Camping sites near Cedar Key, Florida range from beachfront options to wooded inland campgrounds across the coastal Gulf region. The area sits at sea level with a humid subtropical climate averaging 70°F annually, though summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity. Most campgrounds operate year-round, but campers report insects are significantly more manageable during winter months when temperatures cool and rainfall decreases.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Shell Mound Campground offers excellent fishing spots for catfish according to visitors. One camper noted, "Great fishing spot! Friendly staff! Clean bathrooms! Dog friendly. Just watch where you put your trash, the turkey vultures are great at finding it in the mornings."
Explore archaeological sites: The Shell Mound archaeological site is within walking distance of the campground. According to a reviewer, "It is believed to be the location of special gatherings for Native" peoples, with the mound rising 28 feet above sea level and representing significant prehistoric construction.
Kayaking and boating: B's Marina & Campground provides direct water access for boaters. A visitor shared: "Rented a boat and actually caught enough fish for dinner; a beautiful trip down the river to the Gulf. Enjoyed the Tiki Bar."
Bird watching and wildlife viewing: The Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge surrounds many camping areas. One camper at Shell Mound explained, "Black vultures hang out waiting for fishermen to share their fish guts. They're pretty interesting!"
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Sunset Isle RV Park offers prime waterfront locations. A camper shared: "We got a spot right on the waters edge. A pool is in the works! Close to Cedar Key town. You can rent bikes right down the street. Very pleasant staff."
Old Florida atmosphere: The camping areas preserve a natural coastal feeling. One visitor at Low Key Hideway wrote: "We have been coming here for years. It is a very unique eclectic place. The property antique bar is one of the kind! The only downside is the noise from the road."
Stargazing opportunities: The relative isolation from major cities creates excellent night sky viewing. At Shired Island Campground, a camper reported: "I love the views of this place. There many activities available near this location. I went on a weekend trip to watch the meteors. There is deck in the water you can walk out to and watch the stars or fish."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing and natural buffers. At Manatee Springs State Park, visitors noted: "Peaceful secluded campsites. Most have a wooded buffer. There are full hookup sites available."
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Bugs present significant challenges, particularly during warmer months. A Shell Mound camper warned: "BUGS! The place is full of bugs and mosquitoes especially in the afternoon, night and dawn, so don't forget to bring your repellent, make a fire to scare away insects, bring firewood, citronella candles or mosquitos coil, fan etc..."
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality ranges from basic to well-maintained. At Manatee Springs State Park Campground, a visitor reported: "Free hot showers. No laundry machines. No trash bins in park, all trash must be taken to dumpsters near park entrance."
Cell service considerations: Coverage depends on location and carrier. A reviewer noted: "No Wi-Fi. T-mobile's network worked well throughout Cedar Key."
Storm closures: Some campgrounds face periodic closures due to hurricane damage. A recent review for Shired Island stated: "Awesome place to camp but it's closed due to storm damage."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Natural springs provide safe swimming areas away from open Gulf waters. At Manatee Springs, a visitor described: "Beautiful clear spring with swimming area, including area for kids. Two nice boardwalks. Nature trails."
Wildlife viewing for children: Many camping areas feature abundant visible wildlife. A camper at Manatee Springs noted: "Our family had a great time here. The water is beautiful and we even had deer visit us."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. A camper at Cedar Key RV Resort mentioned: "Super clean and quiet. This campground has it all except a childrens play area. Laundry, pool, clubhouse, Pickleball courts."
Boat rentals for family adventures: Several locations offer affordable options. At B's Marina & Campground, a visitor shared: "Sarah the owners daughter took me and my wife in their atv to check out the Gulf Preservr Area."
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Concrete pads and level sites vary by location. At Cedar Key RV Resort, a camper reported: "Huge sites with great hook ups, that are perfectly level. Paved roads, so no dust! Great, clean facilities."
Resort amenities: Higher-end RV parks offer additional facilities. At Cedar Blessings RV Park, a visitor noted: "Feels homey. Great rec room. Pool. Clean although a little rough around the edges. Least expensive in town. A few miles outside Cedar Key but an awesome place for the money."
Hookup quality: Water and electrical connections vary significantly. A camper at Cedar Key RV Resort shared: "Level concrete pads and our site had a paver patio and picnic bench. All the hookups were well placed and maintained. Grounds were well kept and our site had some shade which is needed in Florida."
Park layouts: Space between sites can affect privacy. A visitor to Sunset Isle explained: "It is more old Florida fishing village vibe with lots of trees and gravel roads and grass on some sites."
