Eleven national parks, 175 state parks, and 1,350 miles of coastline. Wow! 🤩 The balmy “Sunshine State” is home to beaches, forests, and wetlands with diverse plants and wildlife (e.g., alligators, sea turtles, manatees). Campers visit year-round and enjoy hiking, biking, boating, fishing—and kicking back on the beach. Notable Florida destinations include Everglades National Park, Bahia Honda State Park, Walt Disney World Resort, and historic St. Augustine.
A beach paradise, Bahia Honda State Park allows campers a unique camping experience. Visitors get a front-row ticket to the park’s white sands, sea breezes, and shallow turquoise waters. Snorkel, kayak, or build a sandcastle. As the day winds down, take in a beautiful sunset or some sta...
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Looking for a beautiful and peaceful camping trip in an area rich in history, wildlife, and ecosystems? Anastasia State Park is a popular destination for sun-seekers, nature lovers, surfers, and… well… pretty much anyone. Each year hundreds of thousands of souls visit Anastasia to take i...
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Looking for a relaxing escape to the Florida Keys? If so, you’ve probably already considered camping (tenting or RVing) at Curry Hammock State Park. At just over 650 acres, the park offers lots of space to play. Visitors often bike, kayak, and go birdwatching. Others like to explore the area’s rockland hammocks, mangrove forests, and coquina shorelines. Consider visiting between November and Ap...
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Located in Key Largo, ~60 south of Miami, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the U.S.’ first undersea park. Campers visit the park to explore its life-filled coral reefs, enjoy the beach, and do some fishing. Divers can make their way to the bronze Christ of the Abys...
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When you camp at Grayton Beach State Park, you get access to one of the U.S.’s most idyllic beaches, known for its sugar-white sand and deep green waters. (Keep your eyes peeled for deer, sea turtles, and osprey.) When you grow tired of swimming, paddling, fishing, and sunbathing, check out the artistic and relaxed Grayton Beach community.
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Camp at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and you’ll have access to 1,649 acres set along Florida’s remarkable Emerald Coast. You’ll love the park’s expansive beaches, pine forests, rare dune lakes, and diverse wetlands. Birders will appreciate that Topsail Hill Preserve is part of the Great Florida Bir...
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Named after the beloved folk singer, Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area sits on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. Campers enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing at the park. During your visit, you might see a dolphin, sea turtle, or shoreb...
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Situated along the spectacular Emerald Coast, Henderson Beach State Park (in Destin) is a paradise of dunes and white sand beaches. Visitors can swim in the emerald waters, cast a fishing line from the shore, or beachcombing for treasures. Those with a keen eye might spot dolphins, sea turtles, or gopher tortoises. Florida Panhandle camping doesn’t get any better than this!
More informationIs the Florida park you want to camp at sold out? We can help! Campers often cancel their camping reservations. Campnab monitors Florida parks and can text you when a suitable campsite one opens up! 🙂
You’re probably pretty familiar with the Sunshine State and why it appeals to so many campers (who might otherwise be stuck in chilly climates). Like them, you might fantasize about those sandy white beaches, lush tropical islands, and fun-filled theme parks.
You might not realize the diversity of natural attractions that make Florida camping so special. From wildlife viewing to exploring wetlands, hiking in national forests, or snorkeling near coral reefs, this state offers an awful lot to discover.
Florida boasts 11 national parks and 175 state parks, as well as many regional and private campgrounds. Given the state’s warm climate, you can camp comfortably in winter. However, be wary of the hurricane season (June 1 – November 30) and the hot summer.
Visitors of Northwest Florida remark on the area’s rich history, charming small towns, and natural beauty. The Panhandle’s white sands and emerald waters make for some of the state’s best beaches, where you can canoe, snorkel, camp, hike, and fish. You can also travel inland to explore rivers, lakes, springs, and parks offering various eco-activities.
Tallahassee is the region’s largest city and home to Florida State University. St. George’s Island offers driftwood, shells, and artifact gathering. Meanwhile, sites like Pensacola’s National Museum of Naval Aviation and other historical landmarks provide a history lesson if you’re into that sort of thing.
Northwest Florida offers campers and RVers many camping opportunities. Notable parks include Henderson Beach State Park for its big dunes, Topsail Hill Preserve for it stunning beaches, and paddler’s paradise Blackwater River State Park.
Not to be outdone by its neighbors to the west and south, North Florida is a remarkable place to camp. Warm, sandy beaches and historic seaside towns make the perfect backdrop to some of the country’s best seafood dining. Those seeking a place to hike, bike, explore waterways, or go birding will have a full dance card.
Are you interested in a day on the town? Zip into Jacksonville for shopping, eats, cultural fun, sporting events, and 80,000 acres of parks. Nearby Gainesville is home to the University of Florida. A short distance to the east is the nation’s oldest (and arguably most charming) city, St. Augustine.
Looking for parks to visit while in North Florida? Consider Fort Clinch State Park for its maritime setting, including dunes, tidal marsh, and relic dunes. See the miles of white sandy beaches and abundant birds (native and migrating) of Little Talbot Island State Park. Amelia Island State Park is home to over 200 acres of wilderness, and Osceola National Forest’s ~200,000 acres offer you plenty to discover.
If you’re heading to Central Florida, you likely have some of the region’s famous attractions in mind. Whether it’s the thrills of Universal Studios, wonders of Sea World, or family favorites at Disney World, you’ll undoubtedly have a fun time! Notable cities in the region include Tampa and nearby St. Petersburg. If you’re a speed freak, don’t forget Daytona Speedway.
Once you’re done with the action, you can head back to the park and enjoy the comforts of your RV. Central Florida offers many camping options, from state parks to private RV campgrounds and even primitive camping. You’ll love Central Florida’s diverse scenery, countless sandy beaches, and views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Where to camp? If you enjoy hiking, Tomoka State Park’s natural trails are lovely. Prefer to get away from generators? Boat and walk-in access only Hontoon Island State Park offers a more rustic camping experience. Then there are the lush tropical hammocks, emerald springs, and sandhill uplands of Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground. Not to be missed!
Last on our list—but far from least—is the cultural mosaic that is South Florida. Some come to Miami for the beaches, Latin culture, music, and cuisine. Others head to cities like Naples and Palm Beach for luxury shopping, historic landmarks, and ever-present beauty. As campers, though, we tend to take it more chill.
There are a lot of RV resort options in the region, but some of these do fill up pretty fast. Writing about South Florida without obsessing over the Florida Keys is hard. Gorgeous waterfront areas allow for boating, swimming, and deep-sea fishing. You might want to kick back with a cool beverage and enjoy the coastal breeze.
If you can get in, you’ll fall in love with Bahia Honda State Park’s white beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical palm trees. Myakka State River Park is one of the area’s oldest (and largest) parks. Do not disturb the turtles and alligators who like to rest on the riverbanks. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the most popular park in the Florida State Parks system—and for good reason.
Topsail Hill Preserve State Park near Destin is known for its stunning white sand beaches and nature trails.
Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys offers tropical camping near crystal-clear waters.
Everglades National Park provides a unique experience with abundant wildlife.
Ocala National Forest offers diverse camping options near springs and hiking trails.
Anastasia State Park (St. Augustine)
Curry Hammock State Park (Florida Keys)
Fort De Soto Park (Tampa Bay area)
Yes, dispersed camping is available on public lands managed by the Florida Forest Service and some Water Management District lands. Examples include:
Ocala National Forest (dispersed areas)
Yes, many areas in Florida are home to alligators and snakes, but they generally avoid humans. Keep a safe distance and do not feed wildlife.
Use DEET-based repellents or natural alternatives like lemon eucalyptus oil.
Bring mosquito netting for tents or hammocks.
Camp during cooler months when bugs are less active.
Bears: Store food in bear-proof containers and make noise to avoid surprising them.
Panthers: Maintain eye contact, appear larger, and slowly back away. Never run.
For most state parks and established campgrounds, no separate permit is needed—just a reservation. Dispersed camping on public lands may require a free permit.
Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance, and popular spots (e.g., Bahia Honda) fill up quickly.
Yes, some parks have walk-in or first-come, first-served sites, but availability is limited.
Winter (November – March) offer cooler weather, fewer bugs, and ideal for hiking.
Spring (April – May) have comfortable temperatures with blooming wildflowers.
Hurricane season runs June – November. Check forecasts and avoid camping if a storm is predicted.
Camp near water (springs, rivers, beaches).
Bring a battery-powered fan.
Use light-colored, moisture-wicking clothing.
Fort Wilderness (Disney World): High-end facilities near Disney parks.
Blue Spring State Park: Spacious sites with hookups.
Jetty Park (Cape Canaveral): Oceanfront views with RV amenities.
Yes, try:
Fancy Camps at Grayton Beach State Park.
Westgate River Ranch Resort (luxury tents and teepees).
Everglades National Park: Wilderness campsites accessible by boat or kayak.
Big Cypress National Preserve: A remote camping experience.
Bill Frederick Park (Orlando): Affordable camping near Universal Studios.
Everglades National Park: Perfect for kayaking and wildlife watching.
Lake Kissimmee State Park: Excellent fishing and hiking.
Anastasia State Park: Combines beach access with trails and water activities.
In most areas, camping directly on the beach is not allowed, but parks like Fort De Soto and Curry Hammock offer designated spots near the beach.
Yes, in most locations, but check for local fire restrictions during dry seasons.
Yes, most parks allow pets in campgrounds, but they must be leashed.
Bug spray, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing.
Water filter or purifier if camping in remote areas.
Do I need special gear for camping in Florida’s wetlands?
Waterproof footwear and a tarp for wet ground.
A hammock may be better than a tent in swampy areas.
Choose a tent with good ventilation and a rainfly for sudden downpours.
Yes, most state parks and private campgrounds offer these amenities.
Yes, many private campgrounds and even some state parks (like Fort De Soto) provide Wi-Fi.
Blue Spring State Park: Manatees in winter.
Bahia Honda State Park: Dolphins and tropical birds.
Cayo Costa State Park: Remote island camping accessible only by boat.
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area: Secluded beachfront sites.
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park: A designated Dark Sky Park for excellent stargazing.
Florida State Parks: Provides comprehensive information on Florida's state parks, including details on camping facilities, reservation procedures, fees, and park amenities. Users can explore various camping options, from full-facility sites to primitive camping, and make reservations directly through the site.
Florida State Parks Reservation System: The official reservation portal for Florida's state parks, allowing users to book campsites, cabins, and other accommodations. The site offers real-time availability, site photos, and detailed descriptions to assist in planning stays.
National Park Service – Florida: Offers information on Florida's national parks, including camping options, park activities, and visitor guidelines. The site provides resources for planning visits to parks like Everglades, Biscayne, and Dry Tortugas.
National Forests in Florida – Camping & Cabins: Details camping opportunities within Florida's national forests, including campground locations, amenities, and reservation information. The site covers areas like the Apalachicola, Ocala, and Osceola National Forests.
Recreation.gov – Florida Camping: A federal portal providing information and reservations for camping in Florida's national parks, forests, and other public lands. Users can search for campsites, view availability, and make reservations across various federal lands in Florida.
Tell us when, where, and how long you want to camp for. We’ll notify you (via SMS) when a suitable spot opens up at that campground—so you can nab that sold-out campsite reservation!
We love camping, and want to help you reserve the perfect campsite!
