Fort De Soto Campground offers diverse camping options near Anna Maria Island, situated along Florida's Gulf Coast. The area features a subtropical climate with average summer temperatures around 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. Camping facilities include tent sites, RV spaces, and limited yurt camping options within 20 miles of Anna Maria, Florida.
What to do
Explore historic fort ruins: Fort De Soto Park contains military structures dating back to the Spanish-American War. "This campground is a County Park in Pinellas County. Well maintained with some of the best beaches in the US. Great bike trails. Restrooms are dated but well maintained," notes David G. about Fort De Soto Campground.
Kayak through mangroves: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Camp Venice Retreat. "You can launch your kayak or canoe right from your spot. The campsite is clean and lots of trees and a beautiful river to explore," says Joshua B. about his experience at Camp Venice Retreat.
Fish in diverse waters: Anglers can catch freshwater and saltwater species around Anna Maria. "Myakka is not far from home and a great spot to visit for overnight trips or day trips! There are bike rentals I have taken advantage of, plenty of walking trails, and you can rent airboats," shares Alyssa D. about Palmetto Ridge Campground.
Bird watching along coastal areas: The region hosts numerous migratory and resident bird species. "Great park with days worth of activities! 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 tons of Birds!" reports Brennan H.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Many sites offer direct water access. "We have stayed here many times the last time we had site #65 on the water with water and electric hook up & there is a dump station onsite. This is a nice campground with a beach, little island you can wade to we always see Manatees there," mentions B M. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Private, wooded sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options. "Very private spots lots of trees. Lots of bugs in the summer time," shares Ralph B. about Fort De Soto. For those seeking yurt camping near Anna Maria, Florida, several parks within driving distance offer these accommodations.
Biking infrastructure: Extensive trail networks connect camping areas to beaches and attractions. "The campground is kept very clean. I am in the pull thru sites which are a little tight and can be challenging to park on in big rigs. Roads are narrow with lots of turns," notes Don about Horseshoe Cove RV Resort.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Camp amid natural habitats with abundant wildlife. "We then hiked to the deep hole. There we saw tons of alligators birds and wildlife! A great piece of raw Florida!" explains Christina L. about Palmetto Ridge Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book far in advance for waterfront sites. "Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," advises Taylor T. Yurt camping options near Anna Maria, Florida typically require reservations 3-6 months ahead.
Insect preparation: No-see-ums can be problematic in coastal areas. "Hot, hot, hot. And not in a good way. Not a lot of shade. Lots of no-see-ums so bring a bug repellent and apply religiously, or else," warns Nate D. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Pet policies vary: Check specific rules before bringing animals. "I live local and have been staying here in the pull through area a month until I transition to 100% travel trailer life. I have 2 50 lb+ dogs and there are many other people with dogs, plus a dog park," shares Lexi U. about Horseshoe Cove RV Resort.
Campground restrictions: Some locations have specific limitations. "Please be aware that this is a very restrictive campground. You can only tent and you are not allowed to smoke anything Vape anything drink anything alcoholic," cautions Kevin W. about Terry Tomalin Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife safety briefings: Teach children about local wildlife. "Went to drain the tanks yesterday morning and a large sounding gator started to growl territorially at me. So heads up with your pets please," warns Jenelle J. at Palmetto Ridge Campground.
Playgrounds and recreational areas: Several campgrounds offer dedicated family spaces. "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 Joe R.
Beach proximity considerations: Consider travel time to beaches with families. "This place is beautiful and mildly wild. Geckos, cranes, various sea birds and manatees grace this location," notes a camper about the natural surroundings.
Shower and bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "Bath house is pretty central and literally across the road from our site. We had expected a much further walk based on the map, but it was just a 1 minute walk," mentions a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Navigate narrow roads carefully. "This campground is south of St. Pete and north of Ana Maria Island. We drove down from Orlando and it took us under two hours. We hit some traffic on 275 and the Parkway, but it is expected. There are two tolls (1.00 and .75) before you hit the park," explains Joe R.
Hookup placement: Water and electric connections may be awkwardly positioned. "The sites all have full hook up, but we had a premium site and it was on a patch of dirt/grass...I would recommend any of the few concrete sites if you can get one," suggests John G.
Size restrictions: Check length limitations before booking. "Paved roads, packed sand and grass sites, 30A and water at each site, two separate campgrounds each with a dump station and bath house. First come (no reservations) with 14 day stay limit," reports Bran P.
Weather preparedness: Plan for rain and humidity impacts. "If you can imagine the mess in your rig on our premium dirt patch (mud) when it rains... Restroom/shower facilities are a bit dated and rundown, but cleaned regularly," warns a reviewer about seasonal conditions.
