Boasting year-round temperate climes, beautiful white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a myriad of fauna and flora, I find that Florida is the perfect place to spend the weekend camping, hiking, biking, and soaking up the state’s natural scenery without leaving a footprint. Home to more than 900 campgrounds and over 100,000 campsites, Florida offers an array of campgrounds and sites for every taste for you to discover.
Best Camping Ideas
1. Anastasia State Park - 1 hour from Jacksonville, FL
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine, FL
Recommended For: Hikers, campers, beachgoers, birdwatchers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts.
What I Love: ♥ "This park has it all – sandy beaches, tidal marshes, and ancient dunes. It’s a haven for wildlife and outdoor lovers."
- Explore over 4 miles of stunning white sandy beach, perfect for beachcombing and relaxation.
- Hike or bike the nature trails that wind through maritime hammocks and dunes, offering a scenic, tranquil experience.
- Camp at one of 139 campsites, just a short walk or bike ride away from the beach—ideal for all types of campers.
- Rent bicycles, kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards from the park concessions to explore the park in a new way.
Cost: Park entry is free; camping fees vary depending on the type and season.
Best time to visit: Year-round; spring and fall are especially pleasant for outdoor activities.
Local tips: Stop by the small gift shop for park souvenirs and important information about local wildlife.
Distance: About 1 hour from Jacksonville, FL; 2 hours from Orlando, FL.
How to Get to Anastasia State Park: From St. Augustine, take Anastasia Park Rd to the park entrance. Follow signs to the Visitor Center and parking area.
Address: 300 Anastasia Park Rd, St Augustine, FL 32080
Phone: 904-461-2033
2. St George Island State Park - 1.5 hours from Panama City
Location: St. George Island State Park, St. George Island, FL
Recommended For: Beach lovers, campers, kayakers, snorkelers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts.
What I Love: ♥ "This secluded park offers everything from quiet campsites to pristine beaches. A perfect getaway for outdoor adventures and beach relaxation."
- Camp at the 60 campsites with electricity and water hookups, along with bathhouses offering hot showers and wash facilities.
- Enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, beachcombing, kayaking, and fishing.
- Picnic at one of six large picnic shelters, equipped with picnic tables and grills for the perfect outdoor meal.
- Launch your boat from one of two natural boat ramps for access to Apalachicola Bay.
Cost: Park entry fees apply; camping fees vary by season and campsite type.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather; summer for beach activities and water sports.
Local tips: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and water gear for kayaking or canoeing in the bay. Early morning is great for beachcombing.
Distance: About 2 hours from Tallahassee, FL; 1.5 hours from Panama City, FL.
How to Get to St. George Island State Park: From US 98, take the 4-mile-long bridge to St. George Island. Follow signs to the park entrance.
Address: 1900 E Gulf Beach Drive, St George Island, FL 32328
Phone: 850-927-2111
3. Caladesi Island State Park - 1 hour from Tampa
Location: Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin, FL
Recommended For: Beach lovers, campers, kayakers, anglers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts.
What I Love: ♥ "A completely natural island with pristine beaches and plenty of activities like kayaking and birdwatching. It’s the perfect escape to nature!"
- Swim and sunbathe along the beautiful white sandy beaches, or enjoy beachcombing in the tranquil waters.
- Fish in the calm Gulf waters or hike through the park’s trails for scenic views and wildlife watching.
- Canoe or kayak through the surrounding waters and explore the peaceful environment from the water.
- Camp at the marina, with boat camping options, complete with electric and water hookups.
- Picnic by the beach at one of the park’s picnic tables or shelters, perfect for a peaceful meal with a view.
Cost: Park entry fees apply; camping and boat access fees vary depending on the type and season.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but spring and fall offer mild weather for outdoor activities.
Local tips: Since the park is only accessible by boat or ferry, be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance from Honeymoon Island State Park.
Distance: About 30 minutes from Clearwater, FL; 1 hour from Tampa, FL.
How to Get to Caladesi Island State Park: Take the ferry from Honeymoon Island State Park, or use a private boat to reach the island.
Address: Offshore Island, Dunedin, FL 34698
Phone: 727-469-5918
Romantic Camping Ideas
4. Camp Gulf - 1 hour from Pensacola
Location: Camp Gulf, Destin, FL
Recommended For: RVers, campers, families, beach lovers, and anyone seeking a Gulf Coast getaway.
What I Love: ♥ "The variety of vacation rentals right on the beach—whether you prefer RV sites, cabins, or a beach house, Camp Gulf offers it all!"
- Camp right on the beach with premier RV sites that offer unbeatable Gulf views and full hookups.
- Stay in a cozy beach cabin, equipped with kitchens, living areas, picnic tables, and barbecue grills.
- Relax in the Sand Castle Beach House, featuring 1,200 square feet of space, antique furniture, and incredible beach views.
- Enjoy modern amenities like Wi-Fi, cable television, and direct beach access to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Cost: Rates vary based on accommodations and season. Check for special offers and discounts on the website.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds; summer for peak beach activities.
Local tips: Book your stay well in advance, especially during the summer, as Camp Gulf is a popular spot for beach lovers and families.
Distance: About 30 minutes from Fort Walton Beach, FL; 1 hour from Pensacola, FL.
How to Get to Camp Gulf: From US-98, head to Emerald Coast Parkway and follow signs to Camp Gulf.
Address: 10005 Emerald Coast Pkwy, Destin, FL 32550
Phone: 850-837-6334
5. Cayo Costa State Park - 1 hour from Fort Myers
Location: Cayo Costa State Park, Captiva, FL
Recommended For: Nature lovers, campers, anglers, hikers, bikers, and those seeking a secluded getaway.
What I Love: ♥ "A hidden gem accessible only by boat or ferry, offering miles of pristine beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. It’s the ultimate escape into nature!"
- Access the park via boat, ferry, or helicopter for a truly secluded experience on a barrier island.
- Hike or bike the park’s nature trails, surrounded by pine forests, oak-palm hammocks, and mangrove swamps.
- Camp at one of 30 primitive campsites with picnic tables, grills, and potable water, plus modern restrooms with cold showers.
- Rent cabins, boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes for an added adventure during your stay on the island.
- Fish in the pristine waters, perfect for a peaceful fishing experience in a natural setting.
Cost: Park entry fees apply; camping and rental fees vary based on the type and season.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather; summer for peak beach activities and water sports.
Local tips: Bring your own food and supplies, as there are no stores on the island. Be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance.
Distance: About 1 hour from Fort Myers, FL; 45 minutes from Sanibel Island, FL.
How to Get to Cayo Costa State Park: Access the park by boat or ferry from nearby locations, including Pine Island or Captiva.
Address: Captiva, FL 33924
Phone: 941-964-0375
6. Curry Hammock State Park
Location: Curry Hammock State Park, Marathon, FL
Recommended For: Campers, hikers, boaters, anglers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking an oceanfront getaway.
What I Love: ♥ "A peaceful park nestled in the Florida Keys, offering a serene escape with beautiful oceanfront views and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy."
- Camp in one of the 28 oceanfront campsites, with both tent and RV options available, featuring electricity, water, picnic tables, and grills.
- Hike or bike the 1.5-mile Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail for stunning views of the park and surrounding areas.
- Boating and fishing are popular here, with plenty of opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and power boating.
- Relax in the park’s serene setting with composting toilets, solar-powered showers, and convenient amenities.
Cost: Park entry fees apply; campsite fees vary depending on the type and season.
Best time to visit: Year-round, with peak times in winter and spring for ideal weather and outdoor activities.
Local tips: Bring sunscreen and water gear for water activities, as well as proper footwear for the trail.
Distance: About 1.5 hours from Key West, FL; 2.5 hours from Miami, FL.
How to Get to Curry Hammock State Park: Located along US 1 on Crawl Key, follow signs for the park entrance off Overseas Hwy.
Address: 56200 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050
Phone: 305-289-2690
Family Camping Ideas
7. Dry Tortugas National Park - accessible only by boat or seaplane
Location: Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Recommended For: History buffs, nature lovers, divers, campers, and birdwatchers.
What I Love: ♥ "This remote park offers a mix of rich history, breathtaking coral reefs, and abundant wildlife. It's the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and solitude."
- Explore the historic Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century military fort surrounded by turquoise waters and rich maritime history.
- Snorkel or scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters to witness vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Camp on Garden Key, the only camping site in the park, for a truly secluded experience.
- Birdwatch as the park serves as a breeding ground for tropical birds like the brown noddy and sooty tern.
- Fish in the pristine waters or kayak through the mangroves for an immersive park experience.
Cost: Entrance fees apply; ferry or seaplane fees vary depending on transportation options.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but the cooler months (December–April) offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
Local tips: Arrive early, as the ferry from Key West can fill up quickly. Bring plenty of water and sun protection for your trip.
Distance: 68 miles west of Key West, FL; accessible only by boat or seaplane.
How to Get to Dry Tortugas National Park: Take a ferry or seaplane from Key West, or book a private boat trip to access the park.
Contact Information: Phone: 305-242-7700
8. Fisheating Creek Outpost - 2 hours from West Palm Beach
Location: Fisheating Creek Campground, Palmdale, FL
Recommended For: Campers, kayakers, families, and nature lovers looking for a peaceful retreat by the creek.
What I Love: ♥ "A hidden gem for outdoor lovers, offering the perfect blend of camping, kayaking, and relaxation along a beautiful creek."
- Camp at one of 120 sites, including both RV and primitive tent sites, with access to picnic tables, showers, and restrooms.
- Rent kayaks and canoes to explore Fisheating Creek and enjoy the natural beauty of the area from the water.
- Enjoy family-friendly activities like swimming at the nearby swimming hole and fishing in the creek.
- Stay connected with wireless Internet hotspots available throughout the campground.
- Buy firewood on-site for your campfire needs and enjoy a cozy night under the stars.
Cost: Campground fees vary depending on site type and season. Additional fees for kayak and canoe rentals.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for mild weather; summer for water activities like swimming and canoeing.
Local tips: Arrive early to secure a spot near the swimming hole or waterfront, as these sites are popular during peak seasons.
Distance: About 1.5 hours from Fort Myers, FL; 2 hours from West Palm Beach, FL.
How to Get to Fisheating Creek Campground: Located off US-27 in Palmdale, FL. Follow signs to the Fisheating Creek Outpost and campground.
Address: 7555 US-27, Palmdale, FL 33944
Phone: 863-675-5999
9. Florida Caverns State Park
Location: Florida Caverns State Park, Marianna, FL
Recommended For: Cave enthusiasts, hikers, campers, anglers, and outdoor adventurers.
What I Love: ♥ "The awe-inspiring dry caves with intricate limestone formations and the beautiful Blue Hole spring make this park a true natural wonder."
- Explore the unique dry caves, featuring formations like stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and soda straws on a guided cave tour.
- Boating and fishing are great at the Blue Hole spring and Chipola River, offering a peaceful water experience.
- Hike or ride horses on the park’s trails for a scenic experience in the 1,319-acre park.
- Camp at one of 35 campsites, with electric and water hookups for RVs and tents, or bring your horse for a special RV/tent site with stables.
- Picnic in the park’s designated areas, perfect for a relaxing outdoor meal with family or friends.
Cost: Park entry and activity fees apply; campsite rates vary by type and season.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for comfortable weather; summer for cave tours and water activities.
Local tips: Wear sturdy shoes for cave tours and hiking, and bring sunscreen for outdoor activities.
Distance: About 1.5 hours from Panama City, FL; 1 hour from Tallahassee, FL.
How to Get to Florida Caverns State Park: From US-90, take Caverns Rd south to the park entrance, following signs for the visitor center and cave tours.
Address: 3345 Caverns Rd, Marianna, FL 32446
Phone: 850-482-1228
Plan Your Trip