Camping sites near Big Pine Key, Florida range from oceanside locations to sheltered mangrove spots. The area sits only a few feet above sea level, creating unique ecosystems where land and water converge. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter temperatures typically range from 60-75°F, making it a popular destination during northern winters.
What to do
Kayaking from camp: Bluewater Key RV Resort offers direct water access from many sites. "We had a spot on the canal for our first visit. It included an outdoor shower, outdoor living space, and a dock for getting in and out of our kayak," writes one camper who enjoyed the easy water entry.
Walk the Old Railroad Bridge: Bahia Honda State Park features remnants of Flagler's railroad that once connected the Keys. "We also managed to enjoy the short walk up to the old Henry Flagler Bridge lookout over the island. That site is a must see!" notes a visitor who found the historic structure worthwhile.
Wildlife observation: Keep an eye out for native fauna around your campsite. At Big Pine Key RV Park, "There are also key deer in the campground. They are super curious and will come right up to you! We just made sure not to pet or feed them," reports one camper.
Nighttime stargazing: Clear Keys skies offer excellent star viewing opportunities. "They do a campfire every night and the stars were amazing," writes a camper about Big Pine Key RV Park, highlighting the evening astronomy possibilities.
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort earns praise for its water access. "Easy access and right on the water. Check in was easy and we booked a standard back in site," notes a visitor who appreciated the waterfront setting.
Bathroom facilities: Despite the tropical climate, many campgrounds maintain clean facilities. "Bathrooms are clean and accessible, though a bit far from where the tent campsites are," reports a camper at Big Pine Key RV Park, providing perspective on amenity distances.
Recreation options: Many campsites offer multiple activities beyond camping. "The amenities were all clean, and the staff was very friendly. We went down in March, after Hurricane Irma, and all services were completely restored," writes a visitor to Boyd's Key West Campground.
Island solitude: Quieter campgrounds away from the main tourist areas provide more tranquility. "The rustic campground is very clean, but a little far from the restrooms. The rest of the campground is mostly made up of senior citizens that visit every year. Lots of interesting people to talk to," mentions a camper at Big Pine Key RV Park.
What you should know
Booking challenges: Reservations for the most popular sites require advance planning. "I got lucky when I stayed at Bahia Honda - typically they are booked 12+ months in advance," explains one camper who managed to secure a site at Bayside Campground.
Hard ground surfaces: Most camping sites have compacted coral or limestone ground. "Ground is hard packed limestone so bring a hammer and heavy stakes. Can get really windy," advises a camper at Bluewater Key RV Resort.
Wind exposure: The open water location means wind is a constant factor. "The waterfront tent sites are windy! The wind direction changes frequently. Putting up a tent and taking it down can be a challenge," reports a Boyd's Key West Campground visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Not all wildlife interactions are welcome. "We've stayed at the other part of the campground and it was amazing. This half of the campground is beautiful but there are just SO many rats here. They get into everything and are completely shameless," warns a Bayside Campground visitor about nocturnal visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Consider beach access options: Rustic RV at Bahia Honda offers proximity to swimming. "We swam at the beach and went fishing during the day. It was close to the old bridge, which was cool to see," writes a family who enjoyed both water activities and historical exploration.
Secure food from wildlife: Wildlife can target unattended provisions. "Critters (raccoons) are always looking for food, so keep your food and cooler locked!" advises a Rustic RV camper who learned about local wildlife habits.
Look for ADA accessibility: Some campgrounds offer excellent accessibility features. "This place was just amazing for my family member in a wheel chair! Everywhere was wheelchair accessible, and they even had a beach wheel chair that we were able to checkout," shares a visitor to Bahia Honda State Park.
Consider inflatable water toys: Kids enjoy structured water play at some campgrounds. At Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort, "The beach has inflatables for kids," notes a visitor who found this family-friendly feature.
Tips from RVers
Tight maneuvering: Large RVs can face challenges at some sites. "Only complaint is how incredibly tight it all is. We had a helluva time maneuvering our 35ft tt into space- had to have four neighbors move their vehicles and lots of help," reports a camper at Big Pine Key RV Park about space limitations.
Waterfront site selection: Research site details before booking. "I felt cheated on my booking online process. When I booked, the sites available were the premium ones... I specified that I didn't want to stay if it would be on the sites across the street, only on the oceanfront," explains a Sunshine Key RV Resort camper who had issues with site descriptions.
Cabana and tiki huts: Many RV resorts include outdoor living spaces. "Each spot is privately owned and has its own outdoor cabana (each spot is different though). We stayed in spot 10 on the canal side and loved it," shares a Bluewater Key RV Resort visitor.
Laundry facility access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site laundry. "There aren't any laundry facilities. It sounds like they plan to in the future. We took our laundry to Hilltop Laundry in Key West and the owner washed, dried and folded all of it for $20," advises a visitor to Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort.
