Experience the Sunshine State: Camping in Florida

Indulge in an unforgettable adventure as we explore the diverse and captivating camping experience in Florida. From pristine beaches to lush forests, the Sunshine State offers a myriad of picturesque landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In this guide, we'll unveil the top 10 campsites, essential gear for your Florida camping experience, and insider tips to ensure a memorable and enjoyable escapade in this tropical paradise. So pack your bags, and let's dive into the wonders of Florida's great outdoors!

Top 10 Campsites in Florida

1. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park

Location: Santa Rosa Beach, FL

Best Visit Time: Spring and Fall

Situated 15 miles east of Destin in Florida's Panhandle, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers unique sand dunes, pristine beaches, and excellent campground facilities. Visitors enjoy shaded campsites, calm waters for paddling, and a convenient tram shuttle to the beach. The park features over 3 miles of beaches, 15 miles of hiking trails, and three freshwater lakes. The campground provides 156 RV sites, 22 tent-only spots, central restrooms, laundry facilities, a swimming pool, and shuffleboard courts. For added comfort, guests can book bohemian-style glamping tents through Fancy Camps, which include bicycles, beach chairs, and complimentary coffee shop treats. Cottages with full kitchens and air conditioning are available for daily and weekly rentals.

2. Myakka River State Park

Location: Sarasota, FL

Best Visit Time: Fall to Spring

Myakka River State Park is among the oldest and largest parks in Florida. It offers 58 square miles of wetlands, pinelands, prairie, and palm hammocks, making it an ideal camping destination in the Sunshine State. Abundant with palmettos, live oaks, and wildlife like ospreys and alligators, this park provides a variety of activities such as bike paths, hiking trails, and canoeing or kayaking spots.

3. Bahia Honda State Park

Location: Big Pine Key, FL

Best Visit Time: December to April

Situated 130 miles south of Miami on the Overseas Highway, this park boasts a stunning tropical landscape with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and diverse wildlife. Known for its calm, clear waters, it's a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and paddling. On-site amenities include daily snorkeling tours, kayak rentals, a snack bar, 80 campsites across three campgrounds, and three waterfront cabins. Buttonwood and Sandspur campgrounds offer RV hookups, central bathrooms, and dump sites, while the remote Bayside campground permits hammock camping without RVs. All sites feature picnic tables, grills, and water.

4. Cayo Costa State Park

Location: Boca Grande, FL

Best Visit Time: November to April

For stunning waterfront camping experiences, Cayo Costa State Park is the perfect destination, providing primitive campsites and cabins for overnight visits. Accessing this pristine Gulf Coast island requires some effort, as it can only be reached by boat or kayak. However, ferry services are available from Punta Gorda, Pine Island, and Captiva Island. Those who take off on this journey will be greeted with crystal-clear waters, beautifully shaped dunes, sun-drenched palmettos, and nine miles of unspoiled coastline to explore.

5. Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Location: Orlando, FL

Best Visit Time: Year-round

Discover a "woodsy-chic" campground resort just minutes from Walt Disney World, perfect for families seeking cabin or campsite accommodations (overnight guests must have a valid ticket/annual pass and theme park reservation). Enjoy amenities like a pool, waterslide, transportation, grocery delivery, and on-site activities such as archery, paddle sports, and campfire entertainment. Visit the Tri-Circle-D Ranch for pony, carriage, and trail rides, and dine at themed options like a chuckwagon food truck, poolside snack bar, rustic tavern, or the full-service Trail's End Restaurant.

6. Biscayne National Park

Location: Homestead, FL

Best Visit Time: November to April

For a unique South Florida experience, visit Biscayne National Park instead of Miami's glitz. Accessible only by boat, the park offers two campgrounds on Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key. Book a guided tour with the Biscayne National Park Institute if you don't own a boat. Boca Chita Key provides toilets but no showers, sinks, or drinking water, while Elliott Key offers restrooms, cold-water showers, picnic tables, grills, and drinking water (bring your own as backup).

7. Rainbow Springs State Park

Location: Dunnellon, FL

Best Visit Time: Spring and Fall

For over 10,000 years, people have been drawn to the rejuvenating waters of the Rainbow River and its emerald headsprings. This north-central Florida state park, located 45 miles south of Gainesville, offers various attractions such as river tubing, manmade waterfalls, and hiking trails. Visitors describe the park as "serene" and a "treasure." Campsites near the river start at $30 per night and include full hookups, restrooms, laundry facilities, and a dump station. Additional amenities for overnight guests include a kayak storage rack, concession stand, and camp store with equipment rentals.

8. Collier-Seminole State Park

Location: Naples, FL

Best Visit Time: November to April

Experience a unique side of Florida by visiting Collier-Seminole State Park, one of the world's largest mangrove swamps in the Greater Everglades ecosystem. Encounter diverse wildlife, including endangered species like the Florida Panther and West Indian manatee. Explore the park's four nature trails by hiking, biking, or paddling down the 13.5-mile Blackwater River canoe trail. The park offers a 104-site campground with amenities like electricity, water, grills, picnic tables, showers, laundry, and a dump station.

9. Everglades National Park

Location: Homestead, FL

Best Visit Time: November to April

The "River of Grass," an internationally renowned subtropical wilderness preserve, offers a unique camping experience in Florida. It features RV sites with hookups, solar showers, dump stations, and remote wooden platforms accessible only by boat or hike. Beach camping is available for advanced backcountry campers. Explore numerous trails, landmarks, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas, or join guided kayak, airboat, or tram tours.

10. Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo

Location: River Ranch, FL

Best Visit Time: Year-round

Escape the typical beach scene and head 90 miles south of Orlando to experience the "Old Florida" charm at a dude ranch resort. Enjoy weekly rodeos, horseback riding, trap shooting, and a petting zoo reminiscent of the Rocky Mountain West. Choose from various lodging options, including tent and RV sites with partial hookups and bathroom facilities. For a unique stay, rent a glamping tent, luxury teepee, or Conestoga wagon nestled among live oaks, complete with full bathrooms, air conditioning, and kitchenettes.

Camping Must-Haves for Florida

When camping in Florida, it's important to be prepared for the unique climate, wildlife, and environment. Here are some essentials to bring for a fun and secure camping trip in Florida:

• Tent with rainfly and ventilation –Florida's humidity and frequent rain showers make a well-ventilated tent with a rainfly essential.

• Sleeping bag and pad –A lightweight and comfortable sleeping pad will make for a better night's sleep.

• Insect repellent– Mosquitoes and other pesky insects can be a real nuisance when you're enjoying the great outdoors. Therefore, be sure to pack an effective bug spray to keep them at bay.

• Sunscreen –With Florida's sunny weather, you will be spending lots of time outdoors. Essential to protect your skin from harmful UV rays by packing a high-quality sunscreen with the recommended SPF for your skin type.

• Portable fan –You can beat sweltering temperatures by packing a portable fan. They are lightweight, portable, and perfect for taking the edge off of Florida's summer heat.

• Cooler with ice packs –Keep your food and drinks cold in a high-quality cooler with reusable ice packs.

• Headlamp or flashlight –Bring a reliable light source for navigating your campsite at night.

• First aid kit –Any camping trip requires a first aid kit that is well-stocked.

• Water bottles –Staying hydrated is crucial, so bring plenty of water and a way to carry it.

• Waterproof bags –Protect your electronics and other valuables from Florida's frequent rain showers with waterproof bags.

• Camping stove and cooking gear –Make sure you pack a camping stove and cooking gear, so you can cook your meals. Campfires are illegal in many parts of Florida, making a camping stove and cooking gear a necessity.

• Wildlife guidebook –Florida is famous for its diverse wildlife. It is advised to pack a wildlife guidebook, which will help you identify the various species you might see while on your camping trip.

• Fire starter –If you plan to have a campfire where it’s legal, packing a fire starter kit can be useful in case it's challenging to start a fire or you run out of matches.

• Trash bags –It is crucial to leave no trace when you leave the campsite. Therefore, it is vital to pack sturdy trash bags to pack out your garbage and dispose of it properly.

• Portable Power Station – This is crucial for keeping electronic devices charged, especially in case of emergencies. Looking for a great choice? The Anker SOLIX F2000 is the ultimate camping buddy, providing long-lasting portable power with a 10-year lifespan due to our InfiniPower technology. Rapidly recharge from 0 to 80% in just 1 hour with HyperFlash technology. And now, you can power up to 12 devices simultaneously with its 2400W output, including an RV port, 4 AC ports, 3 USB-C ports, 2 USB-A ports, and 2 car outlets.

Tips for Camping in Florida

Here are some valuable tips to have a fantastic camping trip in the Sunshine State:

1. Choose the right location: Research campgrounds and state parks that cater to your preferred activities, such as hiking, fishing, or beach combing.

2. Book early: Florida campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak season (November - April). Make reservations in advance to secure your good spot.

3. Pack appropriately: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, and rain gear.

4. Stay hydrated: Florida's heat and humidity can be intense, so drink plenty of water and pack electrolyte-replenishing drinks.

5. Be mindful of wildlife: Florida is home to various wildlife, including alligators and snakes. Keep a safe distance, especially from wild animals, and store food securely to avoid attracting them.

6. Prepare for the weather: Florida's weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rainstorms and high humidity. Check the forecast days before your trip and plan accordingly.

7. Secure your belongings: In some areas, theft can be an issue at campgrounds. Lock valuables in your vehicle or use a lockbox to keep them safe.

8. Leave no trace: Practice responsible camping by packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and leaving your campsite cleaner than you found it.

Wrap Up

No matter what sort of camping you're into, Florida is home to some exceptional options. You won't be disappointed with the sites listed above or the state of Florida in general. The climate is perfect throughout most of the year, and there are some very interesting things to do that everyone will enjoy. Also, we hope that you find our tips and must-have list helpful for your next adventure. So, get out there and explore all that beautiful Florida has to offer!