted quiet that invites intimate conversation.
Honeymoon Island State Park: A Lover’s Retreat
With its enchanting name and natural charm, Honeymoon Island State Park is ideal for couples. Its tranquil beach setting and nature trails make for a perfect romantic escape.
Exploring the Diverse Landscapes
Beachfront Camping: Sun, Sand, and Surf
In the realm of beachfront camping, few places compete with the Gulf Coast’s white sandy beaches. At popular sites like Cayo Costa State Park, only accessible by ferry or private boat, the isolation adds to the allure. Here, campers are lulled to sleep by gentle waves and have the beach almost to themselves.
Moving over to the Atlantic side, Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area is a haven for beachgoers. This park is celebrated for its dunes and offers both oceanfront and Intracoastal Waterway views, giving campers the best of both worlds.
Forest Retreats: Among the Pines and Palms
Transitioning from the coast, the inland forests of Florida are brimming with adventure. The Panhandle’s Blackwater River State Forest is replete with towering pines and one of the purest sand-bottom rivers in the nation. It’s a spot where you can hike, canoe, and witness Florida’s unique topography.
The tropical savannahs of Myakka River State Park in Southwest Florida are a haven for wildlife, including the elusive Florida panther. Its Big Flats Campground puts you right in the middle of the action—with excellent chances for sightings of deer and wild turkeys at dawn and dusk.
Camping with a Touch of History
The Past Preserved: St. Augustine’s Camping Grounds
Camping in St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, brings history to life. Anastasia State Park not only offers miles of beach, tidal marshes, and maritime forests, but also proximity to historic sites such as the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress.
Keys History: Sea Turtles and Shipwrecks
The Florida Keys hold stories of sea turtles and shipwrecks. Campgrounds like Curry Hammock State Park place you amidst this fascinating history while providing modern amenities. Here, campers can snorkel above old wrecks and learn about sea turtle conservation through park-organized programs.
Catering to the Luxury Camper
RV Resorts: Full-Service Luxury
For those who prefer to bring the comforts of home on the road, luxury RV resorts dot Florida’s coastline. Destin West RV Resort on the Gulf offers upscale amenities including a pool, Wi-Fi, and full hook-up sites. It’s a way to enjoy the rugged beauty of camping with all the features of a high-end vacation.
Glamping: Chic and Unique
Glamping, or glamorous camping, is gaining popularity. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo presents a range of glamping options, from luxurious tents with queen beds to cabins and even teepees, all nestled on the banks of the Kissimmee River.
Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Camping
Protecting Florida’s Natural Resources
Florida’s parks and campgrounds actively promote environmental stewardship. At camps like Bahia Honda State Park, initiatives to protect coral reefs and local bird populations are ongoing. Campers are encouraged to participate by following leave-no-trace principles and joining conservation efforts.
Green Camping Initiatives: A Collective Effort
In recent years, there has been a concerted push toward greener camping solutions. Campgrounds implement recycling programs, solar-powered lights, and water-saving devices. Visitors to Topsail Hill Preserve State Park can engage with these initiatives firsthand, as the park prides itself on its sustainable practices.
Conclusion: Florida’s Camping Landscape
Find Your Perfect Campsite
Florida’s camping destinations provide an array of experiences, from tranquil beachfront spots to wild adventures in the forest. These featured places are just a taste of what Florida offers to campers of all stripes.
Create Lasting Memories
Whether you’re gathering with family, seeking solitude, or adventuring with friends, Florida’s campsites are places where memories are made. Start planning your Florida camping adventure today and discover why so many view camping here as unmatched.
