Camping sites near Green Cove Springs, Florida offer diverse environments within the Northeast Florida ecosystem, characterized by sandy soil and frequent summer thunderstorms. The region sits at a relatively flat 20-30 feet above sea level with temperatures often reaching 90°F during summer months. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round despite seasonal weather changes.
What to do
Hiking the ravines: At Jennings State Forest, campers can explore well-marked trails that showcase Florida's natural landscape. "There are many well marked trails that run through the site as well as a fishing area and grills near the parking lot. The camping is hike in," notes one visitor. Another adds, "We hiked the beach pioneer trail and really enjoyed ourselves. The campsite is about a mile in and has a picnic table and fire ring."
Paddling waterways: Black Creek Ravine provides direct water access for kayaking or canoeing. "My family hiked about 2.4 mi in to this campsite and stayed one night... It is about 30 feet through some trees to the river," shares one camper. The river access makes this spot ideal for water-based activities.
Beach activities: North Beach Camp Resort offers swimming and beachcombing opportunities with direct ocean access. "Beach to the East and river to the west of the property. We loved the private beach area which kept the crowds to a minimum, compared to the public areas," reports a visitor who tent camped during a July weekend.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Compass RV Park receives praise for its site layout. "The whole park including all the sites were very well maintained. There was a variety of options to choose from when we booked this campsite including pull-through, back-in, gravel, or brick paver sites," explains one reviewer. Another notes, "The sites were large and easy to access."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and amenities get consistently positive mentions across multiple campgrounds. At Stagecoach RV Park, campers appreciate the maintenance. "This campground is beautiful, clean, and staff is very friendly. The lots are roomy and spacious with plenty of room and privacy," states one reviewer. Another adds, "Exceptionally clean and surprisingly quiet!"
Wildlife viewing: Local conservation areas provide ample opportunities to spot native animals. "On our way to our campsite we were able to spot many animals including: deer, otter, turkey, and wild pigs," reports a visitor to Bayard Conservation Area. Many campers mention dawn and dusk as prime viewing times across various campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Site accessibility: Some camping areas require hiking to reach sites. At Bayard Conservation Area, "The campsites are a few miles from the parking area. They include a fire ring and a picnic table." For campers with mobility limitations, drive-up sites at other parks may be more suitable.
Insects and weather: Summer brings mosquitoes and afternoon thunderstorms. One camper at North Beach noted, "Mornings/evenings were cool but mid afternoon was HOT however, the trees provided some cover." Insect repellent is considered essential equipment by most reviewers during warmer months.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during winter and holiday periods. At Stagecoach RV Park, campers advise, "Very clean. 20 min away from Downtown," but also note that booking well in advance is necessary, particularly from November through April when northern visitors increase demand.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park offers swimming options beyond natural water features. "The walk from the camp to the beach was short and the bathhouse was close and clean as well! This was a great experience for us and a place every family should visit and try," mentions one camper who visited during Thanksgiving week.
Educational trails: Several parks feature interpretive paths ideal for children. "The area with the Treehouse campsites offers up a wholly dedicated his and hers bathroom and shower facilities as well as a working kitchen and even a screened-in mess hall for large groups," notes a visitor to Camp Chowenwaw Park, highlighting facilities that make family camping more convenient.
Safety considerations: Parents should note water safety protocols at various parks. One reviewer at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park mentioned, "The only downside was the fact that they are very strict at the pool. The children had to do swim tests and wear a necklace denoting which portion of the pool they could be in."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park accommodates various RV sizes. "Campsites w/ water and electric. Shaded campsites. Hiking trails, swimming area. Canoes for rental available in Park," notes one RV camper. Many sites can handle larger rigs, though site-specific dimensions should be verified when booking.
Hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of service. One camper at Stagecoach RV Park reported, "All sites were pull through gravel full hook ups. For as crowded as the place was it was very quiet." At North Beach Camp Resort, another mentioned, "Full hook ups, cable, most sites private and separated by vegetation also providing shade in the summer."
Navigation challenges: Some parks have complex layouts. A camper at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park warned, "When you come in, they give you your site number and a convoluted map no direction at all... Once I got into the muddy pit, I had to sqeezed my vehicle between my rig and a tree to park so as not to block the curve."
