Near Summerland Key, Florida, campers can explore the calm Gulf waters and Atlantic Ocean access from several RV campgrounds in the Lower Keys. The area sits just 20 miles east of Key West at sea level, with average winter temperatures around 75°F and summer temperatures reaching the high 80s. Most camping facilities remain open year-round despite seasonal hurricane risks from June through November.
What to Do
Manatee viewing: Encore Sunshine Key marina frequently hosts these gentle creatures. "Water's so clear you can see all kinds of fish, sharks, jelly fish and manatees. Love, love, love this RV resort!" writes one visitor to Encore Sunshine Key.
Kayaking in mangroves: Launch from Geiger Key's marina for protected paddling routes. "We saw manatees in the mangroves," reports one camper at Geiger Key RV Park.
Snorkeling from shore: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. "We had a spot on the water for our first visit. It included an outdoor shower, outdoor living space, and a dock for getting in and out of our kayak," notes a camper at Bluewater Key RV Resort.
What Campers Like
Oceanfront privacy: Some sites feature natural barriers between camping spots. "Each site 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," explains a visitor to Rustic RV.
Outdoor living spaces: Many premium sites include furnished outdoor areas. "Each spot is privately owned and has its own outdoor cabana (each spot is different though). 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," notes a camper at Bluewater Key RV Resort.
Evening social activities: Several parks organize community events for guests. "They have several activities going on throughout the week for both children and adults," mentions a reviewer at Encore Sunshine Key.
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Winter bookings require significant advance planning. "We attempted to make reservations here 11 months in advance (as soon as they opened up) and were shut out," reports a camper at Rustic RV.
Site variations: Quality and view can differ dramatically across the same campground. "When I booked, the sites available were the premium ones. As so, I book my stay, but I specified that I didn't want to stay if it would be on the sites across the street, only on the oceanfront," explains a visitor who found their assigned "oceanfront" site had obstructed views.
Insects: No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be problematic in warmer months. "About the only thing that we didn't like about this campground (aside from the difficulty securing a site) was the no-see-ums! They are vicious and you will be itching for weeks," warns a camper at Encore Fiesta Key.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Some RV parks offer dedicated children's areas. "Great playground for the kids. AND, you have to check out the marina," writes a visitor to Encore Sunshine Key.
Swimming precautions: Rocky shores require appropriate footwear. "The swimming area was my only very slight disappointment. Wear water shoes, the rocks are rough," advises a camper at Jolly Roger RV Resort.
Seasonal activities: Special events occur at several campgrounds throughout the year. "We loved Fiesta Key! Some of our favorite parts of this resort were the weekly farmers market, the Easter egg hunt on Easter, the restaurant, snorkeling from the shore, and the how they pickup your trash for you right at your site," shares a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many parks accommodate larger rigs but with limited space for extensions. "The RV spots are quite long and have decent amount of space on the side. Perfect for those huge toy haulers with pop out patios. Full hookups with 50/30/15 amp availability at all sites," explains a reviewer at Encore Sunshine Key.
Parking challenges: Some RV campgrounds near Summerland Key have difficult entry configurations. "Important note: there is no turnaround in this campground!! The sites are big but if you're the last one in, your back in to your site will be tricky," warns a visitor to El Mar RV Resort.
Boat accommodations: Several parks offer boat slips for additional fees. "Sites on the canal side have docks where you can pull your small boat or jetski up to and tie off," notes a visitor to Bluewater Key RV Resort.
