Tent camping near Vero Beach, Florida provides access to freshwater lakes, coastal ecosystems, and pine flatwoods characteristic of the region. The area sits at a low elevation of 13-26 feet above sea level with a subtropical climate featuring high humidity and temperatures averaging 73°F annually. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though summer camping requires preparation for afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Blue Cypress County Park sits on Blue Cypress Lake, offering excellent fishing access. A camper noted, "This is a neat little plot of land to base some fishing from. It's run by Middleton's Fish Camp Park, so really this location on the map needs a name change."
Hiking trails: Loop 4 connects to the Ocean to Lake Hiking Trail (OTLHT), making it popular for backpackers. One visitor shared, "Being on the OTLHT backpackers came through to eat before moving on to the next camp. Will definitely stay again."
Wildlife observation: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Loop 4, a camper reported, "The creek farther down had adolescent gators, nothing to worry about. But I kept my eyes pealed for sudden movements when I got the water."
What campers like
Natural surroundings: Kitching Creek Primitive Campground in Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers isolation in natural settings. A camper described it as "beautiful as it is remote, just the way I like it. Perfect if you seek serene solitude."
Spacious sites: Many camping areas provide ample space for groups. At Loop 4, a reviewer mentioned, "The camp ground is large, can easily accommodate 30+ people and is well maintained."
Shade availability: Wickham Park Campground offers shaded sites with tree cover. A visitor enjoyed "the fallen tree, and so do kids to climb! It was a nice hidden surprise."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Water sources at some campgrounds may be questionable. At Loop 4, a camper reported, "The water from the pump came out with a purple tinge and smelling of Sulphur. I opted to get my drinking water from the creek after filtering it."
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary widely between locations. At Blue Cypress County Park, "The bathhouse has male and female sides with two toilets and a shower. It's not up kept terribly well, but they work just fine!"
Reservation requirements: Some areas require advance permits or reservations. At DuPuis Campground, campers must "register at the SFWMD site and request a permit. You need the code for the combination lock to open the gate which is included with the permit."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Scrub Jay Primitive Campground offers accessibility for those with children. A reviewer explained, "Although less pretty and less remote than Kitching Creek, it is only 5 mi from the park entrance, which makes it perfect if you are a beginner hiker or have small children."
Activity options: Wickham Park Campground offers various family activities. A camper shared, "It's a great place with lots of bike/walking paths and wide open, quiet spaces. Hope to take advantage of the fishing ponds, mountain bike trails and archery range in future visits."
Gear transportation: Some campgrounds restrict vehicle access. At Blue Cypress County Park, "They've stopped people from driving out to the camping area, so you have to lug your gear to your spot."
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Choose waterfront sites when available for better views and experience. At Wickham Park Campground, a visitor noted, "The sites are nice by the ponds. Good spacing between them and clean looking."
Site conditions: Be aware that some campgrounds have long-term residents. One camper at Wickham Park observed, "The back sites (sect C) had rigs that have been there a while. Some with old discarded air conditioners on the picnic tables or junk around them."
Local attractions: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to nearby attractions. A Wickham Park visitor mentioned, "The location of this park is conveniently located to scenic Route A1A and plenty of stores."
