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Head across the Indian River, and you’ll encounter a range of campgrounds that wind up Florida’s Space Coast. North of Melbourne, you can savor a leisurely beach day and spend the night at a Cocoa Beach campsite. Or, take the coast’s alias to heart and pay a visit to Cape Canaveral. All along the water, you’re guaranteed some sun—and a few waves.
Surf’s up. Once you cross the Indian River, you can alternatively drive south of Melbourne. You’ll quickly reach Sebastian Inlet State Park: a surfer’s paradise. For campers who’d rather keep their feet in the sand, the park is a treasure trove for finding seashells and sea turtles. Due to the park’s location, it stretches along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River. Pitch your tent—or park your RV—according to your desired view.
The Sunshine State upholds its name year-round, so a Melbourne campsite promises warm weather regardless of the season. However, campers may find May to September less-than-ideal for sleeping outside. Summer is peak hurricane season, but even if the winds remain calm, the bugs—and the humidity—make no promises. Plan your getaway for the cooler months, when you’ll bask in a less extreme version of Florida’s trademark sun.