R
Robert K.
Traveler
TravelerTopsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground
Top sail campground Florida
Top rate Florida State campground with full hookup. Bathrooms are spotless. Beach access with tram available throughout the day. We will be back.
Best Campgrounds in Florida
Florida features a diverse collection of campgrounds ranging from state parks to resort-style facilities. Fort De Soto Campground in Saint Petersburg and Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort near Orlando exemplify the range available, with accommodations spanning primitive tent sites to full-service RV hookups and cabin rentals. Many campgrounds offer year-round accessibility, with beach proximity being a significant draw at coastal locations like Fort Pickens Campground in Pensacola Beach and Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park in Jacksonville.
Reservations are highly recommended at most developed campgrounds, particularly during winter months when snowbirds migrate south. Mixed-use campgrounds throughout the state provide varying levels of amenities, from basic facilities to luxury options with full hookups. "We stayed a week here and had a great time. The sites are relatively level and very clean. The park is in a convenient location and quiet," noted one visitor about Presnell's Bayside Marina and RV Resort. Weather considerations are significant, with summer bringing high temperatures, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms, while hurricane season from June through November may affect travel plans. Many campgrounds feature water access, with swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.
The state's campground options reflect Florida's natural diversity, from coastal dunes to springs and river systems. Manatee Springs State Park Campground in Chiefland and Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground in Apopka provide access to Florida's famous freshwater springs. Campers frequently mention the wildlife viewing opportunities, with several parks offering guided nature programs. According to one camper, "Excellent park for hiking, kayak, and fishing. Beautifully preserved wildlife and well maintained facilities." Sites at popular destinations like Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground and Anastasia State Park Campground often book months in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Most developed campgrounds provide amenities like drinking water, electric hookups, and shower facilities, though availability varies by location.
Best Camping Sites in Florida (1,729)
1. Fort De Soto Campground
143 ReviewsTierra Verde, FLWebsite+1 (727) 582-2100$38 - $48 / night
"As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."
"Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."
2. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
130 ReviewsWindermere, FLWebsite+1 (407) 939-2267$56 - $201 / night
"The best campground in Florida ! Fun beautiful and lots to do even without going to the parks Wildlife is abundant Bunnies deer turkey"
"Big park so lots of walking if you don’t have the cart (or you can bring your own and/or bikes). Our grandsons loved the golf cart!"
3. Anastasia State Park Campground
119 ReviewsSt. Augustine, FLWebsite+1 (904) 461-2033$28 / night
"You really can have it all at this campground - with its 'next door' proximity to one of the most amazing beachheads on Florida's Atlantic coastline and quick access to the country's oldest town (St."
"Great location & in close proximity to St. Augustine. One of my favorite places to visit in Florida. If you've never been to St."
4. Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore
103 ReviewsGulf Breeze, FLWebsite+1 (850) 934-2622$20 - $40 / night
"This might be my favorite place to camp in all of florida. The campgrounds are clean , quiet and steps from the beach. Great hot showers that are cleaned daily. A visit to the fort is a must."
"Fort Pickins is a large National Park campground on Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida. There are 4 camping loops. Loop D is tents only."
5. Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
99 ReviewsAtlantic Beach, FLWebsite+1 (904) 255-6767$12 - $30 / night
"The campground is situated next to a large lake, with fishing allowed. Nice beach area with in walking distance or short drive of the camp sites."
"Beach close by - walking distance on park roads/paths. Nice lake (no swimming). Full hookups. Better for medium to small rigs. The big guys often have trouble on narrow roads within park."
6. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground
72 ReviewsSanta Rosa Beach, FLWebsite+1 (850) 267-8330$24 - $145 / night
"My wife and I are frequent campers in NW Florida and Alabama. Topsail is certainly one of our favorites. Excellent access to the beach, hiking, biking (many miles), lakes, great campground. "
"Beautiful beach, trees between paved spots, bike path, cute coffee shop on site, bike rentals, & a great location!"
7. Manatee Springs State Park Campground
68 ReviewsChiefland, FLWebsite+1 (352) 493-6072$20 / night
"Easy access to the park and quick and painless check-in process with reservations. The main road in the campground is fine but the roads to the sites are gravel with potholes."
"Step into a world of deer, manatee, and unknown river surprises at Manatee Springs State Park."
8. Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground
65 ReviewsApopka, FLWebsite+1 (407) 553-4383$24 / night
"Close to home and took a drive through one day. Haven't been camping yet this year due to illness but getting ready to get on the road."
"We camp a lot during the summer but since this is Florida it's HOT regularly and sizzling during the summer months."
9. Hillsborough River State Park Campground
64 ReviewsThonotosassa, FLWebsite+1 (813) 987-6771$24 / night
"Then exit 7 to Highway 301 north about 10 miles to the campground. The way in which the state park and campground are set up is easy too."
"This was my first time at a campground in Florida! I was surrounded by beautiful wildlife (alligators, birds, and even a wild boar). The hiking trails were perfect for a beginner or a regular hiker."
10. Pine Grove Campground — Jonathan Dickinson State Park
61 ReviewsJupiter, FLWebsite+1 (772) 546-2771$26 / night
"The cost of camping in Florida isn't cheap though this one actually had the value in it given that you could also rent boats and paddle up river alongside manatees to the wild man encampment."
"Jonathon Dickinson SP, Jupiter Florida Dickinson SP Large park with miles of paved and off road trails for biking and hiking."
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7937 Reviews of 1729 Florida Campgrounds
- Teresa H.
GuidePhipps Park Campground
Last minute getaway with beautiful views!
My partner and I really enjoyed this campground! It’s all around beautiful and clean. The staff were very helpful and sweet. I would definitely recommend this charm because I know I for sure will be back.
- JJohn H.Guide
17 Mile Hunt Camp
Beautiful
Great spot to camp, did see a baby bear and a few wood peckers. Quiet clean and beautiful. No marked camp sites no reservations and no fees.
- ccraig D.
ScoutSeven Sisters Campground
Stumpy
Nice campground but with only one bathroom and one shower for men. So you may have to wait in line
Celeste A.ScoutIndian Lake State Forest Campground
Weekend Get-Away
First time at this State Forest campground/park and it was quiet, accessible, and had all the amenities needed for a nice weekend get away. The bathrooms are a little less modern than expected, but they do have a shower which does get hot within seconds. The iron smell is very notable in the water, however.
Brittany Claire M.TravelerSand Pond Campground — Pine Log State Forest
Meth heads and no HOST
Could have been lovely, but no camp hosts and no one to call when METHany and her spawn show up with a loose pit bull, burning garbage, and defecating on your campsite. Nice flat site, very low water pressure, but good electric 50amp. NOTE: it's a state park so ANYONE can book- including methheads who let their pit bull run loose, burning garbage(including the pet waste we shamed her into picking up) causing us to close our windows, and allows teens to drive against traffic, car surfing....and there's NO ONE to call for help because the camp host is gone all day(at work?) and automatically unreachable after 5pm.
- AAimee K.Scout
Ragan Family Campground
Don’t waste your money
Extremely run down. Not even close to being a water park. Save your money and go to Splash in Milton or if just passing through stay at The Station across the highway for more a more updated, clean experience.
Jenny
RangerSanta Rosa RV Resort
Beautiful camping on the water
We enjoy our stay at Santa Rosa RV Park. There are several rows of camping spots to choose from including waterfront, middle rows and a row right next to the road.
We stayed in site 67 this year (middle row). The grounds have a variety of foliage including magnolia, palm trees and other plants and flowers. Which provides for privacy from your neighbors as well as shade. The waterfront spots don’t have as much shade as the rest but they still do have several palm trees, etc.
This year instead of renting kayaks and paddle boards, they were complimentary - this was a nice perk! They also had a floating pad in the Santa Rosa Sound (bay) for the kids to play on.
Also, they added onto the grounds by the pool and installed a large (all shaded) and a small deck with a gas grill on each deck. We grilled several times and enjoyed lunch by the water - we loved this new area with the grills!!
They have two bags games and a large connect four game and lots of shade.
Fitness room (open 8am to 9pm) had a full set of dumbbells. A treadmill, elliptical and recumbent bicycle.
Plenty of washers and dryers in the laundry room (open 8am to 9pm). Take note: I noticed the dryers dry in very high heat even when low heat is selected so I used lowest heat and stopped our clothes after ~30 min instead of letting them dry the full hour.
During our 13 night stay, they had donuts and coffee twice. That was nice. They also had a food truck a couple of nights which was fun.
It’s always fun to walk out on the pier and look for sting rays and jumping fish. We saw dolphins in the Santa Rosa Sound (bay) and we heard a worker saw a manatee pass under the pier. Fishing from the pier is free and the office sells poles for a reasonable price. Little boy said he caught lots of fish with shrimp.
We enjoy the large fenced in dog park so we can let our pups off the leash. Also they have a nice dog beach that gets pretty large when the tide is out in the evening. I counted at least five dog bag/trash stations all around in the park. There’s no reason for any dog poop to not be picked up but unfortunately there’s always someone who doesn’t pick up after their dog.
The park is well kept and the employees are nice.
- AAntwan Á.Traveler
Fort De Soto Campground
Beach Vibes
Great sites, clean bathrooms and showers. Easy access to the beach.
Stayed next to the playground and it was a great time for the kids.
Guide to Florida
Camping in Florida offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From lush state parks to family-friendly resorts, there's something for everyone.
What to do
- Explore the Springs: Visit places like Alexander Springs Recreation Area for swimming and wildlife spotting. One camper noted, “The spring is walking distance from the campground - we saw turtles, otters, and many fish while swimming in the spring.”
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campgrounds, such as Silver Springs State Park, offer kayaking opportunities. A visitor shared, “We had our own kayaks so we put in at the head springs and paddled down to the campground.”
- Hiking Trails: Check out Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground for beautiful trails. One reviewer mentioned, “The trails are absolutely gorgeous. Natural palms growing among tall pines.”
What campers like
- Natural Beauty: Campers love the scenic views and wildlife. A review from Blue Spring State Park Campground said, “The facilities, the manatees, the fireflies, the sites… everything was wonderful.”
- Amenities: Many campgrounds have great facilities. A camper at Lake Louisa State Park praised, “Shower facilities are recently remodeled and impeccable, with new wall tiles and epoxy floors throughout.”
- Family-Friendly Activities: Campgrounds like Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offer tons of activities. One family shared, “There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy.”
What you should know
- Pricing: Some campgrounds can be pricey for what they offer. A visitor at Salt Springs Recreation Area noted, “The big problem here is that some politician must have received a big kick back to give this contract to American Land and Leisure concessionaire.”
- Noise Levels: Campgrounds can get noisy, especially during busy weekends. One camper at Juniper Springs Recreation Area mentioned, “Over Thanksgiving weekend it got pretty noisy due to one large multi-site group.”
- Limited Privacy: Some sites are close together, which can affect your experience. A camper at Lake Louisa State Park said, “The camping here is literally all RVs, there’s zero privacy.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground that offer activities for kids. One parent said, “A little pricey but worth it in my opinion.”
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A review from Hillsborough River State Park Campground mentioned, “Great campground with good shade and privacy between sites.”
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A camper at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground noted, “We didn’t want to leave at the end of our trip.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hillsborough River State Park Campground mentioned, “Maneuvering a larger rig might take some time backing into sites but there were plenty of big rigs there so it is doable.”
- Look for Full Hookups: Sites with full hookups can make your stay more comfortable. A camper at Lake Louisa State Park shared, “The bathrooms are very clean and upgraded!”
- Be Prepared for Weather: Florida can have sudden rain. One camper at Juniper Springs Recreation Area advised, “The level of cleanliness seems typical of concessionaire run campgrounds. Poor.”
Camping in Florida is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Florida campgrounds are most suitable for families with children?
Which Florida campgrounds are most suitable for families with children?
Florida offers several family-friendly campgrounds that kids will love. Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground near Lake Buena Vista is perfect for families with its proximity to Disney attractions, plus organized activities and amenities designed specifically for children. Alexander Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest is another excellent choice, featuring large campsites that can accommodate multiple family tents. The spring provides safe swimming opportunities and the facilities are clean with showers available. Families also enjoy Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground, where children can swim in the natural spring, rent canoes or kayaks, and explore easy hiking trails suitable for all ages.
What are the best beach campgrounds in Florida?
What are the best beach campgrounds in Florida?
Florida's coastline offers spectacular beach camping experiences. Cayo Costa State Park Campground stands out as one of the best beach camping destinations in the state. This special island location offers primitive camping with amazing shelling opportunities and a true back-in-time experience. The park is accessible only by boat, providing a remote, uncrowded beach experience. Another excellent option is Shell Key Preserve, a water-access-only camping spot where you can observe abundant wildlife including stingrays, turtles, and various bird species. For those seeking more amenities while still enjoying beach access, Fort De Soto Campground near Saint Petersburg offers reservable sites with water and toilet facilities while maintaining a beautiful coastal setting.
Where can I find tent camping opportunities in Florida?
Where can I find tent camping opportunities in Florida?
Florida offers diverse tent camping experiences across the state. For primitive tent camping enthusiasts, Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping on the Florida-Alabama line provides a true backcountry experience. Remember to bring everything you need as there are no facilities, but you'll be rewarded with extensive hiking opportunities. For a more developed experience, Oscar Scherer State Park Campground on the Gulf Coast offers quiet tent sites with hiking and biking trails nearby. Other excellent tent camping options include Anastasia State Park Campground near St. Augustine, which provides beach access along with standard amenities, and Hillsborough River State Park with its beautiful riverside setting.
What are the top-rated campgrounds in Central Florida?
What are the top-rated campgrounds in Central Florida?
Central Florida offers excellent camping options with Santos Trailhead & Campground in Ocala standing out for its spacious, shaded sites that make you feel miles from civilization while actually being near town. It provides easy access to mountain biking trails and a peaceful forest setting. Another highly-rated option is Jonathan Dickinson State Park, which offers excellent value with great facilities for tent campers. The park features boat rentals and opportunities to paddle alongside manatees. For those seeking a unique experience, Istokpoga Canal Boat Ramp And Campsite provides gorgeous surroundings with options for both sun and shade, clean facilities, and trails connecting to nearby camping areas.
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