Cabin camping near Summerland Key, Florida offers a variety of accommodations within 30 miles of this Lower Keys destination. Winter temperatures average 70-75°F with summer highs reaching 90°F, making seasonal timing crucial for comfort. Summerland Key sits at just 5 feet above sea level, with most camping areas equally low-lying and susceptible to coastal weather patterns.
What to do
Snorkeling opportunities: At Bahia Honda State Park, the shallow waters provide excellent visibility. "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," notes one visitor about Bahia Honda State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The canal-side sites at Venture Out let you observe native marine life. "Our site was on a canal with a view down the canal to what I would call a bay. Nice sunset and nice sunrises from our location," reports a camper at Venture Out. Many sites have boat docks right behind them.
Kayaking: Launch directly from waterfront sites at several locations. "The waterfront tent sites are probably the best locations in Boyd's—on the point. You almost feel like you are camping at the beach as the water is literally right there at your feet," describes a tent camper at Boyd's Key West Campground.
What campers like
Private beach access: Encore Sunshine Key offers exclusive shoreline for guests. "Torquoise water, leaning palm trees, white sand beach! We fell in love not only with the resort, but the proximity to Bahia Honda and Key West," shares a visitor at Encore Sunshine Key.
Waterfront views: El Mar RV Resort provides oceanfront sites with unobstructed water views. A visitor explains, "I love the size of it only holds about 11 campers which in my opinion is perfect. We were right on the water with a peaceful ocean breeze to keep us cool," about their stay at El Mar RV Resort.
Unique accommodations: At Flamingo Campground in Everglades National Park, eco-tents provide a glamping option. "Ours was located closest to the water(#6). You don't get to choose—assigned when you check in. There was a lovely breeze each afternoon and very few mosquitoes. Egrets and Anhingas were in abundance," describes one visitor.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most Keys campgrounds require booking 6-12 months in advance, especially for winter stays. "It is a great location with tons of amenities! Best for RV camping but I have also tent camped here many times," shares a repeat visitor at Encore Sunshine Key.
Insects: Bug protection is essential, particularly at dusk. "It is great but the mosquitos at night are horrible and if their is no ocean breez it is supper hot so you want to be on the atlantic side," warns a camper about their experience at Bahia Honda.
Site privacy: Campground density varies widely across the Keys. "Boyd's Campground, Key West, FL. Campsites are tight—and I mean tight, Tent and RV alike. The interior tent sites are tiny," explains a visitor at Boyd's Key West Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several resorts offer swimming pools as alternatives to ocean swimming. "We had a great trip! Group of 10 camped. One Rv. One tent. Great views and great atmosphere," mentions a family visitor at Boyd's Key West Campground.
Beach activities: Shallow, protected beach areas work well for younger children. "We booked a primitive tent site for two nights during the week. There is a laundry facility, pool, lounge area with a pool table, and a very clean shower house and bathroom with sinks for dishwashing," notes a camper at Boyd's.
Recreational amenities: Look for campgrounds with organized activities. "Venture Out: this is about 40 minutes from downtown Key West. There are lots of recreational activities available here. Tennis, pickle ball, swimming pool, hot tub, ping-pong, billiards, and of course, boating," explains a visitor at Flamingo Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For comfortable stays in the Keys, prioritize sites with shade. "We were in electric site number 1 which included shade trees. No water at the sites but potable water and dump facilities are provided," advises an RVer at Flamingo Campground.
RV size limitations: Many Keys campgrounds have tight turning radiuses. "The sites are big but if you're the last one in, your back in to your site will be tricky," warns an RVer about El Mar RV Resort, which has only 11 sites and no turnaround area.
Hook-up variations: Confirm specific utilities before booking. "The spots are decent, showers were recently remodeled and laundry room was very large. Many activities going on at the club house," notes a visitor at Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort, which offers full hook-ups.
