The Steinhatchee area sits along Florida's Gulf Coast in what's known as the Big Bend region, characterized by shallow waters and abundant marine life. Camping options near Steinhatchee, Florida range from primitive waterfront sites to full-service RV parks, with most facilities offering water access. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below 50°F, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Manatee viewing opportunities: During winter months, Manatee Springs State Park Campground attracts numerous manatees seeking warmer waters. "Boardwalk was really cool and long and we saw a couple of manatees," notes one visitor. The park features extended boardwalks providing multiple viewing points along the spring run.
Swimming in natural springs: Natural springs maintain 72-degree water year-round, providing relief from summer heat. At Hart Springs Park, visitors appreciate the "large swimming area with year-round 72-degree Fahrenheit water temperatures" and concrete steps leading down into the water. Multiple springs in the region include swimming areas with varying depths.
Kayaking and canoeing: Water recreation dominates the region's activities. "A great place to kayak! You will be able to see a lot of manatees if you are lucky," writes one camper about Manatee Springs. Many campgrounds offer rental equipment, with rates around $50 for tandem kayaks for two-hour sessions.
What campers like
Gulf-front camping views: Waterfront sites at The Old Pavilion RV Park receive consistently positive feedback for proximity to the water. "This setting is just beyond beautiful. It literally backs up to the gulf. If we got any closer, we would be IN it," reports one camper. Sunset views dominate camper reviews with sites facing directly west over the Gulf.
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds feature regular wildlife sightings. At Hart Springs Park, campers report seeing "deer, hawks and other large wildlife." Several reviewers mention that "the deer will literally eat out your hand" at certain campgrounds, creating memorable experiences for families.
Dark sky stargazing: Shired Island Campground offers excellent night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "This is a perfect place to see meteor showers," says one camper. "There is deck in the water you can walk out to and watch the stars or fish." The open beach areas provide unobstructed views of celestial events.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many waterfront camping areas have minimal amenities. At Shired Island, "there are some power options, a few pavilions grills, and there is a bath and shower house, but the water is very sulfuric, and the bathrooms are not always very clean." Campers should bring drinking water to most primitive sites.
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. Ichetucknee Springs Campground uses a unique reservation approach where "a reservation guaranteed a site, not a specific site." Shired Island operates strictly first-come, first-served with a $10 daily fee and 14-day maximum stay.
Seasonal closures and conditions: Hurricane damage impacts facilities regularly. Recent reports indicate "Shired Island Campground is closed due to storm damage from hurricane." Call ahead to confirm operational status, especially after storm seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Otter Springs Park & Campground provides numerous family-friendly activities. "The kids loved the playground and pool," notes one visitor. The campground features volleyball courts, basketball areas, and a covered, screened-in swimming pool making it suitable for multi-day family stays.
Splash pads for younger children: Several springs parks offer splash pad options for families with small children. Hart Springs has "a small but very nice splash pad for the kids," providing safer water play options when spring waters might be too cold or deep for younger visitors.
Game rooms for rainy days: Ichetucknee Springs Campground maintains a recreation hall with vintage entertainment. "They have a rec hall with OLD arcade games, pool, foosball and air hockey. They have a jukebox with some country and rock choices to get your bones moving," writes one camper, providing indoor activities when weather prevents outdoor recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When selecting a campsite near Steinhatchee, Florida, RV layout matters. At Piddler's Pointe RV Resort, "Sites are flat and gravel and you have plenty of room to maneuver and back in. No shade. The sites are close together, so your slide is right next to your neighbors table." Sites typically accommodate larger vehicles but proximity to neighbors varies significantly.
Utility placement issues: Electric and water hookup locations vary widely between campgrounds. One visitor noted, "The electric box and water is in the very front of the site," requiring longer cords and hoses. At Piddler's Pointe, "Water pressure is good," but internet service described as "terrible at 2G" makes streaming or downloads nearly impossible.
Site surface conditions: Most regional campgrounds feature sand or crushed shell sites rather than concrete pads. During wet conditions, leveling can become challenging, with one Hart Springs camper reporting they "started at site 26 and moved to site 68 because we couldn't level out on the sandy ground."
