The Port St. Joe area offers diverse RV camping options along Florida's Forgotten Coast. Located where the Apalachicola Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, this region experiences mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F and summer highs typically in the upper 80s. Camping opportunities range from bayfront sites to facilities within walking distance of beaches, with varying levels of shelter from coastal weather patterns.
What to do
Fishing from private piers: At Coastline RV Resort, campers can watch dolphins in the bay directly from the waterfront sites. "You can watch dolphins in the bay. They keep the facilities very clean," notes one visitor who appreciated the waterfront access.
Beach exploration at Cape San Blas: The beaches at Cape San Blas offer shell collecting and wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at RV by the Sea shared: "The dogs had a great time chasing crabs on the beach and my daughters were able to find several perfect sea shells."
Visit nearby towns: Short drives to Port St. Joe, Mexico Beach, and Apalachicola provide shopping and dining options. "It is also close to Port St Joe and Apalachicola, two small, but lovely towns with shopping and restaurants," reports a camper who enjoyed the convenient location.
Biking: Access the 9-mile bike path near Water's Edge RV Park for scenic coastal riding. The trail connects to various recreational areas and beaches throughout the region.
What campers like
Direct beach access: El Governor Motel & RV Park offers immediate beach proximity. As one camper noted, "Nice spot in Mexico Beach literally across the road from the beach. We were a little concerned as our lot backed up to the road and there was no security we could see. Gates open 24-7, but had no issues."
Clean, private bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds in the area offer individual bathroom units rather than communal facilities. A camper at Coastline RV Resort described, "The bathrooms were spotless. I felt like I walked into a spa when opened the door calming music started and the lights came on. The showers are big!"
Waterfront views: Sunrise and sunset views are particularly valued by visitors. "This recommendation is based on our site location which was oceanfront. We were there over Thanksgiving and the location with the sunset and views was worth the slightly higher cost we normally pay," explained one guest at Presnell's Bayside Marina and RV Resort.
Dog-friendly beaches: Several beaches in the area welcome pets, particularly at Cape San Blas. "It is beautiful, white sand beach and was empty on Thanksgiving weekend. The dogs loved it!" reported one camper.
What you should know
Insect conditions: Seasonal biting insects can affect outdoor enjoyment. A camper at Presnell's Bayside Marina and RV Resort warned: "The yellow biting flies are the spawn of satan. I read they are most prevalent April-June and they were horrible."
Site spacing varies significantly: Many RV parks position sites close together to maximize capacity. "The only drawback is the tightness of the spots. Right next to your neighbors - but that's just utilizing real estate. It's going to be that way in Fl," noted one visitor.
Wind exposure: Beachfront sites can experience strong winds during storms. At RV by the Sea, a camper cautioned: "2 warnings the site has no shelter from the wind and a storm could damage your RV which happened to us and bring a good rug for the outside because you'll get sand everywhere."
Variable connectivity: Several parks report unreliable internet services. "WiFi is very spotty and Verizon is very weak. AT&T phones worked well. Wife was not able to connect for a work meeting," warned a visitor staying at Presnell's Bayside Marina.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity considerations: When traveling with children, consider distance to beach access points. "We didn't experience too much of the town, restaurants or shops, but we did LOVE Mexico beach. It is beautiful, white sand beach and was empty on Thanksgiving weekend," shared a family who enjoyed the uncrowded conditions.
Entertainment options: Emerald Coast RV Beach Resort offers multiple child-friendly amenities. "Loved the amenities; two heated pools, clean nice playgrounds for the kids, nice laundry area, great layout to take walks, level clean spots," reported a spring break visitor.
Grocery planning: Most camping areas require a drive to reach full-service grocery stores. A camper at RV by the Sea advised: "Cape San Blas is secluded. You're about 10 miles from a grocery store and restaurants (we planned meals). But there is a general store that is surprisingly well stocked."
Wildlife opportunities: Kids can enjoy wildlife spotting at coastal sites. "The shells at Cape San Blas were plentiful and the fishing was even more fun as our 6 year old caught 2 baby sharks here," recalled one family.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Ho-Hum RV Park offers varying experiences based on site location. "Get the ones that back to the ocean. Best views there. March there is little beach available and reminder the water here is brown," suggested an experienced RVer.
Stabilization challenges: Gravel sites can present setup issues for some rigs. "Gravel makes stabilizers not as effective but not horrible," noted one camper at Ho-Hum RV Park who still managed a successful setup.
Accessibility considerations: Some rv parks Port St. Joe, Florida provide enhanced accessibility features. A visitor at Port St. Joe RV Resort appreciated the "outstanding amenities. Pool, Dog Park, coffee and donuts, huge walk in shower with bench. Very handicap accessible facility."
Site length limitations: Check site dimensions before booking larger rigs. One visitor warned about a site barely accommodating their smaller camper: "We were in site 37. Barely long enough for a 27 ft camper. Room for only one vehicle."
