Tent camping around Key Largo includes some unique sites that require a bit of planning. At Biscayne National Park, you'll find tent sites on Elliott Key that you can only reach by boat. These spots sit close to the water with good views, but you'll need to arrange transportation to get there. Over in Everglades National Park, backcountry chickee sites like Hells Bay Chickee let you camp on platforms above the water, which works well for tents. The flat platform surface makes for easy setup. Some sites feel more private than others depending on where they're located. Bathrooms can be a long walk away in many cases, so come prepared. Most of these camping areas require either boating in or hiking a good distance, so pack carefully. The tent pads give you enough room for normal-sized tents without problems. You'll usually need to park and then walk to reach your actual tent site. There's not much natural shade, so bringing your own canopy is a good idea. It's smart to book ahead, particularly when it's busy. Key Largo tent campgrounds offer a distinctive Florida coastal camping experience with opportunities to explore surrounding marine ecosystems. Some sites have helpful features like lantern hooks. Key Largo tent camping lets you experience the unique Florida Keys ecosystem up close, with many sites providing direct water access for swimming or paddling. Whether you're checking out the mangroves or just enjoying being near the coast, camping in these parks makes for a different kind of trip.
"You are going to need a lot of water, sun screen, food supplies, sleeping pad, and your tent. Is a lot of work but fhe view, the silence, and the wild life is amazing!"
"Wind kept bugs blown away."
"A boat is needed to reach these campgrounds and are tent only. No reservations."
"We saw a ton of wildlife, beautiful waters, and views. Unfortunately, there's a TON of liter (not the park's fault, just dirty people who don't care about the environment)."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $25 - $60 / night
"Currently 4 sites open (tent only). Very quite."
"Long Key campground is positioned right next to US 1 so you can hear traffic throughout the night. This campground offers waterfront campsites that you can paddle from. The views are amazing."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $23 / night
"We have only done 1-2 overnight paddle trips before, but the park rangers were very helpful in getting us set up. The paddle took about 3-4 hours each way but we took our time."
"We kayaked the Hells Bay trail in January and had a great time. The trail is well marked for the most part and easy enough for a beginner paddler. The chickee was windy, but in good repair."
from $23 - $33 / night
"Brand new and ADA certified as much as a platform over water can be! Both platforms have ladders and the eastern platform has small steps down towards the water level for those with limited mobility."
from $23 - $35 / night
"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. Saw sharks and lot of seabirds."
from $21 / night
from $23 - $31 / night
"Unlike the other chickees, it is a single platform, so your group will be the only ones out there."
"There's a small trail around the wooded end of the island. You can stay on your boat or pitch a tent on the island."
"It has a beautiful waterfront view and plenty of picnic tables. Toilets are available but no showers, sinks or drinking water. We enjoyed our stay there but remember to bring bug spray!"
from $25 - $60 / night
GuideReally nice clean campground clean showers and bathrooms snorkeling diving glass bottom boats kayak rentals on site went on the snorkeling trip really inexpensive $45 went to Christ of the abyss beautiful reef lots of colorful fish all around great time
RangerHere’s a review you can post:
We had a fantastic time at Flamingo in Everglades National Park! The scenery is beautiful, the wildlife viewing is incredible, and there’s always a chance to spot alligators, birds, manatees, and other amazing creatures. The marina area is well-maintained, and the peaceful views across Florida Bay are unforgettable.
One thing to be prepared for: the mosquitoes can be intense, especially around sunrise and sunset. Bring plenty of bug spray and apply it often. With good insect repellent, the mosquitoes are manageable and definitely not a reason to miss this unique experience.
Overall, Flamingo is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The wildlife, sunsets, and natural beauty make it well worth the trip!
GuideStayed in Feb ‘24. We were one of the few tent campers we saw. Lots of generator noise but cutoff times were appreciated. Our site was a bit of a walk to the bathroom but nothing crazy and it was decently private, only really had neighbors to one side and across. Plenty of room for the 2 tents we had, firewood available for purchase, shower water left something to be desired but better than nothing.
ScoutI had a really amazing experience that has gotten me hooked on camp life. Between the beautiful nature trails, various on-site activities and clean friendly environment I can say with certainty that I am now a camper for life!
GuideI personally loved the Long Pine Key Campground, after being twice earlier this year. One trip was short and sweet with one other person as a site visit for a larger group the following month, and in February the weather was PERFECT! Cool, clear nights and no bugs. So peaceful and perfect, our team thought our next trip with our field school would be a breeze. Highly recommend visiting in February or while it’s still cool if you can!
We returned in March, Spring Break, with a bunch of environmentally focused college students at their group site and 5 additional sites. And they LOVED it, even after a rocky start facing the strong Florida thunderstorms, waiting out the rain and then setting up in the dark. The rain was so needed, and honestly meant the world to the students to see the ecosystem come to life while in this drought.
The group site housed 5 tents, and our additional sites had 2 each (students were told not to hang up hammocks on their sparse trees per the campground rules), and we were able to stay relatively close together and still have some breathing room for the beautiful vegetation between the sites. Keep an eye out for critters, especially snakes surrounding the campsite. We saw multiple cottonmouths and even some babies, super cool but want to keep your distance.
The restrooms are clean, dish sink is a godsend, and showers were warmed by solar (score!). We are so thankful to the campsite for taking care of all of us, and it’s worth the adventure. Bugs, snakes, weather, and more, full send it!
GuideWe booked a small travel trailer air bnb here for the week. We had a private dock on the canal. If we had kayaks or a boat you have direct access to the state park nearby and the Atlantic from either your dock or the marina. Bath house were clean. Quiet at night. The campground is a mix of full time residents, snowbirds, renters in campers, RVs and a few tents. There is a heated pool, laundry, lots of games and two small sandy beaches. Easy stay while exploring the keys.
LegendThere is something truly magical about waking up surrounded by swaying palms and that unmistakable saltwater breeze, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo feels like stepping straight into a tropical adventure designed for families. This is a well-known and beautifully maintained state park with a moderate number (like 40 total) of campsites tucked among the trees, offering a mix of privacy and EZ access to the park’s main attractions, with clean restrooms, showers and plenty of kid-friendly activities that keep little ones engaged from sunrise to sunset. One of our favorite moments was taking the boys out on the glass bottom boat, watching their faces light up as colorful, exotic fish drifted through the coral reef below us, a memory that felt equal parts educational and awe-inspiring. While the sites are close together, offering next to zero privacy, the restroom / shower facilities were good (not great) and overall, the vibe of being here was quite positive. I would absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its unique ocean experiences, well-kept facilities, and unforgettable activities that make it so much more than just a place to sleep.
LegendThere is something about arriving in the Keys that instantly slows your pace and flip flops you into a world of immediate calm and Key Largo Kampground captures that feeling the moment you pull in, with a 40-acre waterfront setting along the Atlantic, replete with a mix of varying quality RV sites, along with a relaxed, lived-in layout that feels more like a coastal neighborhood than a traditional campground, with mostly level sites tucked among palms and just enough shade to take the edge off the Florida sun. The amenities lean into that island lifestyle with a marina, pool, small beaches, playground, and plenty of space for fishing, kayaking, and exploring and while some sites are a bit tight, the campground is known for being clean, very organized, friendly, and well-equipped for families and especially for the geared for the 'blue bird special' crowd, all just minutes from shops, restaurants, and the famous reef attractions nearby. One afternoon, we grabbed a casual dinner nearby at Snook's Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar and came back to let the boys run around near the water's edge while my hubby and I watched boats drift in as the sun dipped low ... one of those simple, golden moments that somehow defined the whole trip. I would absolutely recommend this campground for families thanks to its waterfront setting, abundance of activities, and unbeatable location at the gateway to the Keys.
TravelerClean, quiet and full hookups. Bath with showers and laundry. Lots of blacktop to bike. Right on a Marina and beaches.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does primitive camping work in the Florida Keys near Key Largo?
Primitive camping near Key Largo primarily involves backcountry sites in Everglades National Park, many requiring boat or kayak access. Backcountry Shark Point Chickee can be reached by a 3-4 hour kayak journey and offers an immersive wilderness experience with opportunities to see marine wildlife. Backcountry Northwest Cape provides beach camping where you'll need to place your tent above the high tide line. For these sites, permits are required from the park service, and you must bring everything you need—water, food, shelter—and pack everything out. There are no facilities, so prepare for true leave-no-trace camping and bring insect protection as no-see-ums and mosquitoes can be intense.
Where are the best tent camping spots in Key Largo?
The Key Largo area offers several excellent tent camping options. Long Key State Park Campground provides a beautiful setting with four tent-only sites that require a short 100-yard walk across a boardwalk from your parking spot. The park is notably quiet and peaceful. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Boca Chita Key — Biscayne National Park offers waterfront camping accessible only by boat, with grills, picnic tables, and gorgeous aqua waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Both locations provide unique Florida Keys camping experiences, though be prepared for insects, particularly no-see-ums, especially during evening hours.
What campgrounds in Key Largo offer tent sites and what amenities do they provide?
In the Key Largo vicinity, Backcountry Hells Bay Chickee offers a unique tent camping experience on elevated platforms over water, with some sites featuring porta-potties. The chickee is accessible via a well-marked kayak trail suitable for beginners. Backcountry Pearl Bay Chickee provides an ADA-certified platform with ladders, steps toward water level for those with limited mobility, railings, and two porta-potties. These platforms are designed for tent camping directly on the wooden deck. Neither location offers running water, showers, or electricity, so campers must bring all supplies including drinking water. Both provide incredible opportunities to experience the natural beauty of the Florida Keys ecosystem in relative solitude.
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