Camping options near Fellsmere, Florida range from primitive sites to full-service campgrounds within a 20-mile radius of town. The area sits at an average elevation of 23 feet above sea level, creating a flat landscape where water management significantly affects camping conditions. During summer months, temperatures remain consistently above 85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common between June and September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Sebastian Inlet provides excellent saltwater fishing access where anglers target snook, redfish, and flounder. At Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground, campers report productive fishing directly from the park. "Amazing little campground right on the water. Close to beaches. People are friendly. If you're trying to surf or fish stay here!" notes Brian C.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer optimal wildlife viewing at waterfront sites. "We saw a giant sea turtle bigger than a manhole cover. We watched dolphins play at sunrise," shares Nora B. from Sebastian Inlet State Park. The inland waterways attract wading birds, osprey, and occasional manatee sightings.
Star gazing: For serious astronomers, Kilpatrick Hammock Campground offers Florida's only designated dark sky viewing area. "This is the place to stargaze. Many here taking pictures with their telescopes," reports Lauren W. The preserve implements red-only lighting policies throughout the campground to protect night sky visibility.
What campers like
Water access: Waterfront campsites rank among the most popular features at Long Point Park Campground, where kayakers and paddleboarders can launch directly from their sites. "We pulled our kayaks/paddleboards in and out of the water right at our site," explains Angela S., highlighting the convenience for water enthusiasts.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "Bathrooms are spotless and the sites are perfect," reports Lane P. about Sebastian Inlet. Similarly, at Kilpatrick Hammock Campground, one reviewer noted, "Bathrooms were very nice and cleaned daily."
Site spacing: While coastal sites tend to be closer together, inland options offer more privacy. "The tent sites are a little small but most of them are shady and secluded with lots of trees and shrubs between!" reports Melody W. about Donald MacDonald Campground, describing its natural buffers between campsites.
What you should know
Insect preparation: No-see-ums (biting midges) present challenges at all Fellsmere area campgrounds, particularly near water. "Nice camp ground for fishing and bringing the boat along... Lots of no-see-ums. Bring a insect tent to sit out in!!!" advises Melissa B. These tiny biting insects become most active at dawn and dusk.
Reservation timing: Winter months (November-April) require advance booking at most campgrounds. Summer offers greater availability but comes with heat and humidity challenges. "Summer camping requires preparation for hot, humid conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F," notes a park official.
Cell service: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. While coastal sites typically maintain strong signals for major carriers, inland locations like Blue Cypress Campground have more limited connectivity. "Kind of a weird location, but clean and nice with all the necessary hookups," reports John R.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Families appreciate the combined beach and camping experiences at Sebastian Inlet. "This was our very first camping trip with our new camper. Absolutely beautiful state park with so much to do and see!!! From bird watching to swimming, to paddle boarding, to kayaking, to biking, the possibilities are endless!!!" shares Roiann C.
Wildlife education: Morning wildlife walks provide educational opportunities for children. At Long Point Park, campers report regular dolphin and manatee sightings. Sites directly on water increase viewing opportunities and create memorable experiences for younger campers.
Shade considerations: For summer family camping, prioritize sites with adequate tree cover. At Vero Beach Kamp, campers appreciate the natural shade. "Sites are decent size. Lots of sites with shade. Close to Indian River and the beach," notes Amber H., emphasizing the importance of shade during hot months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking RV sites, request detailed site information. "The outer sites at the waters edge have only electric and water hookups. There are some sites that have sewer hookups as well but are not directly on water," explains Jessica R. at Long Point Park Campground, highlighting the tradeoff between views and full hookups.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. At Kilpatrick Hammock, one camper noted, "It's a couple miles of reasonably decent dirt roads to get there, after several miles of remote highways." Larger rigs should verify road conditions before arrival.
Dump station timing: Plan dump station usage strategically. "Waited inline to dump for 90 mins. Everyone leaving at 11am checkout," reports Michael Y. about Long Point Park. Consider early morning or late morning timing to avoid peak usage periods.
