The Cocoa Beach area sits on Florida's Space Coast, situated on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and Banana River Lagoon. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with mild winters averaging 70°F and hot summers reaching 90°F. Most campgrounds in the area sit at sea level with flat terrain, making them accessible but occasionally vulnerable to coastal flooding during storm surges.
What to do
Watch rocket launches: Sites at Manatee Hammock Campground provide front-row seats for Cape Canaveral launches across the river. "Nice campground, nothing fancy but nice. Right on the river across from the space center. Some sites are a little close I stayed in 71," notes camper Paul K.
Beach activities: The shoreline at Jetty Park Canaveral Port Auth offers swimming, sunbathing and shore fishing. "Easy check in even though we arrived after hours! Very friendly. We had a shady spot with a concrete pad and full hookups. This campground does offer many types of camping! Bonus activities include seeing cruise ships leave pier and space launches," reports Cindy A.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple parks offer fishing access with varying regulations. "Put out the roof awning on my car and set up the tent. Had charcoal grills at the campsite with a massive picnic table," notes Blake about pier fishing at Jetty Park.
What campers like
Waterfront views: The riverside location of several campgrounds provides constant scenery. "26 acres, small campground; most sites are relatively close to each other; lots of trees and shade; beautiful water views from several campsites, specially sites 51, 13, 65-69, 169, 170," explains Jorge F. from Manatee Hammock.
Wildlife sightings: KARS Park offers excellent wildlife viewing with limited access. "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," reports Eleanor.
Proximity to attractions: Wickham Park Campground serves as a convenient base for Space Coast exploration. "We love camping here! 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," Mikella notes about this Melbourne location.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Several campgrounds experience disruptions from nearby rail lines. "The only downside of the campground is its proximity to railroad tracks and airport. The noise seemed to be constant on weekdays," warns L O. about Manatee Hammock Park.
Fire restrictions vary: Some locations prohibit ground fires or require elevated fire containers. Jorge F. explains that at Manatee Hammock, there are "no fires unless you bring your own fire pit and must be at least 6" off the ground."
Limited availability during winter: The high season crowds facilities from November through February. "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," notes Denis P. about Jetty Park Campground during off-season.
Tips for camping with families
Book midweek when possible: School-year weekdays offer quieter experiences and better site selection. "Stayed here for two nights hoping to see the space shuttle launch. We were unable to since it was postponed but the ladies at the front desk were very nice. They allowed a late check out just in case the shuttle did launch," shares Cynthia D. about Joy RV Park.
Consider bathroom facilities: Summer camping requires adequate shower access. "Restrooms and showers were clean, but completely unventilated and without air conditioning. In summer temperatures, that made things uncomfortable," warns Denis P. about Jetty Park Campground.
Look for shaded sites: Florida heat makes tree cover valuable, especially for tent campers. "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," explains another Jetty Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions matter: Sonrise Palms RV offers adequate sizing for larger vehicles. "An overnight stay with 25ft RV for 94$ including taxes for a partial hook up. 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," notes Annabel F.
Level pads simplify setup: Check for concrete platforms when booking. "Sewer water electric all working and placed as no extension would ever be needed. Being on ocean and prime real estate explains the width of sites," Mike Y. notes about Jetty Park.
Consider site spacing: Many campgrounds position RVs closely together. "The sites were large however had a lot of ruts. The grounds were not very well manicured although there were people working to try to freshen up the place," reports Cynthia D. about her pet friendly camping experience near Cocoa Beach.
