Port St. Joe camping options extend beyond the main peninsula into several surrounding communities within a 30-minute drive. The area sits at sea level with white sand beaches and shallow bay waters that warm to over 85°F in summer months. Camping near Port St. Joe, Florida often requires advance planning during scallop season (July-September), with sites frequently booked 6-11 months ahead.
What to do
Primitive beach camping: The peninsula offers opportunities for more adventurous campers willing to hike in. "It's worth getting a permit to hike into the peninsula but don't let the sand fool you. It will wear out your legs hiking in and it is essential to hike in all water. One you find a good spot you feel like you are the only person on the planet," notes a visitor to T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park Campground.
Fishing from shore: Multiple access points allow for productive shoreline fishing. "Nice and quiet little campsite. Very clean. Very nice if you love to fish," explains a camper at Indian Pass Campground. Sites near the water provide convenient access for fishing throughout the day.
Wildlife observation: The area hosts diverse wildlife beyond the beaches. "Wildlife viewing is good and park has interpretive center," reports a camper at St. Andrews State Park Campground. Many campgrounds have designated nature trails for spotting local species.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Beachfront camping provides direct water access. "Loved this oasis outside of Port St. Joe! Tent camping limited but the 5 tent sites are ON THE WATER and the fishing is spectacular!" shares an enthusiastic visitor to Indian Pass Campground.
Natural privacy between sites: Despite close quarters in some campgrounds, vegetation creates separation. "The site is very spacious and close to the beach (right over the dune)," notes a camper at RV by the Sea. Many sites offer natural screening through palms and native plants.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities receive consistent praise. "Very friendly staff and outstanding amenities. Pool, Dog Park, coffee and donuts, huge walk in shower with bench. Very handicap accessible facility," reports a visitor to Port St. Joe RV Resort. Modern shower facilities and laundry options are available at most established campgrounds.
What you should know
Hurricane recovery impacts: Several campgrounds continue rebuilding after hurricane damage. "Florida State Parks did a great job redoing this campground after Hurricane Michael in 2018. Brand new facilities, excellent camping pads, and good beach access. You can still see some of the hurricane damage which is a testament to the severity of Michael in the area," explains a visitor to T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park Campground.
Insect considerations: Biting insects remain a significant concern during warmer months. "The yellow biting flies are the spawn of satan. I read they are most prevalent April-June and they were horrible," warns a camper at Presnell's Bayside Marina and RV Resort. Bug spray is essential equipment during summer camping.
Limited shade at some sites: Many beachfront locations lack natural cover. "No shade. Full hookups. Bath and showers and laundry," notes a camper about El Governor Motel & RV Park. Consider awnings or portable shade structures during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Calmer waters provide safer options for children. "A small area located inside rock jetties provides the perfect area for amateur and intermediate snorkeling," recommends a visitor to St. Andrews State Park Campground, noting the sheltered swimming conditions.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal encounters create memorable experiences for children. "Squirrels, they beg for food (so cute). The beach is just a few steps away," observes a camper at Indian Pass Campground. Morning and evening hours offer the best wildlife viewing times.
Site selection considerations: Choose locations that balance privacy with recreational access. "Medium size campground with clean facilities and showers... This place has miles of gorgeous large white sand beaches, clear water, excellent sunsets, decent fishing, bird watching, kyaking and sea turtle conservation," explains a camper about the local options.
Tips from RVers
Site preparation: Sand management becomes important for extended stays. "Bring a good rug for the outside because you'll get sand everywhere," advises a camper at RV by the Sea. Outdoor mats help reduce sand tracking into vehicles and tents.
Utility access: Some sites require additional setup steps. "The only negative was we had to dig up the sewer connection which is right by the water hookup," notes an RV owner at RV by the Sea. Bringing extension hoses and adapters helps with challenging hookup configurations.
Weather considerations: Coastal winds affect larger vehicles. "The site has no shelter from the wind and a storm could damage your RV which happened to us," warns a camper at RV by the Sea. Consider wind direction when positioning RVs and secure awnings when not in use.
