Best Campgrounds near Longboat Key, FL

Longboat Key and surrounding Manatee and Sarasota counties offer multiple established campgrounds with various accommodation options rather than primitive dispersed camping. Fort De Soto Campground in Saint Petersburg provides tent, RV, and glamping sites with beach access approximately 25 miles northwest of Longboat Key. Closer options include Turtle Beach Campground in Sarasota and Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey, both providing dedicated camping areas with amenities. The region includes several privately-owned RV resorts catering to both short-term visitors and seasonal residents, with most campgrounds maintaining year-round operations.

Many campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, particularly during winter months when snowbirds migrate to Florida's Gulf Coast. Most established sites offer full hookups including water, electric, and sewer connections, with amenities like showers, toilets, and dump stations. The subtropical climate keeps the region warm year-round, though summer brings higher humidity and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricane season (June through November) may affect camping plans, and sites near water can experience higher insect activity. As one camper noted about Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort, "You can't beat the location, walkable to restaurants, a short drive or bike ride to beaches."

Waterfront access represents a key feature at several area campgrounds, with many situated along canals, rivers, or bays. Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort offers boat-in access and proximity to Anna Maria Island beaches. Several visitors praised the convenient locations that balance natural settings with access to urban amenities. A reviewer at Pleasant Lake RV Resort mentioned it was "beautiful and friendly" with "super clean" facilities, though noted connectivity challenges: "We did not have any luck getting wifi, but we have a Verizon Hotspot, and only one bar." Many campgrounds feature swimming pools, clubhouses, and organized activities. Tent campers have fewer options than RV travelers, as many properties focus primarily on RV camping with paved sites and full hookups rather than mixed-use campgrounds offering primitive tent sites.

Best Camping Sites Near Longboat Key, Florida (125)

    1. Fort De Soto Campground

    140 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 582-2100

    $38 - $48 / night

    "As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries.  I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."

    "Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."

    2. Turtle Beach Campground

    22 Reviews
    Osprey, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 861-2267

    $120 / night

    "The best part of this campground would be the private access to the beach just steps away from any of the sites."

    "If you want to be steps from the beach and all that Siesta Key has to offer Turtle Beach State Park is for you.  Turtle Beach is a very small campground which is great if you don't like a crowd. "

    3. Oscar Scherer State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    Osprey, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 483-5956

    $26 / night

    "Like all the Florida state parks, the campground is well-maintained and clean. Lots of trails to explore, easy to launch my kayak from near my campsite."

    "Located just outside of Sarasota and on the edge of Nokomis. Very “old Florida” with lots of palm hammocks and scrub oaks. Cant say."

    4. Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park

    38 Reviews
    Osprey, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 361-6511

    $26 / night

    "Hidden cabins, hiking, off-road biking, boating, wildlife...so much beauty and activities to enjoy in this park! The cabins are off the main path, tucked away and private."

    "One of the largest state parks in Florida. This great Park has full and partial hook ups for all styles of camping to include hammock camping."

    5. Lake Manatee State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Parrish, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 741-3028

    $22 / night

    "On the bridge headed to Anna Marie/longboat key we got the awesome luxury of riding horses, and got to kayak the oven and lake manatee! one of the best trips we've taken"

    "Was bordered by the camp road and the bike/walking path so often noisy with no sense of privacy. Bad mosquitoes, but to be expected."

    6. Encore Winter Quarters Manatee

    12 Reviews
    Palmetto, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Wonderfully situated around a lake. Good amenities and close to everything. Some highway traffic noise but nothing bad."

    "One of the two pools on the property provides a lovely view of the lake and a hot tub.The recreation hall is beautiful and has a lot of activities."

    7. Sun N Fun RV Resort

    11 Reviews
    Sarasota, FL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 371-2505

    "We didn’t utilize the amenities outside of the pool, but will be back to play! We wish the sites (ours was q03) were more shaded, but worth having a nice easy pull thru spot."

    "Gorgeous location, so many things to do!!! Wish I could live herebyear round!"

    8. Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort

    5 Reviews
    Bradenton Beach, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 798-3090

    "You can't beat the location, walkable to restaurants, a short drive or bike ride to beaches. The park itself is well maintained and quiet minus the days they mow and pick-up the garbage."

    "Location is great, close to Anna Maria Island and Cortez restaurants"

    9. Linger Lodge RV Park & Restaurant

    6 Reviews
    Sarasota, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 739-9313

    $60 - $130 / night

    "We came back to this gem and met with friends from Florida, we had our RVs next to each other and it was so much fun. We had a great time."

    "You are close to everything but you still feel like being far away. Everybody is very accommodating. Great Management, great Team! We will be back soon!"

    10. Arbor Terrace RV Resort, A Sun RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Bradenton, FL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 755-6494

    "Other than that, you're within driving distance to some of the most beautiful towns and beaches."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 125 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Longboat Key, FL

685 Reviews of 125 Longboat Key Campgrounds


  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Lithia Springs

    October 2025

    It’s a beautiful campground. That’s a well maintained by The very friendly and helpful staff. The scenery and activities available at this part make it well worth the drive and work the stay.

  • R
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Lithia Springs

    Quiet, Clean, & Friendly

    Many of the lots are large & somewhat secluded. Trees for some shade. *Clean, friendly, & a gate code for safety. *Nothing can be tied to trees, including hammocks.

  • Stachianna K.
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort

    Quiet evening

    We stayed in Buttonwood inlet for one night. It was super easy to pull and out and it was clean and quiet to camp from a 30’ class C. Plus there was plenty of green areas for the pups to so the whole family gives this a 5 star review.

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve

    Alafia North of Baseball Parking

    “Alafia North Corridor Park is such a peaceful escape. The trails wind through beautiful natural scenery, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for a relaxing hike. It’s a great place to slow down, take in the fresh air, and enjoy the simple beauty of nature. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer hike, this park offers a calming outdoor experience.”

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Lithia Springs

    Lithia Springs Park

    Lithia Springs Conservation Park is a hidden gem for camping in Florida. The campground is clean, well-maintained, and tucked away in a peaceful natural setting. Sites are spacious with plenty of shade, and the amenities like restrooms and picnic areas are kept in great shape. The best part is being just a short walk from the beautiful natural spring, perfect for swimming and cooling off. It’s a great spot for families or anyone looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. I’ll definitely be coming back!

  • Julia Marie H.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Encore Vacation Village

    Mosquitoes beware

    This is a mosquito heaven!!! Being bug spray or candles! You will see a large amount of bugs in your area…. They used to spray. But now they don’t… with a pond down the street there is No end in site for air borne bug issues.

  • C
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Bay Bayou RV Resort

    Excellent clean campground

    Excellent clean campground with great service.

  • Diana S.
    Jun. 18, 2025

    Lithia Springs

    Great camping and spring

    Camping here is always good. The rangers here are very friendly. The bathrooms are decent. Lots of shade at the campsites. We've been camping here off and on for the last year.


Guide to Longboat Key

Camping options near Longboat Key, Florida center around established campgrounds rather than dispersed sites. Visitors can find RV and tent camping within a 15-30 minute drive of the barrier island, with most facilities located on the mainland in Bradenton and Sarasota. The region sits at near sea level with a subtropical climate where summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity between June and September.

What to do

Kayaking on South Creek: Oscar Scherer State Park offers kayak launches with access to sheltered waterways. "We kayaked south creek. There are several hiking trails but we did not use due to weather being too hot," notes Rachel G. about the park's water recreation.

Wildlife viewing: Fort De Soto Campground provides opportunities to see diverse native species. "Great park with days worth of activities! The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit! Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!" shares Brennan H.

Biking the Legacy Trail: Oscar Scherer State Park Campground connects directly to this paved multi-use path. "Park is located about half way on 10 mile paved multi use trail-Legacy trail. This was a great trail for biking. Multiple stops along the way but mostly in full sun," reports one camper.

Visit the canopy walkway: At Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park, hikers can explore elevated trails. "I couldn't get over the canopy walkway. This place is unlike any other, and teeming with interesting, diverse wildlife," writes Katie K. about this unique feature.

What campers like

Beach proximity: Turtle Beach Campground provides immediate beach access on Siesta Key. "The walk to the beach from the farthest site is about 2 mins. No campfires here but there are some charcoal grills and tables out at the beach," explains John K. regarding the convenient setup.

Private sites despite density: Many campers appreciate site separation at Oscar Scherer State Park. "Sites have water and electric and are dirt. Most sites are on the smaller side being shallow and narrow. Our site was great. Shaded most of day and wider. Most sites are surrounded by greenery so you are buffered from your neighbor," notes Rachel G.

Waterfront options: Some campsites offer water views and access. "We had a waterfront stay. Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," advises Taylor T. about Fort De Soto Campground's popular waterside sites.

Resort-style amenities: Sun N Fun RV Resort caters to those seeking resort comforts. "Resort style pool with a restaurant and bar, 2 level gym with all the equipment you could hope for, and lots of activities for the residents," reports Alan R. about the extensive facilities.

What you should know

Hurricane season considerations: The camping season runs year-round, but weather patterns affect visits. "It was so hot we left during the day. Nice campground though," mentions Dennis J. about Lake Manatee State Park Campground, highlighting summer heat challenges.

Wildlife safety: Alligators and other wildlife require caution. "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," warns Jenelle J. at Palmetto Ridge Campground.

Traffic and noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "The bathrooms were very nice, and showers heated up well. The location is great for the beach, but I would not recommend tent camping near the road as we were woken up several times overnight by what sounded like cars racing on the road nearby," advises Aila R. about Turtle Beach Campground.

Site size limitations: Many campgrounds have tight spacing. "The campground doesn't allow fires and requires quiet time after 11:00 PM. Local trolley takes you to bars and restaurants," explains Tom H. about restrictions at Turtle Beach.

Tips for camping with families

Look for shaded sites: Heat management is critical for comfortable family camping. "I would easily go back to let the kids play and swim and have fun despite me personally not being excited about how crowded it can get in peak season," notes Stephen G. about Sun N Fun Resort's facilities despite the crowds.

Consider pool access: Fort De Soto Campground offers family-friendly alternatives to beach swimming. "We had expected a much further walk based on the map, but it was just a 1 minute walk. They clean them daily, so they are not bad. There is a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam," describes Joe R.

Transportation options: Some campgrounds offer transit connections. "Taking the free trolley that picks up at the campground and takes you to downtown Siesta Key is unbeatable," shares Cole B. about the convenience at Turtle Beach for families without multiple vehicles.

Recreation planning: Schedule outdoor activities carefully. "We saw (from a distance) a bald eagle's nest, as well as two juvenile eagles fighting in flight - both from the trails. My husband also stepped on a snake on the South Creek Nature Trail, so keep your eyes open!" advises Denise at Oscar Scherer State Park.

Tips from RVers

Water connections: At Oscar Scherer State Park, water hookup placement requires planning. "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). Make sure to bring a longer hose, or park closer to the water than electric," advises Denise.

RV maneuverability: Tight campgrounds require caution. "Sites are paved and level but small. We had a power issue with 30 amp but 50 amp was ok. Location is great, close to Anna Maria Island and Cortez restaurants," reports George L. about Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort.

Site selection guidance: Choose sites based on specific needs. "The sites are responsible size but can be tough for longer rigs to get in. The sites are crushed sea shells and are lined with tropical foliage," explains John K. about Turtle Beach Campground's limitations.

Connectivity considerations: Internet access varies by location and site. "Cable in the park had lots of channels if you're looking for that. Wifi was spotty, but what do you expect?" notes Molly F. about connectivity at Sun N Fun Resort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Longboat Key, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Longboat Key, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 125 campgrounds and RV parks near Longboat Key, FL and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Longboat Key, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Longboat Key, FL is Fort De Soto Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 140 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Longboat Key, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Longboat Key, FL.