Camping options near Atlantic Beach, Florida range from primitive waterfront sites to rustic treehouses within short driving distances. The region sits at sea level with a humid subtropical climate that averages 221 sunny days per year. Most campsites are situated on sandy soil with oak and pine canopies providing natural shade during summer months when temperatures can exceed 90°F.
What to do
Paddling waterways: Launch directly from site #8 at Dutton Island Preserve where "it has its own little spot to launch kayaks / canoes from. We were able to get in the water as soon as the conditions looked perfect." The preserve offers excellent access to protected waters suitable for beginners or experienced paddlers.
History exploration: Visit the ruins at Sea Camp Campground where "wild horses, windswept beaches, and dilapidated mansions" create a unique experience. "The ruins of an old mansion look like a much older archeological site," making this a fascinating day trip from Atlantic Beach.
Trail hiking: Explore the natural Florida landscapes at Jennings State Forest where "23k acre park, some 30 miles of trails, most well marked, with fording places for canoe/kayak on two different creeks. Horseback trails, an not a lot of people. Trails are kept decently, mostly soft sand, or grass."
What campers like
Waterfront privacy: At Princess Place Preserve, campers appreciate the isolation. "Waterfront campsites well space depart with complete seclusion and peaceful views! Launch your boat from your site, fish and enjoy. There are creeks meandering all through the preserve for paddleboard and or kayaking."
Natural swimming: The pool at Camp Chowenwaw Park offers a refreshing break from salt water. "The pool is available but doesn't open til 10 am where as we were all ready to go earlier since it was HOT. It was very enjoyable but HOT in July with no electric in the Treehouses."
Wildlife encounters: Beyond wild horses, tent campsites near Atlantic Beach provide other animal sightings. "We saw many animals including: deer, otter, turkey, and wild pigs" reports a camper at Bayard Conservation Area. Another notes that "the frogs serenaded us every night loudly, so that was a cool experience" at Camp Chowenwaw Park.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Summer heat requires planning at tent campsites near Atlantic Beach. "It was hot time of year but under the canopy of the live oak trees where the tent sites are located (Sea Camp) was easily 10+ degrees cooler than elsewhere. However, be warned, it was extremely humid. You might consider taking a small battery-operated fan."
Transportation logistics: For Camp Chowenwaw Park, "it was a good 10 minute hike with our gear to get to the tree houses from parking area near pool. Wagons are provided but pack light to save the trouble." Consider what equipment is truly necessary.
Water availability: Many campsites have limited drinking water. At Black Creek Ravine, "you have water access from the river as long as you have a purification system, but you're on your own for bathrooms, electricity, etc., what you can carry in is what you have."
Tips for camping with families
Treehouse accommodations: Children enjoy the elevated camping options at Camp Chowenwaw Park. "Each screened in non electric Treehouse slept 4 in bunk beds. There were several central fire rings with a picnic table/benches throughout the unit. A shared bathhouse with toilets, sinks, lights, and hot showers was available in the unit also."
Wildlife education: Use camping trips as learning opportunities. At Stafford Beach Campground, "the resident volunteer led an info session on armadillos which was educational and fun and really added value to our trip."
Distance considerations: Some campsites require hiking that may challenge younger children. At Black Creek Ravine, "my family hiked about 2.4 mi in to this campsite and stayed one night. We liked that you have to hike in, there is no car access."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: RV camping near Atlantic Beach is restricted primarily to Jennings State Forest. The sites are "secluded and quiet. Great place to get away from Jacksonville for a weekend" but have limited amenities compared to larger commercial campgrounds.
Accessibility challenges: RV sites at Cary State Forest Group Camp have "roads into the area are sandy and can get sloppy with the rain, but once you're in, you'll appreciate the sense of seclusion that makes it feel like your family owns the forest."
Local supply planning: No on-site stores exist at these natural campgrounds. "Stock up in nearby Bryceville or along US-301 before heading in here as there's no store for miles" advises a camper at Cary State Forest Group Camp.
