Vero Beach camping areas extend beyond oceanfront sites into inland preserves, freshwater marshlands, and riverfront locations. Winter temperatures average 72°F while summer sees consistent 88-90°F days with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September. Campgrounds within 30 miles of Vero Beach provide access to both Atlantic beaches and the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem, where paddling opportunities connect campers directly to Florida wildlife.
What to do
Kayaking the waterways: At Long Point Park Campground, campers can launch directly from their sites. "We love this park! You tie your boat up at your campsite. Great for kayaking, fishing and paddle boarding," notes Suzie F., who recommends bringing mosquito repellent for summer visits.
Wildlife observation: The inland marshes at Savannas Recreational Park offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities away from ocean beaches. "If you like kayaking and uniquely Florida nature, this is it. This is paradise. List marshlands with twists and cuts for paddling. Birds you never knew existed. Great fishing. And of course, alligators," explains Amanda K.
Fishing access: Sebastian Inlet State Park provides both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities from multiple locations. "Nice camp ground for fishing and bringing the boat along. Some spots are tight in the front row. The back loop has a little more room," advises Melissa B., who warns about no-see-ums (tiny biting insects).
Beach proximity: Most Vero Beach area campgrounds are within 15-30 minutes of Atlantic beaches. At Donald MacDonald Campground, campers appreciate the balance of nature with beach access. "Great sites with direct waterfront access. Some sites are accessible by boat. We pulled our kayaks/paddleboards in and out of the water right at our site," shares Angela S.
What campers like
Water access sites: Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground offers waterfront camping with wildlife viewing opportunities. "This park is right on the water. We saw a giant sea turtle bigger than a manhole cover. We watched dolphins play at sunrise. We were parked right across from the water," reports Nora B.
Clean facilities: Treasure Coast RV Park maintains exceptionally well-kept grounds and amenities. "The pads you'll be parking on are newly poured concrete and the whole place is landscaped to full effect. Behind the welcome reception is the community pool (and hot jacuzzi – bonus points!), which is pretty amazing," explains Stuart K.
Spacious sites: Many parks provide adequate spacing between camping spots. "Sites vary in sizes. Large number of water sites," notes Michael Y. about Long Point Park, though he cautions about late checkout issues: "Waited inline to dump for 90 mins. Everyone leaving at 11am checkout. 2 dump stations."
Shaded camping spots: Vero Beach Kamp offers tree cover that helps during hot months. "Nice shaded dirt camp site. Mixture of overnight and long term campers," describes Mack W., who stayed for two nights and even "watched a rocket launch from our campsite."
What you should know
Seasonal crowd patterns: Winter season (November-March) brings significantly higher occupancy rates. "It is hard to get a reservation in the winter as all the snow birds are down from the north," warns christal about Long Point Park Campground.
Water quality considerations: Some campgrounds have well water with distinct characteristics. "Clean campground with parking on the grass, great access to views and water. Nice camp but all on lawn and a little tight," reports Jon K. about Long Point Park, while Michael Y. mentions "sulfer well drinking water" at the same location.
Insects preparation: No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "The bugs/ants are a little much, and the roads within park definitely need to be repaired," notes Kymberly C. about Sunshine Travel RV Resort. At Donald MacDonald Campground, Amy T. advises: "If you're going during the summer months, bring loads of bug spray."
Reservation timing: For prime waterfront sites, reservations often open 6-12 months in advance. "We got lucky and were able to stay on spot #1, with water views and more space. Some of the other campsites felt a little cramped," shares Andrea about Sebastian Inlet State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Private tent areas: For tent campers with children, Donald MacDonald Campground offers secluded sites. "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., who appreciated the "good bathroom and shower, and lots of trails to explore."
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. At Road Runner Travel Resort, facilities include "a pool, tennis courts, shuffle board, a chip and put golf course, a store, and more!" according to Mitchell, who found the staff "super friendly."
Beach proximity: Sebastian Inlet State Park provides direct beach access and educational opportunities. "Amazing little campground right on the water. Clean restroom facilities. Close to beaches. People are friendly. If you're trying to surf or fish stay here!" recommends Brian C.
Budget considerations: Donald MacDonald Campground offers affordable rates for families. "One of the best little places to get your youngins out into nature for the first time... It's small but has everything that a campground should have. Nice pier to fish off of, little nature trail, and a boat launch. And to top it all off it was cheap!" shares Tiffanie C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Long Point Park, note the different site layouts. "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., who appreciates that "you can view a photo of site when booking on their website."
Site surface considerations: Different campgrounds feature various parking surfaces. "Sites are level and gravel with a fire pit and a brick patio area with a picnic table," reports Lee D. about Fort Pierce-Port St. Lucie KOA, contrasting with concrete pads at other parks.
Utilities access: Water, electric, and sewer connections vary by location. At Savannas Recreational Park, Mike Y. notes: "Even number sites tend to be the best as power sewer and electric would be on left side. Odd number sites you are going to need extra length power cords, hose and sewer connection."
Seasonal booking strategy: For winter visits, start planning far in advance. "They book up fast with folks who have been coming here for years so that's a good sign. We got lucky and landed a cancellation for a few weeks," shares Ari A. about Treasure Coast RV Park.
