The best waterside campgrounds in Florida

Florida’s waterside camping scene packs serious variety—over 6,800 options ranging from classic tent spots beside cypress lakes to tucked-away riverside clearings. Expect average nightly rates around $50, with places dipping as low as $8 if you’re watching your wallet. You’ll find campsites along mangrove channels, beside spring-fed ponds, and within earshot of Gulf surf. Campfires are allowed at many sites, showers are common, and pets are welcome almost everywhere. Swimming, hiking, and wildlife-watching fill most days—think gators, herons, and the occasional manatee. Local favorites include Taste of Old Florida (676 reviews), North Shore Relic Ranch (409 reviews), and By the Pond... (376 reviews). Bring bug spray, prep for afternoon downpours, and don’t forget your swim gear—Florida’s waterside camps deliver the real deal.

96% (12.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Florida’s waterside camping scene packs serious variety—over 6,800 options ranging from classic tent spots beside cypress lakes to tucked-away riverside clearings. Expect average nightly rates around $50, with places dipping as low as $8 if you’re watching your wallet. You’ll find campsites along mangrove channels, beside spring-fed ponds, and within earshot of Gulf surf. Campfires are allowed at many sites, showers are common, and pets are welcome almost everywhere. Swimming, hiking, and wildlife-watching fill most days—think gators, herons, and the occasional manatee. Local favorites include Taste of Old Florida (676 reviews), North Shore Relic Ranch (409 reviews), and By the Pond... (376 reviews). Bring bug spray, prep for afternoon downpours, and don’t forget your swim gear—Florida’s waterside camps deliver the real deal.

96% (12.8K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. By the Pond...

97%

(733)

12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

2. J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

96%

(69)

1 site · RV · Silver Springs, FL

Beautiful high and dry corner lot with privacy hedge and full hook ups in the highly sought after Wilderness RV Resort. Our property is nestled within the tranquil Ocala National Forest, complete with tons of resort amenities! Did we mention our resort is located on a portion of the Florida Black Bear Scenic Highway! Come Explore the Local Area! The Florida freshwater springs are a natural and tropical central Florida paradise with pristine crystal clear waters. Enjoy the wide array of wildlife the Ocala National Forest and the Florida freshwater springs offer! Our property is located just minutes from Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Salt Springs, Juniper Springs, and Alexander Springs! Do you love the "Lake Life?" Central Florida is known for their beautiful lakes such as Lake George and Lake Kerr! Love to canoe or kayak? There are tons of canoe runs throughout this area of central Florida. In fact, you can canoe or kayak on the Ocklawaha River with direct river access from the resort! Love mountain biking? Check out the Santos Trailhead which offers over 30 miles of mountain bike trails with three levels of difficulty! One visit to Santos Trailhead and you'll see why so many people say that these are the BEST bike trails in Florida! Explore a Bit Farther! From our property's location and with a short drive, you can easily access the following towns and/or cities: Orlando - 1.5 hour drive Daytona Beach - 1 hour drive Gainesville - 30 minute drive Crystal River - 1 hour drive The Villages - 45 minute drive Enjoy the many amenities that Wilderness RV Resort offers: * Community Pool and Hot Tub * Full Hook Up Service * Direct Access to the Ocklawaha River (canoe/kayak rentals through resort) * Direct Access to Florida Greenway Hiking Trail * Clubhouse/Lodge * On Site Restaurant * On Site Candy Shop (w/ Whoopie Pies) * Laundry Facility * Bathhouse * Recreation Room (Ping Pong, Pool, Darts) * Private Mail Box

3. Bayside beach, fishing and camping

95%

(135)

2 sites · RVs · Key Largo, FL

Circa 1954 an old fishing camp unforgettable memories the way the keys used to be the good old times and memories fortunately I still preserve some of that nostalgic era , however, it’s changed for better or for worst .. but still hold the same charm.. I’m fortunate to manage it and continue with the same old traditions. We are excited to have you learn more about our beautiful Bayside Beach Camp and sunsets in Key Largo, Florida. Located just 1 hour from Miami, and 2 hours from Key West, you will find the amazing beautiful Florida Keys within your reach. Situated on the Florida Bay you will quickly come to appreciate and enjoy the incredible beauty that surrounds you at Bayside Beach Camp and Sunsets As our guest, you will enjoy beautiful amenities, a private sandy beach fishing pier and kayak rentals great trails to cruise along the shoreline, direct access to the Florida Bay, the Gulf of Mexico, and a short ride away from the Atlantic Ocean. Thanks to year-round sunny skies, makes for an amazing weekend escape, holiday vacation getaway or seasonal extended stay. While nature may have provided the perfect sunsets and fishing adventures it makes it possible for you to enjoy it from your own coach, back-in site or pull thru partially shaded Surrounded by tranquil and peaceful old native trees and abundance of wildlife.

4. Bay Forest Retreat

96%

(362)

7 sites · Tents, Lodging · Navarre, FL

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.

5. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%

(103)

3 sites · RVs · St Petersburg, FL

Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 Everyone Welcome 🌈 As a family who has towed campers across the US a couple times utilizing Hip Camp we know others will appreciate the ease of pulling into our little 1 acre urban oasis just a couple miles off the interstate in Floridas Coolest City. It’s an ideal location to explore St Pete as we are right between the beaches and downtown (5 miles to St Pete beach, 4 miles to downtown -$10 Uber ride), Sarasota and/or Tampa. Ours is an urban spot based on ease, safety and location, not a wilderness "experience" We have a paved circular driveway overlooking our beehives, henhouse and seasonal garden where you’ll find a table with chairs and plenty of space to cookout and enjoy a quiet evening with a great sunset by the blowing bamboo. This is one of South St Pete’s oldest neighborhoods- it surrounds an active former PGA golf course and lively country club. It’s a great place for safely biking or walking with green spaces, tennis courts, playgrounds and dog parks nearby. There are many owls, raptors, green parrots, purple martins and osprey overhead as we’re just a few blocks from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. - not to be missed! The Pinellas Trail is just a short bike ride away too and can lead you to downtown. It is a cyclists favorite! We love our city - happy to give recommendations.

6. Flying Frog Ranch

98%

(228)

6 sites · RVs · West Palm Beach, FL

Nominated as BEST HIPCAMP IN FLORIDA, Flying Frog Ranch is exactly that peaceful getaway you are searching for, while still being close enough to all things Florida. From friendly wildlife, to hidden gems, Flying Frog provides you a peaceful stay off the beaten path, while still being close to all you seek. The property is a shared space consisting of 1+ acre of private, natural setting, including a well stocked pond. You can wake up and see all sorts of friendly wildlife coming and going, including peacocks, rabbits, turtles, and much more. Fishing, nature trails, animal safari, horseback riding can all be found throughout the neighborhood, and beaches are just a short drive away. Leap into Flying Frog! Our guests love staying here "I really loved this place! It was quiet yet close to everything. I love walking the property and taking in all the natural beauty. He responded quickly to texts if I had a question. Very peaceful and quiet! If you don't like busy campgrounds this is the place to go to. A little piece of paradise with the pond and turtles and all his flowering trees. I also saw a peacock while there! I extended my booking for an extra day." Come enjoy the ORIGINAL neighborhood hipcamp .

Public campgrounds in Florida

100%

(6)

Lake Manatee Campground

54 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Manatee State Park

100%

(6)

Florida Trail Primitive Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in Osceola National Forest

Juniper Springs Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(16)

Juniper Springs Recreation Area and Campground

78 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ocala National Forest

Salt Springs Recreation Area and Campground

100%

(9)

Salt Springs Recreation Area and Campground

160 sites · Tents, RVs · in Ocala National Forest

100%

(8)

Long Pine Key Group Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in Everglades National Park

100%

(4)

Blackwater River Campground

27 sites · Tents, RVs · in Blackwater River State Park

100%

(3)

Buck Lake Group Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in Ocala National Forest

Hidden Pond as seen from the Florida Scenic Trail - part of the Ocala National Forest

100%

(2)

Hidden Pond Campground

1 site · in Ocala National Forest

100%

(2)

Doe Lake Group Campground

1 site · in Ocala National Forest

100%

(1)

Group Landing Campground

1 site · Tent, RV · in Osceola National Forest

100%

(1)

Clay Lake Hunt Campground

1 site · in Ocala National Forest

100%

(1)

South Tower Hunt Campground

1 site · in Ocala National Forest

Stories from the community

A

Ashley

1 week ago

Tent

2 nights at By the Pond...

The site is beautiful! The hosts are absolutely wonderful. They went out of their way to help me when I had trouble with my tent! Highly recommend!

Baking biscuits with the dry heat method on my coleman stove.

S

Scarlett

2 weeks ago

1 night at Bay Forest Retreat

Secluded and private getaway from the norm. My fiance and I slept really hard. The host was super nice & helpful!

C

Cathi

2 weeks ago

28 ft travel trailer

With pets

9 nights at Flying Frog Ranch

This was my first time using this app, so I didn’t know what to expect… and let me say that it far exceeded my expectations! Vito the owner couldn’t be more friendly and accommodating! I had an issue that was a million percent my fault… I cut the corner too tight coming in and got stuck in the ditch. If this happens to you, just call Priority Towing and they’ll come get you out the way you went in!!! Vito was so helpful throughout that whole thing! The property is beautiful and peaceful. If you have dogs, there is a very well-kept backyard, but you can also walk them on the sidewalk of the main road. Would most definitely recommend this very cool and hip camp!

D

Dwayne

3 weeks ago

40 ft Class A

7 nights at Bayside beach, fishing and camping

So peaceful and beautiful. Nice little beach. Of course there are weeds and some rocks, it is the Keys. But both of these provide a place for the fish and other aquatic creatures to live. We went snorkeling one day and watched the fish swim under us. We also used our paddle boards to enjoy some of the coast line. Jack and his family are friendly and I thank them for sharing their slice of paradise with us. We will be back in January.

It doesn’t get any better than this …. at the end of the day a perfect sunset enjoying a fire pit by the beach enjoying cup of wine 🍷

No screen enclosure permitted.

This fire-pit grill is a common area share by all.

k

kathy

November 2025

19 ft travel trailer

5 nights at Bayside beach, fishing and camping

So close to the water, lovely swimming, kayaks available, private (only 2 campsites), quiet, lots of shade, beautiful sunsets, great location to explore the upper keys, nice neighborhood to walk around in.

A

Amanda

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

I loved this hidden gem! I was traveling and decided to call it a night and this spot was perfect for me. The host was extremely helpful and led me straight to the spot in the dark. I will be back! Thank you again, Hillary!

A

Amy

October 2025

19 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Bayside beach, fishing and camping

This property was very peaceful and calming. I was able to put my kayak on the private beach and go out at my leisure. Fish on the private dock. And my campsite was rather private with nice lights and a beautiful fire ring. I also felt secure with the closed gate. I couldn't have asked for a better getaway.

Haylee

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

The space was very secluded and clean. We would come again!

Jesse

October 2025

15 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Bayside beach, fishing and camping

Beautiful property Right at the top of the keys. Perfect location. Private beach and fishing pier on site.

R

Rachel

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

Great place to stay! It was quiet, clean, the tent smelled great which I don’t expect camping. It was just what I look for. Secluded enough to not be shoulder to shoulder but it had all the convenient amenities. We will be back!

A

Amaury

October 2025

2 nights at Bay Forest Retreat

Kids loved having their own tent. The parents got Glamper 1 and the boys got Glamper 2. Great setup. We will be coming back.

A

Amaury

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at Bay Forest Retreat

What a wonderful place tucked away next to the bay. Our host was very helpful and nice. 2 Adults and 3 kids stayed in both of the glamping tents. The camping experience by far was even more pleasant than we had imagined. Navarre beach and a several night at here will be something we do again. Bring your kayaks and explore the East Bay river. What a treasure!

T

Tabitha

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

Everything was good. Bed was comfy. Fire pit, porta potty, a d water spigot were close. Would recommend to others and stay again.

S

Sarita

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to J & T Hideaway / Silver Springs, FL

Quiet and very nice community. Everyone was friendly. Nice spot for the camper. We enjoyed ourselves. The only drawback about this community is there is no Wi-Fi.

J

Joseph

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Bay Forest Retreat

What a wonderful experience! This was the perfect introduction to camping for my three-year-old son and me. Even with hot weather and a rainy, chilly day, having the spacious canvas tent made everything smooth and enjoyable. A huge thank you to our co-host, Brooke, who was absolutely fantastic. Her quick and polite replies, along with her excellent customer service, really enhanced our stay. We even received a bonus night for Labor Day weekend, which was an awesome surprise.

J

Joseph

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

This was the first time camping with our three-year-old son, and it was a wonderful experience for him and for us! He absolutely loved his first time seeing a campfire, and it was so special to experience that with him as a parent. The campgrounds were clean and well-maintained. We especially appreciated the provided tent, which was a fantastic touch. Communication with the landlord and manager was excellent; their responses were both respectful and quick. I highly recommend this spot!

D

Derick

August 2025

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Bayside beach, fishing and camping

Good location close to most things in Key Largo. I would recommend it for a few nights stay.

M

Mckinnon

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

The place was great easy to find pretty private. Loved being able to use the kayaks..

E

Emily

August 2025

1 night at Bay Forest Retreat

Super cool area!! Would highly recommend! Very clean and a great outdoor space to spend with family! We stayed in Glamper 2 and it was perfect for us!

R

Rebecca

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bay Forest Retreat

We enjoyed our stay!!! This is a great place if you are looking to spend less than a hotel or an air BNB, and a more fun and relaxing, in my opinion. It was a short drive to Navarre Beach and also close to Pensacola. Every evening we loved watching the sunset on the bay and the free kayaks. It was hot, as expected in late July, but with a cheap battery operated fan we brought it was very pleasant at night. I would definitely recommend and plan to return.