Florida State Parks Camping Is Incredible!
Come to tropical paradise for the vacation of a lifetime: sun, ocean, and family fun!
Attention campers! Are you looking for the ultimate family getaway in a place that is warm, with the sun, and has access to the ocean?
Me too (It has been a long winter…)! Experience the sun-kissed wonders of Florida’s state parks where you’ll discover an amazing range of natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities, perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Interested in exploring lush forests, crystal-clear springs, or breathtaking beaches?
Florida state parks have it all! The sheer variety of outdoor experiences is truly astounding. That way you can ensure every member of your family will be captivated and thrilled by something other than their phones. Desire to connect with nature and bond with your family like never before? Then pack your bags, pitch your tent, and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Florida’s state parks, where adventure and excitement await at every turn!
Get your free downloadable camping checklist here!
Florida State Parks
These parks offer some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the state. Scenes from lush forests and crystal-clear springs to white sand beaches and wetlands teeming with wildlife. No matter your travel style, there’s a park for every type of adventurer. And what better way to fully experience these natural wonders than through the Park Ranger programs? These friendly and knowledgeable guides offer educational tours and activities that are both informative and fun for all ages.
When planning your visit, keep in mind that most parks require a small fee for entrance and some activities may require reservations. Many of the parks are open year-round, with peak season in the winter months when temperatures are milder. Florida is home to several beautiful state parks that offer endless fun and adventure to tourists and locals alike. Here’s a roundup of some of the most popular state parks in the Sunshine State.
Florida Caverns State Park
Located in the panhandle of Florida, this state park is a hidden gem that lies just 30 miles away from the town of Marianna. It boasts stunning limestone caves that were formed millions of years ago and now serves as a popular tourist attraction. The park has a visitor center where guests can learn more about the geology and natural history of the area. Peak season is from March to August, and entrance fees range from $5 to $8 per vehicle. There are 52 total sites including tent camping sites are available and come equipped with picnic tables, grills, and electricity while RV sites also offer water and sewer hookups.
Rainbow Springs State Park
This beautiful state park is situated in the central part of the state near the city of Dunnellon. It is famous for its crystal-clear springs, which offer a refreshing swim on hot summer days. The park has a visitor center named the Rainbow River Interpretive Center that provides insightful information about the park’s natural and cultural history. Peak season runs from April to September, and admission costs a very reasonable $2 per person. From the 100 campsites available, tent campers can choose from sites with electricity, water, and picnic tables while RV sites also offer sewage disposal and bathroom facilities.
Honeymoon Island State Park
Honeymoon Island State Park is located on the west coast of Florida, near Dunedin. This park is known for its natural mangrove ecosystems and pristine beaches. There is a visitor center located in the park, which includes educational exhibits and information on local wildlife. The peak season for this park is from November through April, with fees starting at $8 per vehicle. There is a total of 56 tent camping sites are available with amenities such as grills, picnic tables, and access to restrooms and showers. RV camping sites are not available in this park. Activities in the park include swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park
Situated in the southeast of Florida, just north of the city of Jupiter, this state park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It has several habitats, including pine forests, subtropical jungles, and mangrove swamps. The park has a visitor center that provides guests with information about wildlife, camping, and hiking trails. Peak season runs from October to May, with admission fees ranging from $4 to $6 per vehicle. With 110 campsites to choose from, tent camping sites come equipped with picnic tables and fire rings while RV sites offer electric, potable water, and sewage hookups.
This might be closer to home for you…
Baia Honda State Park
This park is located in the Florida Keys, about 37 miles from Key West. It’s known for its stunning beaches and turquoise waters, and visitors can swim, snorkel, and kayak. There are paved and nature trails, a campground, a picnic area, and a visitor center with exhibits on local history and ecology. The park has 80 RV/tent sites with full hookups, and tent sites have shared water and electric hookups. Peak season is from December through April, and fees range from $36 to $83 per night.
Anastasia State Park
This amazing park is located in St. Augustine, on the eastern coast of Florida. It boasts a beautiful beach, nature trails, and a historic Spanish coquina quarry. Visitors can tour the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum, and enjoy kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. The park has a visitor center and campground with 139 sites, including both tent and RV sites with electric and water hookups. Peak season is from March through Labor Day, and fees range from $16 to $28 per night for camping.
Blue Spring State Park
This park is located in Orange City, in the central part of the state. It’s known for its crystal clear springs, where visitors can swim, snorkel, and scuba dive. The park also has hiking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. The visitor center has exhibits on the park’s history and wildlife, and there are 51 RV/tent sites with water and electric hookups. Tent sites have shared water and electric hookups, and fees range from $24 to $42 per night during peak season, which is from November through April.
St. George Island State Park
This park is located in the Florida Panhandle, near the town of Apalachicola. It’s home to miles of pristine beaches, dunes, and salt marshes, and visitors can swim, fish, and hike. The park has a visitor center with exhibits on local wildlife and ecology, and a campground with 60 RV/tent sites with water and electric hookups. Tent sites have shared water and electric hookups, and fees range from $24 to $28 per night during peak season, which is from May through August.
Myakka River State Park
This park is located in Sarasota and is one of Florida’s largest state parks. It’s home to diverse wildlife, including alligators, armadillos, and deer, and visitors can hike, bike, and kayak. The park has a visitor center with exhibits on local history and ecology, and a campground with 90 RV/tent sites with water and electric hookups. Peak season is from November through April, and fees range from $23 to $42 per night for camping. The park also has cabins and a backcountry camping area for visitors looking for a more rustic experience.
Grayton Beach State Park
Located in the panhandle region of Florida, Grayton Beach State Park features over 2000 acres of scenic beauty. If you plan to visit this park, you should reserve your spot as soon as possible, especially if you want one of the beachfront campsites. Fees for camping at Grayton Beach State Park start at $20 per night for tent camping and $45 per night for RV camping. Tent camping sites come with picnic tables, grills, and access to hot showers, while RV sites offer electrical and water hookups, as well as showers and laundry facilities. Recreational activities in the park include fishing, swimming, hiking, and kayaking.
Hillsborough River State Park
Located in Thonotosassa, Hillsborough River State Park is a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts in Florida. If you plan on camping at this park, it’s best to reserve six months ahead. Fees for camping start at $24 per night for tent camping, with access to showers and a playground. RV sites have full hookups and other various amenities with prices starting at $35 per night. The park offers hiking, swimming, and canoeing activities.
O’Leno State Park
Located in High Springs, O’Leno State Park provides visitors with a beautiful natural setting. You should reserve your camping site at least two weeks in advance. Fees start at $18 per night for tent camping and $28 per night for RV camping. Tent sites come with a picnic table, grill, and access to hot showers, while RV sites offer full hookups. The park offers a beautiful trail to explore and campers can also enjoy kayaking or fishing in the river.
Collier-Seminole State Park
Located in Naples, Collier-Seminole State Park is a great place to enjoy natural wonders. You should reserve your camping site at least a month in advance. Fees start at $45 per night for RV camping with electrical and water hookups, and some pull-through. For tent camping, fees start at $22 per night with picnic tables, grills, and showers. The park offers hiking opportunities as well as canoe/kayak rentals.
National Parks, Forests & Seashore
Beyond the many state parks in Florida, several national attractions are worthy of a visit. Here are a few along with some details about each.
Ocala National Forest
Ocala National Forest is located in central Florida, offering over 600 square miles of beautiful wilderness. There are multiple visitor centers throughout the forest, along with numerous opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating. Peak season is typically during the spring and summer, and fees vary depending on the specific activity. Tent camping sites are plentiful, with nearly 100 sites available, and RV camping sites include hookups and amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables.
Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is situated at the extreme tip of south Florida and is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. There are several visitor centers throughout the park, and peak season typically is during the winter months due to the cooler temperatures. Entry fees vary depending on the season and the activity, but there are plenty of options for hiking, canoeing, and even airboat tours. Tent camping sites are available, with over 40 sites throughout the park, and RV camping sites offer amenities such as water and electrical hookups.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
Gulf Islands National Seashore is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, with Fort Pickens in Pensacola and Gulf Islands stretching from Florida to Mississippi. There are visitor centers at both locations, and fees are typically charged for use of the facilities and parking. Tent camping sites are available at Fort Pickens, with over 200 sites, and RV camping can be found at the nearby Santa Rosa Campground. Activities include hiking, fishing, and beach-going, with beautiful sugary white sand beaches throughout the Gulf Islands National Seashore.
Campgrounds in Florida
Florida is a super fun and fantastic place to go camping! Here are some of the most popular campgrounds in the state outside of the state parks, with all the details you need to know while planning your trip.
Camp Gulf
Located in North Florida, Camp Gulf offers some of the best beachfront camping in the state. You should reserve your spot as early as possible, as this campground is in high demand. Tent camping goes for around $65 per night, while RV sites start at $85. You’ll have access to hot showers, laundry facilities, and even an on-site store. Camp Gulf is the perfect place to swim, fish, hike, and explore the wilderness.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness
This campground is located in the central part of the state, near Orlando. You’ll definitely want to book your spot at least six months in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. Tent camping starts at $82 per night, while RV sites can run you upwards of $150 per night. The campground offers everything from hayrides to outdoor movies, plus all the fantastic amenities you’d expect from Disney. Don’t forget to visit the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom while you’re there!
Primitive Camping in Florida
When it comes to primitive camping in Florida, you might want to set up camp in the Ocala National Forest. This huge forest, located about an hour and a half north of Orlando, features plenty of backcountry camping areas with no amenities — making it the perfect spot to truly connect with nature. The Florida Trail is also located in a location available for primitive camping. There are no fees for primitive camping here, so it’s an easy and budget-friendly way to experience the outdoors.
Tent camping is the primary way to go, and you’ll need to bring in all your gear on your own. There are plenty of hiking trails and swimming holes in the area, so water sports and hiking are the top activities to do here.
Hammock Camping in Florida
If you’re looking to hammock camp, the Florida Keys has tons of great spots to check out. You can hang your hammock up above the sand and enjoy the turquoise water while resting in your cozy place. Believe it or not, but, many beaches in the Keys will let you do this, and a beach that is specifically known for its impressive hammock camping is Bahia Honda State Park.
The cost is $36 to $42 per campsite, and many offer shower and toilet facilities. There are clean beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. You may also opt to kayak, fish, or check out the historical sites located on the grounds.
Interested in Hammock Camping?
Free Camping in Florida
The Apalachicola National Forest offers some of the best free camping in Florida. The forest stretches across the Florida Panhandle and is a fantastic place to explore nature. You’ll need to bring your own camping gear and stay in primitive camping locations, but it’s worth it for the incredible scenery.
There are no fees for overnight camping or parking. You can set up camp almost anywhere within the forest as long as it’s away from the road and water — so there’s plenty of freedom to explore. RV camping isn’t encouraged as many of the camping locations are not sufficiently equipped.
Beach Camping in Florida
Thanks to the countless beaches in this state, there’s no shortage of beach camping options in Florida. Anastasia State Park is one of the most popular sites for beach camping, and it’s located in St Augustine. You can park your camper or rent a camping spot for $30 to $40 per night, or opt for a beach cottage or camp in a tent close to the beach.
There are water and electricity services, as well as hot showers, and coin laundry facilities. Other activities include hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, playing beach volleyball, and simply soaking up the sun on this glorious sand.
Equestrian Campsite
Florida offers a wide variety of equestrian-friendly campsites. From peaceful, natural sites surrounded by nature to luxurious, modern sites with amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning, there is something for everyone to enjoy horseback riding. Many of these sites also feature horse boarding and riding trails where riders can groom their horses, practice dressage or jump over obstacles. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend in the woods or a full camp experience complete with all the modern comforts, you’ll find everything you need at one of Florida’s equestrian campsites.
Best RV Camping
RV campers understand sometimes you just want the air conditioning along with the other comforts provided by RV park. Here are a few of the most popular RV parks not already listed above in ascending order of their TripAdvisor rating.
- St. Pete Beach RV Resort in St. Petersburg: Fees — $45-$165, Location — 13 miles from downtown, Amenities — 24/7 security, free wifi and cable TV, TripAdvisor Rating: 4 stars
- Little Manatee River State Park & Campground in Ruskin: Fees — $24-$30 per night, Location — 12 miles south of Tampa, Amenities — kayaking and canoeing on the river, TripAdvisor Rating: 4 stars
- Ocala Sun RV Resort in Ocala — Fees — $50-$85 per night, Location — 8 miles from downtown, Amenities — swimming pool and spa, hot tubs and more, TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 stars
- Long Key State Park in Layton: Fees — $36-$46 per night for full hookups or tent sites., Location — 10 miles east of Islamorada., Amenities — canoeing, snorkeling, fishing, hiking, etc..TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5 stars
- Fort Desoto Park & Campground in Tierra Verde: Fees — $28 to $118 per night depending on the season (plus tax), Location — Just off I-275 near St. Petersburg Beach and Fort DeSoto Park amenities like beach access and many others., TripAdvisor Rating: 5 stars
- Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina in Big Pine Key: Fees — Starting at around $125 a night., Location — Near Marathon just south of Big Pine Key., Amenities; full hookup sites with free wifi, pools, marina with boat slips, etc..TripAdvisor Rating: 5 stars
Get your free downloadable RV camping checklist here!
Points of Interest in Florida
We have covered a lot of ground about Florida and its many amazing outdoor opportunities, but there is more. Here are a few of the more popular attractions in Florida so you are aware when making plans for a great family adventure.
Boca Chita Key
Boca Chita Key is a picturesque island located in Biscayne National Park, which is situated in Miami-Dade County. The peak season is from December to May, and visitors can reach the island by boat or ferry. There is a small fee charged per person, but the stunning views and crystal-clear waters are worth it. Visitors can picnic, swim, hike, and explore the historic lighthouse. It’s perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway!
Elliott Key
Elliott Key is another island located in Biscayne National Park, located nearer to the Florida Keys. The peak season is from December to May, and visitors can access the island via private boat, water-taxi or the park’s ferry. There is a fee of $10 per person, but it is a small price to pay to enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches and calm turquoise waters. Visitors can kayak, snorkel, camp, and hike through the mangroves. Don’t forget to watch for the endangered West Indian manatee that can be spotted here!
Key West
Key West is the southernmost point of the continental United States, located in the Florida Keys. Peak season is from November to April, but it’s a popular travel spot all year round. There is no fee to visit Key West, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture, the lively nightlife, and the famous sunset celebrations on Mallory Square. Other activities include snorkeling, dolphin-watching, visiting the Hemingway House, and exploring the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
Pine Island
Pine Island is a hidden gem located near Fort Myers and is part of the largest undeveloped mangrove system in the United States, the Pine Island Sound Aquatic Preserve. There is no fee to visit, and visitors can explore the historic fishing villages, taste fresh seafood, visit the local galleries or take a kayak or canoe and paddle through the beautiful backwaters. Also, visitors can swim, bike, hike or birdwatch at the Calusa Heritage Trail.
Lake Okeechobee
Lake Okeechobee, located in central or south-central Florida, is the second-largest freshwater lake in the United States within a single state. Visitors can access the lake by boat or kayak, and there is no fee to enter. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line in hopes of catching largemouth bass, bream, and catfish. There are also hiking and biking trails, birdwatching, and camping. Don’t forget to check out the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail!
The Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean is one of the major oceans that surround Florida, providing more than 1,350 miles of coastline. Florida’s East Coast beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, with its white sand beaches and sand dunes. Visitors can swim, snorkel, surf, sail, or just relax and soak up the sun. Some favorite beaches are Cocoa Beach, Daytona Beach, and Palm Beach.
Pensacola Beach
Pensacola Beach is located on Santa Rosa Island, Florida, in the panhandle. The peak season ranges from March to September, and access is free. Visitors can enjoy the sugar-white sand beaches, emerald green waters, picturesque boardwalks, and free summer concerts. Outdoor activities include diving, fishing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. You can also visit the Pensacola Lighthouse, which boasts one of the most beautiful views of the Gulf Coast.
Topsail Hill Preserve
No trip to Florida is complete without a visit to a natural spring, like Topsail Hill Preserve State Park near Destin. The peak season for visiting is from April to October, and there is a small entrance fee. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnicking in the natural settings surrounded by cypress and pine trees. The park also features the highest dunes and the rare coastal dune lakes, which are perfect for canoeing or kayaking.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Florida is a great choice for family vacations filled with outdoor activities and exploration. From visiting the many national and state parks to discovering picturesque local state parks, there is something that everyone will enjoy. And best of all, there are enough options to keep you vacationing for several seasons.
Plan your next Florida outdoor excursion with your family and take advantage of its natural beauty and rich history. Make memories that will last a lifetime and come back home with stories worth telling! Just don’t forget to bring the camera so you can share memories on social media or perhaps a travel blog. If you found value in this post, consider subscribing to be notified when I write about more camping adventures. Let’s start planning now; adventure awaits!
~ Ron
If you want more…
originally published at https://www.outdoorverified.com on April 17, 2023.
