Camping veterans know that planning a successful Florida camping trip in any season, but especially the busy winter season, takes advance planning and a lot of patience.
Author: Bob Rountree
Manatee Hammock: Waterfront camping near Kennedy Space Center
I’ve camped a few times at this Brevard County park in Titusville, enjoying its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral National Seashore and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. And I’ve used it as a base for exploring Cocoa Beach.
Best beaches near Disney World
The best beaches near Disney World are an hour away, and your options expand if you are willing to drive a few minutes more.
Reservations required for day-use entry at Wekiwa Springs State Park
The pilot program may be extended to other crowded state parks if successful. You can purchase passes up to 60 days in advance.
Stunning Panhandle beaches with camping
These state parks with camping along the Gulf coast feature Florida’s most beautiful beaches.
Fort De Soto Campground: Hard to get. Worth the trouble.
Nearly half of the 236 campsites at Fort DeSoto are waterfront, allowing you to launch a kayak from your back yard. And while these sites are hard to get, the price is right.
Hillsborough River State Park offers historic charm, shady campground, lots to do outdoors
Hillsborough River State Park has been closed since October after getting slammed by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Best camping in Southeast Florida parks
The best South Florida camping can be found in these 17 public parks, which are managed by counties, the state and federal governments.
Dupuis preserve excels for nature, fishing and free camping in western Palm Beach County
Nature hikes, free camping, off-road bicycling, fishing and paddling are fabulous in this pair of magical wildlife areas in the far reaches of Palm Beach County
Cortez Fishing Festival: Feb. 13-14, 2027
This tiny fishing village wedged between Bradenton and Anna Marie Island celebrates its rich heritage as a commercial fishing hub.
Faver Dykes State Park: Camp, paddle, fish near historic St. Augustine
Faver Dykes State Park offers excellent kayaking, productive fishing and woodsy camping just 15 miles from historic St. Augustine.
Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge: Wild spot to kayak, hike, bike
It’s a perfect time to explore Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge in Boynton Beach. The kayak trail has been cleared of water lilies clogging the way. You can rent or launch kayaks here, but also hike an exquisite boardwalk through a cypress forest and see birds and other wildlife on the trails.