The Florida Keys offer year-round camping options near Big Pine Key with average winter temperatures of 70-80°F and summer highs reaching 90°F with high humidity. The limestone terrain creates distinct ground conditions requiring specialized equipment for secure tent setup. Coastal breezes provide relief from heat but can intensify during seasonal weather patterns.
What to do
Kayaking near bridge pilings: Launch from Big Pine Key RV Park where you can see "5 to 6 foot tarpon swimming near the pilings" according to Scott M., who notes the "two basins and a boat ramp walk-in access to Fishing under the bridge" make this an ideal location.
Nature trail exploration: The trails are well-maintained and showcase native flora. Nicole B. mentions that Big Pine Key RV Park has "a really pretty nature trail" that provides excellent morning walking opportunities. The trails connect to waterfront areas where wildlife viewing is common.
Snorkeling opportunities: The clear waters at Buttonwood Campground offer excellent marine life viewing. Michael A. reports that "the crystal clear water left nothing to the imagination while we had our kayaks out," making this a prime spot for underwater exploration without needing boat transportation.
Bridge lookout visit: The historic Henry Flagler Bridge provides panoramic views. Michael A. recommends "the short walk up to the old Henry Flagler Bridge lookout over the island. That site is a must see!" The structure offers context about the Keys' development and railway history.
What campers like
Seclusion on bayside sites: The Bayside Campground offers quieter accommodations away from the main beach areas. One camper notes there are "only a few tent sites secluded on its own side, and that's it. It was beautiful, serene, and everything was perfect." This provides a more private experience than oceanfront sites.
Animal encounters: The protected Key Deer population frequently approaches campsites. Deanna G. shared, "Can't forget about the Key Deer, they were adorable and quite friendly with us!" These endangered deer create unique wildlife viewing opportunities directly from your campsite.
Waterfront access: Direct water access for cooling off during hot days ranks high on camper preferences. A visitor at Bluewater Key RV Resort explains that "sites on the canal side have docks where you can pull your small boat or jetski up to and tie off," creating convenient water access.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the quality of restroom facilities. Anna F. noted at Big Pine Key RV Park "The pool was a delight and the bathhouse was very clean." Maintenance standards remain high despite high usage rates in this popular destination.
What you should know
Hard-packed limestone ground: The terrain consists of compacted limestone requiring specialized equipment. Charles B. advises, "Ground is hard packed limestone so bring a hammer and heavy stakes. Can get really windy." Standard tent stakes often bend or break in this terrain.
Insect management: No-see-ums and biting insects are problematic, especially during summer. Denise K. at Rustic RV explains: "Deep woods off heavily applied along with long sleeve sun shirts, light weight capris and a head/face scarf helped us enjoy the sunsets as we sipped our cocktails near our site." Morning and evening hours typically see increased insect activity.
Heat considerations: Summer months bring extreme temperatures requiring adaptation. Denise K. shares their strategy: "During the day we only wore swimsuits and stayed wet by dousing ourselves with buckets of water." Many campers use shade structures and cooling methods during peak heat.
Advance reservations essential: Popular sites book many months ahead. Michael A. notes, "I had previously attempted to make reservations here over the course of what seems like the last two years but the popularity of the park and being shut down after Hurricane Irma had given me trouble." Cancellations occasionally provide last-minute opportunities.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: The bayside swimming areas offer safer options for children. Denise K. explains, "The bayside beach had a roped off swim area with patches of sea grass and also rock jetties. Both were teeming with various fish." These protected areas minimize strong currents while providing wildlife viewing.
Recreation amenities: Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort offers extensive family-friendly facilities. Joe R. mentions, "They have a pool area with bar and grill, and live music. The beach has inflatables for kids." These structured amenities provide entertainment options during downtime.
Wildlife education opportunities: Wildlife encounters create learning experiences. One camper notes that "The manatee like to hang out in the marina," creating opportunities for children to observe these protected marine mammals.
Accessibility considerations: Some facilities accommodate mobility needs. A visitor at Buttonwood Campground shared, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site size variations: RV sites vary considerably between campgrounds. Erika R. cautions about Big Pine Key RV Park, "We had a helluva time maneuvering our 35ft tt into space- had to have four neighbors move their vehicles and lots of help. Landscaping is pretty but trees on each site aren't really slide out friendly."
Water access: Canal-side sites provide direct boat access. Jenny W. from Bluewater Key RV Resort reports, "We stayed in spot 10 on the canal side and loved it. The cabana was recently remodeled and had a nice fireplace and TV along with a kitchen and bar."
Hook-up quality: Full hook-ups vary in quality and configuration. Joel R. notes at Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort, "Wide sites with Gravel drives, new style hook-ups for water, electric, wifi and cable tv." Many sites include 50-amp service suitable for larger RVs with multiple air conditioning units.
Proximity to service areas: Location within campgrounds affects convenience. Jonathan R. explains, "RV spots are quite long and have decent amount of space on the side. Perfect for those huge toy haulers with pop out patios. Full hookups with 50/30/15 amp availability at all sites."
