Best Campgrounds near Clearwater Beach, FL
Campgrounds surrounding Clearwater Beach, Florida primarily consist of established RV parks and resorts rather than traditional wilderness camping areas. The St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA and Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA both offer cabin accommodations alongside RV and tent sites, while Fort De Soto Campground provides boat-in access approximately 20 miles south of Clearwater Beach. Most camping facilities in this area cater heavily to RV travelers with full hookup sites, though limited tent camping options exist at select locations within a 30-minute drive of the beach.
The subtropical climate allows for year-round camping, with most campgrounds operating continuously. Summer brings hot, humid conditions with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while winter offers milder temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. A recent review noted that "all you need with a small pool, but could in general be cleaner and in better shape" regarding Indian Rocks Travel Park, highlighting how amenities vary significantly across facilities. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during winter months when seasonal residents from northern states dramatically increase occupancy rates. Most campgrounds enforce pet policies with size restrictions and designated walking areas rather than traditional dog parks.
Waterfront access represents a major draw for camping in this region. Caladesi Island State Park offers a unique boat-in camping experience where, as one reviewer explained, "these camping 'sites' are really just boat slips which allowing you to overnight at the docks on the island." Sites closer to beaches typically command higher rates but provide convenient access to Gulf Coast attractions. Urban proximity means limited privacy between campsites at most facilities, with several reviews mentioning tight spacing between RVs. Campground amenities generally include swimming pools, shower facilities, and community gathering spaces rather than natural features like hiking trails or fishing ponds. Noise from nearby commercial areas impacts some locations, particularly those situated along major roadways like US-19 or Gulf to Bay Boulevard.
