Tent camping near Key Largo connects you to a unique water-based wilderness experience unlike traditional campgrounds. Most sites require boat transportation, with platforms elevating tents above the water. The surrounding Gulf Coast and Atlantic waters maintain mild temperatures year-round, with winter temperatures averaging 65-75°F—creating ideal conditions for wildlife viewing during cooler months when mosquito activity decreases.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Hells Bay Chickee offers access via a well-marked trail suitable for beginner paddlers. "The trail is well marked for the most part and easy enough for a beginner paddler," notes Katie L., who completed the journey in January. The 3-4 hour paddle makes this an accessible backcountry experience.
Snorkeling and diving: Marine life observation remains the primary attraction at Elliott Key in Biscayne National Park. "Enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, and everything water. A boat is needed to reach these campgrounds and are tent only," explains Lindsay B. Water visibility varies seasonally, with clearer conditions typically occurring during winter months.
Wildlife spotting: While paddling to Shark Point Chickee, campers observe diverse marine species. "I saw sharks, dolphins, alligators, and different type of fish," reports Javier J., who kayaked 3-4 hours to reach the site. Dawn and dusk hours typically offer increased wildlife activity, though mosquitoes also become more active after sunset.
What campers like
Complete isolation: The remoteness of these sites provides a true wilderness experience. At Lane Bay Chickee, campers enjoy complete solitude. "Unlike the other chickees, it is a single platform, so your group will be the only ones out there," explains Liz M., noting that "we were completely alone" except for two small boats passing by.
Sunsets and sunrises: The water-surrounded platforms provide unobstructed views of the sky. At Pearl Bay Chickee, campers appreciate the natural light shows. "Enjoyed an awesome sunset and sunrise from the chickee. Stars were great but hard to enjoy because as soon as the sun goes down the bugs SWARM," reports Emily G., suggesting indoor tent activities after dark.
Fishing opportunities: Many platforms offer direct fishing access. At Johnson Key Chickee, Dan X. found "good fishing at the key, around the chickee, and for much of the paddle out. Caught a nice red on our float back to the mainland." Smaller fish species including snook and jack can be caught from most chickees.
What you should know
Insects and wildlife: Mosquitoes present significant challenges after sunset. "Mosquitos were awful right after sunset, but a strong north wind came in which blew them away," reports Liz M. about Hells Bay Chickee. Sites with less wind protection often require full netting and repellent.
Limited facilities: Most chickee platforms include only basic amenities. Porta-potties vary in condition and maintenance. "The porta-potty doesn't lock and someone put a string on it to hold it shut," notes one Hells Bay Chickee visitor. All sites require packing out trash and bringing all necessary supplies.
Weather considerations: Wind conditions significantly impact paddling difficulty. "We had 15 - 20 mph headwinds heading out which was BRUTAL, but the way back was WICKED breezy," explains Dan X. about reaching Johnson Key Chickee. Checking marine forecasts before departure helps prevent exhausting paddling conditions.
Platform surfaces: Some platforms have uncomfortable decking materials. "The decking used on the new Hells Bay chickee hurts ones feet after just a few minutes of walking on it, and tears up socks. Shoes are a necessity," warns Liz M. after visiting the renovated structure.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For first-time family adventures, choose closer sites. Pearl Bay Chickee offers a shorter paddling distance suitable for beginners. "The relatively short paddle is perfect for a first timer! It is among the shortest paddles for any chickee in the Everglades," explains Liz M., noting its accessibility even in windy conditions.
Entertainment planning: Pack cards or quiet activities for after sunset. "Pack some cards or something to do in the tent after sunset before bed," suggests Emily G., since mosquitoes force campers inside early. Waterproof games and books provide crucial entertainment when confined to tents.
Extra clothing: Water splashing onto platforms necessitates multiple clothing changes. Children particularly benefit from having dry options available. Many sites lack shade structures for drying wet items, requiring waterproof storage solutions.
Safety equipment: Life jackets for all ages remain mandatory, along with whistles and lights for each boat. Water visibility around chickees allows monitoring of potential wildlife, with alligators occasionally swimming near platforms.
Tips from RVers
Base camping options: Due to boat-in requirements for the best tent camping near Key Largo, RVers often use mainland campgrounds as base camps. Long Key State Park serves as a potential staging area. "It may be the best camping experience I ever had. I loved unzipping my tent and being 15 feet away from the water," reports Rick B., though noting reservations "go fast."
Water transportation: RVers visiting chickee sites must arrange boat transportation or rentals. Canoes and kayaks can be rented from concessioners near Everglades National Park entrances, with paddle distances ranging from 3-13 kilometers depending on chosen sites.
Gear packing considerations: Without vehicle access at sites, all equipment requires waterproof packing. "Use an empty drybag" to carry additional water for cleaning platforms, suggests Dan X., highlighting the need for portable, compact camping solutions different from typical RV setups.
