Camping options near Big Pine Key, Florida span from rustic tent camping to full-service RV sites across the lower Keys region. The area experiences a tropical climate with average winter temperatures of 70-75°F and summer temperatures of 85-95°F with high humidity. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be intense, particularly during summer months when campers should prepare with appropriate repellents and screening.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Rent equipment at Buttonwood Campground where the protected waters offer opportunities for spotting marine life. "We only wore swimsuits and stayed wet by dousing ourselves with buckets of water. The view of the water from our site was not a swimming area but it was teeming with tarpon playing," noted one visitor about the nearby waters.
Walking the old bridge: The historic Flagler Bridge at Bayside Campground offers educational opportunities about Florida's railway history. "It is really neat to walk on the old bridge, and learning the history of it," shares a camper who appreciated this unique feature.
Fishing from shore: Multiple camping locations provide fishing access without needing a boat. "Lots of angler groups, so a little noisy at night, but all in all they were respectful," mentions a camper at Flamingo Campground, noting the popularity of fishing among visitors.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer the best opportunities to spot native wildlife. "We stayed in site 34 on the first night and site 11 on the second night... The beach wasn't too crowded and the crystal clear water left nothing to the imagination while we had our kayaks out," shares a camper who enjoyed wildlife watching from their kayak.
What campers like
Water accessibility: Jolly Roger RV Resort offers direct water access for cooling off during hot Florida days. "What a wonderful place to spend time watching the sunset, snorkeling, fishing, paddling, or taking a dip. The best place centrally located in the Florida keys," writes one reviewer.
Wheelchair accessibility: Some campgrounds offer excellent features for visitors with mobility needs. "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, so we could go to the beach as an entire family," notes a visitor to Buttonwood Campground.
Swimming areas: Different campgrounds offer varied swimming experiences. "The bayside beach had a roped off swim area with patches of sea grass and also rock jetties. Both were teeming with various fish. Be careful of the current near the rope," advises a camper who enjoyed swimming at multiple beaches.
Stargazing opportunities: Minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "We stayed at flamingo in late June at the start of the hot/rainy/buggy season. We stayed in the camper loop (T loop) of the campground. Because it was the off season there were times when we were the only ones in that loop," mentions a camper who enjoyed the peaceful, dark skies.
What you should know
Advanced reservations required: Popular glamping options near Big Pine Key, Florida fill months ahead. "I took a trip to the keys and got to the park super early. They let us know that if we hung out for a few hours and there were cancellations, we could be in line for that spot, but there were 3 other parties in front of us," shares a visitor to Bayside Campground.
Bug preparation essential: Flamingo Campground T Loop and other sites require serious insect protection. "Mosquitos were bad the last week in April, wind helped a bit but we basically stayed in our camper the entire time," notes a recent visitor, highlighting the importance of proper preparation.
Water supply considerations: Not all campgrounds have reliable water access. "Potable water at bathroom unless pump goes out... Our last night the water went out and all bathrooms in all loops were closed. Apparently this can be common with pump going out," warns a camper about potential infrastructure challenges.
Cellular coverage limitations: Service varies dramatically between campgrounds. "NO PHONE SERVICE, NO WI-FI. Good luck in an emergency or if you work virtual," states one reviewer about connectivity limitations at certain locations.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: Request shaded sites when booking luxury glamping accommodations. "Only a handful of sites have any shade, so be sure to request shade when making reservations and you may get lucky like us," recommends a visitor to Flamingo Campground.
Pack water shoes: Rocky shorelines and underwater terrain require proper footwear. "Beautiful RV resort. Very clean, awesome fenced in dog park with a sprinkler and water bowl. Large pavilion with a beautiful beach and boat dock area. The swimming area was my only very slight disappointment. Wear water shoes, the rocks are rough," advises a camper.
Bring supplemental shade: Many camping areas lack natural shade coverage. "We managed to survive the heat by purchasing an easy up to cover our tent. We removed the tent fly so we could get air flowing through," shares a visitor who adapted to the challenging conditions.
Plan for food storage: Wildlife management requires proper storage practices. "No eating or drinking inside the tents - they're spotless but food remnants would quickly draw bugs in this climate. There are shared tables and fire pits for guests," notes a glamping visitor.
Tips from RVers
Supply planning: Jolly Roger RV Resort and other locations require bringing essential supplies. "We just spent Labor day Weekend in this campground. We were lucky enough to get campsite number 150 and we where about 1 min walk to the water and pier area. This campground does not have a beach but it has water access and the water was amazing and calm(bring water shoes is rocky in the water)."
Early arrival recommended: Sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "I got lucky when I stayed at Bahia Honda - typically they are booked 12+ months in advance. I took a trip to the keys and got to the park super early."
Weather preparation: Summer heat requires adaptation strategies for RV campers. "The bathrooms were clean, but there were signs posted that said the water temperature and pressure were pre-set, you had to press a button to turn the water on, that only gave you about a minute of time, so you had to keep repressing the button to take your shower."
Site size verification: Confirm your RV will fit before booking. "We enjoyed our site, full hookups and very good wifi. We had an issue with our vehicle and the lady at the front office was very helpful in helping us call tow companies and mechanics."
