Cedar Key's Gulf Coast location offers camping options with direct access to the Suwannee River and Gulf of Mexico. The area maintains year-round temperatures around 70-75°F during winter months, making it popular with seasonal travelers. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be particularly aggressive during summer months when humidity rises, requiring proper preparation for outdoor activities.
What to do
Kayak with manatees: Crystal Isles RV Resort provides boat launch access for exploring nearby waterways. A visitor noted, "Close to Three Sisters Springs where you can kayak with the Manatees," highlighting one of the area's most popular wildlife activities.
Explore local beaches: Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park serves as a convenient base for coastal activities. One camper shared, "Lots of local attractions, restaurants, and shops. Many Kayak launch areas at Crystal River Parks, however we did a tour guide with a clear kayak rental. Get Up and Go Kayak, approx $160 for few hours, great experience and a beautiful area to sightsee."
Hike nature trails: Hart Springs Park offers boardwalks through Florida wetlands. As one visitor described, "Beautiful Florida nature trails. We were camping here in March and we were not able to enjoy the springs because they were having a brown out. Still plenty to do like walk the trails, enjoy the pool or visit the many different springs that are very near to your location."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Cedar Key RV Resort maintains high-standard amenities. A visitor mentioned, "Super clean and quiet. This campground has it all except a children's play area. Laundry, pool, clubhouse, Pickleball courts. Short drive to Cedar Key harbor."
Swimming opportunities: The natural springs maintain consistent temperatures year-round. A Hart Springs Park visitor shared, "Hart Spring has one of the largest swimming area with year-round 72-degree Fahrenheit water temperatures. The spring has an over bridge and concrete steps that lead down into the springs."
Dog-friendly environments: Cedar Blessings RV Park welcomes pets with dedicated facilities. A camper noted, "Pet friendly with a nice large fenced dog park. Swimming pool on site. Owners are very nice. Campground has tent area. The whole park makes you feel very welcomed."
What you should know
Seasonal crowds affect availability: Winter brings significant population increases to rv parks near Cedar Key, Florida. A camper at Rock Crusher Canyon mentioned, "Lots of full timers, but they were all friendly. Didn't have our dog with us, but lots of dogs at this park."
Insects can be problematic: Gulf coastal camping requires proper preparation. At Jasmine Breeze RV Park, a visitor warned, "Don't forget the bug spray. We loved the location of this park. The staff was unbelievably kind. Clean, modest restrooms and laundry."
Site layouts vary significantly: Not all Cedar Key RV campsites offer the same experience. A visitor at Yellow Jacket RV Resort observed, "The sites are pretty difficult to get into based on the layout. I would not recommend this place to a newbie as it is nearly impossible to get into a lot of these sites without having adjacent sites empty to use their space."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water features: Multiple campgrounds near Cedar Key offer swimming options. At Crystal Isles RV Resort, a camper shared, "We arrived and got our site packet. However when we got to our site someone else was already parked there. We couldn't get hold of management so had to race back to the office as they were closing and they gave us a new site which was a bit smaller with no concrete pad. Never mind. Facilities were great. Pool was amazing as was the playground. Would stay again."
Consider summer birthday celebrations: Yellow Jacket RV Resort provides riverside activities. A visitor mentioned, "Small and yet beautifully cared for privately owned campground. Our kids enjoyed the pool. The docks on the Suwannee River were beautiful. Will definitely be back with paddle boards or kayaks."
Verify tent camping accommodations: Not all rv parks near Cedar Key welcome tent campers equally. A Hart Springs visitor cautioned, "If your a tent camper you may not like it as you'll be surrounded by RVs. Lots to do here with all the facility amenities and nice nature walks/springs. Nice hosts. Popular place. Tent campers still pay $35+."
Tips from RVers
Check hookup locations: Cedar Key camping sites have varying utility arrangements. At Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park, a visitor advised, "When making reservations make sure to book towards the center of the park. We were in site 129A. The road noise was constant and loud. Site 127A was so close to us that our picnic table was beside their septic hose."
Consider newer facilities: Strawberry Fields for RV'ers offers modern amenities. A guest noted, "Great campground! New. Facilities are up to date and clean. Sites are decent and paved. Wish there were trees for some shade. Owners are terrific! No campfires allowed though."
Level sites matter: Finding even parking can be challenging at some locations. At Cedar Key RV Resort, a camper appreciated, "Huge sites with concrete pads and all services. The park is very well kept and the staff is friendly and helpful. Wifi was pretty good--had an outage one night, but other than that, we were able to stream with few issues."
