Best Camping in Florida: Top 10 Places to Go in 2024

If you are looking for the best camping in Florida, there will be many cautions about hot, sticky, mosquito-filled nights in marshy settings. Camping, hiking, motorcycling, and taking in the state's natural beauty without leaving footprints are all excellent activities in Florida.

Florida is the ideal place to camp, with more than 12 million acres of public areas and 1,300 miles of coastline. The top ten spots to camp in Florida are included here, along with some recommendations for camping essentials and Florida camping tips. We also suggest you take a Jackery Solar Generator on your camping trip to ensure you have enough power on the go.

Top 10 Places to Camp in Florida

Campgrounds in Florida will keep you occupied wherever you feel like pitching a tent. Camping in Florida will be enjoyable and unforgettable for those with a sense of adventure. 

The Sunshine State provides the top RV parks at cost-effective rates that guarantee fun and enjoyment for every family member and quality time spent with friends and loved ones. Check out this list of Florida's most significant camping spots, and start planning your trip immediately!

1. Myakka River State Park

Location:13208 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241

Phone:941-361-6511

Website: Myakka River State Park  

When to Visit: Early Spring, late Fall, Winter

Best Campsites:Old Prairie Campground, Palmetto Ridge Campground

Myakka River State Park, one of Florida's largest and oldest parks, is centered on its namesake river, which meanders through 58 square miles of wetlands, prairies, and pinelands. Today, many of the original structures are still in use. It is the only river in Florida that has been granted this unique distinction.

While hikers and cyclists explore miles of trails and backroads, boating, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular water sports. 38.9-mile loop trails are open to hikers, and if you'd prefer to cruise on the lake, daily boat cruises are available so you can concentrate on your photos.

There are over 90 campsites in the park, each containing a water source, an electrical outlet, a fire ring, and a restroom. While you're there, climb up into the canopy of Myakka's palm trees for magnificent views of the park.

"First-time visit! I saw deer on the road, vultures, and lots of gators! We kayaked the river and saw many gators swimming and swimming on the banks: amenities, outpost, gift shop, and food truck. Also, scenic boat rides are available. A must-see!"

2. Blackwater River State Park

Location:7720 Deaton Bridge Road, Milton FL 32564

Phone:850-983-5363

Website: Blackwater River State Park   

When to Visit: Fall

Best Campsites: Longleaf Pines, Bear Lake Campground

For fans of Game of Thrones, you must visit Blackwater River State Park. Despite its name, this river has a tint of golden brown that flows through Blackwater State Forest and the nearby park. The forest is rarer than a tropical rainforest since it is one of the last significant contiguous longleaf pine and wiregrass habitats in the world.

Blackwater River is a popular spot for canoeists and kayakers and provides chances for various outdoor activities. This park is well-liked for activities including swimming, fishing, camping, and paddling since the river is one of the nation's purest sand-bottom rivers.

Camping at one of the park's 30 campsites is necessary to take advantage of everything it offers. You can camp along the shorelines of the white sand beaches at one of the 27 accessible plots, 26 of which fit RVs, or you can float, canoe, tube, or kayak down the river's dark tannic waters.

"We camped five nights here and loved every minute! It's the cleanest, most friendly campground you'd ever want to stay in. The rangers there are helpful and knowledgeable, especially Aimee. She bent over backward to make our stay perfect!"

3. Ocala National Forest

Location:325 John Knox Road, Suite F-210, Tallahassee, FL 32303

Phone:850-523-8500

Website: Ocala National Forest  

When to Visit: Fall

Best Campsites: Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, Clearwater Lake Campground

The Ocala is a distinctive and fascinating forest that offers a pleasant temperature for outdoor recreation all year. While a summer canoe excursion down a palm-lined creek is a terrific way to spend an August day, the mild winters are delicate for family camping.

All four seasons are suitable for camping on the Ocala. This central Florida oasis has more than 600 lakes, hundreds of miles of trails, and 14 developed campgrounds with dedicated campsites for tents and RVs.

There are large springs, winding streams, and lakes where you may go water skiing and fishing. The wilderness areas of Alexander Springs and Juniper Prairie, among others, are tucked along the Florida National Scenic Trail and offer scattered campsites for hikers.

"Wow! Ocala National Forest RV (and tents) campground. RV sites have FHU. The campground pads are asphalt, level, and clean. Roads are paved."

4. Long Key State Park

Location: 67400 Overseas Highway, Long Key, FL 33001

Phone:305-664-4815

Website: Long Key State Park

When to Visit: Summer

Best Campsites:Coconut Cay, Fiesta Key RV Resort

Henry Flagler's Long Key Fishing Camp in the Middle Keys previously stood on the island that now houses Long Key State Park, a 965-acre park in Monroe County. It offers plenty of chances to locate your ideal camping location with stunning natural views.

Today, tourists can canoe across a network of lagoons or hike two land trails to explore this island. A panoramic view of the island and its abundance of plant and animal life is available from the observation tower at the end of the Golden Orb Trail, which takes visitors through five different ecological ecosystems.

The park's hike-in, tent-only campsites are situated along the Atlantic Ocean in the Florida Keys. There are no water hookups or electricity, but each tent site has a picnic table, grill, and hammock stand. Campers can use restrooms with chilly outdoor showers. Well-behaved pets are permitted in the campground.           

"We enjoyed hiking the 1.25-mile Golden Orb Trail through different habitats. It was an easy hike, with no hills, gradual slopes, and inclines. The trail was smooth and sandy. A good place to spot wildlife."

5. Anastasia State Park

Location:300 Anastasia Park Road, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Phone:904-461-2033

Website: Anastasia State Park

When to Visit: Summer

Best Campsites: Anastasia State Park Campground

Both tourists and wildlife find refuge in Anastasia State Park. Anastasia State Park is ranked No. 6 and is well-known for its variety of fun recreational pursuits. At Anastasia State Park, you may go camping, windsurfing, kayaking, fishing, hiking, swimming, and sailing.  

Visitors can take their time and enjoy the beach's bright and lovely vistas, float with the waves, or curl up with an excellent book on the soft, sandy coastline. The campground at Anastasia State Park is steeped in history.

In northeast Florida, the park enables campers to take a loop trip along The Ancient Dunes Nature Trail that takes them back in time. However, you need not fear because 80 of the 123 campsites will transport you to the present day with RV-friendly connections.

"Tiny State Park, but beautifully laid out to give you the visual illusion of a much larger state park. Many of the sites are large, except those on the curves of each loop. They are best for a tent or van camper."

6. Rainbow Springs State Park

Location:19158 SW 81st Pl Rd, Dunnellon, FL 34432

Phone:352-465-8555

Website: Rainbow Springs State Park

When to Visit: May to September

Best Campsites:Rainbow Springs State Park Loop

Three miles north of Dunnellon, on 1,459 acres, is Rainbow Springs State Park, a Florida state park that provides camping, hiking, and several outdoor and water-based activities.

More than 10,000 years ago, people came to Rainbow Springs, which has lush, mossy hammocks and artificial waterfalls. After touring and trekking through the grounds, you may cool yourself in the pristine, aqua-blue waters, a pleasure to behold.

This state park is home to one of the largest natural springs in the region, as well as an aquatic preserve. Bring your snorkeling equipment to immerse yourself in Florida history while camping at Rainbow Springs State Park. Camp nearby to take advantage of the springs for a few days straight. A campsite store, bathrooms and showers, a laundry area, and a playground for children are available as amenities.

"I have kayaked on it dozens of times now, and it is stunning and awe-inspiring every time. If you like nature and kayaking, this is the spot. The water is clear and cool. This was a perfect way to stay cool on a hot summer day."

7. Bahia Honda State Park

Location: 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043

Phone:305-872-2353

Website: Bahia Honda State Park  

When to Visit: March to May, December

Best Campsites:Buttonwood Campground, Sandsqur Campground, Bayside Campground

Located on the renowned Overseas Highway about 130 miles south of Miami on the way to Key West, this park boasts a picture-perfect tropical scenery with pure white sand beaches, turquoise sea views, and various birds and fauna.

According to visitors, the Florida Keys' most excellent beaches are found in this park, and the quiet, clear water is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. You may learn about the local animals and their habitat at the Sand and Sea Nature Center.

Overnight visitors have access to three campgrounds with 80 campsites and three waterfront rental cabins that come completely furnished. The campgrounds at Buttonwood and Sandspur both have RV power hookups and access to centralized restrooms and dump stations. The more distant Bayside campground, which is on the park's north side, does not permit RVs but does allow hammock camping.    

"Calusa Beach is great for swimming in crystal clear waters, but the best view is on Loggerhead Beach. It may be the most beautiful water you will see from land in the continental USA."

8. Collier-Seminole State Park

Location:20200 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34114

Phone:239-394-3397

Website: Collier-Seminole State Park  

When to Visit: December to March

Best Campsites:Naples, Kirkland Hammock Campsite

One of the world's most extensive mangrove swamps, the vast mangrove swamp of South Florida, is partially contained within the 7,271-acre Collier-Seminole State Park.

The environment and wildlife at Collier-Seminole State Park are typical of Florida's Everglades. The park contains one of Florida's three original royal palm stands, which are uncommon elsewhere and coexist with vast patches of mangrove swamp.

For a chance to see some of these lovely creatures, go for a trek, a bike ride, or a canoe trip down the Blackwater River on one of the park's four nature paths. The campground at the park includes 104 sites, and each one is equipped with electricity, water, a grill, and a picnic table. Additionally, on-site are a centralized bathing facility, laundry facility, and dump station, all praised by visitors for being spotless.    

"Tranquil and beautiful area. The campground is very well maintained. Lots of interesting history in the park and immediate areas."

9. Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Location:16450 S.E. Federal Highway, Hobe Sound, FL 33455

Phone:772-546-2771

Website: Jonathan Dickinson State Park

When to Visit: Early morning, any time of the year

Best Campsites: The River Campground, Pine Grove

This recreation area on Florida's Atlantic coast, about 20 miles north of West Palm Beach, encompasses 10,000+ acres of diverse terrain divided into 16 zones. It includes the Loxahatchee River, the state's first river to receive federal Wild and Scenic designation, and the sand pine scrub, the preferred habitat for scrub jays.

This park is a singular location to explore on land or by boat because of its rare habitats, including the pure Loxahatchee River, upland lakes, scrub woodlands, and coastal sand hills.

The park has two campgrounds that can be reserved. The River Campground is roughly four miles from the park's entrance, while Pine Grove is on the park's east side. Both campgrounds provide access to water, power, a grill, and a table, but only Pine Grove has sewer hookups. There are five campsites where you can bring an equine camping partner.

"We live next door to the park, so we are there frequently. There is so much to do - the observation tower is awesome, as well as canoeing, kayaking, mountain bike trails, and hiking. Or sit by the water and enjoy the view!"

10. Cayo Costa State Park

Location:4 Nautical Miles West of Pine Island, Cayo Costa FL 33922

Phone:941-964-0375

Website: Cayo Costa State Park  

When to Visit: Summer

Best Campsites:Cayo Costa State Park Campground, Sea Isle Resort

Cayo Costa State Park is on a barrier island with miles of gorgeous beaches, acres of pine forests, oak palm hammocks, and extensive mangrove swamps. It is situated on the Cayo Costa, north of North Captiva Island and west of Cape Coral.

This former fishing area of the Calusa Indians is only reachable by boat or kayak. It offers 9 miles of unspoiled shoreline for swimming, snorkeling, shelling, fishing, bird viewing, and exploration, in addition to various hiking and biking paths through the island's interior.

Manatees, porpoises, and sea turtles may be seen offshore in addition to the abundance of shorebirds. Florida's coast is as it should be! There are cabins and camping spots for overnight visits, and ferries sail from numerous mainland places to the island.    

"Good experience getting there. The ferry was a bit pricey, but it was seamless. Punctual and helpful. The tram on the island was great for getting to our site. The cabin was adequate. Ask for one with an enclosure."

Camping in Florida Essentials

More than 50 full-service, kid-friendly campsites and a sizable state park system are available in Florida. Camping in Florida is a beautiful opportunity to spend time with the family and take natural beauty.

It is crucial to prepare for your trip, especially when packing camping essentials. The following is an overview of camping gear, which you can learn more about from camping must-haves guide.

- Campsite Essentials: tent, sleeping bag, table & chair, flashlight, firewood;

- Portable Power Generator: Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus & 1000 Plus

- Camp Cooking Essentials: cooking grill, stove, knife, cutting board, coffee maker, food

- Camping Clothes: water-proof jacket, hiking pants, boots, gloves

- Cleaning Essentials: hand sanitizer, toothbrush, shower kit, suncream, towel

- First Aid Kit: personal medication, bandages, finger splints, eye drops

Numerous camping activities are available, ranging from subtropical forests to beaches, from northern springs to coral reefs. A portable solar generator, like Jackery Solar Generator, is necessary to pack when camping. Also, it is a great way to guarantee power wherever you need it, even if there is no nearby power grid.

Jackery Solar Generators for Camping in Florida

Many campsites in Florida need noise levels to be less than 60 decibels, including generators. This means a solar generator is great for camping in Florida because it makes less noise and can maintain more power.  

The size of a solar generator is called its output. Some are very big, while others are smaller. In simple terms, you will need to get a more significant solar generator if you want to power more appliances.  

Different Jackery Solar Generators have different power outputs, from 240Wh to 24 kWh. We suggest Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus and 1000 Plus for camping trips, which can charge most of your camping gear.

Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus

A compact and aesthetically pleasing portable solar generator, the Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus, is available in the market. The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station, along with the SolarSaga 40W solar panels, enables a capacity of 288Wh and a power output of 300W.

Equipped with two PD ports capable of delivering a remarkable 100W of power each, this device enables you to charge several gadgets efficiently. For example, it can charge your phone, camera, and computer simultaneously, enhancing the enjoyment of your camping trip.          

The Explorer 300 Plus is incredibly lightweight at just 11 lbs, making it a convenient choice for outdoor adventures such as camping, climbing, or wildlife spotting. The SolarSaga 40W is a compact and portable solar PV that offers versatility for various locations. Its compact design allows easy storage and portability, effortlessly fitting into any bag.  

The Explorer 300 Plus includes a durable LiFePO4 battery with an extended lifespan and a self-developed BMS for enhanced safety. Our advanced technology allows you to enjoy faster charging times and extended battery life. Stay powered and connected, whether in nature or on the move. Thanks to its quick charging options, you can rely on the 300 Plus to fuel your outdoor activities.