Camping options near Vero Beach, Florida cater to diverse preferences with sites located both inland and along coastal areas. The region's subtropical climate creates year-round camping possibilities with summer highs averaging 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. Many camping areas are situated within access to unique ecosystems including freshwater marshes, pine flatwoods, and coastal hammocks.
What to do
Rocket launch viewing: Blue Cypress Campground offers prime viewing spots for Kennedy Space Center launches. "We called Vero Beach Camp the morning of our stay and they welcomed our reservation for 1 night. Beautiful shaded campground, nice swimming pool, clean and quiet. We will definitely come back. The rocket launch was scrubbed so we will try again!" shares a visitor at Vero Beach Kamp.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple camping areas provide direct water access for anglers. "Sites are decent size. Lots of sites with shade. Close to Indian River and the beach. Close to restaurants and groceries. On the highway, but traffic noise is minimal," notes one camper about Vero Beach Kamp.
Nature exploration: Take advantage of preserved natural areas. "We went on an airboat ride. It was great. We really enjoyed the rodeo," mentions a visitor at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo. The resort combines outdoor activities with western-themed entertainment.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention facility maintenance as a standout feature. "The campground is probably the cleanest we had stayed in yet! Most spots are shaded. It seems like 75% of spots are full timers and 50% work. The middle of the campground closer to the pool seems to be for shorter term guests," reports a visitor to Road Runner Travel Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local animals. "Great place to enjoy the sky at night with no outside lights to disturb the viewing of the stars. The camping area is nice and peaceful. Clean bathrooms. Hot showers," notes a visitor to Kilpatrick Hammock Campground.
Water recreation: Access to waterways ranks high on camper preferences. "We stayed in spot 323 which had its own swing and fireplace. Our 37 ft rig fit perfectly and five year old loved riding bike around the park. Everyone was super friendly and I recommend renting a golf cart, though expensive at $60 a day," shares a visitor about River Ranch RV Resort.
What you should know
Reservation timing: High demand means planning ahead, especially during winter months. "This KOA is the best one we've ever stayed at. It's an actual resort with a golf course in the middle. You get all the same amenities at a usual KOA with bonus ones like poolside food delivery, golf tee times, tennis and pickle ball tournaments, bingo nights," explains a visitor at KOA Campground Okeechobee.
Tent camping limitations: Not all glamping close to Vero Beach offers traditional tent setups. "There are no tents allowed here. They have tents that are already set up on platforms and they have holes all over the sides and bottoms, so they are not sealed properly and full of mosquitoes," warns a visitor about Phipps Park Campground.
Bug preparedness: Florida's climate supports active insect populations. "There is a lot to do here, stayed at site 347. It's costly but it worth it. Have to watch out for the mosquitoes so bring a lot of bug spray," advises a camper about River Ranch RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds have specially designed areas for children. "There is no playground for kids but basketball tennis etc. We were almost the only ones in the pool during the week. There is a really nice beach for kids 15 mins away on Hutchinson island," notes a visitor at Road Runner Travel Resort.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing creates learning experiences. "The wildlife just weren't afraid of humans. Our 6 teenagers were so excited to stand face-to-face, only a few feet from gentle deer, bunnies, and turkeys. We even saw some lazy baby alligators sunning on the Military Trail," shares an enthusiastic family at Kilpatrick Hammock Campground.
Diverse accommodation options: Luxury glamping near Vero Beach provides comfortable alternatives for families not keen on traditional camping. "Group of friends and family decided to stay on this gem, I was pleasantly surprised! Clean bathrooms and showers. Lots of amenities for kids like mini golf, zip lining and mechanical bull riding," describes a visitor at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers recommend researching specific site characteristics. "In our initial search for a two week stay in east FL we missed this park as an option. Thankfully, just looking at Google Maps, I noticed it and checked in. On short notice they were able to find us a great shaded spot which was much appreciated. The property is clean with paved roads and super large lots that you just don't find anymore," shares an RVer about Road Runner Travel Resort.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies considerably between locations. "Be aware of telephone phone reception. At our spot we could not get any reception with ATT. After buying a Verizon hotspot down the road in Lake Wales, we were able to WFH," advises an RVer about River Ranch RV Resort.
Facility amenities: Check which hookups are available at your specific site. "The sites are mostly large enough for Big rigs...There are upgrades to deluxe sites with brick patios, barbeques, fire pits and chairs," explains a camper about KOA Campground Okeechobee.
