Campgrounds near Laurel, Florida present varied camping experiences from primitive sites to those with full amenities. The region sits on Florida's west coast between Tampa and Fort Myers, with elevations rarely exceeding 25 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures consistently reach 90°F with high humidity, while winters offer milder conditions with daytime highs in the 70s and occasional cold fronts dropping temperatures into the 40s.
What to do
Kayaking on South Creek: Oscar Scherer State Park offers excellent paddling opportunities just minutes from campgrounds. "You can launch kayaks from park and kayak south creek," writes Rachel G., who appreciated the park's water activities alongside "a nice beach/swimming area which was great cause it's hot!!"
Biking the Legacy Trail: The 10-mile paved Legacy Trail connects several campgrounds in the region. Camp Venice Retreat provides "easy access to Venice and the great Legacy Bike trail," according to Rich A., who notes "beaches and parking are free." At Oscar Scherer State Park, the trail runs through the park itself, with one camper describing it as "located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail."
Wildlife viewing at Myakka River: For nature enthusiasts, Myakka River State Park offers exceptional wildlife viewing. "We saw (from a distance) a bald eagle's nest, as well as two juvenile eagles fighting in flight - both from the trails," reports Denise at Old Prairie Campground. Another camper warns to "be aware of heat, bring plenty of water. Dont depend on water pumps" when exploring the park's trails.
Explore Fort De Soto: Worth the 60-minute drive from Laurel, Fort De Soto Park offers unique coastal exploration. "We bike with hybrid specialized bikes and had no problems off road," reports one reviewer who enjoyed the park's 39 miles of hiking trails and off-road biking options.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers praise the vegetation between sites at certain campgrounds. Kim S. notes that Oscar Scherer State Park has "tons of spaces, but lots of dense vegetation between them...so you don't get that 'I am setting up in the middle of someone else's campfire' feeling."
Direct beach access: Turtle Beach Campground offers immediate beach access that distinguishes it from other area campgrounds. "The beach is at the end of the interior, two-way road that divides the campground. It is accessible only by foot," explains one camper, adding that the "beach was never crowded, even when the campground was full."
Riverfront camping: Several campgrounds offer water views, with Camp Venice Retreat particularly noted for its river setting. "Right on the river. Boat ramp awesome roomy sites," writes Melinda H. Another camper mentions you can "launch you kayak or canoe right from your spot."
Shaded sites: While Florida heat can be intense, several campgrounds offer good tree cover. "The sites along the river are super nice and should be on everyone's list to try to snag," notes Sam S. about Camp Venice Retreat, while others mention the "beautiful oak trees that shade most sites" at various campgrounds in the area.
What you should know
Limited last-minute availability: Reservations are crucial for campsites near Laurel, Florida, especially in winter. "Anyone who camps often in the winter of Florida months knows....spots are almost impossible to get at state parks," notes Kim S., who managed a last-minute booking at Oscar Scherer.
Seasonal flooding: Water levels can significantly impact camping conditions. At Palmetto Ridge Campground, one 2024 reviewer notes, "Went to drain the tanks yesterday morning and a large sounding gator started to growl territorially at me. So heads up with your pets please."
Varying site sizes: Campgrounds offer different site dimensions that may impact larger RVs. "The Big Flats & Old Prairie loops are gravel road, tight, no privacy & very small sites like for popups, vans or small campers. The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic," explains Amanda W.
Local wildlife awareness: Alligators and other wildlife require appropriate caution. "My husband also stepped on a snake on the South Creek Nature Trail, so keep your eyes open!" warns one camper at Old Prairie Campground, highlighting the importance of wildlife awareness when camping in Florida.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly beaches: For families, Turtle Beach Campground combines camping with easy beach access. "The beach is nice and quiet. If you want to go to siesta key beach its about 4 miles. The sand there is super white and soft. It's 99% quartz and is really rare," explains John K., highlighting options for family beach days.
Fort De Soto activities: Fort De Soto Campground offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," writes one camper about the playground. Another mentions "trails for hiking or biking" and seeing "raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!"
Ranger programs: Several parks offer educational activities for children. "Ranger led programs take place nightly," notes Jennifer M., who adds that at Oscar Scherer State Park, "our 6 yo son loved that we felt safe enough that he could ride his bike around the camp ground to play with the other campers."
Pool options for hot days: Several private campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to beaches. At Sun N Fun RV Resort, one family noted "the warm pool was refreshing" and "the kids enjoyed the slide (limited hours…ask ahead)." Joe R. mentions the "slide was only open 1 day we were there" during their visit.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campgrounds and specific sites based on rig size. "We stayed in the Palmetto Ridge loop which is the only paved loop & I think the only one w/sewer," notes Amanda W., adding that "the Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic."
Hookup locations: Some campgrounds have unusual utility placement. "The electric hookup is in its normal spot, but be aware that the water is in the woods on the opposite side (one pedestal feeding two sites)," warns Denise about Old Prairie Campground, advising campers to "bring a longer hose, or park closer to the water than electric."
Drainage considerations: Low elevation means potential water issues during rainy periods. "One thing we learned and a good pointer is that if you intend on going into the park (which you probably will), you should go in and register BEFORE you go to the beach, even if before check in time," advises one Fort De Soto camper, noting this provides a beach pass for two vehicles.
Power management: Hot Florida weather means heavy AC use. "On hookup the post blew my surge protector," reports one camper at Sun N Fun RV Resort, though they added that "maintenance immediately who did a thorough check of the post and made sure it was safe to use."
