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.
