Best Campgrounds near Marathon, FL
Marathon, Florida provides numerous waterfront camping opportunities with sites scattered across the Florida Keys. State parks like Curry Hammock and Bahia Honda offer established campgrounds with amenities for both tent and RV camping. Private facilities such as Encore Sunshine Key and Jolly Roger RV Resort provide additional options with full hookups and resort-style amenities. The region includes a mix of oceanfront and bayside locations, with many sites offering direct water access for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
Reservations are essential for camping in the Marathon area, especially during winter months when snowbirds flock to the Keys. Most state park campgrounds book up 11 months in advance, though cancellations occasionally open spaces. "Curry Hammock State Park is a gorgeous Florida Keys gem; however, that implies hot, muggy, and buggy conditions during the warmer months, which are mostly all year," notes one camper. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer bringing high humidity, occasional storms, and insects, while winter offers milder temperatures but higher demand. Sites at private RV resorts can be tightly spaced, while state parks typically provide more vegetation and privacy between campsites.
Waterfront access represents the most sought-after feature among Marathon-area campgrounds. Several visitors mentioned that sites with ocean views command premium prices but deliver exceptional experiences. At Bahia Honda State Park, campers report being able to "snorkel off your site or launch your kayak" directly from waterfront locations. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with many reviews mentioning sightings of deer on Big Pine Key, manatees near marinas, and numerous bird species. Amenities vary widely between facilities, with state parks typically offering more natural settings while private resorts provide additional services like swimming pools, stores, and organized activities. Most campgrounds in the area feature clean bathroom facilities, though shower availability and water temperature can vary significantly between locations.
