The Melbourne Beach area offers campground access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Indian River Lagoon with sandy shores and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Camping near Melbourne Beach puts visitors within reach of rocket launch viewing sites, fishing piers, and nature trails through coastal hammocks. Campsites range from primitive tent spots to full-hookup RV facilities across various county, state, and private properties.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground, anglers can target multiple species from shorelines and jetties. "Amazing little campground right on the water. Clean restroom facilities. Close to beaches. People are friendly. If you're trying to surf or fish stay here!" notes Brian C.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Water access directly from campsites makes paddling convenient at many locations. One camper at Long Point Park Campground shared, "We pulled our kayaks/paddleboards in and out of the water right at our site. Great bike path along the main road."
Rocket launch viewing: Cape Canaveral launches are visible from several campgrounds in the area. Jesse P. explains about Jetty Park Campground: "Staying out on the inlet, although primitive, does offer a bit more privacy compared to inside the campground. It also gives front row seats to the ships coming to port as well as any launches from Cape Canaveral which are much more frequent now."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers consistently rate waterfront access as a top feature. "We had a site right on the river and close to the pool. After a long day on the soccer pitch we would relax and fish right off the dock on our site," shares Tina S. about Outdoor Resorts Melbourne Beach.
Wildlife viewing: Direct observation of marine life ranks high on visitor satisfaction. Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground received this comment from Tracey T.: "Gorgeous views of the inlet and enough trees for shade but without being a hindrance during parking. Lovely area to walk and see fishing and plenty of wildlife."
Clean facilities: Updated bathhouses and facilities make camping more comfortable. "Recently built new bathrooms, double dump station. Water front sites and a couple full hook up sites," explains Rick N. about Long Point Park Campground. Michael Y. adds, "Shower house and bathrooms were just upgraded. New, new, new."
What you should know
No-see-ums and mosquitoes: Biting insects present significant challenges, particularly in warm months. Spencer D. warns about Long Point Park: "No-see-ums are almost unbearable in the evening. But that comes with the territory in Florida. Pack long-sleeves, pants, and serious bug spray."
Site privacy varies considerably: Many campgrounds feature open sites with minimal separation. Paul Y. explains about Sebastian Inlet State Park: "Good campground with paved loops and gravel sites. Sites are close together with little privacy. But we could see the water from our site."
Water quality considerations: Some campsites have sulfur-containing well water. Michael Y. noted at Long Point Park Campground: "50 amp service, no sewer, sulfur well drinking water."
Seasonal availability: Winter months see extremely high occupancy rates. As one camper mentioned about Long Point Park: "It is hard to get a reservation in the winter as all the snow birds are down from the north."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options: Parks with multiple activities keep younger campers engaged. Jeff F. recommends Wickham Park Campground: "It's a great place with lots of bike/walking paths and wide open, quiet spaces. Hope to take advantage of the fishing ponds, mountain bike trails and archery range in future visits."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences. "We saw a giant sea turtle bigger than a manhole cover. We watched dolphins play at sunrise. We were parked right across from the water. My husband and the kids fished off the rocks," shares Nora B. about Sebastian Inlet.
Beach access considerations: Check distances to shorelines when booking. Andrea notes about Sebastian Inlet: "The campground was beautiful and comfortable. We got lucky and were able to stay on spot #1, with water views and more space. Some of the other campsites felt a little cramped."
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Plan departure times around dump station availability. Michael Y. advises: "Park does not allow late checkout. Waited inline to dump for 90 mins. Everyone leaving at 11am checkout. 2 dump stations."
Site selection strategy: Research specific site characteristics before booking. Jessica R. from Long Point Park suggests: "The outer sites at the waters edge have only electric and water hookups. There are some sites that have sewer hookups as well but are not directly on water. I appreciate that you can view a photo of site when booking on their website."
Length restrictions: Larger rigs face limitations at some campgrounds. According to Melissa B. about Manatee Cove Family Campground: "The lots ran on the small side. Anyone with a 42 footer or more might struggle in a few spots. Call the office, they'll let you know the better lots for the big rigs."
