The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Jacksonville Beach. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Florida camping adventure.
$12 - $30 / night
The campground has 139 sites for both RVs and tents, all located within the beautiful maritime hammock and just a short walk or bike ride from the beach. Certain sites are paved and have accessible picnic tables and grills. All sites have electricity and water, a picnic table, an in-ground grill and a fire ring. A communal dump station is free for park campers. Please put your trash in the compactor near the entrance to the campgrounds. Anastasia also offers the Bedtime Story Camper Lending Library of picture books for campers ages 4 to 9. Ask to check out a book from the ranger station. Pets are permitted in accordance with our Pet Policy. Maximum RV length = 38 feet. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in the park, except for campers who consume alcoholic beverages within their campsites. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call or TDD 888-433-0287.
$28 / night
Little Talbot Island State Park is located near Jacksonville on one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Florida. The campground is nestled among ancient dunes in a lush maritime hammock of live oaks, American holly and Southern magnolias.
Each of the 36 campsites has 20- and 30-amp electricity, fresh water, fire ring and picnic table. The campground offers a laundry facility and two bathhouses with hot showers. Both restroom facilities are ADA accessible. A dump station is available at the campground exit for RV campers.
Winding tidal creeks border the western edge of the campground where a canoe/kayak launch is available along with a bait cleaning station and short dock into Myrtle Creek. Please note that Myrtle Creek is tidally dependent, and launching may be difficult at low tides when oyster beds are exposed. Bring your own equipment or visit Kayak Amelia, 1/4-mile north of the campground, for daily boat rentals or guided tours. For children, there is a playground, a campfire circle for group use and the ¾-mile Nature Loop trail that offers self-guided Hike and Seek interpretive programs. Junior Ranger activity booklets are available at the ranger station, and kids can earn badges and pins for completing a variety of activities. Kids also can participate in the park trash patrol and help collect a bag of litter in exchange for a prize. Beyond the camping area, visitors find 5 miles of undeveloped coastal beaches, a 4-mile hiking trail, and a paved path perfect for bicycling and in-line skating. Well-behaved, attended and leashed pets are welcome in our campground, on the trails and paved areas. They are not allowed on the boardwalks or beaches. Maximum RV length = 30 feet. Hammocks – day use and camping styles – are allowed in designated sites if they are hung using 1-inch-wide (minimum) tree-hugger straps from trees 6 inches in diameter or larger.
Exploring Little Talbot Island’s undeveloped beach is a unique Florida experience.
Little Talbot Island is one of a handful of undeveloped barrier islands remaining in Northeast Florida. Boasting more than 5 miles of pristine beaches and 3 miles of bike trails, Little Talbot offers untouched natural beauty and diverse ecosystems for visitors to explore.
There is, of course, the white sand and rolling surf typical of many high energy coasts. But there is also the eroding sun-bleached roots and fallen trunks of cedar and palm that create a linear tapestry of natural sculptures.
Enjoy beachcombing, surfing, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, a winding kayak journey along the bluffs of Myrtle Creek and camping in a lush forest hammock. There is something for every outdoor lover on Little Talbot Island.
North Beach Camp Resort is dedicated to offering you a memorable North Florida beach camping stay. Enjoy our resort amenities, complete RV Park, tent campground & cabin rentals and easy access to our area activities. Enjoy the shade and privacy afforded by our tall, moss-laded oaks and palmettos. We have outstanding sunrises and sunsets.
North Beach Camp Resort is located on 30-heavily-wooded acres on a barrier island between the saltwater North River and the Atlantic Ocean, just 4.5 miles north of historic downtown St. Augustine and 24 miles south of Jacksonville Beach. Our prime northeast Florida beach camping location makes us the destination of choice for in the know campers!
$67 - $245 / night
$1 - $40 / night
$25 / night
Flamingo Lake RV Resort has a variety of beautiful, spacious sites that will accommodate just about any size RV that you or your group might have. Sites are clean, well equipped and well maintained.
Whether you are looking to spend a night with family and friends around a campfire under the moss covered branches of the live oak trees, or looking for the rugged challenges and solitude of the wilderness, you will find it on Cumberland Island National Seashore. The park includes a designated Wilderness area, undeveloped beaches, historic sites, cultural ruins, critical habitat and nesting areas, as well as numerous plant and animal communities. The national seashore also offers a wide variety of camping opportunities.________ Watch the "Camping on Cumberland Island" video for information to help you plan an d prepare for your trip.__ Campgrounds Cumberland Island offers five campgrounds , which include designated campsites at Sea Camp and Stafford Beach; and Wilderness campsites at: Hickory Hill, Yankee Paradise and Brickhill Bluff. Camping is only permitted in these five campgrounds. A permit is required to camp in any of these five camping areas. Getting There __ Visitors must take a boat to the island. Most visitors arrive via the Cumberland Island Ferry from St. Marys, Georgia (see Park Concessioner Services below).__ The ferry does not transport automobiles or RVs. Check the ferry schedule prior to reserving your Cumberland Island National Seashore Camping Permit unless you are traveling by private boat. The ferry does not operate on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from December through February. Island Information Cumberland Island is 18 miles (29 km) long and .5 miles (.8 km) to 3 miles (5 km) wide. Bring your cell phone if possible. Use airplane mode to reserve battery power. There is electricity at the Sea Camp Ranger Station, Sea Camp Campground, and Stafford Beach Campground for recharging devices. Dial 911 to report emergencies and disturbances.__ There are no stores, restaurants or other amenities on the island. After arriving on the island, campers must hike, walk or bike from the dock to the campgrounds and transport all gear. There is no transporation service. The distance ranges from .5 miles (.8 km) to Sea Camp to 10.5 miles (17 km) to Brickhill Bluff.____ Carts of any kind and wheeled coolers are not allowed north of Sea Camp Campground.__ Hammocks permitted only with hammock stands. New for 2021. See Superintendent's Compendium__ Be prepared for extreme weather, sun exposure, and a variety of insects. Ticks, no see-ums, and mosquitoes are prevalent during summer months; protect yourself accordingly. Understand your limitations; the island has no conveniences; be prepared for a remote setting and a harsh environment. Bicycle and Carts For information on using carts and camping with bicycles visit the Cumberland Island Camping Page__ For information on bicycle and cart rentals, as well as transporting your bike to the island visit Cumberland Island Ferry webpage .____ Ferry Reservations, Bicycle and Cart Rental, and Tour Reservations - Contact: Cumberland Island Ferry at www.cumberlandislandferry.com or call (877) 860-6787.__________ Cumberland Island Ferry passengers must check-in at the Cumberland Island Mainland Visitor Center in Saint Marys at least 30 minutes prior to their ferry departure time: https://www.nps.gov/cuis/planyourvisit/be-ready.htm__ Campers must deboard the ferry at the Sea Camp Dock (not at the Dungeness Dock).____
There are over 50 miles of trails and roads as well as 18 miles of beach. Hiking, biking, camping, birdwatching, and beachcombing are popular activities on the island.
There are over 50 miles of trails and roads as well as 18 miles of beach. Hiking, biking, camping, birdwatching, and beachcombing are popular activities on the island.
The island is home to more than 17 miles of undeveloped beach, a maritime forest of oak hammock and long leaf pine, tidal creeks, and marshland. Visitors can see an abundance of wildlife from deer, turkey, alligators, and bobcats, to snakes, tortoises, lizards, and hundreds of migratory birds.
City of St. Marys, GA - St. Marys, Georgia, the gateway to Cumberland Island National Seashore, a small coastal village located in southeast Georgia remains one of Georgia's best kept secrets, a place rich in history, natural beauty and Southern hospitality. St. Marys and Cumberland Island National Seashore provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.__ Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge - In southern Georgia and northern Florida there is a very special place, one of the oldest and best preserved freshwater systems in America. Native Americans called it Okefenoka, meaning ___Land of the Trembling Earth___. Now this place, where earth, air, fire and water continuously reform the landscape, is preserved within the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, created in 1937 to protect wildlife and for you to explore.__ St. Marys Submarine Museum - This museum is a great place to learn about the "Silent Service". A wide variety of Submarine artifacts, memorabilia and information are available for viewing, and you can view the beautiful St Marys waterfront through a real periscope.__ Crooked River State Park - Located on Georgia's Colonial Coast, this park offers cozy facilities in a beautiful setting. Campsites are surrounded by Spanish moss-draped oaks, while most cottages overlook the river. Hikers can explore the nature trail, which winds through a maritime forest and salt marsh. A boat ramp is popular with anglers who often take to the water before sunrise.__ Fort Frederica National MonumentTimucuan Ecological & Historic PreserveCity of Jacksonville, FL__
Refund and Cancellation Policy Cancellations 10 days or more before the start date of the reservation will result in a refund of the permit cost minus a 25% cancellation fee. Cancellations less than 10 days from the start date of the reservation will result in a refund of the permit cost minus a 50% cancellation fee. No refunds will be granted for cancellations one day prior to the start date of the reservation. When a reservation is cancelled, those dates will be made available for other campers at a random time within 24 hours. Changes Before Permit is Printed: The Refund and Cancellation Policy will be applied to all changes to the reservation. The start date of the reservation cannot be changed without cancelling the reservation. A new reservation must be made. Cancellation fees apply and fees associated with making a new reservation apply. Changes may be made to the number of people (maximum 6 per site) with the same dates and trip itinerary. Changes can be made by logging accessing your reservation on recreation.gov or by contacting the Call Center. Reservations are non-transferable. After Permit is Printed: Changes cannot be made to permit once it is printed. Changes will require a cancellation of the permit and reserving a new permit, if space is available. All cancellation fees and new reservation fees apply.__ Permits can only be printed within 10 days of the arrival date. You cannot change your site assignment. All permits must be honored as they are. Ensure every person on the camping permit has reserved a round-trip ferry ticket or has transportation via private boat. No-Show Policy If you do not cancel and decide not to use your reservation, no fees will be refunded. Please cancel your reservation if you are unable to use it as this opens space for others.
$40 / night
$12 - $30 / night
The campground has 139 sites for both RVs and tents, all located within the beautiful maritime hammock and just a short walk or bike ride from the beach. Certain sites are paved and have accessible picnic tables and grills. All sites have electricity and water, a picnic table, an in-ground grill and a fire ring. A communal dump station is free for park campers. Please put your trash in the compactor near the entrance to the campgrounds. Anastasia also offers the Bedtime Story Camper Lending Library of picture books for campers ages 4 to 9. Ask to check out a book from the ranger station. Pets are permitted in accordance with our Pet Policy. Maximum RV length = 38 feet. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in the park, except for campers who consume alcoholic beverages within their campsites. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call or TDD 888-433-0287.
$28 / night
Little Talbot Island State Park is located near Jacksonville on one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands in Florida. The campground is nestled among ancient dunes in a lush maritime hammock of live oaks, American holly and Southern magnolias.
Each of the 36 campsites has 20- and 30-amp electricity, fresh water, fire ring and picnic table. The campground offers a laundry facility and two bathhouses with hot showers. Both restroom facilities are ADA accessible. A dump station is available at the campground exit for RV campers.
Winding tidal creeks border the western edge of the campground where a canoe/kayak launch is available along with a bait cleaning station and short dock into Myrtle Creek. Please note that Myrtle Creek is tidally dependent, and launching may be difficult at low tides when oyster beds are exposed. Bring your own equipment or visit Kayak Amelia, 1/4-mile north of the campground, for daily boat rentals or guided tours. For children, there is a playground, a campfire circle for group use and the ¾-mile Nature Loop trail that offers self-guided Hike and Seek interpretive programs. Junior Ranger activity booklets are available at the ranger station, and kids can earn badges and pins for completing a variety of activities. Kids also can participate in the park trash patrol and help collect a bag of litter in exchange for a prize. Beyond the camping area, visitors find 5 miles of undeveloped coastal beaches, a 4-mile hiking trail, and a paved path perfect for bicycling and in-line skating. Well-behaved, attended and leashed pets are welcome in our campground, on the trails and paved areas. They are not allowed on the boardwalks or beaches. Maximum RV length = 30 feet. Hammocks – day use and camping styles – are allowed in designated sites if they are hung using 1-inch-wide (minimum) tree-hugger straps from trees 6 inches in diameter or larger.
Exploring Little Talbot Island’s undeveloped beach is a unique Florida experience.
Little Talbot Island is one of a handful of undeveloped barrier islands remaining in Northeast Florida. Boasting more than 5 miles of pristine beaches and 3 miles of bike trails, Little Talbot offers untouched natural beauty and diverse ecosystems for visitors to explore.
There is, of course, the white sand and rolling surf typical of many high energy coasts. But there is also the eroding sun-bleached roots and fallen trunks of cedar and palm that create a linear tapestry of natural sculptures.
Enjoy beachcombing, surfing, fishing, hiking, birdwatching, a winding kayak journey along the bluffs of Myrtle Creek and camping in a lush forest hammock. There is something for every outdoor lover on Little Talbot Island.
North Beach Camp Resort is dedicated to offering you a memorable North Florida beach camping stay. Enjoy our resort amenities, complete RV Park, tent campground & cabin rentals and easy access to our area activities. Enjoy the shade and privacy afforded by our tall, moss-laded oaks and palmettos. We have outstanding sunrises and sunsets.
North Beach Camp Resort is located on 30-heavily-wooded acres on a barrier island between the saltwater North River and the Atlantic Ocean, just 4.5 miles north of historic downtown St. Augustine and 24 miles south of Jacksonville Beach. Our prime northeast Florida beach camping location makes us the destination of choice for in the know campers!
$67 - $245 / night
$1 - $40 / night
Guide
First of all we stayed during thanksgiving week. The amount of families and kids having fun and exploring nature was so refreshing! The check in was quick and easy. Even though I messed up my reservation the campground made the accommodations available work for myself, my partner, and our dog. The walk from the camp to the beach was short and the bathhouse was close and clean as well! This was a great experience for us and a place every family should visit and try.
Traveler
This campsite has it all. Full hookups, plenty of space, a gorgeous view, ample lounge areas, and a fantastic host. I have stayed here twice in girls’ trips and always felt incredibly safe.
Guide
North Beach campground is super pretty with oaks and palm brush creating privacy between sites. Our site 27 was really great, although it did have the street in back so you can hear cars but mostly during the day. The beach is GORGEOUS and right across the street with a great restaurant, The Reef. In back of the property was the river/intercoastal where there was another restaurant, Aunt Kates. We loved having both options! Location is about 10-15 minutes from old town so just know you have to drive and find parking. I do wish the campground offered WIFI bc cell signal was pretty much 2 bars. None of this hampered our visit though, we will 100% come back!
Traveler
I stopped here to stay overnight on a Thursday as I was passing through. There was only one camper but did not know that until I left the next morning. It was quiet and felt secluded. The sites were close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site.
Traveler
We just purchased our 33’ Salem travel trailer and we used Island Oaks as our shakedown trip. Honestly, its going to be hard to top this first trip. My Wife and I traveled with our 2 young children and our pup. We never had to leave the park, they had EVERYTHING. Heated resort pool with tiki pool bar & music, beach front lake with a massive inflatable obstacle course, an on-site restaurant & ice cream shop, not to mention multiple fenced dog parks. I cant say enough positives about this place! I chose a pull through site and it had sewage, water, & electrical hook ups. They do offer free Wifi, however I would not rely on it, it was spotty at best. Dont think twice. Give this resort a try. It’s a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere!
Scout
I tried to get reservations on the state park website and kept getting an error message. On further investigation it appears they closed in Feb 2024 because of erosion. I'll keep checking and will update this review if/when they reopen.
Scout
Level concrete sites, pull through, only used electric. Did not use bathhouse or restroom facilities. Heard no road noise due to little air conditioner, running. Nice waffle breakfast in the Econo Lodge, which is adjacent. $54. Aug 18, 2024
GuideWe have stayed here several times over the past few years. It's very convenient and bear the beach. Very nice sites and plenty of shade for the summer months. The staff are very helpful and friendly. I gave it a 3 star only because we have had multiple problems with electric not keeping up with running the ac and microwave. This time we had an issue with the sewer hook up. It was so high above ground we had to raise our rear end of the RV to empty the tanks. We stayed at over 5 different sites. Everything is far to get to. You will need to drive or ride a bike. The bathrooms weren't cleaned during our two day stay even though the checklist in the bathroom said it was cleaned.
ScoutThis is public park. So not only campers allowed in. Nice campground. Very private sites. Lots of things to keep busy. Bathroom ammeties need to be updated. Unfortunately, they have a problem with the homeless stalking camps day and night. We noticed several people roaming around that didn't look to be camping or there for the day. Had a bike stolen from our site at 7 in the morning while we were in our camper. Very unsettling to know you are being stalked, especially with children... Homeless camp less than a mile away. We will not be returning.
Legend
We had site 111, which we picked up last minute as there was a cancellation. Great site with plenty of room to spread out. Just big enough for our 33’ Class A. The beach was a 7 minute walk and easy. Nice gift shop and restaurant if food is needed and very close to the amphitheater.
Tons of spiders (nature). The bathrooms and showers are right at average. Ranger was very nice.
Legend
OK, I get it. Maybe it’s late at night, you’ve been on the road for hours (if not days) and maybe you’ve even got little ones who just need to get some fresh air. We’ve all been there, so maybe it’s late one night and you are contemplating whether or not to layover here at Horne Lake RV Resort. Perhaps it’s dark out and pure exhaustion is about to set in, so you shrug your shoulders and are about to decide to spend the night. But wait, just hold onto that thought a little longer.
My personal advice would be to look at some of the other nearby campgrounds and RV parking lots around and chose a better spot. Trust me, there’s quite a few GOOD ones to choose from, but hey, if you’re too tired and just don’t care, well, then this place won’t kill you. Plus, it’s dark at night, so you probably won’t see what a borderline nasty spot this actually is. That said, be weary of all the bad roads as you drive through this little highway roadside campground spot, which has one small loop that is jam-packed with other road weary travelers like yourself driving either a big rig or RV.
From an amenities standpoint, there’s not much, however, there is a small community pool and firepit along with a propane refilling station as well as a little joint that serves as a storefront / restaurant, although I wasn’t enticed to eat there. All of the basic amenities are provided: 30 & 50 amp electrical, water and sewage lines. The sites are all paved, albeit not terribly well, and oh, there’s a community laundry facility on site, but the dilapidated conditions of the units were enough to keep us away from using them. Beyond this, not much else to say about the place.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) If you missed it somehow on the first go around, don’t stay here, unless you have no other viable options, but per my suggestion, there’s a number of other places far better and much easier to pull up and drop anchor at than this roadside dump; (2) If you are looking for somewhere to dip the beak of your kayak or canoe, then just head due north where right at the GA / FL state-line you’ll be able to explore the very wonderfully dark St. Mary’s River, which if you follow it easterly, you’ll eventually be greeted by the Atlantic Ocean after first passing Fort Clinch State Park (a great place to park your RV BTW) on the right; and (3) When you grow weary of trying to figure out that next on-board meal from the depths of your mini-fridge, then head on over into St. Mary’s on the GA side where you can find a number of great foodie digs like The Green Room Sicilian Café & Deli, Horse & Cow Pub & Grill as well as McGarbey’s Wee Pub South.
Happy Camping!
Legend
Ever fantasized about parking your RV so near the ocean that you could feel the salt spray coming off those Atlantic ‘white caps’? Well, look no further than Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort, which depending upon the specific RV slot you are fortunate enough to book here, you too could be kicking back and living life in the 'slow lane’ right in front of idyllic white sand beaches against a backdrop of an endless aquatic blue horizon. Located just 8 miles / 20 minutes south of St. Augustine (a.k.a. Ancient City), Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort resides on the famous A1A, but down in this neck of the woods, you will find that you have escaped the whir of traffic, busyness of everyday life and won’t have to put up with the touristy side of this northernmost Floridian outpost.
As for this location itself, Bryn Mawr boasts the largest family pool in the county (which I cannot independently verify here), although there are actually 2 swimming pools, along with a spa and private walkways with beach access to some of the finest ocean views along the eastern seaboard. Boasting some 236 RV slots, Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort is a massive RV oceanfront wonderland, hidden in the shades of the palms, wherein you’ll enter the compound through a very well appointed security gate after first being greeted by the good folks at the main office building. Once inside, you’ll swerve a bit around the bend to the right before heading straight, wherein on both sides of this RV ‘main street’ you’ll intersect four different perpendicular lanes (Sea Bird, followed by Sea Coast, then Sea Dog and finally Sea Eagle) before reaching a T intersection (at Sea Eagle) where you’ll have to either turn left or right in order to access the 9 (yes, count ‘em, 9) vertical RV slotted lanes (and unfortunately, yes, all of them also begin with the word ‘Sea’, making it very difficult to remember which ‘Sea’ lane you are in) that from north to south are called: Sea Fan, Sea Gull, Sea Horse, Sea Jetty, Sea Anchor, Sea King, Sea Ladder, Sea Millie and Sea Nettle.
Nomenclature aside, it all doesn’t really matter if you are looking for simply the best, which are the oceanfront RV slots (that run parallel to the beach along Sea Otter lane), whose numbered sites are #219– 238. Trust me, whatever the premium is to pay and park in one of these 20 RV slots is ABSOLUTELY worth it, given the proximity to the beach, as well as the additional distance from traffic that you’ll have back here in the furthest reaches of Bryn Mawr Ocean Resort. Oh, and then there's the priceless oceanfront views you'll have - but to be clear, that really only works out if your particular RV has a rear-facing panoramic view, otherwise, you'll have to get outside your vehicle and post a few picnic chairs to enjoy the view.
Amenities: dog park / pet walking area, basketball court, lighted tennis / pickle-ball courts, shuffleboard, complimentary WiFi and cable, main office with marketplace store, spartan showers & restroom facilities (there are multiple units spread throughout the RV campus), laundr-O-mat, activity center, horseshoe pitch, propane refill station and children’s playground. Of course, all RV sites come with full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric along with water and sewage) and concrete pads. There’s also scattered picnic tables, BBQ grills and fire rings.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While I’ve already HIGHLY recommended the oceanfront slots of #219– 238, I would also recommend the following locations (if being near the ocean is important to you): 82, 96, 110, 123, 135, 249, 143, 154, 167, 168, 250, 181, 195, 209 and 218; (2) This place is one of the most pet-friendly RV outposts I’ve come across, so don’t be shy about bringing all your pets – I couldn’t find a single RV’er who didn’t have at least 1 dog, if not an entire entourage of cats, iguanas, fish and even an alpaca en towe!; (3) While next to the ocean is great, you will feel a substantial lack of privacy with the spaces being quite close to one another, so if that bothers you (and let’s be honest, it should), then when booking, ask for what available spots there are to determine which of those offer up the most amount of either space or privacy; (4) When you get tired of trying to figure out what that next meal is going to be when staring down at your mini-fridge or Cordova roto-molded cooler, then check out some local haunts, like Salt Water Cowboy (where anything from the Land, Sea and Swamp section like fried Alligator is pretty amazing), World Famous Oasis Restaurant or Connolly’s Shore Grill for fresh caught seafood; (5) If you are looking for a decent place to do some great hiking, then look no further than due southwest of Bryn Mawr where you can check out Matanzas State Park, that has miles and miles of unspoiled hiking trails with virtually the entire place to yourself (save the deer and gators that you might come across); and (6) Carrying watercraft and looking for a nice spot to hit the water? Then I HIGHLY recommend Princess Place Preserve AND Faver-Dyke SP that offers access to the Matanzas and Tolomato Rivers as well as Pellicer Creek.
Happy Camping!
Legend
If you find yourself up in the northeastern corner pocket of the Sunshine State, and for some reason end-up here in Palatka (a.k.a. The Farmer’s Market of the entire State of Florida) and looking for a spot to park your mobile living room on solid ground, then Crystal Cove Marina & RV Resort might just be the spot for you. Careful though, as there are only about 8 spots here to choose from (although this RV riverside stand is promising 40 more tree-lined RV slots in the near future), but all sites come with full hook-ups including 30 / 50 electrical, water and sewage. There are no picnic tables, BBQ grills or any other amenities to speak of, but you will have direct access to St. Johns River with an amazing boat launch. That’s about it.
Other than the pavement that you will drive on upon entering this spot or the flat and level sandy locations that you will park upon, there’s not a whole lot to this particular place, although there is an incredibly nice restaurant / bar scenario called ‘The Lighthouse’ (formerly named ‘Captain’s Cove Bar’) which is a decent bar with all of the usuals on tap and on shelf. There’s food trucks and live music on the weekends, but bear in mind that your RV will be parked in the same spot as said food trucks along with all of the local parking traffic that overruns the parking lot you will find yourself in.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) While there’s not much to offer in these parts, you are right near Palatka, which is kind of an overgrown town, that has a number of standard drive-by restaurants that you’ll expect (Chili’s … add every standard fast-food restaurant chain here), but there are a few hidden gems, of which, I highly recommend Corky’s Bell Seafood @ Gator Landing, which I would encourage you to try the fried whole catfish or the mahi-mahi served grilled or blackened; (2) Despite the bar offering here at Crystal Cove, which might keep you rooted because it’s just so dang easy and close, I would highly recommend a trip to Welatka Lodge Resort, which for a 25 minute ride south along the St. John's River will certainly impress; and (3) If you’re looking for a great slice of nature to discover and hike / fish / kayak / etc. then head on over to Etoniah State Forest, which is less than a 20 minute drive from Crystal Cove and there’s 4-5 amazing hiking trails to explore as well as Georges Lake with which to cast a line.
Happy Camping!
Legend
Located due southeast of the country's oldest town of St. Augustine (a.k.a. Ancient City) and just a few stone’s throw west of the busiest highway that runs north-south in the entire state of Florida (I95), this RV park (more permanent vs. transitory, mind you) is perfect for anyone looking for EZ access to both I95, US1 and even slightly further afield the glorious A1A. While definitely on the smaller side with only about 30 or so slots and, thus, more intimate, this location offers up full hook-ups (30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) for mostly back-in and just a few pull-through sites. There's a simple circle loop to the layout, where midway through you'll come across an access point to a small tributary from the Pellicer River, which is a perfect access point for kayaking and canoeing - just beware of the alligators, which show up in packs during mating season.
As for amenities, apart from the Pellicer Creek itself and the small slice of earth that you will enjoy peace & quiet at, there isn’t much that this location offers apart from a designated picnic table and hook-ups at each site. There are no bathrooms or shower facilities per se. The place isn’t terribly level either as you drive towards the creek, it will be on a slight descent, while a slight ascent will greet you upon your return and eventual exit. That said, this place does get high marks for having a key-coded security gate to enter with, which given the very close proximity to I95 and US1 is a very welcomed feature indeed. WiFi does exist here but we barely got a bar. And as far as the slots themselves go, there isn’t much of any privacy as the slots are very close to one another, but unlike a lot of other places we’ve been to, there wasn’t much noise during the day or at night.
Insider’s Tips? Here’s a few: (1) Apart from the amazingly nice people who run this place, there is little to love about a campground that is more for RVs than actual outdoor tent campers, so if you are the latter and want a supremely amazing tent-pitching experience, then you are in great luck as just nearby and less than 15 minutes away you have Princess Prairie Preserve or Faver-Dykes SP both just due east; (2) If you have grown tired of firing up franks & beans for another meal, and while there’s not much within close proximity to this campground, fret not, jump in your vehicle and head north on I95 to Smokin’ D’s BBQ and if you are looking for some great seafood, then head east of this BBQ pit stand to The Commander’s Shellfish Camp for some great steamed shrimp and iced tall boys; (3) When you are looking for something really different to keep yourself entertained, head across the street from Pellicer Creek Campground to Shantytown Village, which is a former oyster farm that now features rustic buildings that feature local artisans, craftspeople and vendors selling their wares and on the weekend the place is transformed into a farmer’s market; and (4) While the access point to the Pellicer Creek is arguably the greatest asset this campground has, and as enjoyable as the creek is, it is slow-moving and not terribly eventful, making it a really good oaring for about an hour in either direction, but for more avid waters with which to navigate, you’ll want to head over to either Princess Prairie Preserve or Faver-Dykes SP (are you seeing a pattern here?!) for some excellent paddling.
Happy Camping!
GuideBike to the Old City or see it from the water in your kayak. A beautiful beach is just minutes away by foot or bike. Was quiet at night. Super clean bathhouse. A few raccoons so take necessary precautions with trash and food storage.
Scout
First time using a military campground. Neat concrete pads for pull through or back in RVs. Nice community building with nice showers and a huge laundromat. Some sites overlook a small lake.
ScoutCamp sites are very nice. It’s right across the street from the beach. The problem I had was for the price you would think the bath houses would be I better condition. I guess they were clean but in such bad condition I couldn’t be sure.
Guide
Beautiful place, nothing to complain about
GuideWe stopped in on our way to Lakeland, FL. Beautiful campground and well maintained. When we booked online it said only 2 spots to choose from but the park was 50% empty. Would definitely stay here again if we have the chance.
Guide
Took some rough dirt roads to get to this campsite. If you value peace and quiet you will love this campsite. It’s more primitive than anything in my opinion. Star gazing out here is absolutely immaculate. The sites here are pretty large. You could fit several tents in these sites. Some limited service.
ScoutI have stay at Island Oaks several times and we love it We had some issue when first stayed but I chalked that up to a teaching lesson. Now I have 30 amp extension and a longer 50 amp power cord. Yes it is a dry county on Sunday but that’s only one day. You will not be disappointed to stay there. They also have live music on Saturday and so far it’s never been disappointing You will enjoy it.
TravelerBeach is beautiful. Lots to do in the area. Ride your bike all day. Relax on the beach. Lots of history to learn. Don’t forget the farmers market on Saturday. Sites are a little too close.
Legend
'Schinus mole' is the Latin genus for Pepper Tree, which oddly here in the States can be traced clear to the other coast where it is better known in the great state of California and less so here in Florida. Whatever the origins for the name and / or its impact on the nomenclature of this particular RV park one thing is sure to be true, which is if you are looking for a bit of spice to add to your wanderlust, than look no further than PepperTree RV Paradise!
Got an RV and looking to get as close to one of the best locations near Crescent Beach? Then PepperTree RV Paradise might just be your overnight parking oasis that can easily be found south of St. Augustine down the legendary A1A. This is a particular special stretch of golden sand dunes where traffic and retail materialism give way to the open road, soft breezes blowing off the Atlantic, which will no doubt lure you to discover its goldmine of rough, rugged sandy beaches with towering palms swaying in the backdrop as if to beckon you closer.
As for the location itself, this RV oasis is on the smaller boutique side and conveniently located on Anastasia Island between St. Augustine (a.k.a. Ancient City) to the north and Palm Coast to the south, which in this particular spot, if your ideal getaway involves broad beaches without too many tourists, then you’ve found the right destination. Here, you’ll discover one of the most amazing beachheads in Northern Florida, where the sand is a mixture of churned up seashells, golden sand speckles and the elusive shark tooth, which litter this seaside beach haven where the waves frolic in the ocean, the sun's ray dance on your skin and the sun sheds plenty of light from early dawn until the late-night embers from your oceanfront bonfire burn bright in stark contrast to the whitecaps breaking in the ocean's distance.
Back to the campground, well, it's not much of a campground per se, as it is more a conveniently located parking lot for RV's, 5th Wheels and semi-permanent trailer houses. For my tent-pitching bredren, you would be advised to skip this location in favor of other locations just a couple stone’s throw from here – although the best nearby seaside oasis deserving of your attention would be Anastasia Island SP. Back here at Pepper Tree RV Resort, there's a small loop that encircles the grounds, dissected in the center with another roadway. What's pretty fab about this joint is that it's got a really nice, small pool (lots of the residents were hanging out there all day long drinking Margaritas) adjacent to the resort's main office, which also has (get a load of this…) its very own on-premise laundry room. The bath houses are equipped with showers, are immaculately clean and provide ample space to get your laundry washed, dried and folded. Addtionally, there's designated dump stations and recycling areas scattered throughout the premises. If you are looking for amusement, in addition to the beach that sits just across the street, there’s also a basketball court, shuffleboard pavilion and horseshoe pits here at this RV resort.
Insider’s Tips? Here’s a few: (1) When you grow tired of staring down the bottom of your onboard mini-fridge or roto-molded Cordova cooler and want to check out some local fare, for just ‘meh’ (Millennial speak for 'average') food that has a decent vibe, check out Connolly’s Shore Grill, Seafood Kitchen of St. Augustine or Hurricane Grill & Wings, but if you want some really delish, unique local dishes, then head on over to Salt Water Cowboys, but do be sure to get a reservation as this place fills up; (2) If you’ve got hiking or biking in your plans, then head south to the famed Washington Oaks Garden SP where you’ll have a good 4 miles or so of pathways to enjoy amongst a beautiful view of the Matanzas River all beset against a backdrop of a most beautiful Floridian botanical garden; (3) Should you come towing a kayak or canoe and looking for the perfect spot to launch, again, head south to either the Southeast Intracoastal Waterway Park or Fort Matanzas Beach Drive Access where you can easily launch into the very picturesque Matanzas River and catch a bird’s eye view of the Fort Matanzas National Monument; (4) Whether with your kids or perhaps on a picnic date with your significant other, if you can make your way here, check out Rattlesnake Island, which is a discoverer’s slice of heaven that resides just due west of the A1A; and (5) IMHO the best spots here at PepperTree RV Paradise are those located closest to the pool, which also feature an amazing view of the on-site lagoon, with those specific hard-to-get sites being #1– 9 due west of the main office or #77– 78 (+ A & B).
Happy Camping!
TravelerThe lush tropical vegetation and nearby incredible beaches, trails and other facilities, plus the welcoming, professional staff make Hanna Park a GREAT experience. What an amazing asset for the City of Jacksonville! This was our 3rd visit, and we stayed 3 nights -- now we hope for more time on our next visit! The website is informative and includes good descriptions of each campsite to assist in making reservations. The campground is clean, quiet and relaxing. Our campsite was level, private and convenient. Be sure to stroll on the beaches at sunset!
GuideSites here have a good amount of shade which is great for summers in Florida. Check-in process is easy and park is clean and quiet. Close to beach and trails. A little bit of an obstacle course for bigger RVs with all the trees and narrow roads. This particular site is a little odd shaped. We have a 34' TT so I think a smaller rig would have an easier time setting up and more room. Even the 40' sites on this loop seem a little more narrow than our last one we stayed in between D and E. I would stay within those sites next time but still not a bad visit.
Guide
This review is for CRSP Cottage 10, a 2 bedroom, 4 bed, 1 bath, pet friendly house down a quiet road within the park. The park staff at the gift shop were very kind and engaged. They collected our balance and $50.00 pet fee there. Not all cottages are pet friendly. Cottage 10 is...so plan ahead! Despite that, there was 0 smell when we entered the cottage. It was very clean! Exceptional view of Crooked River! Our family of four loved s’mores under the stars and twisted coastal trees. There is a jumbo picnic table and fire pit. Carrying meals out was no issue and so much less exhausting than cooking on the Coleman stove and dealing with gear and tents. That’s also a fun experience, but coming back to AC and a private bathroom after a full day of hiking Cumberland Island is worth the nightly price tag. One day it poured. We comfortably watched the storm from the cozy screened-in porch. The kitchen is well stocked, minus a cutting board. No biggie. Made do. I always travel with a reliable and sharpened kitchen knife, kitchen scissors, and my trusty cast iron pan. But I was surprised to find supplies at the cottage like paper towels, toilet paper, and dish washer pods. The beds are comfortable and the linens and towels are clean and plentiful. It was a great experience and we would love to return.
Scout
Great place to stay! Quiet and friendly place. Stayed for 8 months while searching for a home in Jacksonville. Will recommend to family and friends.
Camping near Jacksonville Beach offers a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while being close to the ocean. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to relax, explore, and make lasting memories.
Whether you're looking for a beach getaway or a nature retreat, camping near Jacksonville Beach has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular campground near Jacksonville Beach, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Jacksonville Beach, FL is Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park with a 4.4-star rating from 94 reviews.
What parks are near Jacksonville Beach, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Jacksonville Beach, FL that allow camping, notably Cumberland Island National Seashore and Osceola National Forest.
