Key Largo camping sites sit at the northern entrance to the Florida Keys, just 33 feet above sea level and surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay waters. The tropical climate maintains average winter temperatures of 65-75°F and summer temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F. Tent camping spots remain limited in this region with a handful of established campgrounds catering primarily to RV travelers.
What to do
Water access: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Campground offers excellent snorkeling opportunities directly from the campground. "We had an incredible guide and captain, Adam and Ty. Also, this is a great place to have a kayak!!" shares Matt M., who visited in early 2025.
Fishing opportunities: Riptide RV Resort provides access for anglers looking to catch local species. According to Jack M., it's a "very nice people and great fishing community," making it popular with visitors focused on marine activities.
Wildlife observation: The nearby Everglades campgrounds provide excellent wildlife viewing. At Long Pine Key Campground, campers report sightings of native species. "This is true camping, there aren't a ton of amenities so the more prepared you are the better. The park is absolutely beautiful too. There are tons of gators, lizards, and other animals to find," notes Sam D.
What campers like
Small beaches: Despite the Keys not being known for sandy beaches, Key Largo Kampground & Marina offers small but functional beach areas. Cannon W. describes it as a "Diamond in the Rough" with a "small beach access. I had a nice quiet tent site in a shady mangrove cutout. Very cozy."
Waterfront access: Many campers specifically seek waterfront sites at Blue Fin Rock Harbor Marina & RV Park for sunrise views. One long-term guest noted, "My favorite thing about Blue Fin is starting my mornings on the water, watching the sunrise on my paddle board just steps from my front door!"
Privacy options: Sites with more seclusion can be found at certain campgrounds. Elgin S. mentioned about Key Largo Kampground: "We came from Maryland, excellent campground. Docking at your site for waterfront spots is an awesome perk. Two small beachy areas, though wouldn't suggest swimming there."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have experienced issues with water systems. At Encore Miami Everglades, one camper reported, "The water tested positive for fecal indicator e coli on August 1st & they failed to notify campers until 48 hours later!"
Site spacing: Many Key Largo area campgrounds feature tightly spaced sites. At John Pennekamp, a camper named Rick G. noted: "Limited property equals limited spaces between sites. But, once you get out and enjoy all there is to do we really didn't mind the tight spaces too much."
Bug protection essential: Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be problematic throughout the Keys region. A visitor to John Pennekamp warned, "Make sure you bring a thermacell bc they are no joke!" Mosquito problems intensify during summer months, particularly in Everglades locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Encore Fiesta Key provides family-oriented water activities. One family reported, "We loved Fiesta Key! Some of our favorite parts of this resort were the weekly farmers market, the Easter egg hunt on Easter, the restaurant, snorkeling from the shore."
Educational options: Families can combine camping with learning experiences. At Flamingo Campground, one visitor mentioned, "We enjoyed our visit and got to see a lot of the famous wildlife," while another noted the campground provides "direct access to protected marine areas and snorkeling tours."
Safe swimming areas: Pool facilities provide alternatives to ocean swimming. Kirsten J. shared about Fiesta Key: "We have a toddler and each time she loved the pool & beach area. We love sunset point everyone hangs out there, shares drinks makes friends etc."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully consider site location. At Key Largo Kampground, Tod H. advised: "The sites are level and graveled. There is water and electric at every site. There are 2 bathhouses for the campground. They have made an effort to have them centrally located but it can be a bit of a walk."
Electrical options: Most Key Largo area campgrounds offer full hookups. Chris A. at Long Pine Key noted a different situation: "There are not utilities on the sites. Shower houses, while clean, provide solar 'hot' water. The showers nearest my site had signs that hot water was not available."
Space considerations: RV site dimensions can be misleading. Eric R. warns about Long Pine Key: "Camp sites have not been maintained like they should have, lots of overgrown brush in the campsites, which makes them harder to squeeze into. If the website says it fits a 40-foot, then it might actually fit a 35 footer."
Guide
