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 (158)

    1. Anastasia State Park Campground

    115 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

976 Reviews of 158 Green Cove Springs Campgrounds


  • Thunderroad 5.
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Salt Springs Recreation Area

    Great place to camp

    First federal park campground i stayed in that had full hookups. Nice bathhouse. Beautiful campground with nicely sized sites. Stayed during government shutdown. Since campground is managed by private company, shutdown didn't close campground. Staff and hosts were friendly and enjoyed the stay. Only drawback was lack of any cell service, but starlink worked fine.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Davenport Landing

    Cool spot, beware of bears

    I really enjoyed this spot, but I did spot a bear on my way in and scat along the road. I wouldn't recommend this spot to beginners or inexperienced outdoor enthusiasts. There is a campground nearby that charges 10bucks a night that I would recommend for families or beginners. Delancy Campground is accessible from this (FS Road 74) location

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Rodman Campground

    Florida Wildlife, Super Clean Restrooms and Camp Sites

    This was my first stay here, but I'll be back. Really nice and clean bathrooms, showers, and camp sites. It was quiet, relaxing, nice hiking trails, and plenty of wildlife.
    They offer tent camping and RV.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Ponderosa Adult RV Park

    Keep On Mosey'ing Past This RV Ranch

    Maybe it was the descriptor of ‘Adult’ that grabbed my attention or the fact that along this stretch of US1, there’s not a whole lot of competition for attractions that catches one’s eye. If you find yourself pondering a stay at Ponderosa Adult RV(apart from the prerequisite check of your ID), you likely are here because you have either gotten yourself lost or it is very late in the evening and you simply need a place to‘drop anchor’ for the night.

    Whatever the reason you find yourself out in the boondocks here, I would certainly recommend taking a hard pass on this little outcrop of an RV parking lot for a myriad of reasons. First of all, this patch of land is pretty rough– almost as rough as the‘neighbors’ you will encounter if you choose to stay here. There’s a single loop that goes around this place(conveniently named Ponderosa Lane, although it should be renamed loop or circle, right?) with only about two dozen or so slots available with about half of these being of the semi-permanent varietal with the other half occupied by proper RV’ers enroute no doubt to somewhere that’s more promising. As for amenities, there’s not a whole lot apart from a pretty unshapely pebble-strewn pathway, but watch out for all of the potholes(and being from Chicago, that’s saying something)! There’s electric and water hook-ups and a dumpster at the back of the place, but that’s about it.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Keep driving past this RV dump and look for higher ground – within a 30 minute drive of this place you’ll be able to find MUCH better accommodations – just look at my other reviews here on TheDyrt for nearby places that offer a much better experience, such as Palm Coast RV Park, just up the road past Bunnell; (2) If you do have to stay here for some reason, get in late and leave early; (3) Looking for nearby attractions or something to do? I would recommend heading east on Marco Polo Boulevard and crossing I95 to Bulow Creek State Park where you’ll find no shortage of amazing hiking pathways as well as kayak entry points and fishing holes to cast a line in; and (4) For those hauling an ATV, due south of Ponderosa Adult RV Park is something called Florida Cracker Ranch, which is basically a big open mud pit for all your ATV mud-flinging pleasure.

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Katherine Hannah park

    Surf, Seaside, Sun & Shady Pines Camping on JAX Atlantic Coast Shore

    On the north end of Jacksonville’s shoreline, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park blends the best of oceanside camping with a dense, wooded escape that makes you forget you’re within city limits. First impressions are impressive: over 290 sites tucked beneath a maritime hammock of pines and oaks, all within a short walk or bike ride of 1.5 miles of pristine Atlantic beachfront. The place is equal parts 'beach bum paradise' and forest retreat, which was perfect for our little family circus of six campers (my daughter Cloe, her best friend Chloe, my brother-in-law with his wife along with my wife and I). Yes, that’s right ... two girls named Cloe / Chloe, which meant every time someone yelled 'Chlo!,' we got a duet of 'What?' in stereo. 

    Facilities are solid, though they come with quirks. Most sites have water and electric hookups and while they’re roomy enough, tree roots and uneven pads will make you thankful for those leveling blocks you swore you wouldn’t need. Primitive tent sites are there for the purists, but we opted for power (you know, because teenagers don’t do 'unplugged' if they can help it!). Bathhouses are scattered around and functional, though calling them 'retro' or 'rustic' would be generous while timing a shower mid-afternoon is the trick if you don’t want to wait in line with a soap caddy. 

    Other amenities hit the sweet spot for families including laundry for sandy towels, playgrounds for younger kids, a camp store for forgotten essentials and a 60-acre freshwater lake with canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. That lake was my brother-in-law’s favorite spot, though he spent most of his time swatting ants and muttering about their conspiracy against him. Surroundings are where Hanna Park really shines though. Direct beach access gave the girls endless room for sunrise walks, sandy selfies, and attempts at surfing that ended in more wipeouts than rides. Miles of biking and hiking trails crisscross the dunes and shaded hammocks and we discovered that mountain biking is basically a guaranteed way to test your health insurance deductible. 

    Wildlife here is abundant (and I mean more than just the infinite number of ant hills you'll encounter!) with herons, ospreys, and dolphins offshore, plus mosquitoes and sand gnats that could’ve been cast as extras in a vampire movie. Road traffic near the main entrance occasionally breaks the natural vibe, but overall the park feels like an oasis, especially when dinner ends at a Mayport seafood shack instead of my half-charred hot dogs. 

    Insider tips? Yep, here’s a handful: (1) Book early and aim for shaded sites deeper in the loops where privacy is precious when you’ve got teenagers who 'need space'; (2) Bring industrial-strength bug spray and plenty of leveling blocks because they’re as essential here as sunscreen on the beach (which you should also NOT forget!); (3) Time your showers for the afternoon lull unless you enjoy the morning bathhouse rush, which resembles a theme park line without the rollercoaster at the end and plenty of people walking around in towels; (4) Treat yourself to a meal in Mayport where Singleton’s, Sandollar and Safe Harbor all serve up amazing seafood so fresh you’ll swear it jumped on your plate; (5) Stick to the lake for calmer paddles or hit the surf if you want to watch your brother-in-law get humbled by the ocean; and (6) Walk briskly near the lake unless you want to make friends with the resident ant colonies: they’re organized, fearless and seem to work in shifts. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Anastasia State Park Campground

    Sand Dunes & Sea Breezes Near Ancient City

    I’m following up on my review from over a year ago with updated insights, additional photos and a quick breakdown of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS: 

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) 139 shaded sites nestled under live oaks dripping with Spanish moss and palmettos with water and electric hookups; (2) Quick access to 4 miles of pristine Atlantic beach; (3) Amenities include bathhouses, dump station, camp store and rental concession; (4) Nature trails and birding along salt marshes and dunes; (5) Minutes from downtown St. Augustine’s history and attractions; (6) Nearby restaurants include O’Steen’s Restaurant, which is famous for fried shrimp, Mellow Mushroom offering hippie-themed pies and Salt Life Food Shack offering up casual seafood with rooftop views. 

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) Tight sites where large RVs may struggle; (2) No sewer hookups at individual sites; (3) Reservations book up fast, especially weekends – trust me, this is one of the MOST POPULAR CAMPGROUNDS in all of Florida!; (4) Mosquitoes and no-see-ums thrive in warm months; and (5) Road noise from A1A can be noticeable. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Krystal T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Ocean Pond Campground

    Great for a weekend getaway

    We stopped here as the last long leg of a 2500 mile journey. We checked in online so didn’t speak to the host as we got in after dark. We stayed in spot 39. The site is a bit of a squeeze for a bigger rig and full size suv. We were close to the bathrooms and beach access/gazebo. We were in the side closest to primitive camping so people were sparse but it had everything we needed. The washer and dryer came in clutch and we were the only ones utilizing the beach area which was super small. But worked great for a family of 3 such as ourselves. We didn’t use the shower house but they seemed clean and well maintained when checking them out. Our spot had water and electric with a fire pit and picnic table. Lovely grounds, would probably come back.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Anastasia State Park Campground

    Great park

    Feels secluded and amazing and the shops are great they have everything you need that you may have forgot or fun stuff for you to do

  • Jerri K.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Black Creek Ravine

    Very nice

    Was a very nice and quiet place to camp


Guide to Green Cove Springs

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."

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 158 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 115 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.