Camping options near Summerland Key provide direct water access with varying levels of amenities. The Florida Keys area has a tropical savanna climate with average temperatures ranging from 70°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Sites vary significantly in size and surface type, with most campgrounds requiring reservations 6-12 months in advance for peak season.
What to do
Snorkeling from shore: At Bahia Honda State Park, you can snorkel right from your campsite. "The bayside beach had a roped off swim area with patches of sea grass and also rock jetties. Both were teeming with various fish," notes Denise K. about Buttonwood Campground.
Bridge fishing: Big Pine Key offers access points under bridges where you can catch diverse marine life. "Fishing under the bridge where you can frequently see 5 to 6 foot tarpon swimming near the pilings," reports Scott M. about Big Pine Key RV Park.
Wildlife watching: The National Key Deer Refuge spans portions of Big Pine Key. "There are also key deer in the campground. They are super curious and will come right up to you! We just made sure not to pet or feed them," shares Ashlee L. during her stay at Big Pine Key RV Park.
Kayaking: Many campgrounds provide kayak launches directly from their property. "Perfect kayak launch, boat launch/marina, and bridge fishing," explains Erika R., noting the multiple water access points available.
What campers like
Private beaches: Several campgrounds feature small beaches with various water access points. "Water-loving dogs have access to a private beach area," according to the site description at Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort.
Proximity to Key West: Most campgrounds in the area provide convenient access to Key West attractions. "Only 15-20 min to heart of Key West and all it has to offer!" mentions Gina W. about her stay at Bluewater Key RV Resort.
On-site amenities: Many resorts offer extensive recreation facilities. "They have a pool area with a bar and grill, plus a small but nice dog park for exercising four-legged companions," states the existing description about Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort.
Waterfront camping: Direct water views are a prime feature at many locations. "We had a spot on the water and enjoyed a beautiful view of the water!" shares Darla about Encore Sunshine Key, emphasizing the value of waterfront sites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Securing sites requires significant advance planning. "Typically they are booked 12+ months in advance," warns Alyssa D. about Bayside Campground.
Mosquitoes and no-see-ums: Biting insects can be intense, particularly during certain seasons. "Deep woods off heavily applied along with long sleeve sun shirts, light weight capris and a head/face scarf helped us enjoy the sunsets," recommends Denise K. about dealing with the persistent insects.
Hard ground surfaces: Many tent sites have challenging surfaces. "The ground is all hard, pokey coral (bring a serious air mattress for tent camping), also when it rains it just sits on the ground without soaking in," warns Lindsay B.
Wind exposure: Waterfront sites often experience strong, variable winds. "And the waterfront sites are windy! The wind direction changes frequently. Putting up a tent and taking it down can be a challenge," explains Portia H. about Boyd's Key West Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Inflatable water features: Some campgrounds offer additional water recreation. "The beach has inflatables for kids," notes Joe R. about his family's experience at Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort.
Accessibility considerations: Certain campgrounds accommodate mobility needs well. "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. about Buttonwood Campground.
Tent site selection: For tent camping families, location matters. "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," warns Portia H. about tent options at Boyd's Key West Campground.
Recreation facilities: Look for campgrounds with multiple activity options. "There is a laundry facility, pool, lounge area with a pool table, and a very clean shower house and bathroom with sinks for dishwashing," reports Teala S. about the amenities available.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing variations: RV sites range from spacious to extremely tight. "Sites are beautiful and many have tiki/gazebo room," shares Harry B. about the well-appointed sites at Bluewater Key RV Resort.
Dog-friendly considerations: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Summerland Key have dedicated pet areas. "The resort provides direct water access for dogs who enjoy swimming," notes the existing description.
Mobility around larger resorts: Consider transportation needs within larger properties. "While they have golf cart rentals, we didn't need them as this is a small resort and easy to walk," explains Joe R. about navigating Sugarloaf Key/Key West KOA Resort.
Hookup options: Full hookup availability varies by campground and site type. "Sites vary in spacing and privacy, with most positioned relatively close to one another," observes the existing description about camping options in the area.
