Camping in Florida offers a unique and diverse experience. The state is known for its incredibly varied landscapes, from pristine beaches and tropical forests to wetlands and freshwater springs. One of the key benefits of overlanding and RV camping in Florida is the abundance of well-equipped campgrounds. From state parks to private RV resorts, you’ll find a range of options to suit your adventuring preferences.
In this list, we’ve included ten of our favorite places for camping in Florida. Along with details on amenities such as RV hookup capabilities, we’re also sharing the highlights of each campground and the natural beauty that surrounds it. So keep on reading and get ready for your next adventure (just don’t forget to bring the bug spray)!
Camping in Florida
Florida’s warm and sunny climate is ideal for outdoor adventures, allowing campers to enjoy the natural wonders year-round. For nature lovers, this state is filled with campgrounds nestled near lush forests, where you have easy access to hiking trails to observe the unique flora and fauna of the region.
Additionally, the state's numerous freshwater springs offer a refreshing escape, providing opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Or, if you prefer camping near sand and surf, there are numerous beaches where you can spend your days basking in the sun, swimming, and doing water sports.
However, it’s essential to be prepared for the occasional rain showers and high humidity that Florida is known for. Mosquitoes may also be present, especially in wooded, marshy areas, so bug spray is an essential for camping. Despite these considerations, camping in Florida promises a diverse and memorable adventure filled with natural beauty and outdoor exploration.
Best Florida campgrounds
Florida offers a variety of camping experiences, from beachside campgrounds to inland parks with lush mangrove swamps. Here are some of our favorite spots for camping in Florida:
1. Myakka River State Park - Sarasota
Camping in Florida’s Myakka River State Park offers a captivating journey into the heart of the state’s untamed wilderness. This is one of Florida’s largest state parks with 37,000 acres of natural and diverse wildlife to experience. Here, campers can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature, trading modern conveniences for a more rustic adventure.
Nestled within the park’s vast expanse are two distinct campgrounds, each providing a unique experience. The main campground is equipped with modern amenities, but for those looking for a ‘primitive’ experience, there are also several campsites with more rustic settings, perfect for backpackers.
- Price: $5-77
- Number of sites: 80
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“Was able to walk to see large amount of gators and quick access to fishing.” - Kevin C
2. Jonathan Dickinson State Park - Hobe Sound
Right on the Loxahatchee River, Jonathan Dickinson State Park boasts diverse ecosystems, including mangrove swamps. There are two campgrounds located within the park: Pine Grove Campground on the east side of the park, and River Campground close to the water. Both campgrounds have large restrooms and sites that include water, electricity, and a grill (sewer hookup is included on the Pine Grove campsites).
One of the highlights of camping at Jonathan Dickinson State Park is the abundance of outdoor activities available. Hiking enthusiasts can explore a network of trails and kayakers can meander through the cypress swamps along the Loxahatchee River.
- Price: Starting at $26
- Number of sites: 142
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“Camp site was clean and very large, included a table and fire pit, easy to back into thanks to the size.” - Daniel G.
3. Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground - Lake Buena Vista
Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground in Florida is a unique and enchanting experience that seamlessly combines the magic of Disney World with the rustic charm of camping. In essence, this spot is a delightful fusion of outdoor adventure and Disney enchantment so your family can create memories that go beyond the typical theme park experience.
Campground guests can choose from a variety of camping options, everything from tents to large RV sites to fully-equipped cabins. Each campsite features privacy-enhancing landscaping, water and electrical hooks, a picnic table, and a grill. Most campsites also include sewer hookups, and some even permit pets!
- Price: $56-201
- Number of sites: 847
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“A short golf cart ride to the Magic Kingdom ferry, and a similarly short ride to the buses to other parks.” - Greg S.
4. Bahia Honda State Park - Florida Keys
Nestled in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park offers stunning ocean views, pristine beaches, and lush tropical surroundings. Imagine waking up in your TAXA habitat to the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore. The park's natural beauty extends beyond the campground, inviting exploration of its diverse ecosystems.
Snorkeling and kayaking opportunities are aplenty, but if you prefer to hike, there are a lot of trails to give you panoramic views of the Keys. With a variety of campsites available, from beachfront spots to sites nestled in the shade of palm trees, visitors can tailor their camping experience to suit their preferences.
- Price: $39-123
- Number of sites: 72
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“If you are lucky enough to get a waterfront site you can snorkel off your site or launch your kayak.” - B.M.
5. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park - Santa Rosa Beach
Tucked along the shores of the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the campground at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a serene and picturesque setting. Campers here can choose from a variety of spacious and well-shaded campsites, some of which are nestled among the towering sand dunes of the park’s landscape. With its emphasis on preserving the natural environment and providing a range of outdoor activities, camping here is a gateway to the unspoiled beauty of Florida's coastal wilderness.
- Price: $24-48
- Number of sites: 156 RV sites, 22 tent campsites
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“You can see the stars, and hear the waves from the campground while you sleep.” - Sharon A.
6. Cayo Costa Island State Park - Gulf Coast
Accessible only by boat, Cayo Costa Island State Park is one of the most uniquely Floridian campgrounds on this list. This barrier island offers a secluded and pristine camping environment offering a range of campsites from primitive tent sites to sites with all the amenities.
During the day, campers can explore the island's diverse ecosystems and extensive shell-strewn shorelines. With limited light pollution, the night skies at Cayo Costa are ideal for stargazing, making the camping experience even more magical.
- Price: $20-36
- Number of sites: 30
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“I really felt like I was on my very own private island and it was just magical.” - Marissa G.
7. Fort Pickens Campground - Gulf Islands National Seashore
Camping at Fort Pickens Campground is a truly immersive experience that offers a unique opportunity to connect with both the natural beauty of the Gulf Coast and the rich historical significance of Fort Pickens itself. One of the highlights of camping at Fort Pickens is the proximity to the historic Civil War-era fort that shares its name. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife in the area, from coastal birds to playful dolphins.
The campground is open for reservations year round, though due to the campground’s popularity, we suggest making reservations several months in advance. There are sites for tent camping as well as pull-in sites to fit even the biggest of RVs, plus the amenities include all the essentials such as toilets, showers, and drinking water.
- Price: Starting at $20
- Number of sites: 137
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes, in authorized areas only
- Pets allowed: Yes
“The beach is a quick walk and the trails are great for walking and biking.” - Joy W.
8. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo - River Ranch
Camping at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo in Florida is a distinctive and exciting experience that combines the charm of traditional camping with the amenities of a Western-style ranch. Situated along the Kissimmee River, this campground in Florida offers a range of camping options to allow visitors to choose their level of comfort.
Guests can enjoy classic camping activities like fishing, hiking, and horseback riding, all while surrounded by the rustic beauty of the Florida wilderness. The resort also hosts a variety of events and shows that you won’t find at many of the other best camping spots in Florida, including the renowned Saturday night rodeo!
- Price: $59-149
- Number of sites: 40
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“River Ranch has so much to do. Rodeos, food, putt putt, petting zoo- and tons more.” - Eric
9. Flamingo Campground - Everglades National Park
When it comes to camping in the Everglades, look no further than Flamingo Campground, located at the southern tip of Everglade National Park. This campground provides a serene escape into the wilderness, surrounded by a mix of mangrove forests, coastal prairies, and saltwater marshes. The campground offers a range of camping options, from tent sites to RV spots, ensuring that visitors of all preferences can find suitable accommodations.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby trails, such as the Eco Pond Trail, where they may encounter alligators, birds, and other wildlife. Our biggest recommendation for this campsite, or for any Everglades camping, is to be prepared for the subtropical climate, which can bring heat and mosquitoes. Proper camping gear and bug repellent is essential for a comfortable stay in this captivating natural haven.
- Price: $24-160
- Number of sites: 274
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes, grills only
- Pets allowed: Yes
“If you want to experience the Everglades, this is a great campground to do it from.” - Darla
10. Fort De Soto Campground - Tampa Bay
Fort de Soto Campground features some of the best beach camping in Florida, and is well deserved on the list of the best ten camping spots in the state. Located on the picturesque Mullet Key in Pinellas County, this waterfront campground offers a serene escape just a stone's throw away from the bustling city of Tampa.
The campground is mostly wooded, and divided up into three areas: Area 1 for tents, vans, and small campers, and Areas 2 and 3 for larger RVs. All sites are equipped with electrical and water hookups, picnic tables, and cooking grills. Beyond amenities, you’ll be seamlessly integrated into the park's pristine landscape and its access to white sandy beaches, nature trails, and ample opportunities for birdwatching.
- Price: $38-48
- Number of sites: 236
- RV sites: Yes
- Hookups: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
“Fort De Soto is an excellent place for beach camping.” - Nestor A.
