Fort De Soto Campground offers tent, RV, and glamping sites on a county-managed property about 15 miles from Indian Rocks Beach. The 1,136-acre park sits at sea level on five interconnected islands with white sand beaches and mangrove forests. Water temperatures range from 65°F in winter to 85°F in summer, creating different camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling trails: Fort De Soto Park provides direct water access for exploring mangrove tunnels and observing wildlife. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons oftons of Birds!" reports one camper after paddling the park's waterways.
Historical exploration: Visit the historic fort at Fort De Soto Campground for a glimpse into Florida's military history. "The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit!" notes a reviewer who spent time exploring the park's cultural features.
Fishing from campground docks: Several campgrounds provide fishing access directly from their properties. "There is a fishing dock near where we stayed. Lots of catfish," reports a visitor to St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, located approximately 10 miles from Indian Rocks Beach.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Waterfront sites at many campgrounds offer chances to observe marine life. "We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees," writes a camper who enjoyed Caladesi Island State Park, where boat-in camping allows overnight stays on a pristine barrier island.
Bicycle-friendly infrastructure: The Pinellas Trail provides easy cycling routes connecting multiple campgrounds. "The pinellas bike trail is right behind the park and has beautiful scenery," notes a camper at Caladesi RV Park, highlighting the accessibility of cycling opportunities.
Waterfront camping spots: Campsites backing up to water features are highly sought after for their views and privacy. "Our site was nice and deep, with a weird little island (former tree/stump) in the middle. We opted to put the 'kitchen' towards the back of the site with the water view," describes one camper at Fort De Soto Campground.
What you should know
Limited availability at peak times: Popular campgrounds in the Indian Rocks Beach area require advance planning. "Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," advises a camper who secured a waterfront site.
Pet policies vary widely: While many campgrounds welcome pets, weight and breed restrictions apply at some locations. "The Scottish Traveler RV Park enforces a 20-pound weight limit for pets and allows pets to stay for a maximum of 14 days," according to local regulations.
Weather considerations: Florida's climate affects camping comfort significantly. At Avalon RV Resort, one camper noted: "Sites were small, Service was friendly, Okay amenities- small pool, dog 'park' was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities."
Insect protection required: Mosquitoes can be abundant, particularly near mangrove areas and water features. "Bring good bug spray lol," advises a Fort De Soto camper, while another warns about Vacation Village RV Resort: "This is a mosquito heaven!!! Being bug spray or candles! You will see a large amount of bugs in your area."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities for children: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Indian Rocks Beach offer swimming options for families. At St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, "They have a heated pool, mini golf course, shuffle board, dog run," notes a visitor who appreciated the family-focused amenities.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for younger campers. At St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, a visitor observed "a playground 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."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing and historical sites provide learning experiences for children. One camper at Clearwater RV Resort mentioned: "Kids loved the pool, but playground needs updating. It is a place to stay, but not a destination in itself."
Tips from RVers
Site size variations: Many campgrounds near Indian Rocks Beach feature close quarters between RVs. "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," reports a camper at Caladesi RV Park, highlighting its roomier layout compared to other local options.
Parking challenges: Maneuvering larger rigs requires planning at some facilities. "Be careful entering the park. Very sharp turns," warns a visitor to Vacation Village RV Resort, where tight roads can challenge drivers of larger vehicles.
Full hookup availability: Most RV parks in the area provide complete utility connections. At Bay Bayou RV Resort, a camper noted: "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."
