Best Campgrounds near Cape Canaveral, FL

Cape Canaveral, Florida features several established campgrounds that accommodate various camping preferences. Jetty Park Campground stands as a popular option with access to the Atlantic Ocean and views of cruise ships and rocket launches. The campground provides tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Other options include Manatee Hammock Campground in Titusville and Sonrise Palms RV Park in Cocoa, both within a short drive of Kennedy Space Center. Most developed campgrounds in the area offer water and electric hookups, with many providing full RV services including sewer connections.

The campground infrastructure throughout Cape Canaveral varies with most offering basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities. "We stayed at Jetty Park for three nights in December. The weather was gorgeous. We were in the inlet sites with just water hookups. Loved watching the cruise ships pass by!" notes one visitor. Weather considerations are significant, as Florida's summer heat and humidity can be intense from June through September, while winter months offer milder temperatures ideal for camping. Hurricane season (June-November) may affect travel plans, requiring flexible itineraries. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during winter months when seasonal visitors arrive from northern states, and during launch events at Kennedy Space Center.

The proximity to beaches and waterways characterizes many camping experiences in this region. Several visitors mention the unique opportunity to view rocket launches and cruise ships from their campsites as a major highlight. Campers appreciate the beach access at Jetty Park, where the fishing pier and protected swimming areas appeal to families. A camper remarked, "Sites are a bit small, but wow, it's got everything. Breakfast/lunch place, a restaurant with bar within walking distance. You can see space launches, close to KSC, beach, jetty. Spectacular." Some developed campgrounds report tight spacing between sites, though the prime oceanfront location compensates for the close quarters. Seasonal patterns show highest occupancy during winter months and during major launch events, when reservations should be secured well in advance.

Best Camping Sites Near Cape Canaveral, Florida (85)

    1. Jetty Park Campground

    34 Reviews
    Cape Canaveral, FL
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (321) 783-7111

    $24 - $100 / night

    "Varied sites, walking distance from cocoa beach as well as watching rocket launches from Cape Canaveral and cruises ship launches. Sites vary from water only, water and electric to full hook ups."

    "I stayed nearly three weeks here in December before heading back to the cold north, and I couldn’t have asked for much more."

    2. Manatee Hammock Campground

    35 Reviews
    Sharpes, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 264-5083

    $28 - $39 / night

    "Great fishing and kayaking in the lagoon with a view of Cape Canaveral."

    "The downside it has is only loud noises at night from the highway racers or train that goes about 7 to 9 times per night and not having a playground for the kids but they have a pier that you can walk"

    3. Jetty Park Canaveral Port Auth

    5 Reviews
    Cape Canaveral, FL
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (321) 783-7111

    4. Encore Space Coast

    5 Reviews
    Rockledge, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Lots of long term RVers and very few sites for Thousand Trails Members. Very close to Cocoa Beach!"

    "Located close to all attractions including disney, and the space center and lots of other great places to see. Park was nice, clean and such great people. The fishing was amazing."

    5. Manatee Cove Family Campground at Patrick Air Force Base

    4 Reviews
    Patrick AFB, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 494-4787

    $10 - $30 / night

    "This location reminded me of the TV show ‘I Dream of Jeannie’. Located near Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral it is directly along the historic Banana River."

    "Nice wooded lots. .. nice change of scenery here on the Florida coast. Quite and Peaceful. Not a “party “ campground like Long Point . The Staff in the office was helpful and friendly."

    6. Sonrise Palms RV

    3 Reviews
    Cocoa, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 633-4335

    "Friendly staff, close to the beach, and several points of interest. We will be back!"

    "Lovely lady at reception helped us book over the phone few hours before our arrival but you can also drive up after the office closes, park in the overflow area & register/pay the next day."

    7. KARS Park - NASA Members Only

    1 Review
    Cape Canaveral, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 867-7967

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Located on the river across from Kennedy Space Center, it's a great spot to view launches with 20 or so spots along the river. Water/electric sites only, but there are two dump stations available."

    8. Joy RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Cocoa, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 631-0305

    "The campground enjoys a strategic location with a nearby Sam's Club for shopping convenience."

    9. Wickham Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Melbourne, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (321) 255-4307

    "It’s a great place with lots of bike/walking paths and wide open, quiet spaces. Hope to take advantage of the fishing ponds, mountain bike trails and archery range in future visits."

    "It’s very close to shops but it doesn’t feel like it when you’re in the campground. Close to beaches. Lots of trails to walk or mountain bike."

    10. Mango Oak Manor RV Park

    1 Review
    Cape Canaveral, FL
    0 miles
    +1 (321) 508-6428
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Recent Reviews near Cape Canaveral, FL

356 Reviews of 85 Cape Canaveral Campgrounds


  • D
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Vero Beach Kamp

    Absolutely the worst choice

    Watch out for these predators — they will charge for anything they can, they won’t give refunds for early departures even when it’s family medical emergencies, the staff is wildly rude in the front office (you’d think at least one person who worked there wouldn’t be a complete horror show of a human, but no such luck). And they hose down their bathrooms which is just plain gross. The sites are too close together, and even in summer (low season) they’re too stupid to put any space between guests.

    If you can possibly stay anywhere else, do yourself a favor and keep away from this nightmare of a place.

  • George W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2025

    Mango Oak Manor RV Park

    Not really for camping

    For those with long term placement in the area with an RV this is one of the options, not great

  • Denis P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 21, 2025

    Jetty Park Campground

    Quiet Midweek Stay, Helpful Staff, Rustic but Clean Facilities

    We stayed here with a tent in mid-June, during the week. The campground was quiet, with about two-thirds of the sites unoccupied— a peaceful atmosphere overall. I originally booked site#30 based on the photos, which showed some tree cover. In reality, the site was mostly exposed, likely due to outdated imagery. Thankfully, the staff was understanding and allowed us to move to a shaded spot directly across the road. The full shade was much appreciated in the heat, though it made our solar panels essentially useless— and since rustic sites don’t include water or electricity, that did limit options. Restrooms and showers were clean, but completely unventilated and without air conditioning. In summer temperatures, that made things uncomfortable and is the main reason I’m deducting a star. Overall, it’s a quiet and well-kept campground. If you’re prepared for the rustic setup and come midweek, it’s a pleasant place to stay.

    STARLINK 10/10

  • S
    Jun. 5, 2025

    Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground

    Beautiful place

    The inlet has friendly, helpful rangers, easy to access campsites, and is in a beautiful location. Great for fishing, surfing, boating, and going to the beach. It’s Florida though, so bring bug spray for the no-see-ums and mosquitoes.

  • Kevin K.
    May. 28, 2025

    Camp Shiloh

    Very friendly

    I ride with my bicycle to this campground without an reservation. No problem. Christin let me stay for one night in my tent. Very helpful and friendly.

  • Kevin K.
    May. 27, 2025

    Gold Rock Campground

    Good time

    I was riding with my bicycle to this campground without an reservation. No problem. It was very friendly personal and very clean.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 20, 2025

    Cape Kennedy RV Resort

    Always an excellent experience

    I’ve stayed at this campground many times never had a bad experience. Staff is wonderful if you ever need anything all you do is ask. They’re right on top of it. Clean sites level sites. Even the tent camping is level and clean.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 15, 2025

    Long Point Park Campground

    Great location and affordable

    Pros: Location, price, wildlife, fishing, nice sites with tons of water access. Boat Ramp and trailer parking. Some sites have shore anchoring.

    Cons: No-see-ums are almost unbearable in the evening. But that come with the territory in Florida. Pack long-sleeves, pants, and serious bug spray


Guide to Cape Canaveral

Cape Canaveral's camping areas sit on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Banana River, with elevations rarely exceeding 10 feet above sea level. The region experiences strong coastal breezes throughout the year, creating cooler conditions than inland Florida camping sites. Summer thunderstorms develop almost daily between June and September, typically in the afternoon hours.

What to do

Rocket launch viewing: Find prime viewing spots at Manatee Hammock Campground where you can see Kennedy Space Center across the water. "This is a nice campground that's located right on the intercoastal waterway right across from Kennedy Space Center. We saw two rocket launches while here," notes Dave D.

Fishing from designated piers: Access fishing opportunities at parks with waterfront locations. A camper at Manatee Hammock mentions, "We watched the manatees and dolphins swim right by us on the real nice fishing dock." The jetty and ocean piers provide additional fishing access for campers.

Beach exploration: Many camping sites near Cape Canaveral, Florida offer beach access within walking distance. "Great location, good sites. Easy access to restaurants/bars. Good beach biking, fishing, watching the cruise ships come and go," reports Angela S. about Jetty Park Campground.

Wildlife observation: Look for manatees and dolphins in the Indian River at multiple campsites. "With so many gorgeous water birds and trees. The park sits off the Indian River and is the perfect place to catch a launch," shares one visitor about the natural surroundings.

What campers like

Waterfront views: Many campers appreciate sites with direct water views. At KARS Park, "Located on the river across from Kennedy Space Center, it's a great spot to view launches with 20 or so spots along the river," according to Eleanor.

Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom and shower cleanliness as important factors. "Bathrooms are basic but clean. Staff is wonderful," notes one camper at Jetty Park Campground.

Shade options: In Florida's heat, tree cover becomes valuable. At Manatee Cove Family Campground, campers find "Nice wooded lots... nice change of scenery here on the Florida coast. Quite and Peaceful."

Dog-friendly areas: Many campsites welcome pets with dedicated areas. "There is a large fenced Dog Park on the riverfront," mentions Dennis J. about Manatee Hammock, while another camper notes Sonrise Palms has a "Gated dog park with lots of toys."

What you should know

Site spacing varies widely: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. At Sonrise Palms RV, campers appreciate the layout, while at other locations, "sites are a bit small" according to visitor feedback.

Military base access restrictions: Some campgrounds require military credentials. At Manatee Cove Family Campground, "Only available to KSC/NASA employees and military though (and requires an annual membership of $15-20)."

Seasonal population changes: Winter months bring significant increases in campers. "Very busy in the winter," notes Donald M. about Jetty Park. Summer brings fewer campers but much higher temperatures.

Train noise at some locations: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise. At Manatee Hammock, one camper warns of "freight train noise every night in the early morning hours and traffic noise, specially with campsites near the busy US-1."

Fire restrictions: Rules about campfires vary by location. At Manatee Hammock, "no fires unless you bring your own fire pit and must be at least 6" off the ground," while some prohibit fires completely.

Tips for camping with families

Look for protected swimming areas: Families appreciate designated swim zones. "The beach is also a short walk away. The pier and protected swimming areas appeal to families," mentions one camper about Jetty Park's amenities.

Consider sites with playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Wickham Park Campground offers "lots of bike/walking paths and wide open, quiet spaces" with a playground nearby, according to Jeff F.

Pack for afternoon thunderstorms: Summer brings predictable afternoon storms. Plan morning activities and have indoor options for afternoons, especially with children.

Try disc golf courses: Some parks offer additional recreational options. "Disc golf, food trucks, farmers market, playground the list goes on!" shares Mikella about Wickham Park's family-friendly features.

Book weekday stays when possible: Campgrounds report quieter environments midweek. "We stayed here with a tent in mid-June, during the week. The campground was quiet, with about two-thirds of the sites unoccupied," notes Denis P.

Tips from RVers

Check site dimensions carefully: RV sites vary significantly in size. "Any one with a 42 footer or more might struggle in a few spots. Call the office, they'll let you know the better lots for the big rigs," advises Melissa B.

Concrete pad availability: Some sites offer concrete pads, which RVers prefer. "The sites were clean with concrete slab," mentions one camper about their experience.

Plan for summer heat impact: High temperatures affect RV camping without full hookups. "Being prepared for the rustic setup" is important, as one camper notes that shaded sites can limit solar panel function while making summer temperatures more bearable.

Storage options: Some campgrounds offer RV storage for long-term visitors. "On top of that, they provide onsite storage options," notes one camper about the convenience for seasonal RVers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What campgrounds are available in Cape Canaveral?

Cape Canaveral offers several excellent camping options. Jetty Park Campground is the most prominent, featuring sites for all camping styles from primitive to full hookups, and even cabins. Military personnel can access Manatee Cove Family Campground at Patrick Air Force Base along the Banana River, though reservations are primarily for active duty. For those seeking additional options in the surrounding area, there's Mango Oak Manor RV Park and various campgrounds throughout Brevard County that provide convenient access to Cape Canaveral's attractions.

Are there RV parks and facilities available near Cape Canaveral?

The Cape Canaveral area offers several quality RV accommodations. Crystal Lake RV Park provides convenient access just off I-95 and is particularly suitable for larger RVs. Riverwood Park Campground sits just off Route 1 within easy reach of Canaveral National Seashore. For those seeking water-based activities, Indian Mound Fish Camp and Oak Hill Fish Camp offer RV sites with direct water access, plus amenities like SUP boards, canoes, and kayaks, all within driving distance of Cape Canaveral's attractions.

Where can I find camping near Kennedy Space Center?

Manatee Hammock Campground provides excellent views of Cape Canaveral across the Indian River Lagoon, making it perfect for watching rocket launches. The campground features waterfront access, fishing opportunities, and kayaking in the lagoon. Encore Space Coast is another option close to Cocoa Beach with good proximity to Kennedy Space Center. While sites can be narrow, the landscaping is attractive and the location offers easy access to nearby attractions. Both campgrounds provide a great base for exploring Kennedy Space Center and the surrounding Space Coast region.

What amenities are offered at Jetty Park Campground in Cape Canaveral?

Jetty Park Campground offers diverse camping options ranging from primitive sites to full hookups. Amenities include clean bathhouses, a well-stocked camp store, playground, and excellent fishing opportunities. The location provides prime viewing for both rocket launches from Cape Canaveral and cruise ship departures. The campground features strong security and helpful staff who assist in site selection. For families, the park's recreational facilities and beach access make it particularly appealing. The inlet area offers more privacy than the main campground while providing front-row views of maritime activities. Note that the campground does not allow dogs.