Camping on the Gulf Coast

Name: Gulf Coast
Address: Gulf Coast
Rating: 4.75

Stretching for around 670 miles, from the border with Alabama all the way down to the tropical Florida Keys, Florida's Gulf Coast is well-known for its cities and vacation areas, but it's also a great spot to get out into nature. Here you'll find white-sand beaches, wildlife-rich bayous, and mile upon mile of protected lands that provide sanctuary to a host of avian species. Camping opportunities in the region are endless, from state-run campgrounds to private RV to intimate Hipcamps, all just a short jaunt from many of the state’s most impressive beaches.

95% (2.7K) • 2,848 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Gulf Coast

J and P Creekside Retreat

1. J and P Creekside Retreat

100%

(429)

Punta Gorda, FL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hub on A and Dub

2. Hub on A and Dub

99%

(107)

Fort Myers, FL · 4 sites

Old Florida style property with gardens. Plenty of room to park and relax. Water and power provided. 10-15 minute drive to Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel. Bikes and kayaks available for use. Restaurants and grocery stores just down the street. Historic downtown Fort Myers offers lots of entertainment, restaurants and shops.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

3. Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(377)

Englewood, FL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Going on Year 4 as a hipcamp host! We are so grateful to have met such wonderful guests over the years! This land is very special to us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the busy day to day surrounded by nature, farm animals and wildlife. Located in one of the best spots in SW Florida! Hiking trails, horse farms, shopping, restaurants, recreational activities and within minutes from the beautiful FL beaches. Ideal for a weekend getaway or a snowbird vacation!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Koreshan State Park

4. Koreshan State Park

100%

(5)

State park in Florida · 54 sites

Peek into Florida’s pioneer history at this unique state park.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Lake Manatee State Park

5. Lake Manatee State Park

100%

(7)

State park in Florida · 54 sites

Discover Lake Manatee State Park's natural charm and outdoor fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

6. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

97%

(95)

St. Petersburg, FL · 3 sites

🦩WE ONLY HOST FULLY SELF CONTAINED VANS/CLASS B/ULTRA SMALL TRAVEL TRAILERS🦩Electric is an ADD ON🦩 🌈 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.

Electrical hookup

Pets

Hawk’s Hideaway.

7. Hawk’s Hideaway.

83%

(3)

Punta Gorda, FL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Experience a side of Florida that’s becoming harder and harder to find. Hawk’s Hideaway sits on two private acres along the historic Peace River, offering a laid-back riverside retreat where fishing, paddling, wildlife, and quiet nights under the stars are part of everyday life. Located at the end of a quiet road, the property offers plenty of privacy and virtually no passing traffic. Wake up to birdsong, explore the property on foot or by bike, or head straight to the water. Guests can fish and kayak directly from the property, with access to the Peace River for boating and exploring the surrounding waterways. When evening arrives, the setting changes again. With no streetlights nearby, Hawk’s Hideaway offers remarkably dark skies where the stars and moon take center stage. Slow down, listen to the sounds of nature, and experience the quieter pace of Old Florida. The Peace River area is known for fishing, wildlife, and outdoor recreation, with additional opportunities for hiking, hunting, and exploring nearby. Despite the secluded feel, you’re only about 8 miles from downtown Punta Gorda and 5 miles from I-75, putting restaurants, shopping, nightlife, Gulf beaches, and destinations including Venice, Englewood, and Naples within reach. Your host is a retired businessman, sailor, and photographer who fell in love with the natural beauty and slower pace of this part of Florida. Hawk’s Hideaway reflects that same spirit: relaxed, outdoorsy, dog-friendly, and welcoming to travelers looking for a simple place to unwind. Whether you spend your stay fishing the Peace River, paddling from the property, exploring Southwest Florida, or simply sitting beneath a sky full of stars, come as you are and enjoy a quieter side of Florida. Highlights 2 private acres along the Peace River Direct fishing and kayaking access Boating and river exploration Dark skies and excellent stargazing Wildlife and outdoor recreation Walking and biking around the property Dog-friendly setting Quiet location with virtually no passing traffic About 8 miles to downtown Punta Gorda About 5 miles to I-75 Convenient access to Gulf beaches and Southwest Florida Hunting opportunities and a free public shooting range nearby Host open to bartering for light labor

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Rasayana Cove

8. Rasayana Cove

98%

(347)

Ona, FL · 2 sites

Rasayana Cove is a 25-acre eco-retreat located in the heartland of west central Florida. An hour's drive east of Sarasota surrounded by vast tracts of orange groves and ranch land, Rasayana Cove has been operating as a small retreat center since 1995. The long eastern boundary borders Horse Creek, a major tributary of the Peace River. The property features two spring-fed ponds - one small and the other large.  The cabins are accessible by well constructed shell-topped roads with good drainage and a variety of nature pathways.  A natural ecosystem remains undisturbed in the middle of the property - a Florida bay head of native flora and wildlife. While most of the state is crowded and overdeveloped, this eco-retreat offers a haven of peace in the pristine nature of Florida

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

9. Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

91%

(204)

North Fort Myers, FL · 1 site

Tres Lagos Camping is part of the Florida agritourism initiative. Where travelers from all over the world come to experience and enjoy a different kind of florida. We’re a small 5 acre family farm involved in the cultivation and preservation of rare and endangered palms with many other edible tropical plants for our visitors to enjoy. You can view our palms at all stages of growth from seed to maturity. Enjoy our U-pick varieties of mangos, Caribbean cherries, sugar cane, bananas, coconuts and we’re adding more all the time. There is even a sugarcane maze and bamboo gardens in progress for the kids and adults to enjoy. But don’t forget your veggies! Get up close and personal with where some of your medicines and vegetables come from. We have some small areas for education about different medicinal plants like Turmeric, ginger, saw palmetto and a few others. Take the tours or classes or just sit back and enjoy the view! Hope to see you soon.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Little Manatee River State Park

10. Little Manatee River State Park

100%

(6)

State park in Florida · 31 sites

Over the river and through the woods to scenic Florida vistas we go!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Oscar Scherer State Park

11. Oscar Scherer State Park

100%

(12)

State park in Florida · 96 sites

A natural gem hidden in the busy urban sprawl of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Myakka River State Park

12. Myakka River State Park

93%

(14)

State park in Florida · 86 sites

You're almost guaranteed to see some alligators in this wild ecosystem.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Fort De Soto Park

13. Fort De Soto Park

97%

(29)

Park in Florida · 236 sites

These five Florida Keys have white-sand beaches, lush mangroves, and a 19th-century fort.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Gulf Coast Getaway

14. Gulf Coast Getaway

97%

(91)

North Fort Myers, FL · 2 sites

Gulf Coast Getaway is located in North Fort Myers Florida. Our RV Sites are located on raised-up gravel sites with 50 AMP electric hook-ups and water hook-ups. If you have any additional questions please feel free to send us a message. :) We are centrally located in the rural area of the Bayshore Community with only a 5-minute drive to I-75, a 20-minute drive to Downtown Fort Myers, and a 20-minute drive to Babcock Ranch. Being only 5 minutes away from I-75 makes it quick and easy to either drive down south to Bonita Springs to enjoy our local beaches or north to Punta Gorda to explore! Downtown Fort Myers is about a 20-minute drive and has many local restaurants and shops if you want to go out and about. They typically have events on the weekends like Art Walk and Music Walk! We are a 20-minute drive from Babcock Ranch - a community open to the public that has several walking/biking trails, a beautiful lake for kayaking/fishing, and a small dog park. They also have a restaurant (Lakehouse Kitchen and Bar) that looks out over the water and live entertainment on certain days of the week! If you are looking for a full farm-to-table experience, Buckingham Farms is 20 minutes from us and is a 85-acre farm with fresh produce grown hydroponically! We are also a one-minute drive to "Blossom & Brie" which is another farm-to-table experience that offers brunch, lunch, and dinner on a 50 acre farm! With just a 2-minute drive, we have two parks, Nalle Grade Park and Pop Ash Creek Preserve, for those who enjoy nature walks, fishing, or birding. There are also a handful of other nature preserves and parks in the local area that are around a 20 to 25-minute drive! There are many other restaurants, parks, and local businesses nearby for you to enjoy if you want to get out and explore the local area! **We will interact as little or as much as you want.** ***We are a working tropical fruit tree nursery open to the public Wednesday through Sunday 10am - 5pm***

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

10 Minutes From Anna Maria

15. 10 Minutes From Anna Maria

98%

(28)

Bradenton, FL · 1 site

Are you seeking a tranquil retreat near the finest beaches in Southwest Florida? Look no further than this spacious RV pad, nestled within a lush fenced yard in a serene West Bradenton neighborhood. Our RV pad provides: Privacy Full sewer drainage Easy water hookup 20, 30, and 50 amp power outlets. Convenient access to both Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island in either direction Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience at our secluded oasis.

Pets

Full hookups

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

16. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

92%

(122)

Wimauma, FL · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Sandy Bottom River Retreat – Your Private Escape into Nature’s Serenity Discover the perfect blend of peace, adventure, and natural beauty at Sandy Bottom River Retreat. Tucked away in the heart of Wimauma’s untouched wilderness, this secluded hideaway offers private river access and a truly off-the-grid camping experience surrounded by towering pines, lush palmettos, and the soothing sounds of the great outdoors. Enjoy a refreshing dip, launch your kayak or tube, or simply unwind along the golden sandy riverbank where the water sparkles knee-deep and crystal clear. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting deer, rabbits, otters, and a colorful array of native birds that make this retreat their home. While you’ll feel miles away from everything, modern conveniences are just minutes away—restaurants, shops, and deliveries from Walmart, Instacart, or Amazon can reach you in no time. Two of our campsites sit directly on the river, while the others are a short, scenic walk away. Please note that this is a rustic, amenity-free experience designed for true nature lovers. The area is rural and neighbors may occasionally ride ATVs or enjoy target practice on their own land. For safety and peace of mind, outdoor cameras are placed around the property to help ensure the protection of our guests and the land. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for hunting, shooting, or archery on site to preserve the peaceful environment for all. Looking for a private event booking or clothing-optional friendly stay? Contact us in advance to reserve one of our coveted riverfront sites or inquire about exclusive property rentals. Come reconnect with nature, recharge your spirit, and experience camping the way it was meant to be—wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

17. Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

99%

(137)

Lithia, FL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Cedarkirk was founded in 1971 as a year-round camp and conference center that serves churches, not-for-profits, and schools. Our beautiful property and amenities exist for all people to enjoy recreation and renewal in nature. We own 170 acres of land, most of which looks like wild Florida has for thousands of years, and provides sanctuary for many native plants and animals. We are excited to welcome you to this "place apart."

Toilets

Campfires

Full hookups

Serenity Garden

18. Serenity Garden

100%

(7)

Sanibel, FL · 1 site

Tranquil spot located down a long private driveway between two ponds on the sunny island of Sanibel! Private campsite next to conservation land with plenty of bird and wildlife sightings. There is no tent camping on property Nearby attractions: • Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge – 2 miles • Shopping – 1 mile • Tarpon Bay Recreation Area – 1.5 miles • Bailey Tract – 0.5 miles • Captiva Island – 9 miles • Electric (up to 50 amp) and water hookups provided, but no sewer. Please bear with us as the island is still recovering from Hurricane Ian. Thank you!

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

By the Pond...

19. By the Pond...

96%

(580)

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

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Bayou Bliss

20. Bayou Bliss

99%

(64)

Sarasota, FL · 1 site

🚗 Two miles (5min drive) from downtown Sarasota 🌴 Old-Florida charm: lots of lush tropical greenery 🚣🏼‍♂️ On Whitaker’s Bayou. 🌟 It’s the best of both worlds: peaceful nature on the creek, and easy access to all the best restaurants, beaches, and charming Main St atmosphere. 💩 MUST have a bathroom on-board. No sewer hookup 💦 No water hookup, but you may fill your water tank with the hose ⚡️ 15amp & 30 amp plug ins. BYO adapter. Extension cord needed to reach the plug. 🏕️ No long term campers. No tent camping. 🚴🏼 Biking to Main St takes 8-10minutes if you have bicycles! 🏖️ Ten minute drive from St-Armands Circle and Lido Beach; 20-25 minute drive from Siesta Key Beach. The Bayou goes all the way out to the Gulf - we see large schools of mullet here, occasionally turtles, hawks, and herons. If you are lucky, you might see a manatee or an otter! We have a 36” campfire pit you are welcome to use. We are still working on getting seating for the campfire pit, but if you have camping chairs, it’s perfect! We have an amazing location to share AND we also have neighbors to the left, and across the creek. We value and respect them. We wish to share our space with quiet and mindful campers. The property is 0.5 acre. You will be parking in part of the yard, under the shade of one of the oaks, slightly tucked back away from the house. We can be available to help/welcome you, and offer local guidance if you like. **A sweet but fearful rescue dog lives here and we are not allowing any other animals to camp or stay on the property.** NO DOGS WHATSOEVER. You will be made to leave if you violate this condition. ***Our acceptance rate is lower because people with dogs, 5 people in their party, or no onboard facility of their own submit booking requests, which we must decline.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

The best family-friendly campsites in Gulf Coast

J and P Creekside Retreat

100%

(429)

Punta Gorda, FL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(377)

Englewood, FL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Rasayana Cove

98%

(347)

Ona, FL · 2 sites

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

91%

(204)

North Fort Myers, FL · 1 site

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

By the Pond...

96%

(580)

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Silver Bullet Stables

100%

(70)

Arcadia, FL · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

This property has been a horse stable since 2004. Has 11 stalls plus a 2 stall pasture board. Includes horse walker, round pen, 2 horse wash stall, and lighted arena. We have RV hookups and tent sites. We have lounge with couches, TV and tables. There is a fire pit and charcoal grill.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

The best dog-friendly campsites in Gulf Coast

J and P Creekside Retreat

100%

(429)

Punta Gorda, FL · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Hub on A and Dub

99%

(107)

Fort Myers, FL · 4 sites

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(377)

Englewood, FL · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

97%

(95)

St. Petersburg, FL · 3 sites

Electrical hookup

Pets

Hawk’s Hideaway.

83%

(3)

Punta Gorda, FL · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

91%

(204)

North Fort Myers, FL · 1 site

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Alexandra

3 days ago

Tent

1 night at Hawk’s Hideaway.

I loved staying here. I parked for a tent site in my sleeper van. Getting in and out of the property was easy as long as you take it steady on dirt path. Please remember to only use Google Maps for GPS to the location. When you arrive there is lots of shade, a picnic table, small grill, water and electricity hookups, etc. Lots of wildlife as well. Birds, lizards, tortoises, and a friendly squirrel family. I enjoyed my nights stay. I recommend!

Carsten

2 weeks ago

21 ft Class C

1 night at Ohana Colony Farms

Es war sehr schön sehr gepflegt viel Grün und die Gastgeber waren sehr freundlich

Robert

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawk’s Hideaway.

Quite weekend I've had in a long time.

Honnah

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Tres Lagos Farm & Garden

Very friendly host nice and open and you get some privacy with the bamboo wall. Lots of bugs so pack lots of bug spray but very beautiful quite property

Roelof

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

It was absolutely Magical! A Frame🏡🌺🌻🍃Where do We start? From the moment we entered the gate the land just took over all thoughts , feelings, & senses🤗🥰🙏🏼🕯️ I had not felt that much peace and tranquility in decades.🍄🦋🌻🌺🐸 This is truly an adult fairy land site….. The entire A frame has everything you need. 🛌📺 🍽️☕️🚿🧻🚰Bring cloths, toothbrush, food & some essentials John and John Jr. were very helpful & kind🫡 walking trail’s The common area is setup clubhouse style, all natural nature, beautiful decor, all matching the natural aesthetics of the landscape. It also has a dock with a second level to jump off into the water of the river that they have flowing through the back side of property! I don’t feel no description can describe how wonderfully magical this place is. It’s a must do must see! We will definitely be back Thank you so much for everything that was absolutely wonderful and an anniversary, We’ll never forget.❣️🥰🤗

MIKE

September 2026

Tent

1 night at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

Friendly, chill, laid back vibes. Clean bathroom/shower. I'd definitely stay again. Thanks so much for the experience.

tara

September 2026

Weekend Trip to Rasayana Cove

THE BEST PROPERTY ON HIPCAMP The old Florida which is almost lost is still alive here. What a wonderful experience! If you want to experience raw nature in an artistic, carefully curated treehouse, this is your place.

We went on a hike and fell in love with the beautiful bald cypress trees and roots

琳

September 2026

Weekend Trip to Rasayana Cove

I had an amazing time as always! Dennis was great and brought fresh firewood on my first night and made sure to explain how to use the camp stove and make sure everything was okay. Super peaceful property with tons of vibrant wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and if you happen to be there during a storm, a lovely tin roof to top it all off.

Tent Camping site #1. Electric/water, covered picnic area, and secluded fire pit.

Randy

September 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

We really liked this spot. We will pick this site again if we come back. I think it was probably the most private site on this campground. The bath houses are really close. The trail starts off the edge of this site as well, so that was nice. This site has a fire pit, and I really appreciated them having a full bin of firewood for us, and the pavilion was nice to have shade over the picnic area. There are two trees beyond the fire pit, kind of in a private little cove area, where we were able to set up a hammock. I didn’t expect to see cabins right up against each side of this site, but it didn’t bother us because when the cabins are in use then I’m sure this site isn’t available to book publicly anyways. So nobody was in the cabins. All in all we would definitely book again.

Terry

September 2026

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

A very quiet retreat from the city. We were greeted by a Peacock who became our friend. We will return in the future!

Randy

September 2026

Tent

2 nights at J and P Creekside Retreat

~ Quiet. Only a handful of camping sites along with a cool little cabin that can be rented. ~ Some sites have more shade than others. ~ Great host! ~ Not commercial in any way. ~ Highly Recommend.

Mark

August 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

If you're looking for peace, quite, stars, owls hooting, campfire, grilling, this is it ! We will be returning. Thank you John for a peaceful weekend. Highly recommend!

Lavinia

August 2026

1 night at J and P Creekside Retreat

Beautiful spot if you want a to experience what is left of real Florida, the cabin was clean and had everything you would need for a glamping experience, our host was kind and responsive.

mel

August 2026

25 ft Class C

1 night at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

My first hipcamp and it was way beyond my expectations. This place was lovely. We had a quite spot in the back among the trees and animals. Plenty of green grass and no fresh air. The gentlemen hosting were so helpful and made great suggestions. Electric and water right at site. Since no sewer there is a clean private restroom with shower just a few feet away. Beach, restaurants and grocery within 10 min drive. Will definitely come again.

Rylie

August 2026

1 night at Rasayana Cove

I had the pleasure of being the only camper there when I went and the privacy was incredible. His 25 acres include a watershed that creates a beautiful creek. All the property surrounding him is cattle pastures so you do not have to worry about running into any human neighbors. The hermitage cabin was perfect. I mostly spent my time wandering the property but when it was time to sleep the cabin provided me a safe place to stay and the box fan worked all through the night to keep me cool despite the hot, humid Florida evening. Dennis was a lovely host and showed me the features of the property upon check in and helped make sure I had a fire started before he went. I would highly recommend staying on Dennis’s land.

Alejandro

August 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to J and P Creekside Retreat

The cabin is amazing! The cleanness and attention to detail from John is incredible. The cabin and the place is way better than the pictures shown. Totally recommended!

mel

August 2026

25 ft Class C

1 night at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

Beautiful quiet property in the woods, lovelier than many state parks I’ve been in (Get a space in the back). And yet a quick 10 min and you’re on a great swim beach with lots of shells. Jim and Mike, host, couldn’t be more accommodating and helpful. This was my first hip camp, and I couldn’t be more impressed.

Christopher

August 2026

15 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Hub on A and Dub

The landscaping was immaculate as was the lots. They are knowledgeable and resourceful and caring. Rachel grew plants that I would consider exotic and neverbeforeseen in my book. The sky was gorgeous and the moon moves at the perfect arch over their open skies property. And they have a huge beautiful tree, to provide shade. The land is beautifully privatized and boy do they have a fireplace ready to get working! 🤣

swarn

July 2026

3 nights at Rasayana Cove

Great place to visit if you are not found of modern life, if you really want to know how to live life with simplicity, you really need to visit this place. Big thanks for Dinesh. It shows how life supposed to be. I am very much found of nature so I really don’t care about facility at all. Where you have nature you don’t need comfort. Just prepare your mind. This is great place to spend some good time with nature. Thank you very much for Dinesh hospitality.

chris

July 2026

19 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

Great place for a getaway! Beautiful views, quiet surroundings, and wonderful hosts. Highly recommend

Gulf Coast camping guide

Where to go

The Florida Panhandle

The northwesternmost section of the Gulf Coast, this region offers a great mix of sandy beaches, marshes, and cultural attractions. Spots worth checking out include Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola and Grayton Beach State Park in Santa Rosa, which offers easy access to the Gulf of Mexico and to a massive lake. Other popular spots in this region include St. Andrews State Park, where you can camp near the beach, and St. George Island, a sandy isle just off the coast of historic Carrabelle.

North Florida

Many of the less-developed beaches on the Gulf Coast can be found along its northern reaches, and much of this part of the state is preserved and protected by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's wildlife management area program. The area is also a great place to spot manatees, especially in spots such as the aptly named Manatee Springs State Park.

Central Florida

The central part of the Gulf Coast gets plenty of tourists, particularly in popular cities such as Tampa and Sarasota. Fort Myers is another hot spot, providing easy access to beautiful natural areas such as the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

South Florida and the Keys

You'll find some of the prettiest natural areas in the state at the southern end of Florida’s Gulf Coast, from the Cape Romano - Ten Thousand Islands Aquatic Preserve near Naples to the massive Everglades National Park. At the far end of the state, the Florida Keys feature a mix of developed areas and protected natural spots, including the Great Heron National Wildlife Reserve, where sea birds and turtles flock en masse, to the National Key Deer Refuge which, as the name suggests, protects endemic Key deer.

Top camping destinations around Gulf Coast

Oscar Scherer State Park

Collier-Seminole State Park

66 campgrounds

Myakka River State Park

84 campgrounds

Land O' Lakes

233 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some natural areas to visit at the southern end of Florida's Gulf Coast?

What are some popular cities to visit in the central part of Florida's Gulf Coast?

The central part of Florida's Gulf Coast gets plenty of tourists, particularly in popular cities such as Tampa and Sarasota. Fort Myers is another hot spot, providing easy access to beautiful natural areas such as the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve and the J.N. 'Ding' Darling National Wildlife Refuge. You can also explore different options for camping near Gulf Coast on Hipcamp.

What are some activities to do in the Gulf Coast region?