Best Campgrounds near Melbourne Beach, FL
The coastal region surrounding Melbourne Beach, Florida features a mix of waterfront and inland camping options where Atlantic Ocean access meets the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem. Long Point Park Campground offers waterfront sites where campers can observe dolphins and manatees swimming alongside kayaks, while Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground provides beach access with opportunities for fishing, surfing, and boating. Several RV-focused properties like Outdoor Resorts Melbourne Beach and Melbourne Beach Mobile Park cater to travelers seeking full hookups, while Wickham Park Campground in nearby Melbourne offers a more traditional camping experience with both tent and RV accommodations.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the area, particularly during the winter months when the region fills with seasonal visitors. The subtropical climate makes camping possible year-round, though summer brings high humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. Winter (November through April) offers milder conditions with temperatures typically ranging from 50-75°F, making it the preferred camping season. As one visitor noted about Long Point Park, "Many of the campsites are waterfront sites. Dolphins and manatee swim alongside your kayak. Adjacent island for hiking. Less than a mile from the ocean." Insect protection is necessary year-round, with mosquitoes and no-see-ums being particularly troublesome in warmer months.
Wildlife viewing represents a significant attraction at campgrounds throughout the Melbourne Beach area. Waterfront sites provide opportunities to spot marine life including dolphins, manatees, and various bird species. Most developed campgrounds offer clean facilities with hot showers, though site privacy varies considerably between locations. According to a recent visitor to Sebastian Inlet State Park, "The inlet has friendly, helpful rangers, easy to access campsites, and is in a beautiful location. Great for fishing, surfing, boating, and going to the beach." Campers should note that many sites lack natural shade, making afternoon heat challenging during summer months. The proximity to Kennedy Space Center also means some campgrounds offer views of rocket launches, adding an unexpected benefit to camping in this coastal region.