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Camping near Anna Maria, FL
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Camping near Anna Maria, Florida spans from free dispersed boat-in sites to waterfront campgrounds with electric hookups, covering both public and private options. Fort De Soto Campground in Saint Petersburg ranks among the most popular destinations, offering waterfront sites with electric hookups and accommodating tents, RVs, and walk-in campers. Shell Key Preserve provides free boat-in dispersed camping for those seeking a more primitive experience. For travelers preferring more amenities, St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday features cabin accommodations along with traditional tent and RV sites approximately 15 miles north of Anna Maria Island.
Florida's Gulf Coast camping varies significantly by season, with peak tourist periods affecting availability and pricing. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round due to Florida's mild winter climate, though summer humidity and insects can be challenging. Fort De Soto Campground requires advance reservations, particularly for waterfront sites, which book months ahead during winter snowbird season. Many RV resorts like Buttonwood Inlet and Holiday Cove enforce specific RV age and appearance requirements, with some prohibiting tent camping altogether. Visitors should prepare for mosquitoes during warmer months, as noted in one review: "This was the first time we had camped at Fort De Soto and I was excited because we planned it for my birthday. However, the bugs were so bad we took it all down and went home."
Waterfront sites command premium prices but deliver memorable experiences. Fort De Soto Campground receives consistently high ratings for its water views and wildlife observation opportunities. A recent review highlighted: "I stayed at site 34 which had water view and access. I was able to wake up early, walk 10 steps, and I was on my SUP. Plenty of wildlife and I was able to do some fishing." Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort earns praise for its convenient location near Anna Maria Island's beaches and local dining options. Campgrounds near Bradenton, including Lake Manatee State Park and Little Manatee River State Park, offer more affordable alternatives with full hookup sites and cabin options. Most established campgrounds in the region provide showers, restrooms, and dump stations, with varying levels of privacy between sites depending on vegetation and layout.
Best Campgrounds near Anna Maria (139)
1. Fort De Soto Campground
"As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."
"Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."
from $38 - $48 / night
Check Availability2. Shell Key Preserve
"One of my favorite places to camp in Florida, hands-down. You can only get to this camping spot by water. Must reserve, no pets & no alcohol."
"Shell Key is one of the larger uninhabited islands off of the west coast of Florida near St. Petersburg."
3. Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort
"Location is great, close to Anna Maria Island and Cortez restaurants"
"You can't beat the location, walkable to restaurants, a short drive or bike ride to beaches. The park itself is well maintained and quiet minus the days they mow and pick-up the garbage."
4. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday
"Petersburg/Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, and I’m excited to share my positive review! I’ve hosted friends in their Deluxe Cabins before, and they were thoroughly impressed."
"It has all of the amenities you would ever want and is so close to Florida beaches. Pool, hot tub, store, workout room, fishing and kayaking and lots more to do right in the park."
5. Encore Winter Quarters Manatee
"One of the two pools on the property provides a lovely view of the lake and a hot tub.The recreation hall is beautiful and has a lot of activities."
"Wonderfully situated around a lake. Good amenities and close to everything. Some highway traffic noise but nothing bad."
6. Lake Manatee State Park Campground
"Was bordered by the camp road and the bike/walking path so often noisy with no sense of privacy. Bad mosquitoes, but to be expected."
"If you’re looking for a place to camp on the west coast of Florida that is quiet and has campsites that give you privacy, Lake Manatee State Park is a great choice."
from $22 / night
Check Availability7. Encore Terra Ceia
"In Palmetto, easy access to Tampa, Sarasota, Gulf Beaches, and many other areas of Florida in a few hours driving distance. Pet-friendly."
"As we walked outside, a fellow traveler who had been here often, offered to show me the way to our site."
8. E.G. Simmons Regional Park
"Nearly every campsite is right on the water - easy in and out for kayaks, large boat ramp and many picnic pavilions."
"Close to the boatramp. Raccoons can be annoying. Has picnic pavilions and several fishing docks"
from $24 / night
Check Availability9. Little Manatee River State Park Campground
"A lot of walking trails for people and horses. A surprise was the amphitheater. Washers and dryers are located outside the bathrooms. Friendly hosts and other campers. Would came again."
"This campsite is right outside of Little Manatee River State Park. I even missed the entrance and went to Little Manatee because I missed the turn."
from $22 / night
Check Availability10. Holiday Cove RV Resort
"Enjoyed the private lot surrounded by landscape and had a nice built in grill as each lot is privately owned. Management was great and helped resolved a few RV issues. "
Drive Time
- 1 hr 4 min from Tampa, FL
- 1 hr 8 min from North Port, FL
- 1 hr 21 min from Lakeland, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Anna Maria, FL
147 Photos of 139 Anna Maria Campgrounds
Nancy M.
Fort De Soto Campground
Jill K.
South Skyway Rest Stop
Alacyn B.
Shell Key Preserve
Rachel C.
Frog Creek RV Resort & Campground
Becky M.
Terry Tomalin Campground
Robert M.
Encore Winter Quarters Manatee
Lexi U.
Horseshoe Cove RV Resort
CC E.
Dream Lake Camp
Adam W.
St Pete Get a Way Spot
Lawrence Robert T.
St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday
Jessica P.
River Oaks RV Resort
Danilo M.
Hillsborough County E. G. Simmons Regional Park
Recent Reviews near Anna Maria, FL
742 Reviews of 139 Anna Maria Campgrounds
Joe F.ScoutTropical Acres RV Park & Storage
Nor the host was extremely unprofessional and disrespectful
The host Nor treated me like trash. He mandates you leave a lock off of your hitch so he can move your Rv around as needed. Mind you I was going to be paying for a reserved spot on the property paying a monthly rate. When I inquired more about their policy to see if they damaged my Rv while moving it would it be covered by them for the repairs of damages. My reservation was then automatically canceled for no reason and Nor only gave me a partial refund for my booking. He is very rude and unprofessional. There are also other reviews in the neighbor app stating damages happened while moving someone's rv and he refused to take accountability or finance the repairs for that customer. Hints the reason I was wanting clarification on the matter. Instead of providing it he decided to cancel my reservation and tried to beat me out of my deposit. Dont bring your RV here for storage it is a huge risk!
Buddy M.ScoutLower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
Love this place
Good clean site.
Jeanene A.
LegendTerry Tomalin Campground
We had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground
We had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground! The tent sites are spacious and nicely spread out, giving you plenty of room to set up camp without feeling crowded by your neighbors. The campground has a peaceful, natural atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy being outdoors. There are 6 cabins also available with electric– no ac.
One of the things that really impressed us was the bathroom facilities. The restrooms and showers were very clean and well-maintained, which makes a huge difference when you’re tent camping. It was great to be able to enjoy a more primitive camping experience without giving up the convenience of a nice bathroom and shower.
The location next to Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is what really makes this campground special. Campers have access to the preserve’s pedestrian trails, making it easy to spend time exploring nature and then return to your campsite to relax.
Overall, Terry Tomalin Campground is a hidden gem in St. Petersburg and a fantastic place for anyone who enjoys tent camping and being surrounded by nature. We would definitely stay here again!
Notes: Only open on weekends, no pets, strict rules against vaping and alcoholic beverages. This location is very busy in the summertime as there are not many camping options in the area. Large group fire pits (not at each site)
Stuart K.LegendShell Key Preserve
A Deserted Island Escape Worth the Effort
Arriving at Shell Key feels like stepping off the grid, and that sense of removal is exactly what makes it so special. Accessible only by kayak, paddleboard, boat or ferry from nearby Fort DeSoto State Park, this barrier island preserve greets you with white powder sugary sand, shallow turquoise water and a quiet, calm stillness that is best described as reverent. I camped here with my older brother Matt, who fled-20 degree Chicago winter weather with his expert camera gear in tow in order to spend a week here with me. From the moment we beached our kayaks, it was clear this was going to be something special.
Shell Key is as primitive as coastal camping gets, with no facilities, no freshwater and absolutely no developed campsites, just open stretches of sand where you carefully choose a high, wind-protected spot above the tide line. Camping is limited and regulated to protect the preserve and the experience is intentionally minimalist, which keeps crowds at bay and the island feeling truly wild. You pack in everything, pack out everything and rely on common sense, weather awareness as well as respect for nesting zones for turtles and waterfowl clearly marked along the beach.
What makes Shell Key extraordinary is its birdlife. Matt spent hours crouched low with his telescopic lens while I played spotter and together we photographed an incredible range of species, including brown pelicans, great blue herons, snowy egrets, roseate spoonbills, reddish egrets, ospreys, black skimmers, willets, least terns, royal terns, but the prize? Black-masked parrots that call this isle home. Dolphins cruised just offshore while rays ghosted through the shallows and every turn of the shoreline revealed another pocket of life, including the oversized snow white pelicans that seem to guard this oasis. The paddle over from Fort DeSoto was not what I would call calm, with a series of rollicking waves between the stretch where North Beach ended and Shell Key began, although the entire journey was scenic, with views back toward the Skyway Bridge and plenty of chances to stop, float, and soak it all in.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) Plan your paddle with tides and wind in mind, as the crossing is straightforward in calm conditions but can feel much longer with chop – and don’t forget that you’ll have to cross some designated shipping lanes, where the currents are strong; (2) Bring a lightweight kayak cart or be prepared for soft sand landings when fully loaded; (3) Set camp well above the high tide line and away from posted bird nesting areas; (4) Dawn and dusk are prime times for bird photography when the light is nothing short of spectacular; (5) As a survivalist, everywhere I camp, I prepare to fish or hunt for my meal, so here, you’ll have decent fishing, but the gem on Shell Key is the abundance of crabs, both large and small - so bring a spear or fishnet if you hope to catch any; and (6) There are ABSOLUTELY no amenities on Shell Key (not even a trash can), so stock up at Fort DeSoto before launching, including water, sun protection, and extra batteries for cameras and headlamps.
Happy Camping!
Celeste A.
TravelerLake Manatee State Park Campground
Campground Stay
The bathrooms are rather hot at any time of the day, but they are clean. One of the showers doesn’t work but there is no sign posted. 30 sites for 1 bathroom/ bathhouse so showering at night may take longer than usual. The campground isn’t too shady, but the Day Use Rec Area is nice and has a small play ground. However, if you’re looking to cool off in the lake, think again. It’s very warm water and there is a caution sign about green blue algae being possibly present in the waters. Lots of squirrels and ants
- LLaura H.
RangerFort De Soto Campground
Crowded but worth it
Day 1 we had electrical issues. Thanks to park rangers we were relocated and our vacation resumed. Great beach!
- Dylan M.Scout
Camp Nebraska RV Park
Camp Nebraska Tampa FL 33612
The park itself is very nice not much amenities besides bathroom and shower building and the nearby area is not that good , its relatively safe but its just a lot of homeless nearby an its just not a nice area at all to walk around during the day or night its a shame. But the park itself keeps you very protected from that ive never had a issue for over 7 months being here
- Celeste A.Traveler
Oscar Scherer State Park Campground
Campground Review
Some bathrooms are better than others, but they are useable and spacious nonetheless. The spaces are large and most have some shade. The water hookup is a bit far so you definitely need about 30ft+ for some. They have a lake, playgrounds, and easy trails. I’ve seen lots of wildlife here too!
Guide to Anna Maria
Camping near Anna Maria, Florida offers diverse options from waterfront locations with easy kayak access to natural preserves with primitive sites. The region's subtropical climate means year-round camping is possible, though summer months bring higher humidity and more active insect populations. Many campgrounds near Anna Maria Island provide water access points for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.
What to do
Kayaking in mangrove canals: At E.G. Simmons Regional Park, paddlers can explore extensive mangrove waterways. "Great place to paddle a kayak in the Mangrove canals. Right on Tampa Bay. Lots of paved roads which was great for biking. Several Osprey nests and other birds to watch on the water," notes one visitor. Launch sites are available directly from waterfront campsites.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers extensive wildlife observation opportunities. At Shell Key Preserve, campers report seeing diverse marine life. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," shares one visitor. Morning hours typically provide the best wildlife viewing conditions.
Historic exploration: Beyond beaches, the area offers historical sites. "The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit! Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!" reports a camper about Fort De Soto. Many historical sites offer free or low-cost admission and provide educational displays.
What campers like
Waterfront camping accessibility: Many sites offer direct water access. "I stayed at site 28 which was nice and deep, with a weird little island in the middle. This actually made us divide the tent area up into two sides, which worked out well. We had neighbors on both sides and across and it was still fairly secluded," explains a camper at Fort De Soto Campground.
Natural privacy between sites: Despite proximity, many campgrounds maintain natural buffers. "Natural trees providing privacy between lots. A lot of walking trails for people and horses. A surprise was the amphitheater. Washers and dryers are located outside the bathrooms," notes a visitor at Little Manatee River State Park Campground.
Convenient access to local attractions: Proximity to restaurants and shopping appeals to many campers. "Location is nice because you are right off I-75 and can be anywhere in the Greater Tampa Bay area with easy access," writes a camper at Encore Winter Quarters Manatee. Most campgrounds are within 15-30 minutes of grocery stores and restaurants.
What you should know
Insect preparation is essential: No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in warmer months. "The bugs can be bad this time they were bad last year no problem. We had a screened room that has a no see um mesh on it and we blast a big fan in there so we do stay semi bug free," explains a camper at E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Reservation timing matters: Popular waterfront sites book months in advance. "Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," advises a Fort De Soto visitor. Winter months (January-March) see highest demand with many sites booked 6 months ahead.
Park rules vary significantly: At Shell Key Preserve, primitive camping requires special preparation. "Get your permit online. Pack it (everything you'd need) in and pack it (all of your trash!) out," advises a visitor. Shell Key requires carrying all supplies and waste as there are no facilities on the island.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer playground facilities. "This campground helped me relieve those worries. There is a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," shares a Fort De Soto visitor.
Beach proximity considerations: Travel time to beaches varies by campground. "Close to Anna Maria Island and Cortez restaurants," notes a visitor at Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort. Distance to beaches ranges from under 1 mile at some locations to 15-20 miles at inland campgrounds.
Activity options: Having multiple recreation choices helps with family camping. "E.G. Simmons is superb place to enjoy camp for a quiet time or with family and friends. Very spacious and variety camp sites to choose from. Clean grounds including bathrooms and staff are the friendliest, kindest people," reports a camper at E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size variations: RV site dimensions differ substantially across campgrounds. "Sites are paved and level but small. Bathhouses are adequate and clean. We had a power issue with 30 amp but 50 amp was ok," notes a camper at Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort. Many parks list specific length limitations on their reservation systems.
Utility placement: Some campgrounds have awkward utility connections. "The electrical (30 amp and 50 amp) was farther back than the water, which wasn't a huge deal but might be inconvenient for some," explains a visitor at Encore Winter Quarters Manatee. Extended hoses and power cords are recommended.
Age restrictions: Many RV parks near Anna Maria have specific RV age policies. "It is a popular snowbird community, but they also have spots for people that are short term. It is in a very desirable location- 0.8 miles to the beach and 0.2 miles from an awesome fish taco place- Tide Tables," shares a visitor about Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any campgrounds on Anna Maria Island?
Are there any campgrounds on Anna Maria Island?
There are no dedicated campgrounds or RV parks on Anna Maria Island itself. The island is primarily developed with residential properties, vacation rentals, hotels, and beaches without designated camping facilities. For camping accommodations, you'll need to look to the mainland areas of Bradenton, Palmetto, and surrounding communities, where several options are available. Holiday Cove RV Resort in nearby Bradenton and The Tides RV Resort in Palmetto are good alternatives for those wanting to stay close to Anna Maria Island.
Where can I find beach camping near Anna Maria Island?
Where can I find beach camping near Anna Maria Island?
While Anna Maria Island itself doesn't offer beach camping, the closest beach camping option is at Fort De Soto Campground, which offers waterfront sites with beautiful Gulf views. Another excellent option is Shell Key Preserve, accessible only by boat, offering a primitive beach camping experience with amazing views and wildlife sightings including stingrays and turtles. Both locations provide the beach camping experience you're looking for within a reasonable distance of Anna Maria Island.
What campgrounds are closest to Anna Maria Island?
What campgrounds are closest to Anna Maria Island?
The closest campgrounds to Anna Maria Island are found on the mainland, with Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort being one of the nearest options. Campers praise its proximity to Anna Maria Island and Cortez restaurants, though sites are somewhat small. Frog Creek RV Resort & Campground is another nearby option with clean facilities, though sites can feel tight. Both locations provide convenient bases for exploring Anna Maria Island while enjoying camping amenities.
Is there camping available at Anna Maria Island State Park?
Is there camping available at Anna Maria Island State Park?
There is no Anna Maria Island State Park, nor is there camping available on Anna Maria Island itself. The closest state parks with camping facilities are Lake Manatee State Park Campground and Oscar Scherer State Park Campground. Lake Manatee offers spacious sites about 30 minutes from Anna Maria Island, while Oscar Scherer provides well-maintained facilities with hiking trails, kayaking opportunities, and wildlife viewing about 45 minutes away. Both parks make good base camps for day trips to Anna Maria Island's beaches.
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