Where to go camping in Florida

Florida is full of breathtaking sites that make it the perfect place for campers to explore. From miles of sandy beaches, towering forests and an endless number of hiking trails, this state is home to campers all year round. Whether you’re a first-time camper or a seasoned explorer, Florida offers endless opportunities.

With so many locations to choose from, you might be wondering where to go camping in Florida. In this blog, we’ll share our top picks that appeal to all campers, from families to solo travellers.

Make sure you’re trip-ready with high-quality gear from Boutique Camping. We have everything you need from superior bell tents to premium glamping accessories to get you through every Florida season. 

1. The Florida Keys – Breathtaking Beach Views

If you want to wake up and enjoy the sunrise over sandy shores, this is the perfect destination for you. The Florida Keys have a number of campsites to choose from that cater to RVs and tent campers. 

Here you’ll be able to enjoy long walks on the beach, fresh ocean air and a range of exciting activities from surfing to snorkelling. 

Take your classic bell tent and enjoy camping close to the shore. The canvas material is perfect for keeping you cool in the Florida sun, whilst also adding a touch of extra protection from sea spray.

Our personal favourite Keys campsite is Bahia Honda State Park, which offers a stunning tropical escape with palm trees and dazzling waters without having to head overseas. 

2. Ocala National Forest – Wild Woodland Retreat

If you’re looking for a more wild retreat but still love watersports, Ocala National Forest is the ideal place. This area in Northern Florida is home to crystal clear freshwater lakes that allow for a range of activities from kayaking to scuba diving. 

With miles of forest to explore, there’s also ample opportunity to head off on hikes or long walks. Enjoy the campgrounds with a more private, shaded feel that offers an escape from busy city life.

If you love woodland camping, you can take things back to basics in Ocala National Forest and experience authentic camping. Use a wood-burning stove or fire pit to cook up some tasty meals from scratch or unwind as the sun rises with a hot coffee. Just remember that if you choose to have an authentic experience, toilets and showers are out of the equation. 

3. The Florida Everglades – Remote and Unique

The Florida Everglades is the ultimate location for a camping trip like no other. This destination has its own ecosystem of marshes and swamps and is teeming with wildlife. If you love bird spotting or getting up close and personal with animals, this is the place for you. 

There are several places to camp in the Everglades, and for experienced wild campers, you can head off-grid to locations only accessible by boat. The clear skies and wide open space make for the perfect place to see the stars. Unwind in the evening in your stargazing tent and experience a truly peaceful retreat. 

Conditions can be harsher in this wetter area of Florida, and there are also dangers associated with crocodiles and alligators. Ensure you’re prepared for rainy conditions and consider investing in extra measures like tent canopies to provide additional protection and shelter from the elements. 

4. St. George Island – A Quiet Escape

If you want to know where to go camping in Florida for a solitary solo retreat, St. George Island is a hidden gem. This barrier island lets you enjoy miles of sandy beaches and peaceful campsites. The iconic island lighthouse and bright block color block houses make for a postcard-perfect backdrop, whilst the island’s small population helps create the perfect balance of solitude and a welcoming atmosphere. 

From picnicking to paddling, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy on these sunny shores, and the campsites allow you to experience camping alongside fellow explorers or on your own. Travel light with a 3m bell tent just for you and create a cosy haven where you can watch the sunrise and the stars shine in this magical part of Florida.

5. Lake Kissimmee State Park – Family Camping and Adventures

If you’re a first-time camper or heading on a family trip, Lake Kissimmee State Park is ideal for beginners. There’s plenty to do at this campsite for kids and adults, with the main attraction at this site being the kayaking. You can also enjoy fishing and deer spotting, and playground adventures during the day. At night, you can unwind by the campfire with a family meal and see if you can spot some of the nocturnal critters and wildlife in the area. 

There’s plenty of camping space available for families, and this is the ideal place to enjoy a more luxurious camping experience. A 5m bell tent is ideal for the family and offers plenty of room for everyone to spread out and bring all the essentials your kids can’t do without.

If it’s your first big trip and you need packing advice, take a look at our complete family camping checklist to make sure you’re ready for your adventure. 

6. Myakka River State Park – Wetlands and Stunning Wildlife

This stunning location near Sarasota perfectly captures everything wild Florida has to offer. This is one of Florida’s oldest parks and has almost 60,000 acres to explore. From birdwatching to alligator spotting, there’s no shortage of natural sites. If you’re an active camper, you can head out for a day of hiking, kayaking or exploring. 

The towering oaks and palm trees of Myakka River offer privacy and additional shelter from the elements. There are 90 campsites to choose from, and every campsite has all the essentials, including electricity, water and a fire ring to whip up some tasty campsite meals. You’ll also find picnic benches and space to bring your own tables and chairs to unwind in the evenings.

If you’d prefer primitive camping, you’ll also find sites with limited amenities where expert campers can challenge themselves in more off-grid conditions. If you want to know more about wild camping and what it entails, we have a dedicated blog for you to explore. 

Ensure a fabulous Florida getaway with the right equipment

Wherever you choose to camp in Florida, you’re sure to experience breathtaking scenery and exciting activities for all to enjoy. Remember that you don’t need to camp rough, and with the right range of equipment like our luxury tents from Boutique Camping, you can enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing your comforts. 

Whether you’re yearning for a beach escape along Florida’s sunny shores or a more isolated woodland retreat, pack smart and you’ll be ready for whatever the wild has to offer.

If you need some advice on the right place for your trip or you need guidance on the right gear for you, get in touch with our team. Our camping experts can help you pick the perfect tent based on your party size and camping conditions.