Camping sites near Summerland Key, Florida range from basic tent areas to full-service RV resorts, positioned within the unique coral island ecosystem of the lower Keys. The camping area sits at just a few feet above sea level, making all sites vulnerable to storm surges during hurricane season. Wind protection varies significantly between bay-facing and canal-side locations, with bayside spots experiencing stronger consistent breezes.
What to do
Snorkeling from shore: At Bahia Honda State Park, the waters provide excellent visibility for beginning snorkelers. "There is a really pretty nature trail as well. Beautiful area that is close to Bahia Honda state park, sombrero beach, and key west," notes Nicole B. from Big Pine Key RV Park.
Kayak launching: Many campgrounds offer private water access for paddlers without boat ramps. "Our site was right next to their gorgeous nature trail on the ocean. The site was directly on the water, we could hear the ocean all night and we had wonderful views," reports Ashlee L. about the rustic camping area.
Beach activities: Bahia Honda offers multiple beach access points. "There are major rip currents that occur on the south side during low tide because of all the water is being sucked through the bridge. Cool place to take a kayak out to explore the area," explains Tyler M. who camped at Rustic RV.
Wildlife observation: Key deer frequently visit campgrounds on Big Pine Key. "The kayak fishing heaven," mentions Charles B., who encountered abundant marine life while camping. "We had a site on the water and enjoyed a beautiful view of the water... you can visit several trails close by," adds Darla from Encore Sunshine Key.
What campers like
Private ocean access: Waterfront sites provide direct swimming and fishing opportunities. "Each spot in the Sandspur campground has a fenced-in area separating it from other sites. Although you can see your neighbors, there is a decent amount of separation between sites and the waves provide a noise buffer," notes Lee D. who visited Bahia Honda State Park.
Nighttime stargazing: Clear skies and minimal light pollution create optimal viewing conditions. "They do a campfire every night and the stars were amazing," shares Anna F. from Big Pine Key RV Park, noting the social atmosphere.
Beach proximity: Several campgrounds offer direct beach access. "We tent camped 2 nights across road from the ocean... Ocean beaches were great as was kayaking and Spotted Eagle Ray sighting," reports John H. who stayed at Bahia Honda State Park but noted timing considerations.
Swimming facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain pools for when ocean conditions aren't ideal. "They have a pool area with bar and grill, and live music. The beach has inflatables for kids," reports Joe R. who stayed at Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort.
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds experience issues with water supply. "Because of the rain, the water coming into our camper was dirty," reported Chad W. from Lazy Lakes Campground.
Site surfaces: Most campgrounds feature coral rock or gravel pads. "Ground is hard packed limestone so bring a hammer and heavy stakes. Can get really windy," advises Charles B. about camping in the area.
No-see-ums: These biting insects can be problematic, especially without breeze. "It can get super hot in July/Aug... I've camped here a few times. Pros: Cheapest way to stay in the keys. Above average beach for the keys. Cons: Can be noisy. The ground is all hard, pokey coral (bring a serious air mattress for tent camping)," Lindsay B. notes about bayside camping at Bahia Honda.
Space limitations: Most sites throughout the Keys are compact. "Campsites are tight—and I mean tight, tent and RV alike. The interior tent sites are tiny. A 3 person tent is about all that will fit as you must also park your car there as well," explains Portia H. from Boyd's Key West Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Some campgrounds provide equipment for those with mobility needs. "This place was just amazing for my family member in a wheel chair! Everywhere was wheelchair accessible, and they even had a beach wheel chair that we were able to checkout," shares Jill R. who visited Buttonwood Campground.
Recreation facilities: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. "Very family friendly. Had a pool, game room with a pool table and ping pong. Lots of board games and a tv watching room," notes Nicole B. who brought children to Big Pine Key RV Park.
Beach safety awareness: Currents can be challenging for young swimmers. "Even though the Atlantic beach had the stench of sea grass, the water was crystal blue and filled with families enjoying the water. The bayside beach had a roped off swim area with patches of sea grass and also rock jetties. Both were teeming with various fish. Be careful of the current near the rope," warns Denise K. about Buttonwood Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Oceanfront sites typically cost more but provide the best experience. "We stayed in spot 10 on the canal side and loved it. The cabana was recently remodeled and had a nice fireplace and TV along with a kitchen and bar. Next time I think we would prefer to stay on the ocean side though!" advises Jenny W. from Bluewater Key RV Resort.
Utility hookups: Water pressure and electric service quality vary significantly between campgrounds. "This is a very friendly atmosphere. Staff are all courteous. Residents, by and large are helpful to guests like us," shares Roger W. about Venture Out, noting the full hookup availability.
Size considerations: Many campgrounds have tight turning radiuses and limited space. "We had a helluva time maneuvering our 35ft tt into space- had to have four neighbors move their vehicles and lots of help. Landscaping is pretty but trees on each site aren't really slide out friendly. For a smaller rig, it wouldn't be a problem," warns Erika R. about navigating larger RVs at Sunshine Key.
