Best Campgrounds near Key West, FL

Camping in the Florida Keys centers around Key West and neighboring islands, with waterfront locations dominating the landscape. Boyd's Key West Campground and Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort are among the most popular options, offering tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Most campgrounds provide direct water access with marina facilities, boat ramps, or docks. Stock Island and neighboring keys like Sugarloaf and Big Pine host several campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of downtown Key West, providing alternatives to the limited camping options on Key West proper.

Advance reservations are essential year-round, with many campgrounds maintaining waiting lists during peak winter months. Sites are typically close together and command premium rates compared to mainland Florida. As one visitor noted, "Key West is expensive but you can stay here for a quarter of the price!" The subtropical climate remains warm throughout the year, though summer brings intense heat, humidity and occasional hurricane threats from June through November. Many campgrounds have rebuilt extensively following Hurricane Irma's damage in 2017, resulting in updated facilities but also higher prices. Campgrounds generally provide full hookups, modern bathhouses, and swimming pools to offset the heat.

Waterfront access consistently ranks as the primary draw for campers visiting the region. "When they say water view, they mean it! The sites pull up right to the edge of the water where you can dip your toes in and enjoy an epic sunrise," reported one visitor to Boyd's. While natural beaches are limited at most campgrounds, pools and boat access compensate for swimming opportunities. Several campgrounds feature onsite restaurants, bars, and activities. Military personnel should note that Sigsbee Military RV Park offers dedicated facilities on a space-available basis. Proximity to Key West attractions balances the typically tight camping spaces, with most reviewers mentioning the convenient location and tropical atmosphere as justification for the higher prices compared to mainland camping options.

Best Camping Sites Near Key West, Florida (18)

    1. Boyd's Key West Campground

    50 Reviews
    Key West, FL
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 294-1465

    "Boyd’s campground is in an awesome location with close proximity to Key West favorites like Hogfish Bar and the Absinthe House. When they say water view, they mean it!"

    "This is a great campground just off Key West on Stock Island. The surrounding area is a bit run down but once you’re inside the campground who cares 🤣."

    2. Leo's Campground

    9 Reviews
    Key West, FL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 296-5260

    $79 - $179 / night

    "Camp ground is very clean, and a short drive to anything in Key West. Only downside I can think of is the price, but it is Key West so everything is expensive."

    "Why we booked: Seemed like the most solid spot for a quick stay close to Key West, which we were visiting mostly for Dry Tortugas NP.

    Campground: Parking lot vibes."

    3. Bluewater Key RV Resort

    9 Reviews
    Summerland Key, FL
    12 miles
    Website

    $100 - $300 / night

    "Facilities are nicely kept. 20 minute drive to Key West. Luv luv luv!!!"

    "Sites are beautiful and many have tiki/gazebo room Right on the water Fish and snorkel from your own site Very relaxing and great getaway Only 15-20 min to heart of key west and all it has to offer !"

    4. El Mar RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Key West, FL
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 294-0857

    "It's a quick bike ride into downtown Key West.

    Good cell reception with AT&T and Verizon."

    5. Sigsbee Military RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Key West, FL
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (305) 293-4432

    "You can swim in front of the campsite, but have to walk over large rocks to get to the water and the bottom is rocky and grassy. No real beach area available."

    6. Sun Outdoors Sugarloaf Key

    6 Reviews
    Summerland Key, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 745-1079

    "We were upgraded to a waterfront lot near restrooms. Lot was graveled surface. Did offer deluxe lots having concrete pads with tiki hut. The amenities were newly installed."

    "There aren’t any fire pits at the sites but is one in the common area next to the small pool."

    7. Geiger Key RV Park

    1 Review
    Key West, FL
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 296-3553

    "They bill this as an authentic Florida Key Fish Camp, but with waterfront hook-ups, boat slips, laundry, showers, plus Florida Keys famous fishing. Just 10 miles from Key West."

    8. Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort

    4 Reviews
    Summerland Key, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 745-3549

    "Most are tucked into the shrubberies so they have privacy. Wide sites with Gravel drives, new style hook-ups for water, electric, wifi and cable tv. Bathrooms and showers are very nice."

    "Perfect location for visiting the keys. Easy access and right on the water. Check in was easy and we booked a standard back in site."

    9. Buttonwood Campground — Bahia Honda State Park

    32 Reviews
    Big Pine Key, FL
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 872-2353

    $36 / night

    "It is still one of the best campgrounds in Florida and only 30 miles from Key West."

    "My father and I rode our motorcycles from Wisconsin to Key West in October 2019. My father was able to reserve a cabin in Bahia Honda for two nights. The location and views were amazing."

    10. Big Pine Key RV Park

    18 Reviews
    Big Pine Key, FL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (305) 872-2351

    "There is a really pretty nature trail as well. Beautiful area that is close to Bahia Honda state park, sombrero beach, and key west. We already reserved our spot for next year."

    "After calling 6+ other campgrounds in the Keys to find a site for 2 night we came across Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge on our drive to Key West. They had an open site available!"

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Recent Reviews near Key West, FL

190 Reviews of 18 Key West Campgrounds


  • Amanda W.
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort

    Way better than Boyds!

    Clean, modern, excellent landscaping & site options. Beautiful pool, huge hot tub & hammock area. Extremely friendly & helpful staff. Only 15 mins north of Boyd’s and a thousand times better. Boat ramp, kayak launch, private beach, small dog park/run. Full hookups, laundry & shower/bath house. Trash pickup all day.

  • aThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Leo's Campground

    Nice campground

    This was a very nice and clean campground. The lots were a little tight but it worked. Close to Key West. There are no bath houses or laundry but there were several tiki huts with outdoor games and fire pits placed around the campground. Overall a great place to stay

  • Joe S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 24, 2025

    Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort

    Amazing 6 night stay

    KOA Patio with premium water view. Beautiful campground. More like a resort. Nice pool, bar and good food. Well equipped store. Beach area too! Landscaping is immaculate.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 20, 2025

    Big Pine Key RV Park

    Perfect Location for fisherman

    We were here two weeks and enjoyed the stay. Good central location with access to upper and lower keys. Very laid-back with two basins and a boat ramp walk-in access to Fishing under the bridge where you can frequently see 5 to 6 foot tarpon swimming near the pilings

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 9, 2025

    Sun Outdoors Sugarloaf Key

    Nicely upgraged

    Booked a reservation and extended more nights after seeing the park. We were upgraded to a waterfront lot near restrooms. Lot was graveled surface. Did offer deluxe lots having concrete pads with tiki hut. The amenities were newly installed. Pool area was spacious with clear water. Were a couple common areas with gas fire ring, huge tiki hut. A converted Airstream was in place and staffed to offer beverages, snacks, appetizers, and pizza. Very reasonably priced. The staff was friendly and accomodating. Park Is located about 18 miles from downtown Key West, so very drivable in 35-45 minutes, traffic dependent. Restrooms were well maintained. Decent AT&T cell service.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 14, 2025

    Big Pine Key RV Park

    Lovely friendly campsite

    We stayed for 3 nights to celebrate my husbands birthday. We booked a rustic ocean view site and it was fantastic. Well did get a few bites from bugs over the days we were there but the view was too stunning to worry about it. Access straight into the water and very dog friendly too.

  • Teala S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 13, 2025

    Boyd's Key West Campground

    All inclusive tent camping resort

    We booked a primitive tent site for two nights during the week. It runs around 95 a night but was honestly well worth the money. The sites were quaint and surprisingly peaceful given how crowded it is. There is a laundry facility, pool, lounge area with a pool table, and a very clean shower house and bathroom with sinks for dishwashing. There is a food truck called Deluna’s on site that does breakfast-dinner and has great Cuban coffee. The staff are friendly and helpful and the views cannot be beat. Highly recommend this for those in need of a luxury primitive camping experience.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 22, 2024

    Boyd's Key West Campground

    First time here! We love it.

    Helpful/friendly staff. Very clean and well kept campground. We'll be back and recommend to others.

  • Alexandra E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 19, 2024

    Sandspur Campground — Bahia Honda State Park

    Best beaches in the keys

    Amazing views of the old US1 and train tracks. The sand is white and water is so blue. The no see ums were unbearable so bring proper grade tent mesh and lots of bugs pray


Guide to Key West

Camping near Key West, FL, offers a unique blend of tropical vibes and outdoor adventures. With several campgrounds in the area, you can enjoy everything from ocean views to fun activities.

What to do

  • Explore the beaches: Bahia Honda State Park is a favorite for its stunning beaches and clear waters. One visitor said, "Great campground within a state park offers lots of biking and beaches to choose from" at Buttonwood Campground — Bahia Honda State Park.
  • Visit local attractions: Many campers enjoy the short trips to Key West for dining and shopping. One reviewer mentioned, "Key West is a short bike or bus ride away" while staying at Boyd's Key West Campground.
  • Water activities: Kayaking and snorkeling are popular. A camper at Bayside Campground — Bahia Honda State Park noted, "You can walk down this short trail right to the ocean and take a swim."

What campers like

  • Friendly staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One guest at Big Pine Key RV Resort said, "Super friendly and helpful people who run the campground."
  • Clean facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained grounds are a big plus. A visitor at Curry Hammock State Park Campground mentioned, "Much pride must be taken in their cleanliness! Superb."
  • Great locations: Many campgrounds are close to the water. A reviewer at Encore Sunshine Key said, "The views are great and the price is $$$$."

What you should know

  • Bug spray is essential: Be prepared for bugs, especially no-see-ums. One camper at Long Key State Park Campground warned, "The bugs went away when the wind picked up."
  • Reservations can be tricky: Many campgrounds fill up quickly. A visitor at Buttonwood Campground — Bahia Honda State Park shared, "It's hard to get a reservation there so good luck."
  • Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A camper at Big Pine Key RV Resort noted, "It's only drawback I can find is the noise from the main road."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. One reviewer at Boyd's Key West Campground mentioned, "Pool, onsite food truck, nearby restaurant."
  • Plan for meals: Having a food truck or market nearby can be a lifesaver. A visitor at Encore Sunshine Key said, "The resort has a fun/upbeat vibe with lots going on."
  • Bring outdoor games: Campgrounds often have space for games. A camper at Curry Hammock State Park Campground noted, "Cleanliness, views and privacy are great."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Leo's Campground mentioned, "Parking lot vibes. All the things you'd expect from a private campground."
  • Look for amenities: Facilities like laundry and showers can make a big difference. A visitor at Big Pine Key RV Resort said, "There are many wonderful amenities including a pool, laundry room."
  • Be prepared for wind: Some areas can be breezy. A camper at Encore Sunshine Key noted, "The winds were insane."

Camping around Key West, FL, offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a great spot for your next getaway!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you tent camp on the beaches in Key West?

Beach tent camping is not permitted directly on Key West beaches. The Florida Keys have strict regulations to protect sensitive coastal ecosystems. For tent campers, Buttonwood Campground — Bahia Honda State Park offers a great alternative about 45 minutes from Key West with designated tent sites and Gulf beach access for daytime enjoyment. While not in Key West proper, the park provides kayaking opportunities and beautiful Gulf views. Tent campers should be aware that many Key West area campgrounds primarily cater to RVs, so check ahead for tent-specific availability. Temperatures can be extremely hot during summer months, so camping is most comfortable from November through April.

What RV parks and facilities are available in Key West?

Key West and the surrounding Lower Keys offer several excellent RV accommodations. Geiger Key RV Park provides waterfront hook-ups just 10 miles from Key West, featuring boat slips, laundry, and shower facilities in an authentic Florida Keys fish camp setting. For a luxury option, Encore Sunshine Key offers waterfront sites with beautiful views, well-maintained grounds, and friendly staff, though it's about 30 minutes from Key West. Other notable RV parks include Venture Out with pool amenities and El Mar RV Resort. Most Key West area RV parks offer full hookups, WiFi, and are situated to provide convenient access to Key West attractions while enjoying the more relaxed atmosphere of the outlying keys.

Is there free camping available in Key West?

Free camping is virtually non-existent in the Key West area due to limited land, high tourism demand, and environmental protections. Leo's Campground, while not free, represents one of the more budget-friendly options with clean facilities and convenient access to Key West attractions. For military personnel and veterans, Sigsbee Military RV Park on the Naval Air Station offers significantly reduced rates compared to civilian campgrounds, though availability operates on a rotation system. All camping in the Keys tends to be relatively expensive compared to mainland Florida, with even basic sites often starting at $50-100+ per night, reflecting the premium location.

Where are the best campgrounds in Key West, Florida?

Key West offers several excellent campground options. Boyd's Key West Campground stands out with waterfront sites where you can enjoy stunning sunrises and proximity to local favorites like Hogfish Bar. The campground features lush landscaping and boat docks while providing affordable accommodations compared to hotels. For those seeking newly renovated facilities, Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort offers a beautiful location with brand-new amenities, though at premium prices starting around $160/night with a two-night minimum. Most Key West campgrounds are actually located on neighboring keys, providing a peaceful base for exploring the area.