Best Beach Camping Places in Florida
From the Atlantic coast to the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll find a variety of beach camping options in Florida. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing, spending your days lounging on the beach, and watching the sunset over the water. Whether you’re an experienced camper or a first-timer, camping on the beach is an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss. So pack your bags, grab your tent, and get ready for an adventure in paradise!
Things to Know Before Camping on the Beach in Florida
Florida’s beaches offer some of the best camping experiences in the country. If you’re planning a beach camping trip in Florida, there are a few things you should know before you go. Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your beach camping experience.
Beach Camping Reservations and Permits
Most beach campsites in Florida require a reservation, and some may also require a permit. Make sure to check with the campsite or campground you plan to stay at to see what their reservation and permit requirements are. Some popular beach campsites in Florida, such as Bahia Honda State Park, Grayton Beach State Park, and Fort Pickens Campground, can fill up quickly, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance.
Best Times for Beach Camping in Florida
Florida’s beach camping season runs from November to April, when the weather is cooler and less humid. During the summer months, the weather can be hot and humid, which can make beach camping uncomfortable. If you do plan to camp on the beach during the summer months, make sure to bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.
Amenities and Facilities at Beach Campsites
Beach campsites in Florida offer a range of amenities and facilities, depending on the campsite or campground. Some beach campsites offer full hookup RV sites, while others only allow tent camping. Some beach campsites also offer cabins for rent. Make sure to check with the campsite or campground you plan to stay at to see what amenities and facilities they offer.
Understanding Florida’s Beach Camping Regulations
Florida has strict regulations when it comes to beach camping. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these regulations before you go. Some of the regulations include:
- No camping within 300 feet of any marked sea turtle nest
- No camping within 100 feet of any marked bird nesting area
- No digging of holes deeper than 2 feet
- No fires except in designated fire rings
- No pets allowed on beaches in state parks
Top Beach Campgrounds in Florida
Here are some of the best beach campgrounds in Florida that will provide you with a memorable experience.
Turtle Beach Campground
Located on Siesta Key, Turtle Beach Campground is a great spot for tent and RV camping. The campground is just a short walk from the beach, and there are plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
North Beach Camp Resort
North Beach Camp Resort is located in St. Augustine and offers both tent and RV camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Long Key State Park
Long Key State Park is located in the Florida Keys and offers tent and RV camping. The campground is right on the beach and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is located in Destin and offers tent and RV camping. The campground is just a short walk from the beach, and there are plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
Fort Pickens Campground
Fort Pickens Campground is located in Gulf Islands National Seashore and offers tent and RV camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Canaveral National Seashore
Canaveral National Seashore offers both tent and RV camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Atlantic Beach Campground
Atlantic Beach Campground is located in Anastasia State Park and offers tent and RV camping. The campground is just a short walk from the beach, and there are plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park offers both tent and RV camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Cayo Costa
Cayo Costa is located in the Florida Keys and offers tent camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
DeSoto Park Campground
DeSoto Park Campground is located in St. Augustine and offers both tent and RV camping. The campground is just a short walk from the beach, and there are plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
Little Crawl Key
Little Crawl Key is located in the Florida Keys and offers tent camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
East Cape
East Cape is located in the Florida Keys and offers tent camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Little Talbot Island State Park
Little Talbot Island State Park is located in Jacksonville and offers both tent and RV camping. The campground is just a short walk from the beach, and there are plenty of amenities to make your stay comfortable, including restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area At Flagler Beach
Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area At Flagler Beach offers both tent and RV camping. The campground is right on the beach, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, including fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Logistics and Travel Tips
Getting to Florida’s Beachfront Campsites
Florida’s beachfront campsites are located along the coast and accessible by car, ferry, or even by foot. If you’re driving, take the Overseas Highway or the A1A, both of which offer scenic routes and views of the ocean. Some campsites are also accessible by ferry, such as the Dry Tortugas National Park, which can only be reached by boat or seaplane. Make sure you check in advance if you need to pay for camping or it is a free camping site.
RV Camping Considerations
If you’re planning on RV camping, make sure to check the campsites for full hookup options and RV size restrictions. Some campsites may not accommodate large RVs or may only offer limited hookups. It’s also important to note that Florida can get hot and humid, so make sure your RV has good ventilation and air conditioning.
Tent Camping Essentials
For tent camping, make sure to bring all the necessary gear, including a sturdy tent, sleeping bags, and a cooler for food and drinks. It’s also important to bring insect repellent and sunscreen to protect yourself from the hot sun and pesky bugs. Breezes from the ocean can make the temperature feel cooler, but the humidity can still be high, so be prepared for both hot and humid conditions.
Managing Expectations with Weather and Crowds
It’s important to manage your expectations when it comes to weather and crowds. Florida can get crowded during peak season, so make sure to book your campsites well in advance. The weather can also be unpredictable, with occasional storms and hurricanes. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go and bring appropriate gear to stay dry in case of rain.
I am a father of a 2 energetic boys. If one of them accidently sleeps past 6am, the other one make sure he will wake up. Traveling is our favorite activity as a family and we try to do it almost every time school is out. Our favorite location is Florida (coming from Baltimore the warm weather is usually a blessing).