Camping near Jacksonville Beach, Florida offers a mix of coastal and inland sites within a subtropical climate zone that averages 221 sunny days per year. The region's unique combination of Atlantic coastline, inland waterways, and maritime forests creates diverse camping conditions across different seasons. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F with high humidity while winters remain mild enough for year-round yurt camping and glamping accommodations.
What to do
Beach exploration: 5 miles of undeveloped shoreline at Little Talbot Island State Park provides pristine beaches for walking and beachcombing. "About 5 miles of packed sand made an easy walk. Take your kite!" notes Denise O. The beaches are "not very many people, the beach is beautiful whitish sand, water is clear," according to Judith P.
Miniature golf on-site: Crooked River State Park offers unusual camping recreation with their own mini-golf course. "There was also putt putt golf course as well which made for a fun time!" says Alyssa M. The ranger will rent clubs and golf balls at budget-friendly rates, making it an affordable activity option.
Water sports in clear waters: Take advantage of inflatable water slides and swimming areas at Flamingo Lake RV Resort, which features "a lake and swimming area with a water jungle gym," according to Kurtess R. The resort also offers "swan boats" and a "crystal clear" lake that's perfect for cooling off during hot Florida days.
What campers like
Fort exploration and living history: The historic military installations at Fort Clinch State Park attract history buffs. "19th Century Coastal Army Fort. Museum, guided and self tours," mentions Art L. The park regularly hosts historical demonstrations and period reenactments that bring coastal defense history to life.
Private waterfront camping sites: Several campers appreciate the waterfront sites with minimal crowds. "We stayed on site 39 with a full hook up, small view to the river out back. Very private and large site with direct access to trail along the water," notes Cathy C. about Crooked River State Park.
Reliable facilities and clean amenities: Comfort matters to campers in the Jacksonville Beach area. "The bathrooms were clean and well maintained. Site size was good enough for us and hammocks are permitted," Crystal M. mentions about Fort Clinch State Park. Most campgrounds in the region prioritize bathroom maintenance, with several offering private shower facilities.
What you should know
Tight sites at some locations: Space limitations affect some campgrounds in the area. At St. Augustine Beach KOA, "The sites are tight together... they are backed-up to a strip mall. So at night when trying to sit by fire or enjoy a TV show outside you can hear all the A/C's units from the strip mall compressors kick on and off non-stop," reports Doug E.
Flooding and drainage issues: Some sites experience water problems during heavy rain. "The sites are fairly unlevel with roots from the ancient and live Oaks popping up here and there making it very difficult to find a decent level patch of ground to set up camp," notes Stuart K. about Little Talbot Island State Park, adding that "Some of the sites have dips and depressions in them, making those particular areas prone for flooding."
Insect management essential: Mosquitoes and biting insects can be intense, particularly in wooded areas. "Mosquitos, midges and bugs exist here in swarms that never go away … so bring your repellent as well as smoke fogger machine!" advises Stuart K. This is especially important during summer months when humidity peaks.
Tips for camping with families
Free breakfast options available: Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA offers complimentary morning meals. "They serve free waffles and pancakes in the morning too," says Susan R., while Lisa N. confirms they provide "free waffles and orange juice/coffee for breakfast."
Multiple playground options: Several campgrounds feature play areas for different age groups. "They have a lot of things for the kids to do such as swimming, water slide, playground, mini golf," notes Kelsey about Jacksonville North-St. Marys KOA. These facilities provide entertainment options when not exploring beaches.
Family-friendly bathroom setups: Look for campgrounds with family bathroom facilities. "The bath house near us was clean and modern and had four separate accessible private bathrooms with toilet, sink, and shower so it would be easy for families to take all the kids in at once," shares Cyndi B. about Crooked River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Trash pickup convenience: Several resorts offer direct site pickup. "We loved that they have trash pick up daily right at your spot. They have dog walking bag stations with trash cans," reports Kurtess R. about Flamingo Lake RV Resort, which simplifies waste management for longer stays.
Yurt camping alternatives near Jacksonville Beach: For those interested in yurt camping near Jacksonville Beach, Florida but traveling with an RV, Ocean Grove RV Resort offers glamping options alongside traditional RV sites. "Great full hook up, paved site with easy access to beautiful St Augustine Beach. There's also a large, clean pool area with hot tub, big fishing dock with small boat/kayak ramp, and bar/restaurant at the pool," shares Amy M.
Security considerations: Gated entry provides peace of mind. Ocean Grove RV Resort gets "extra points for providing a gated entry point with actual staff that adds additional layers of security, important given the proximity to the A1A," according to Stuart K., who also advises "the best spots here at Ocean Grove are those that are waterfront: F138–F141 next to the fishing pier or J100–J126."
