Recreational vehicle campers near Belleair Beach, Florida can access several parks within 20-30 minutes of the Gulf Coast. Winter temperatures average 60-75°F, making it popular from October through April. Coastal humidity creates muggy conditions in summer months, with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September.
What to do
Beach access at Fort De Soto Park: Located about 25 minutes from most RV parks, the beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and fishing opportunities. A visitor at Avalon RV Resort notes, "We are only staying one week but it has been very pleasant so far. The sites are a little tight but that's normal for most of Florida, specially in a heavy populated are like Clearwater."
Fishing in nearby waters: Several parks provide access to fishing spots. At Encore Terra Ceia, campers enjoy "a view of the pond with ducks" according to one reviewer, and the park is "20 minutes away from several beaches and the TB Rays stadium, the Trop."
Biking on the Pinellas Trail: The trail runs behind some campgrounds, providing miles of paved pathways. A Lloyd G. at Caladesi RV Park mentions, "Close to the beach and is within walking distance to some really nice restaurants. The Ice Cream shop across the street is amazing."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere despite urban location: While close to highways, many parks provide peaceful environments. As one visitor at Holiday Travel Park observed, "I've stayed at other parks in the area - so far this one is the best for reasonable money. If you want to spend 3 times as much - sure, you'll find newer parks."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain their amenities well. According to a reviewer at Sherwood Forest RV Resort, "Reatroom/shower facilities are a bit dated and rundown, but cleaned regularly."
Permanent resident communities: Many parks have year-round residents who create a neighborhood feel. At Encore Winter Quarters Manatee, a camper noted, "The staff have been great and the clubhouse is beautiful. Very close to beaches, Anna Marie Island, Sarasota, and Tampa. The only downside is that you are close to I75, and there is construction currently underway."
What you should know
Tight spacing at most parks: RV sites tend to be close together throughout the region. A visitor at Encore Winter Quarters Pasco mentioned, "The sites are extremely close. I had a very difficult time parking my 37' foot travel trailer. If someone is parked across from you, you basically are stuck."
Variable internet connectivity: WiFi strength differs significantly between parks and may require additional payment. According to one Sherwood Forest RV Resort review, there's "WiFi (at a cost away from the main building)" and another camper noted "Bad Verizon signal in our site and in and around the resort."
Insect management required: Florida's humid climate supports mosquito populations. At Vacation Village RV Resort, one camper warned, "This is a mosquito heaven!!! Being bug spray or candles! You will see a large amount of bugs in your area…. They used to spray. But now they don't… with a pond down the street there is No end in site for air borne bug issues."
Tips for camping with families
Pool quality varies: Check recent reviews for pool conditions before booking. A visitor at Caladesi RV Park shared, "The pool is nice and bathrooms are clean."
Look for parks with recreational areas: Some facilities offer more for children than others. Sherwood Forest provides "mini-golf, basketball, dog park... in-ground heated swimming pool, nearby Tiki bar... playground, game room, billiards."
Consider noise levels: Highway proximity affects some parks more than others. One Winter Quarters Manatee camper mentioned, "Right NEXT to I75.....noisy all the time," while another noted Sherwood Forest has "constant tour helicopters flying back and forth on a regular basis during the day."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many parks have uneven sites. At Winter Quarters Manatee, a camper observed, "Site has dirt & mud & is uneven."
Navigation within large parks: Some facilities require careful maneuvering. According to a Sherwood Forest visitor, "This place is so huge that you won't be surprised if you get lost in this place at least a couple of times before you find your slotted RV destination for the night."
Seasonal booking considerations: Weather impacts camping comfort significantly. One Terra Ceia visitor recommended camping during winter months when temperatures moderate and noted their park is "in Palmetto, easy access to Tampa, Sarasota, Gulf Beaches, and many other areas of Florida in a few hours driving distance."
