Sebastian Inlet State Park is located about 30 miles south of Indialantic along Florida's Atlantic coast. The park spans 1,000 acres with camping options situated on a narrow barrier island between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, while summer months bring 75-90°F temperatures with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing at inlet access points: Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground offers prime fishing spots where visitors can catch snook, redfish, and mackerel. "Wonderful state park right on the inlet," notes Michelle M., while Brian C. adds, "Amazing little campground right on the water... If you're trying to surf or fish stay here!"
Nature watching year-round: Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities across its varied ecosystems. "We saw a giant sea turtle bigger than a manhole cover. We watched dolphins play at sunrise," shares Nora B. The park's location between the Indian River Lagoon and Atlantic Ocean creates diverse habitats.
Rocket launch viewing: Cape Kennedy RV Resort offers convenient locations for watching space launches from nearby Kennedy Space Center. "Stayed for the night to watch the SpaceX rocket launch. Great view as soon as it cleared the trees," reports Daniel G. Launch schedules are available online and the campground often fills quickly around major launch dates.
Stargazing in dark sky areas: Kilpatrick Hammock Campground at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park provides exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "The night sky was pretty dark but I couldn't see the Milky Way (there was a half moon during my stay)," explains Monte W. The preserve is designated as Florida's only Dark Sky park, making it worth the drive from Indialantic.
What campers like
Water access from sites: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers sites with direct water access for fishing and relaxation. "We stayed on a waterfront site at River Ranch RV Resort and it was perfect! We were able to fish right off the dock at our site," reports Tina S.
Clean facilities: Jetty Park Canaveral Port Authority maintains well-kept facilities despite heavy use. "Easy check in even though we arrived after hours! Very friendly. We had a shady spot with a concrete pad and full hookups," writes Cindy A. The park regularly cleans restrooms and common areas.
Activity options beyond camping: Westgate River Ranch Resort includes numerous on-site activities for all ages. "Westgate River Ranch (walking distance from our site but still got a golf cart) we went to the rodeo on Saturday night, did a swamp buggy ride, skeet shooting, petting zoo and rode a mechanical bull," shares Tina S.
Shaded campsites: Vero Beach Kamp offers sites with mature tree coverage for protection from the Florida sun. "Nice shaded dirt camp site. Mixture of overnight and long term campers," notes Mack W., while LA D. mentions, "Small tent area enough for about 4 tents close together... but clean and very nice!"
What you should know
Bug preparation essential: Several parks near Indialantic require insect protection, especially during warmer months. "Bugs, especially the 'no see ums' were pretty bad - so bring bug spray," advises Paul Y. about Sebastian Inlet. Similarly, at Kissimmee Prairie, Melissa B. recommends "bring a insect tent to sit out in!!!"
Distance from supplies: Kilpatrick Hammock Campground is remote with no nearby stores. "Expect a long travel to this remote site. It's a couple miles of reasonably decent dirt roads to get there, after several miles of remote highways," warns David G. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies.
Site differences within campgrounds: Cape Kennedy RV Resort offers varying site quality within the same property. "This campground has a split personality. The west side has nice wide concrete sites, the east side is on dirt and gravel and not so nice," explains Mark S. Researching specific site numbers before booking can improve your stay.
Advance booking requirements: Popular cabin accommodations near Indialantic often require reservations months in advance, particularly during winter. "Our first time camping in an rv and could not have picked a better spot. The staff were so helpful welcoming and friendly," notes Russell S. at Cape Kennedy RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Consider multi-activity resorts: Cape Kennedy RV Resort offers family-friendly amenities beyond just camping. "Clean sites level sites. Even the tent camping is level and clean," notes Dan B. The resort includes a pool and playground area.
Look for educational opportunities: Sebastian Inlet State Park provides ranger programs and interpretive trails ideal for children. "This was our very first camping trip with our new camper. Absolutely beautiful state park with so much to do and see!!! From bird watching to swimming, to paddle boarding, to kayaking, to biking, the possibilities are endless!!!" shares Roiann C.
Check bathroom cleanliness: Family campers report bathroom quality varies significantly between properties. "The bathrooms were filthy," reports one visitor to Vero Beach Kamp, while Lane P. notes about Sebastian Inlet, "I can't say enough about the site and people that run this place. Bathrooms are spotless and the sites are perfect."
Pack for challenging terrain: Some cabin sites near Indialantic have difficult ground for tent stakes. "It is hard to stick the tent poles because it is gravel floor, so bring strings," advises Andrea about Sebastian Inlet State Park, highlighting the need for special equipment even at established sites.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Brevard County Park Wickham Campground offers spacious sites for larger rigs. "Beautiful and expansive grounds. quiet. perfect fit," notes Sarah L. This campground is particularly suitable for big rigs with its paved pads.
Road navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult internal roads. "Paved roads are extremely narrow, can't see a big RV being able to navigate in and out," warns Daniel G. about Cape Kennedy RV Resort. RVers should call ahead to confirm access for larger vehicles.
Hook-up variations: Hook-up quality differs significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are decent size. Lots of sites with shade. Close to Indian River and the beach," notes Amber H. about Vero Beach Kamp, which offers full hookups at most sites but limited amenities at primitive sites.
Consider rental options: For those without RVs, cabin rentals provide comfortable alternatives. "We stayed in a cabin at this park. Beds were a little uncomfortable, but other than that, everything was great," mentions Missi S. about her stay at Cape Kennedy RV Resort, one of several properties offering cabin rentals within 30 miles of Indialantic.
