K
Kyle L.
Scout
ScoutOld Florida RV Resort and Marina
Tremendous place to camp
Great environment, a lot of marine activity in the water and boat rental was super fun.
Best Campgrounds near Cedar Key, FL
Camping areas around Cedar Key, Florida range from established RV parks to primitive sites, with several options within a short drive of this coastal community. Shell Mound Campground, located approximately 4 miles from Cedar Key's downtown area, provides tent and RV camping with both primitive sites ($10/night) and electric/water hookups ($20-25/night). Cedar Key RV Resort offers more developed facilities with concrete pads and full hookups, while Sunset Isle RV Park provides waterfront sites with views of the Gulf. The region includes a mix of county-managed parks, private RV resorts, and nearby state parks that accommodate various camping styles.
Access to campgrounds varies seasonally, with bugs presenting a significant challenge, particularly during warmer months. Most campgrounds in the Cedar Key area operate year-round, though some private RV parks like Greenfields RV Campground have seasonal operations from September to May. Visitors should prepare for mosquitoes, especially at Shell Mound Campground where reviews consistently mention insect activity. Cell service is generally available through major carriers, with T-Mobile reported to work well throughout the Cedar Key area. Bathroom facilities at most campgrounds are clean and well-maintained, though amenities vary significantly between primitive and resort-style locations. As one camper noted, "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."
Waterfront camping represents a major draw in the Cedar Key area, with several campgrounds offering direct water access for fishing, kayaking, and boat launches. Shell Mound features a boat ramp (usable primarily at high tide) and proximity to salt marshes with short hiking trails and archaeological sites. Many campers appreciate the "old Florida" atmosphere and natural setting. Reviews highlight the area's fishing opportunities, particularly for catfish, and the chance to observe wildlife in the salt marshes. Several visitors mentioned Cedar Key's downtown area as worth exploring, with restaurants, shops, and a fishing pier accessible within a 15-minute drive from most campgrounds. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "This is the best of Florida. At night, grab dinner and drinks in cedar key and come back to your camp site next your fire. Sleep good listening to crickets, owls, and other critters."
Best Camping Sites Near Cedar Key, Florida (123)
1. Shell Mound Campground
19 ReviewsCedar Key, FL4 milesWebsite+1 (352) 221-4466$22 - $25 / night
"The photo associated with this description is a picture of the cedar key tourist area- not Shell Mound Campground. "
"Small campground, around 26 spaces. 1- You can arrive at any time, having a vacant spot, you can set up your campsite and pay when the office opens in the morning around 7:30, no reservations, first come"
2. Manatee Springs State Park Campground
68 ReviewsChiefland, FL24 milesWebsite+1 (352) 493-6072$20 / night
"There is an 800-foot long boardwalk that winds through a cypress tree forest and the 8-miles of trails were great for running, hiking or biking."
"Easy access to the park and quick and painless check-in process with reservations. The main road in the campground is fine but the roads to the sites are gravel with potholes."
3. Cedar Key RV Resort
7 ReviewsCedar Key, FL6 milesWebsite+1 (352) 543-5097$43 - $60 / night
"Short drive to Cedar Key harbor. Great restaurants and art coop shopping."
"If Cedar Blessings (the other RV resort across the street) feels like staying with family, Cedar Key RV Resort feels like checking into a coastal boutique resort that just happens to welcome RVs, sitting"
4. Sunset Isle RV Park
3 ReviewsCedar Key, FL1 mileWebsite+1 (352) 543-5375$50 / night
"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."
"It's all about location! This is a great place to camp with friendly staff and great Sunset views! Waterfront sites are currently $60 and others are $40."
5. Cedar Blessings RV Park
3 ReviewsCedar Key, FL7 milesWebsite"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."
"Nearby are lots of hiking trails , inshore and offshore fishing bird watching, dolphin and sunset tours. Bring or rent kayaks, canoes. Something for all ages ."
7. Shired Island Campground
8 ReviewsCedar Key, FL20 milesWebsite+1 (352) 498-0009$10 - $20 / night
"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."
"Kinda tucked away but if you can read a map and have a smart phone you’ll be fine 🤘🏻 must stay more then one night! Lots to do!"
8. Greenfields RV Campground
2 ReviewsCedar Key, FL15 milesWebsite+1 (352) 256-4757$20 / night
"Stopped by and stayed here on our way out of Florida at this time. Small quaint older well organized and up-to-date campground."
9. B's Marina & Campground
7 ReviewsYankeetown, FL21 miles+1 (352) 447-5888"The campsites are a very short walk from the marina, if any walk at all. Very quiet and relaxing."
"After an accident I walk with a cane and can’t go far. Sarah the owners daughter took me and my wife in their atv to check out the Gulf Preservr Area. We will definitely go back."
10. Jasmine Breeze RV Park
1 ReviewCedar Key, FL15 milesWebsite+1 (352) 440-0189$40 / night
"We loved the location of this park. The staff was unbelievably kind. Clean, modest restrooms and laundry. Large group fire are.
Peaceful."
Recent Camping Photos near Cedar Key, FL
130 Photos of 123 Cedar Key Campgrounds
Denise H.
Sunset Isle RV Park
Annie C.
Shell Mound Campground
Leonard H.
Sky acres
Leonard H.
Skyacres aka the tin cottage
Aaron D.
Shired Island Campground
Josh W.
Yellow Jacket RV Resort
Jeannie B.
Manatee Springs State Park Campground
L&A C.
Gulf Coast RV Resort
Jen U.
Village Pines Campground
Steve N.
Suwannee River Hideaway Campground
Joseph P.
Cristal Camping 🏕️ Fl
Johann S.
Encore Crystal Isles
Recent Reviews near Cedar Key, FL
504 Reviews of 123 Cedar Key Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendShell Mound Campground
First-Come Simplicity on the Gulf’s Edge
There’s something deeply grounding about arriving at Shell Mound Campground, where the road narrows, the salt air thickens and you realize you’ve traded polish for authenticity in one of the last truly 'Old Florida' camping outposts near Cedar Key. Set within a protected coastal landscape of tidal creeks, marsh grass and shaded scrub, this small public campground offers a mix of primitive tent camping and basic RV sites with dirt and grass pads, minimal infrastructure and a refreshing absence of crowds or commercial gloss. Amenities are simple and purposeful with vault restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, a boat ramp and short nature trails. But beware: everything here operates on a strict first-come, first-served basis, which is both its biggest charm and its biggest gamble, meaning early arrival is key if you want your pick of sites. One quiet evening, the boys helped us carry the canoe down to the water’s edge, laughing as fiddler crabs scattered and osprey hovered overhead, and later we fell asleep to the rhythmic sounds of the marsh rather than generators or highway noise. From what we saw, the best sites are those closer to the water, offering better breezes, easier kayak launching and beautiful sunrise views across the estuary, while inland sites feel a bit more tucked away but still peaceful. We’d recommend Shell Mound for families and campers who value solitude, wildlife and affordability, are comfortable with rustic conditions and don’t mind planning around a first-come system in exchange for a genuinely quiet, nature-forward experience that feels worlds away from resort-style camping.
Jeremiah F.
TravelerHolder Mine Campground
Good site
I was there in a 32 foot class A motorhome. The sites are paved and level. I had site 1, which sites 1 and 2 are next to the entrance gate. It was fairly quiet at night. There was a few times I heard loud vehicles gojng down the road but not enough to complain about. The bathhouse is tucked in the back, its a good walk from site 1 but manageable. I think my biggest complaint about this campground, is that all the site pads are boxed in now with wood fences. I dont think it was like that 3 years ago when I stayed last time. So regardless of your site, theres a wood fence between the concrete pad and the fire pit and picnic table areas. There are walking trails nearby but theres not alot to do with kids besides that. I let my kids ride their bikes. They have a dump station outside the campground headed out the main exit. Its on the north side of the road like the campground is but its not a busy road, so you're fine pointing that direction. I didnt use their dump station because I left out the opposite way through the forest for other reasons but I dont recommend that if you dont know people in the area as trail 13 has some sandy spots headed north out of the forest. If you have a vehicle and are into this sorta thing, there are some nearby caves and old cemeteries as this area is known for a couple ghost towns that no longer stand. Trail 9 looked like it may have been a railroad track at one point, either that or they wanted to raise a road pretty high. Ive stayed at this campground now twice, and id definitely go back for an inexpensive stay in the area. I do recommend this campground to anyone's. Pets are allowed, they have stations with bags and cans to put waste in. Water and 50/30/20 hookups at all sites, fire ring and picnic tables.
Ashley R.ScoutEncore Crystal Isles
Great start to our RV adventure
Crystal Isle has been a dream in regards to starting our RV journey. The staff is wonderful. The sites are clean and I feel spacious (again just starting out but we have space). We don't have to worry about our overflow as they have overflow parking. The have a boat ramp for the park residents only. And it is an easy boat ride to the Golf. Shopping, food, and river access are close by. You have Three Sisters Springs and Hunter Springs Beach within 15 minute. Hunter Springs is a great place to bring the kids. It is a small beach on the river so the littles don't get smacked with waves. We stayed the whole month of January and February.
Heather B.ScoutShangri-La Trailhead & Campground
Tent camping
Clean restrooms and showers. Quiet
- SSarah V.
GuideMutual Mine Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest
Small quiet campground
The campground was very nice. Sites were spacious and campground was well maintained. Restrooms were very nice and had private shower in each bathroom. Only downside is a bit of road noise but wasn’t enough to make a huge difference. Lots of trails and points of interest around the area.Very nice campground
- Maria Mercedes M.Legend
Cedar Key RV Resort
Glitz RV Camping by the Gulf
If Cedar Blessings (the other RV resort across the street) feels like staying with family, Cedar Key RV Resort feels like checking into a coastal boutique resort that just happens to welcome RVs, sitting directly across the road and making the contrast immediately clear the moment you pull in. This is a well-planned, modern RV resort with paved roads, manicured landscaping, tidy concrete pads and a noticeable emphasis on presentation, from the entrance signage to the neatly spaced sites that feel intentional and polished. Amenities lean firmly into the resort category, with a sparkling pool, clubhouse and communal spaces like fully functional kitchen, living room w/ TV and an endless lineup of books, board games and DVDs all designed for socializing rather than solitude, making it especially appealing for snowbirds and longer-stay guests who enjoy a bit of buzz and structure. One evening, after a full day of salty air and sightseeing, we let the boys run laps around the pool deck while we sat back watching the sun melt into the Gulf, the kind of low-stress moment that reminds you why amenities matter when traveling as a family. From what we saw, the best sites are those closer to the interior of the resort, where you’re a short walk to the pool and clubhouse but buffered from any road noise. We recommend Cedar Key RV Resort for families and couples who enjoy a more upscale, social camping experience with creature comforts front and center, and who don’t mind trading a little rustic charm for convenience, polish, and that unmistakable resort feel.
Kathryn B.ScoutSeven Sisters Campground
Great location
Super friendly staff. Nice clean restrooms. Easy to level. Perfect location to see what the area has to offer.
- ssam T.Scout
Mutual Mine Youth Group Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest
Simple and quiet
We love this campground because it’s so close to home. It’s clean quiet with large sites. You can hear traffic but cannot see the road. Some sites more secluded than others but all are good size. Clean bathrooms and property.
Guide to Cedar Key
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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Cedar Key, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Cedar Key, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cedar Key, FL is Shell Mound Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 19 reviews.
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