Tent camping near Laurel, Florida provides access to unique coastal and inland wilderness areas where temperatures average 72°F in winter and 90°F in summer. Most primitive campsites require advance preparation with temperatures often exceeding 95°F during summer months. The region has a distinct wet season from June to September when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
What to do
Fossil hunting along riverbanks: Peace River's Oak Hill Campground offers excellent fossil hunting opportunities. "We found over 100 [shark teeth] just at the campsite alone," notes camper Deven R. at Oak Hill Campground.
Island exploration by bicycle: Rental bikes offer a way to discover hidden trails and historical sites. "There is a series of trails that run through the wooded sections of the island to explore. There are some truly great views to take in as well as an island cemetery which provides some historical contest to what Cayo Costa was used for," explains David I. who camped at Cayo Costa State Park Campground.
Living history tours: Some campgrounds provide access to cultural and historical experiences. The Crowley Museum and Nature Center offers camping on 191 acres with added educational options. "Along with camping you can arrange a living history tour at an additional fee," notes Jeanene A., highlighting the "multiple restored buildings from the late 1800's pioneers" on the property.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: The absence of light pollution makes stargazing exceptional at remote sites. "Stargazing is to die for...no ambient light to wash out the blackness of the night sky," shares Dave V. about his Cayo Costa experience.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Myakka's primitive sites provide sightings of native wildlife in natural settings. "This park is epic... Outside of the beauty and trails there are Floridas wildest animals. Panthers, hogs and alligators," writes Jennifer T. about Myakka River State Park Primitive Sites.
Beach access at remote locations: Island camping provides nearly private shoreline experiences. "You have miles of beach with very few people and the nighttime skies are truly cosmic," describes a camper at Cayo Costa State Park. Another visitor adds, "Miles of beaches with very few people and great hiking/biking trails through the scrub."
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Island camping requires careful planning for gear transport. "Given the tram and ferry loading and unloading processes you may want to travel as lightly as you can," advises a Cayo Costa visitor. "Access to the island is by ferry although it is possible to kayak to it from Pine Island. This would involve some open water crossing and about a 7 mile total one way trip."
Water limitations: Some primitive sites have unreliable water access. Alacyn B. from Crowley Museum and Nature Center reports, "It was 4.5 miles (total) to a water source" from her campsite. At other locations, pitcher pumps may require filtration or treatment.
Insect preparation: Comprehensive insect protection is essential year-round. "WHATEVER YOU DO BRING BUG PROTECTION! I brought sawyers big lotion and 2 thermacell bug repellents and in 24 hours got 2 bug bites!" states one Cayo Costa camper. Another notes, "Insects are a serious issue, even in the fall and winter. Hope for a breeze to deter the no-see-ums."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for space: Choose larger campsites when camping with children. "The tent sites are a mixed bag, some larger than others and some with decent privacy although on the whole the separation between them is not great. The tent sites I liked most are 11,12,and 13 primarily because they are away from the main area and have some separation."
Suitable group locations: Certain areas cater specifically to youth and family groups. "This is a very special location... This location is very popular with local scouting groups and schools," says a reviewer about The Bohemian Hideaway, where rentals like kayaks and outdoor movies are available.
Activity planning for children: Outdoor activities keep children engaged in natural settings. "Kids will find a way to keep busy exploring but there is space for a bit of catch or game of Frisbee. Manhunt was popular on our trip!" shares a camper at Oak Hill Campground.
Tips from RVers
Space restrictions: Most primitive camping areas near Laurel limit vehicle sizes. "Please be aware that this is a very restrictive campground. You can only tent and you are not allowed to smoke anything Vape anything drink anything alcoholic," warns Kevin W. about Terry Tomalin Campground.
Alternative transportation options: Some campgrounds offer transportation for your gear. "Awesome place to camp without having to Carrier your equipment. When you get to the outpost you put your gear in the trailer and they drive it to the campsite for you," explains a visitor to Oak Hill Campground.
Island RV limitations: Most island camping restricts RV access completely. "You'll be in your swimsuit anyways..." notes one camper about the basic accommodations, recommending visitors "brave the power boaters, stuff your gear in dry bags, cram them into the kayak and paddle to/from the island" instead of bringing larger vehicles.
