Patrick AFB camping options range from military family campgrounds to state parks along Florida's Atlantic coast. The Space Coast area experiences subtropical temperatures averaging 72-90°F year-round with high humidity during summer months. Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Patrick AFB maintain leash requirements outside designated off-leash areas, with vaccination records often required upon check-in.
What to do
Launch viewing: 15-20 minutes from several campgrounds. Visitors at Jetty Park Campground have front-row seats to space launches from Cape Canaveral. According to one camper, "Very friendly staff. Nicely laid out with space for everyone. Walk to the beach! Clean with shade. WiFi, water, electric and sewer hookup as well as tent sites and cabins."
Fishing opportunities: Available at multiple waterfront locations. The Sebastian Inlet State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access directly from the campground. "Nice camp ground for fishing and bringing the boat along. Some spots are tight in the front row. The back loop has a little more room," notes a recent visitor who recommends bringing an insect tent for protection from no-see-ums.
Wildlife observation: Manatees and dolphins visible from campsites. Waterfront sites at Long Point Park Campground offer opportunities to view local marine life. "You tie your boat up at your campsite. Great for kayaking, fishing and paddle boarding," shares one camper who recommends packing mosquito repellent for summer stays.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct water views. At Manatee Hammock Campground, campers appreciate the Indian River waterfront. "26 acres, small campground; most sites are relatively close to each other; lots of trees and shade; beautiful water views from several campsites, specially sites 51, 13, 65-69, 169, 170," explains one visitor.
Spacious sites near ponds: Provide extra privacy. Wickham Park Campground offers camping near small fishing ponds. A camper notes, "The location of this park is perfect for us. We have family in Melbourne so we love staying here when we visit. Everything is kept clean, nice fishing ponds and nice and quite."
Military facilities: Access to base amenities. Active duty and retired military personnel appreciate Manatee Cove Family Campground's access to Patrick AFB facilities. One visitor explains, "Patrick AFB has a large PX/Commissary as well as a bowling alley, swimming pool, Class VI store, and you can eat at the DFAC."
What you should know
Environmental conditions: Insects can be challenging. Florida's coastal campgrounds require preparation for no-see-ums and mosquitoes, particularly at Sebastian Inlet. "Bugs, especially the 'no see ums' were pretty bad - so bring bug spray. Clean bathrooms and showers. Nice access to the inlet as well as the beach," advises a recent camper.
Reservation difficulty: Winter months fill quickly. Long Point Park Campground sees high demand during winter. "It is hard to get a reservation in the winter as all the snow birds are down from the north," notes one reviewer familiar with the seasonal patterns.
Site variations: Research specific site features. At Jetty Park, sites vary significantly. "I originally booked site#30 based on the photos, which showed some tree cover. In reality, the site was mostly exposed, likely due to outdated imagery. Thankfully, the staff was understanding and allowed us to move to a shaded spot directly across the road."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Available at select locations. Wickham Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities beyond standard campground features. One camper mentions the park has "Disc golf, food trucks, farmers market, playground the list goes on!"
Beach proximity: Walking distance from campsites. Encore Space Coast provides convenient beach access for families. A visitor states, "Decent RV park close to the beach. Had a back in site. Gravel under the RV so not quite level. No fires allowed, heated pool was very nice for the kids."
Educational opportunities: Space Center visits. Several campgrounds provide easy access to Kennedy Space Center. At Manatee Hammock, one camper notes they "saw two rocket launches while here" and recommends visitors "Make sure you visit Port Canaveral and eat at the many excellent restaurants."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Research exact dimensions. At Long Point Park, site selection matters significantly. "The sites are clean and have a picnic table and fire ring. Although I believe there is a burn ban at the moment. 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."
Navigation challenges: Tight turns in older parks. RVers at Lucky Clover RV Park note that "Navigating the inside roads with a big-rig is only possible with the help of the on-site property maintenance person, Jason, who is also amazingly friendly and helpful. The spaces are close together but even with our 43' fifth wheel, we were able to back-in to our space easily enough."
Winter stays: Plan for extended reservations. Space Coast RV locations often cater to long-term winter visitors. One reviewer at Lucky Clover RV Park explains, "This park is definitely not for overnight or even weekly stays. This is a long-term mobile home and RV community with individuals who either live here full-time or for at least several (6+) months at a time."
