Discover the Best Campgrounds in Florida

One of the most biodiverse states in the country, Florida is home to 663 beaches spread across more than 1300 miles of coastline. Millions of acres of public land conserve prairies, wetlands, coral reefs, mangrove forests, and river bluffs. With its incredible natural beauty and cooperative weather, it’s no surprise that the Sunshine State is an outdoorsy favorite, and camping is a perfect way to get in touch with its wild side. From the panhandle to the southernmost point, here are the best campgrounds in Florida.

Kissimmee Prairie Preservation State Park

Best campground for stargazing

This 54,000-acre state park is all about horizon. Home to one of the largest stretches of Florida dry prairie, Kissimmee Prairie Preservation State Park provides visitors with unadulterated views of nature as far as the eye can see. It is a sanctuary for native wildlife and a haven for numerous endangered species.

While spotting grasshopper sparrows or burrowing owls is popular, it is the stargazing that earns the park a place on this list. Removed from light pollution, the preserve is recognized by the International Dark Sky Association, offering visitors an incomparable vantage point for the cosmos.

Eager stargazers need to make a reservation at one of 35 campgrounds, which include amenities such as electricity, water, restrooms, and laundry facilities.

Myakka River State Park

Best campground for quintessential Florida beauty

Roseate spoonbills wading in the nearby marsh, alligators sunning themselves on riverbanks, towering pines stretching skyward – if you’re seeking the iconic natural beauty for which Florida is renowned, Myakka River State Park is the place to be.

The opportunities to explore the surrounding wetlands, prairies, hammocks, and pinelands are vast, including hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Miles of trails and scenic waterways allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness. This park features well-equipped and primitive campgrounds, all requiring advance reservations.

Suwannee River Wilderness State Trail

Best campground for remote wilderness

The Suwannee River, winding nearly 250 miles from Georgia to the Gulf of Mexico, is dotted with scenic springs, beaches, and swimming holes. Accessible only by water, it feels especially undisturbed and beautiful. For those wanting a true escape into nature, it’s a must-see locale.

Public and private campsites are available along the river, including five designated river camps with amenities like screened sleeping cabins, hot showers, restrooms, and grills. Although remote, several town hubs near each campsite provide opportunities to restock supplies or enjoy local events.

Blackwater River State Park

Best campground for canoeing and hiking

Located in the Florida Panhandle, near the Alabama border, Blackwater River State Park boasts one of the rarest natural habitats globally. Trails and tributaries guide visitors through the longleaf pine/wiregrass forest, showcasing the beauty of this unique ecosystem.

The park offers 30 campgrounds with amenities like electricity, picnic pavilions, and restrooms. RVs and pets are welcome, but advance reservations are necessary.

Cayo Costa Island State Park

Best campground for island isolation

Cayo Costa State Park is an island on the western side of Florida, accessible only by boat. With nine miles of pristine beach and nine acres of forest, this untouched paradise is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts—you’ll be busy snorkeling, swimming, and fishing, making the absence of electricity at the 30 tent sites easy to overlook.

Seamlife thrives in these waters, and wildlife is abundant, from manatees to pelicans. Visitors will get a glimpse of Florida as it once was.

Fort DeSoto Park

Best campground for beachfront views

Located south of St. Petersburg, Fort DeSoto Park features five separate keys with miles of sandy beaches. The turquoise waters welcome activities like snorkeling, sailing, and swimming.

Due to its dog-friendly nature, you’ll often find pets enjoying the shoreline alongside their humans. Fort DeSoto campgrounds offer modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, water, electric hookups, grills, and restrooms.

Bahia Honda State Park

Best campground for snorkeling

Just past Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park showcases southern Florida’s beauty. A half-moon beach overlooked by a historic bridge, along with green-blue water and rich marine life, adorn this 500-acre beachfront preserve.

While the beach and hiking trails are impressive, the offshore activities draw many visitors. Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, a short trip away, offers some of the best snorkeling around. With 80 campsites, ranging from primitive to full-service, visitors should plan ahead, as sites fill up quickly.

Anastasia State Park

Best campground for bird watching

Located along the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, Anastasia State Park is a 1600-acre peninsula in northeastern Florida. The sunsets behind the dunes of white-quartz sand create a magical atmosphere, where visitors might spot dolphins gliding through the waters or eagles soaring overhead.

Activities such as cycling, fishing, hiking, surfing, shelling, and kayaking await. The park has 139 campgrounds equipped with electricity, water, picnic tables, and fire pits, welcoming both RVs and tents.