Best Campgrounds near Green Cove Springs, FL

Green Cove Springs, Florida provides access to diverse camping experiences ranging from established campgrounds to primitive sites. Camp Chowenwaw Park, located just west of the St. Johns River, offers unique treehouse camping with screened-in structures elevated above the ground, alongside traditional tent sites in sand/pebble boxes. Approximately 10 miles from downtown, Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park features tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations in a natural setting. The Dyrt users frequently mention the variety of water-based activities available at these locations, with multiple campgrounds providing direct access to lakes, rivers, and springs.

Weather conditions significantly impact camping experiences in this region, with summer months bringing high humidity and temperatures. According to one visitor, "Every dream about visiting a campground where all of the campsites are actually up in the trees? Well, look no further than Camp Chowenwaw Park. This slice of verdant paradise is just due west of St. Johns River." Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though reservations are strongly recommended during winter months when northern visitors seek Florida's milder climate. Facilities vary widely across sites, with some offering full hookups for RVs including 30/50 amp electrical service, while others maintain a more rustic experience with basic amenities like fire rings, standing BBQ grills, and communal bathhouses.

Campers consistently highlight water access as a primary attraction in the Green Cove Springs area. Bayard Conservation Area receives positive reviews for its hiking trails that traverse through "shaded pine forests, hammocks, marsh, and river areas," making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Several visitors mentioned the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities, with one camper reporting sightings of "deer, otter, turkey, and wild pigs" during their stay. Mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping are common throughout the region, with many offering fishing piers, boat ramps, and swimming areas. While some locations like Camp Chowenwaw provide unique amenities such as a swimming pool and kayak rentals, others focus on preserving natural surroundings with minimal development, allowing for a more immersive outdoor experience.

Best Camping Sites Near Green Cove Springs, Florida (159)

    1. Anastasia State Park Campground

    113 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 461-2033

    $28 / night

    "You really can have it all at this campground - with its 'next door' proximity to one of the most amazing beachheads on Florida's Atlantic coastline and quick access to the country's oldest town (St."

    "Great location & in close proximity to St. Augustine. One of my favorite places to visit in Florida. If you've never been to St."

    2. Camp Chowenwaw Park

    9 Reviews
    Fleming Island, FL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 529-8058

    "Johns River in Green Cove Springs. When I first researched this place, because of its name, I couldn’t believe what I was in store for. "

    "Florida has many many different camping options.  I was looking for something unique and different from what I'd done before and this place popped up on my radar. "

    3. Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park Campground & Cabins

    32 Reviews
    Keystone Heights, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 473-4701

    $20 - $100 / night

    "The Florida State Trail passes through the park and is well marked. The ravines section is my favorite area in the park. In the greener months, it feels like a rain forest."

    "The Florida Trail is my favorite part of my visits. The cabin we stayed in was small but nice. The ravines are gorgeous. You can access it with a vehicle, but you must walk down many stairs."

    4. North Beach Camp Resort

    47 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 824-1806

    $67 - $245 / night

    "We stayed in number 18 and we were very close to the bathroom area (which has AC) and close to the Pool."

    "Very shady spots and plenty of space for long walks on the paths, along the river or across the street at the beach. I had 2 dogs & appreciated the doggy stations with poo bags and garbage."

    5. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park

    96 Reviews
    Atlantic Beach, FL
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 255-6767

    $12 - $30 / night

    "The campground is situated next to a large lake, with fishing allowed. Nice beach area with in walking distance or short drive of the camp sites."

    "Beach close by - walking distance on park roads/paths. Nice lake (no swimming). Full hookups. Better for medium to small rigs. The big guys often have trouble on narrow roads within park."

    6. Stagecoach RV Park

    13 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 824-2319

    $64 - $72 / night

    "While not the most amazing from an actual camping experience, Stagecoach will impress because of its EZ on/off access to I-95. It’s literally less than a 3 minute drive off this main highway artery."

    "Very clean . 20 min away from Downtown"

    7. Bayard Conservation Area

    3 Reviews
    Green Cove Springs, FL
    4 miles
    Website

    "**Campground Review: **

    Bayard Conservation Area is located in Green Cove Springs Florida and is maintained by the St. Johns River Water Management District."

    "Hiked in about 3.3 miles, but OnX user beware, trust the trail’s red marks, not the trail marked on most maps! Part of the trail was reblazed to go around a washed out section."

    8. Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground

    12 Reviews
    Middleburg, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 406-6390

    $9 / night

    "Nice, quiet campground on the outskirts of Jacksonville. Had a nice time out there with my buddy and the pup. Would recommend!"

    "This little campground is tucked away in Jennings forest. Everything is so peaceful back here!"

    9. Compass RV Park

    19 Reviews
    St. Augustine, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (904) 824-3574

    "The pull through sites were quite close to each other where the back in sites provided more room, this was especially true near the front of the CG."

    "You just leave the trash bag out anytime and the park staff pick it up during one of their normal rounds around the park.

    The whole park including all the sites were very well maintained."

    10. Black Creek Ravine

    2 Reviews
    Middleburg, FL
    11 miles
    Website

    "Overall, met my intent as a basic campsite my family of 5 with kids from 3 to 9 years old could walk into and get the simple outdoor experience."

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Recent Reviews near Green Cove Springs, FL

969 Reviews of 159 Green Cove Springs Campgrounds



Guide to Green Cove Springs

Camping near Green Cove Springs, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore the beach: Anastasia State Park Campground is just a short drive away and offers easy access to the beach. One visitor mentioned, "The beach was a 7-minute walk and easy," making it perfect for a day of sun and sand.
  • Kayaking and biking: At Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, you can bike to the Old City or kayak in the nearby waters. A reviewer shared, "Bike to the Old City or see it from the water in your kayak."
  • Visit local attractions: Ginnie Springs is known for its crystal-clear waters and is a great spot for swimming and tubing. One camper noted, "This is clearly one of the best natural springs in all of Florida."

What campers like

  • Shady spots: Many campers appreciate the shaded areas at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park. A visitor remarked, "Sites here have a good amount of shade which is great for summers in Florida."
  • Clean facilities: Campers at Tomoka State Park Campground enjoy the well-maintained restrooms and showers. One review stated, "Showers and restrooms are clean."
  • Wildlife sightings: At Crooked River State Park Campground, visitors love the chance to see local wildlife. A camper mentioned, "Saw tortoises, armadillos, snapping turtles, and alligators."

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. A reviewer at Juniper Springs Rec Area noted, "Expect to hear lots of partying."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Florida Salt Springs lacks showers, which some campers found inconvenient.
  • Wildlife precautions: Campers should be cautious about food storage due to wildlife. One visitor at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park warned, "A few raccoons so take necessary precautions with trash and food storage."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. Crooked River State Park Campground has two playgrounds, making it a hit with families.
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Ginnie Springs said, "A perfect spot to camp and swim with your friends!!!"
  • Pack for comfort: Bring along items that make camping easier for kids, like comfortable sleeping bags and favorite snacks. A family at Silver Springs State Park Campground enjoyed the spacious sites, saying, "The sites are nice sized and level."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Tomoka State Park Campground mentioned, "Sites are a little too close."
  • Be prepared for road conditions: Some campgrounds have narrow roads that can be tricky for larger RVs. One camper at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park noted, "A little bit of an obstacle course for bigger RVs with all the trees and narrow roads."
  • Bring extra supplies: Stock up on essentials before arriving, as some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Florida Salt Springs mentioned, "Not much in the area, but it did have gas stations and a few places to eat close."

Camping near Green Cove Springs, Florida, has something for everyone, from beautiful nature to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy your time outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Green Cove Springs, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Green Cove Springs, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 159 campgrounds and RV parks near Green Cove Springs, FL and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Green Cove Springs, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Green Cove Springs, FL is Anastasia State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 113 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Green Cove Springs, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Green Cove Springs, FL.

What parks are near Green Cove Springs, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Green Cove Springs, FL that allow camping, notably National Forests in Florida and Ocala National Forest.