The best star host camping in Florida

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Beautiful beaches, world-famous theme parks, and tropical islands—you probably think you know all there is to know about Florida. But the Sunshine State is also a five-star destination for outdoor adventurers with natural attractions to rival its theme parks. Campers can cruise wildlife-filled wetlands, snorkel coral reefs, hike through national forests, and explore historic forts. Some of the best RV camping is found in the 175 Florida state parks, and with balmy winter temperatures, tent camping is possible year-round. Avoid heart-of-summer camping if possible, though—the heat can be extreme, and it’s hurricane season along the coast. 

99% (15.8K) 667 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Florida

Bay Forest Retreat

1. Bay Forest Retreat

96%
(364)
Navarre, FL · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Explore 11+ acres of rustic and untamed woods. We are a military veteran family who enjoys the land as a place for family and friends to explore, camp, and relax at the 250+ feet of the East Bay beach. We do not have WiFi, but we do have 5g service throughout the 11 acre property. Our camping sites DO NOT have electricity These are hike-in only campsites ☺️ Primitive camping is permitted at designated wooded high grounds in the middle of the property. It is a 5 and 10-minute rugged hike in to the middle ground respectively. The trail remains under development, so please bring close-toed shoes or boots for hiking throughout the property (depending on rainfall, there may be mud and water). We have two primitive campsites these campsites are first come first serve, they are not assigned when booking. Plesea see pictures. Our Glamper tent is a 10x12 canvas furnished full size bed with bedding, pillows and enough floor space for two sleeping bags. The tens are located off a short trial, but rugged 2-minute hike from the parking area. We provide the opportunity to go camping without having to pack the tent. Closed toed shoes are highly suggested as well as plenty of lighting with batteries or solar charging capability. This is a rugged, fun and serene camping experience. Locates justminutes from the Emerald Coast - 7 mins to Navarre Beach, - 30 mins to Pensacola Beach, - 15 mins to Naval Live Oaks, - 45 mins to Fort Pickens, - 50 mins to NAS Pensacola, - 45 mins to Santa Rosa Island, - 35 mins to Okaloosa Island, - 40 mins to Destin. Recommended local restaurants: St. Michael's Brewery which has rotating food trucks and is family friendly, Ye Olde Brothers Brewery, Dewey Destin’s, Andy D's on Navarre Beach, Stripe's Pub, Johnny Huston's, Windjammers, TC’s Front Porch, Deb’s Coffee, The Eatery food truck park, Top’s Burgers, and New York Pizza Depot. Other sightseeing in the area includes: Museums: National Naval Aviation Museum, Air Force Armament Museum, Fort Pickens, Indian Temple Mound Museum, Pensacola Museum of Art, Museum of Industry, and Destin History & Fishing Museum Additional activities include: Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, HH Arts Gallery, Emerald Coast Science Center, Gulf Breeze Zoo, and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Costa Myakka

2. Costa Myakka

100%
(112)
Myakka City, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the "Wild and Scenic Myakka River"! Our 20 acre ranch has everything from Longhorn cattle, to a white sand beach. We like to say our sand is like Siesta Key, except it's...in a swamp. Our property is not too far upstream from the Myakka State park, and parking is never a problem. ;-) We have a beautiful homestead, and you have the choice of a furnished camper with water and power hookups in our pasture, or 2 primative tent or RV spots on the edge of a beautiful stand of Live Oak trees and Sabal palms along the river. We have a porta potty on site that is regularly maintained. Bring your family, bring your dog, bring your friends.....and don't forget to bring a fishing pole!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
Good Earth Farm

3. Good Earth Farm

100%
(207)
Hastings, FL · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Good Earth Farm - Relax - Enjoy - Experience.A quiet and beautiful setting on a working farm in Northeast Florida. Great place for touring Bicyclists, tent campers or glampers - less than 3 miles from the Florida Bike Trail at Hastings, Florida, with hard-surface road access. Fun farm animals and growing crops. A large barn venue with lighted sound stage - perfect for Reunions, Birthdays, Weddings and your special Event. Adjacent to large state conservation lands. Short distance to St. Johns River access and close to Historic St. Augustine and the Beach. Get up with the chickens and gather some Farm Fresh Eggs for breakfast. Good Earth Farm - an old Florida experience that you will never forget.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
Fairytale Forrest

4. Fairytale Forrest

100%
(16)
Crystal River, FL · 5 sites
***There is ONLY 1 SITE on the property, with 4 options.*** YOUR GROUP will be the ONLY one onsite. Welcome to my enchanting 1-acre Fairytale Forest nestled within a tranquil rural subdivision on the north side of Crystal River. As evening descends, a mesmerizing trail of lights illuminates the property, transforming it into a magical oasis. NOTE: Parking is approximately 300 ft from the site. No, you cannot sleep in your vehicle. Discover your secluded camping spot, accompanied by a cozy bench for private relaxation. Your spot is equipped with convenient access to power and water for your comfort. At your site you will have access to an outdoor shower (no hot water), a sink with a table, a screened dining area featuring a table and six chairs and a coffee station, and a barbecue grill. Moreover, the property boasts an array of additional amenities for guests to indulge in. Take advantage of four distinct seating areas, a hammock for lazy afternoons, a swing for whimsical moments, and a lounge seat/bed perfect for sunbathing, unwinding, or stargazing under the night sky. Immerse yourself in the charm and serenity of our Fairytale Forest retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$40
 / night
Malakai 🏕 different by design

5. Malakai 🏕 different by design

97%
(93)
Dickerson City, FL · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Malakai campgrounds different by design 🏕 I purchased this land several years ago after a loss of a child a daughter her named was (little jo) JoLisa Marie Roadcap , it was a life changing moment, teaching me that family and enjoying of life is what it all about... so I want to welcome you here to Malakai for a peaceful and relaxing time, it's even a place that may help you heal from life hardships... At 5:30 just as the Sun comes up it is time for you to go out on to the deck and listen to the birds song 🎵 . As the Sun starts to rise on a new day ✨️ dozens of species of birds from the Great American Bald Eagle , To the endangered woodpecker, The blue herrings, bluebirds(we have mating pair that comes every year) blue jays, mocking birds, doves and several other species and occasionally a couple small black bears like walking through, we want you to have a peaceful and relaxing stay here while you visit everything,here at Garson Point were several species of carnivorous plants grow wild and our beaches have much to offer. It's official -- after 4 years of politics we are officially a park and a preserve.....9 acres of 🚶‍♂️ trails 👣 we are still constructing trails by hand I believe this place has a spiritual strength to people of all nations History of our location Count De Galvez awarded a land grant on Garcon Point to Antonio Garzon following his 1781 Siege of Pensacola in consideration of “his good services rendered as an interpreter to the Indians of Pensacola." The grant was held for 35 years before Maria Garzon, who survived husband Antonio, sold the land they called Garzon’s Point to Joseph (Jose) Bonifay. The land uses were favorable for cattle grazing and turpentining through the 1800s. Many more pioneer families moved into the area and began their own business in the booming industrial opportunities of western Florida. It came to be known as Yellow River Marsh State Buffer Preserve on June 12, 2000, when it was purchased by the state of Florida to protect rare and environmentally sensitive lands, plants and animals. Through generous donations, Preservation 2000 and the Florida Forever Program, more land was added to protect contiguous habitat of the Garcon Ecosystem. Today Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park provides recreational opportunities for hiking and nature study along the Great Florida Birding Trail among rare and endemic plant species and within one of Florida’s oldest multi-cultural frontiers.The preserve is located in Santa Rosa County on Garcon Point, which separates Escambia Bay from Blackwater Bay. Nearly 20 rare and endangered species of plants 🪴 and animals make their homes along the bay and its wet prairies, dome swamps and flatwoods.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night

Beautiful beaches, world-famous theme parks, and tropical islands—you probably think you know all there is to know about Florida. But the Sunshine State is also a five-star destination for outdoor adventurers with natural attractions to rival its theme parks. Campers can cruise wildlife-filled wetlands, snorkel coral reefs, hike through national forests, and explore historic forts. Some of the best RV camping is found in the 175 Florida state parks, and with balmy winter temperatures, tent camping is possible year-round. Avoid heart-of-summer camping if possible, though—the heat can be extreme, and it’s hurricane season along the coast. 

99% (15.8K) 667 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Florida

Bay Forest Retreat

1. Bay Forest Retreat

96%
(364)
Navarre, FL · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Explore 11+ acres of rustic and untamed woods. We are a military veteran family who enjoys the land as a place for family and friends to explore, camp, and relax at the 250+ feet of the East Bay beach. We do not have WiFi, but we do have 5g service throughout the 11 acre property. Our camping sites DO NOT have electricity These are hike-in only campsites ☺️ Primitive camping is permitted at designated wooded high grounds in the middle of the property. It is a 5 and 10-minute rugged hike in to the middle ground respectively. The trail remains under development, so please bring close-toed shoes or boots for hiking throughout the property (depending on rainfall, there may be mud and water). We have two primitive campsites these campsites are first come first serve, they are not assigned when booking. Plesea see pictures. Our Glamper tent is a 10x12 canvas furnished full size bed with bedding, pillows and enough floor space for two sleeping bags. The tens are located off a short trial, but rugged 2-minute hike from the parking area. We provide the opportunity to go camping without having to pack the tent. Closed toed shoes are highly suggested as well as plenty of lighting with batteries or solar charging capability. This is a rugged, fun and serene camping experience. Locates justminutes from the Emerald Coast - 7 mins to Navarre Beach, - 30 mins to Pensacola Beach, - 15 mins to Naval Live Oaks, - 45 mins to Fort Pickens, - 50 mins to NAS Pensacola, - 45 mins to Santa Rosa Island, - 35 mins to Okaloosa Island, - 40 mins to Destin. Recommended local restaurants: St. Michael's Brewery which has rotating food trucks and is family friendly, Ye Olde Brothers Brewery, Dewey Destin’s, Andy D's on Navarre Beach, Stripe's Pub, Johnny Huston's, Windjammers, TC’s Front Porch, Deb’s Coffee, The Eatery food truck park, Top’s Burgers, and New York Pizza Depot. Other sightseeing in the area includes: Museums: National Naval Aviation Museum, Air Force Armament Museum, Fort Pickens, Indian Temple Mound Museum, Pensacola Museum of Art, Museum of Industry, and Destin History & Fishing Museum Additional activities include: Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center, HH Arts Gallery, Emerald Coast Science Center, Gulf Breeze Zoo, and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$28
 / night
Costa Myakka

2. Costa Myakka

100%
(112)
Myakka City, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the "Wild and Scenic Myakka River"! Our 20 acre ranch has everything from Longhorn cattle, to a white sand beach. We like to say our sand is like Siesta Key, except it's...in a swamp. Our property is not too far upstream from the Myakka State park, and parking is never a problem. ;-) We have a beautiful homestead, and you have the choice of a furnished camper with water and power hookups in our pasture, or 2 primative tent or RV spots on the edge of a beautiful stand of Live Oak trees and Sabal palms along the river. We have a porta potty on site that is regularly maintained. Bring your family, bring your dog, bring your friends.....and don't forget to bring a fishing pole!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$55
 / night
Good Earth Farm

3. Good Earth Farm

100%
(207)
Hastings, FL · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Good Earth Farm - Relax - Enjoy - Experience.A quiet and beautiful setting on a working farm in Northeast Florida. Great place for touring Bicyclists, tent campers or glampers - less than 3 miles from the Florida Bike Trail at Hastings, Florida, with hard-surface road access. Fun farm animals and growing crops. A large barn venue with lighted sound stage - perfect for Reunions, Birthdays, Weddings and your special Event. Adjacent to large state conservation lands. Short distance to St. Johns River access and close to Historic St. Augustine and the Beach. Get up with the chickens and gather some Farm Fresh Eggs for breakfast. Good Earth Farm - an old Florida experience that you will never forget.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
Fairytale Forrest

4. Fairytale Forrest

100%
(16)
Crystal River, FL · 5 sites
***There is ONLY 1 SITE on the property, with 4 options.*** YOUR GROUP will be the ONLY one onsite. Welcome to my enchanting 1-acre Fairytale Forest nestled within a tranquil rural subdivision on the north side of Crystal River. As evening descends, a mesmerizing trail of lights illuminates the property, transforming it into a magical oasis. NOTE: Parking is approximately 300 ft from the site. No, you cannot sleep in your vehicle. Discover your secluded camping spot, accompanied by a cozy bench for private relaxation. Your spot is equipped with convenient access to power and water for your comfort. At your site you will have access to an outdoor shower (no hot water), a sink with a table, a screened dining area featuring a table and six chairs and a coffee station, and a barbecue grill. Moreover, the property boasts an array of additional amenities for guests to indulge in. Take advantage of four distinct seating areas, a hammock for lazy afternoons, a swing for whimsical moments, and a lounge seat/bed perfect for sunbathing, unwinding, or stargazing under the night sky. Immerse yourself in the charm and serenity of our Fairytale Forest retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$40
 / night
Malakai 🏕 different by design

5. Malakai 🏕 different by design

97%
(93)
Dickerson City, FL · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Malakai campgrounds different by design 🏕 I purchased this land several years ago after a loss of a child a daughter her named was (little jo) JoLisa Marie Roadcap , it was a life changing moment, teaching me that family and enjoying of life is what it all about... so I want to welcome you here to Malakai for a peaceful and relaxing time, it's even a place that may help you heal from life hardships... At 5:30 just as the Sun comes up it is time for you to go out on to the deck and listen to the birds song 🎵 . As the Sun starts to rise on a new day ✨️ dozens of species of birds from the Great American Bald Eagle , To the endangered woodpecker, The blue herrings, bluebirds(we have mating pair that comes every year) blue jays, mocking birds, doves and several other species and occasionally a couple small black bears like walking through, we want you to have a peaceful and relaxing stay here while you visit everything,here at Garson Point were several species of carnivorous plants grow wild and our beaches have much to offer. It's official -- after 4 years of politics we are officially a park and a preserve.....9 acres of 🚶‍♂️ trails 👣 we are still constructing trails by hand I believe this place has a spiritual strength to people of all nations History of our location Count De Galvez awarded a land grant on Garcon Point to Antonio Garzon following his 1781 Siege of Pensacola in consideration of “his good services rendered as an interpreter to the Indians of Pensacola." The grant was held for 35 years before Maria Garzon, who survived husband Antonio, sold the land they called Garzon’s Point to Joseph (Jose) Bonifay. The land uses were favorable for cattle grazing and turpentining through the 1800s. Many more pioneer families moved into the area and began their own business in the booming industrial opportunities of western Florida. It came to be known as Yellow River Marsh State Buffer Preserve on June 12, 2000, when it was purchased by the state of Florida to protect rare and environmentally sensitive lands, plants and animals. Through generous donations, Preservation 2000 and the Florida Forever Program, more land was added to protect contiguous habitat of the Garcon Ecosystem. Today Yellow River Marsh Preserve State Park provides recreational opportunities for hiking and nature study along the Great Florida Birding Trail among rare and endemic plant species and within one of Florida’s oldest multi-cultural frontiers.The preserve is located in Santa Rosa County on Garcon Point, which separates Escambia Bay from Blackwater Bay. Nearly 20 rare and endangered species of plants 🪴 and animals make their homes along the bay and its wet prairies, dome swamps and flatwoods.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$26
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best star host camping in Florida guide

Where to go

Panhandle and Big Bend

White-sand beaches and laid-back beach towns fringe the Gulf of Mexico in Florida’s north-western county. Panama City, Destin, and Pensacola are gateways to the Panhandle, where you can pitch your tent right on the beach along the Gulf Islands National Seashore or check into an RV resort at one of the seaside state parks. The Apalachicola National Forest, just outside Tallahassee, is another favorite for campers, with everything from primitive tent sites to RV sites with electric hookups. 

North Florida

Most visitors to North Florida make a beeline for the Atlantic Ocean, where the hubs of Jacksonville, St Augustine, and Daytona Beach are dotted with sandy beaches and historic monuments. Campers looking to escape the beaten track can enjoy backcountry camping along the Canaveral National Seashore or park up by the beach in Anastasia State Park. Inland, the sprawling Lakelands of the Ocala National Forest are camping nirvana, surrounded by state parks and natural springs. 

Central Florida

Fun-seeking families probably have Orlando’s theme parks at the top of their Central Florida to-do list, but there are plenty of ways to get back to nature too. There’s great hiking and primitive camping in Seminole State Forest and Kissimmee State Park, both just outside the city. Other popular camping spots include the Jonathan Dickinson State Park in West Palm Beach, Lake Okeechobee, and Cayo Costa State Park, just off the coast of Fort Myers.

South Florida

The vast Everglades National Park is the star attraction of the Gulf Coast, where boating, biking, and canoeing tours will take you through the UNESCO-listed wetlands. Look out for manatees and American alligators along the way. Over on the Atlantic Coast, the buzzing beach resorts of Miami and Fort Lauderdale draw sun-seekers year-round. Intrepid campers can escape the masses in the Biscayne National Park, where the tent camping sites are reachable only by boat or kayak.

Florida Keys

If kayaking around tropical islands, and snorkeling and scuba diving along remote coral cays sounds like your idea of fun, look no further than the Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway runs all the way to Key West, and campers will find RV sites and tent camping grounds peppered around the many islands. Campgrounds in Bahia Honda State Park have boat launches and hammock camping, while the remote Dry Tortugas National Park has backcountry camping far from the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Camping in Florida

Can you camp on the beach in Florida?

Yes, you can go beach camping in Florida in certain areas, typically on some BLM land and in dozens of state parks including Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys, Grayton Beach State Park outside Destin, and eastern Florida’s Sebastian Inlet State Park. Campers in Florida are generally not allowed to camp in the sand unless expressly stated otherwise in the areas above. Most Florida beach campgrounds are set behind sand dunes with picnic tables, electric hookups, and toilet access. Remote, primitive, boat-in beach campsites can also be found on Elliott Key and Boca Chita Key in Biscayne National Park. Find more beach camping in Florida.

Is primitive camping allowed in Florida?

Yes, primitive camping is allowed in Florida in some state parks, national forests, state forests, and on the US Forest Service’s Florida Trail, usually for a small fee. Primitive camping, typically described as dispersed camping away from designated campgrounds without facilities, is available for backpackers and campers at more than 25 Florida state parks, including Cayo Costa State Park near Fort Myers, Wekiwa Springs State Park outside Orlando, and Jonathan Dickinson State Park near West Palm Beach. BLM land does not exist in Florida, though you can find more private, secluded camping in Florida with Hipcamp.

Where can you camp for free in Florida?

You can find free camping in Florida in its national forests: Apalachicola National Forest, Osceola National Forest, and Ocala National Forest, each of which spans thousands of acres and is made up of diverse landscapes. These campsites are generally primitive and dispersed with no facilities, so you’ll need to come prepared.

How many state parks in Florida have RV camping?

Florida has an incredible number of state parks (190 and counting!) and about 52 state parks offering RV campgrounds and campervan campsites. Myakka River State Park, Rainbow Springs State Park, Blue Springs State Park, and Silver Springs State Park are among Florida’s most popular state parks with RV camping. Find more Florida RV camping.

What is the best month to go camping in Florida?

The very best months to go camping in Florida are March and April, when the weather is best for tent camping and RV road trips with temperatures hovering between a low of 65°F and a high of 85°F. During these months, humidity is at its lowest, rain is unlikely, and ocean waters are warmest in south Florida’s Miami Beach and Key West. Hiking and backpacking are best suited for the cooler months of January and February. August, September, and October are the worst months to go camping in Florida thanks to wet weather, high humidity, and potential thunderstorms or hurricanes.