Camping spots near Dunedin, Florida range from primitive island experiences to full-service RV parks within a 30-mile radius. The subtropical climate creates distinct camping seasons, with November through April offering lower humidity and temperatures averaging 60-75°F. Water access sites along the Gulf Coast provide opportunities for wildlife viewing year-round, with sea turtle nesting season restrictions between May and October.
What to do
Explore island trails: At Caladesi Island State Park Campground, accessible only by water, visitors can enjoy secluded beaches and nature paths. "You can only access this island by boat or ferry from honey moon island. we have always accessed it via kayak from the causeway leading to honeymoon island. there's lots of great sandbars, and mangrove tunnels for kayaking," notes one camper.
Fish from waterfront sites: Waterfront camping at Hickory Point RV Park offers direct access to the Anclote River. "We had a waterfront site, great campground. Spendy but worth it. Has boat launch, waterfront community area, volleyball, small beach, dock, etc. Short drive from downtown Tarpon Springs and several beaches," reports a visitor.
Cycle extensive trail networks: The Pinellas Trail connects many camping areas, with Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offering both paved and natural cycling paths. "Large, beautiful campground with miles of trails, natural and paved for cycling. Nature education center for children. Playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers," explains a camper who visited the park.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The primitive Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground offers undisturbed nature experiences. "We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak. During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves," shares one visitor.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise. "Office staff is amazing. The upkeep here is like a machine. Daily trash p/u by 10am (don't leave it out over-night, or critters might get it first!) Mail forwarding; AMAZON delivery. Super easy to hit all the attractions locally. Restaurants close. Undoubtedly the Cleanest showers I've ever seen!" reports a camper at Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA.
Water activities: Swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities abound at oceanfront sites. "We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 132 for 3 days in mid April. The CG is very clean, well maintained, but relatively expensive. They have beach chairs near the water and a fire pit that they lit every evening near sunset," notes a visitor to Hickory Point RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Securing spots at popular locations requires planning. "Starkey's Campground has everything you could want or need. Friendly staff, plenty of critters, and beautiful trails to walk. Campsite #9 has so far been my most favorite spot here. It's VERY spacious (could easily fit 5 large tents here)," explains a camper at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Primitive camping preparation: Island camping requires self-sufficiency. "Anclote Key Review There is only 1 way to get to Anclote Key and that is by boat. Whether you take the few hours and kayak the 3 miles over from Tarpon or motor in from one of the many docks in the area that is the only way you can get here," advises a visitor, adding "EVERYTHING- and they mean everything you bring on the island must be taken off with you!"
Seasonal considerations: Weekend crowds impact camper experiences. "IF YOU ARE HOPING FOR PEACE AND QUIET, DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND I went on a Friday night, and the entire campground was PACKED. Very loud, too many tents packed into each site," cautions a camper about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature child-friendly recreation areas. "The playground is nice with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," shares a visitor to Fort De Soto Campground.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. "We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer. The park has separate primitive tent, car-camping (tent) and cabin campgrounds near the entrance of the park along with over 50 miles of biking, hiking, nature as well as equestrian trails to enjoy," reports a Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park visitor.
Beach proximity: Family-friendly beaches are often minutes from camping areas. "The site was just a 10 minute drive to north beach, which is our favorite. There is plenty to do in the area," notes a Fort De Soto camper, who also mentioned seeing "dolphins, sting rays and manatees" during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "We come down for a week in the summer to various places in FL and after a great experience last year, we gave this one a try again. The sites are spaced out far from each other which was great! I have travelled to a lot of parks That have sites right on top of one another," shares a visitor to Caladesi RV Park.
Amenities evaluation: Full-service amenities differ between parks. "Immaculate grounds, clean and modern bath houses, three laundry rooms. Very dog friendly with doggy bag stations and dog parks. Right on the bayou with a kayak launch and docks for fishing and relaxing," reports a visitor to Bay Bayou RV Resort.
Proximity to services: Location convenience impacts RV camper satisfaction. "The lots have space. They are not on top of each other. The lots, bathrooms and laundry room are all kept clean and well stocked. We first came here a year ago and I was worried about it being so close to a main road, but after staying here I can tell you that it's very quiet and relaxing," explains a Caladesi RV Park visitor.
