Tent camping areas in the Melbourne, Florida region range from county parks to state forest sites. Summer temperatures often reach above 90°F with high humidity from June through September, while winter months typically stay between 50-70°F with much lower precipitation. Sites fill quickly during cooler months when conditions are most favorable for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated piers: Lake Mills Park offers a fishing pier in a cove-like area where campers regularly catch small fish. "Several in our group caught some small fish and some turtles too," notes a visitor to Lake Mills Park.
Mountain biking on local trails: Wickham Park Campground provides access to mountain biking trails right from your campsite. "Hope to take advantage of the fishing ponds, mountain bike trails and archery range in future visits," mentions one camper at Wickham Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing from blinds: Geneva Wilderness Area includes a wildlife viewing blind built by an Eagle Scout near the primitive camping area. A visitor notes, "The trails are filled with wildlife! Gopher tortoise, raccoon, shore birds, deer and so much more."
Paddling on local waterways: Blue Cypress County Park serves as a launch point for exploring the large lake by boat or kayak. "Bring your boat or kayak to explore the lake. It's really big... The lake is a birders paradise if you're into that. All along are big osprey nests in the trees."
What campers like
Secluded riverside spots: Little Big Econ State Forest offers primitive campsites along the Econlockhatchee River. A camper at Little Big Econ State Forest shared, "Beautiful campsite right on the river made for a wonderful experience for a first-time camper, primitive or otherwise."
Security features at established sites: Some Melbourne area campgrounds provide enhanced security measures. A solo camper at Lake Mills Park appreciated that "the park gate closes and locks at night (with a code for campers to exit and enter) and the campground itself has a gate that is always locked as do the bathrooms."
Community activities: Seasonal events at local parks enhance the camping experience. One visitor to Wickham Park Campground mentioned, "We stayed here because we work the Brevard Show, and it was amazing! We loved the fallen tree, and so do kids to climb!"
Natural settings near urban areas: Despite proximity to development, many sites maintain a natural feel. "It's very close to shops but it doesn't feel like it when you're in the campground," notes a camper about their experience tent camping near Melbourne.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Trails to campsites may flood during rainy periods. "Be prepared for a hike to the sites... Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months," advises a visitor to Hal Scott Preserve County Park.
Park availability limitations: Some camping areas operate with restricted schedules. At Hatbill Park, a camper reported, "Stayed 2 nights, may only be open Friday and Saturday. We were told that was all that was available."
Ambient noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or establishments. A Lake Mills camper noted, "Traffic can be clearly heard on the main streets that border the campground. Also, there is an adjacent country bar... with the sound system that was set up we could clearly hear everything."
Permanence of some campsites: At certain campgrounds, some sites may have long-term residents. A Wickham Park visitor observed, "The back sites (sect C) had rigs that have been there a while. Some with old discarded air conditioners on the picnic tables or junk around them."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Several tent campgrounds near Melbourne offer play areas for children. "This is a nice place to introduce kids to camping. It's not very far removed and there is a nice bathroom and a playground," reports a visitor to Geneva Wilderness Area.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers at some parks provide learning experiences. "There is an Education Center: Ed Yarborough Center on the property near the group site that was open for our group and was amazing," shares a camper about Geneva Wilderness Area.
Group camping options: For family reunions or larger gatherings, dedicated group sites exist. "We had at least 10 tents in the big group area and four more in a smaller area off to the side for those of us that had to get up at the crack of dawn to cook breakfast."
Day use amenities: When tent camping with kids near Melbourne, Florida, take advantage of additional recreational facilities. A Wickham Park Campground camper noted, "Disc golf, food trucks, farmers market, playground the list goes on! Great plaxe."
Tips from RVers
Electricity options: Many tent camping sites in the Melbourne area also accommodate small RVs with varied hookup options. At Wickham Park Campground, "The location of this park is perfect for us. We have family in Melbourne so we love staying here when we visit."
Site selection strategy: Choose camping locations based on intended activities and convenience to attractions. "The location of this park is conveniently located to scenic Route A1A and plenty of stores," noted an RVer about their stay.
Permanent resident awareness: RVers should research campground policies on long-term stays. One camper observed, "The area seemed more of a housing area for the less fortunate. Lots of tents and what it looked 'permanent outdoor living'."
Shower facility quality: Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. A camper at Wickham Park Campground commented, "The bathrooms and showers are pretty good too! They get nice and hot!"
