The best lakeside camping near Mexico Beach

·

With its brilliant white sandy beaches, Florida’s Mexico Beach is an ideal setting for swimming, beachcombing, or simply relaxing on the shore. Because most of the Gulf of Mexico has a barren ocean floor, the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association has built up a system of artificial reefs, providing scuba divers with unique underwater areas to explore, surrounded by local fish. Traverse the sandy dunes and stunning blue-green waters of Cape San Blas, including St. Joseph Peninsula. Hike among swamps and pine forests at Apalachicola National Forest, the largest in the state. Or camp above the rolling bluffs at Torreya State Park overlooking the Apalachicola River. From primitive campgrounds to yurt glamping and RV parks with full hookups, Mexico Beach offers camping experiences like none other.

95% (36) 37 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mexico Beach

Wewa Glamping

1. Wewa Glamping

100%
(22)
17mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV
Perfect rv spot with full hookups, patio, fire pit, and fenced yard for pets. Concrete pad. Right on the famous Dead Lakes. Easy to put in a canoe or kayak or use nearby launch. Easy bike to town or famous Honey Hole restaurant. Half an hour for Port St Joe, Mexico Beach and Panama City. Private lot with one camping spot. 35 foot max. Double kayak and washer/dryer available upon request.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Dead Lakes RV Park and Campground

2. Dead Lakes RV Park and Campground

83%
(9)
18mi from Mexico Beach · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
Dead Lakes RV Park & Campground offers a serene and well-equipped retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and adventurers alike. Our spacious full-size RV sites provide ample room for in-space tow vehicle parking and come with convenient electricity hookups of 20, 30, and 50 amps, as well as water hookups. Select sites (1-7 and 16-21) also feature sewer hookups for added convenience. Each site is set on a sturdy foundation of gravel and milled asphalt and includes picnic tables for enjoying outdoor meals and relaxation. All of our RV campsites are 50 feet long and 24 feet wide. Each is equipped with water and electricity (20, 30, & 50 amp). Most campsites use a soft gravel pad and milled asphalt base. All campsites are back-in spaces. Designed to be both family- and pet-friendly, the campground features a playground and picnic pavilions, making it an ideal setting for gatherings and recreation. Nature lovers will appreciate the two beautiful lakes on the property, which are perfect for youth fishing and kayaking. Additionally, we offer designated tent areas specifically for scout troops and other groups looking to experience the great outdoors in a safe and welcoming environment. Our on-site amenities ensure comfort and convenience throughout your stay. Guests have access to a store, showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities, as well as a dump station for RVs. WiFi is available at the store for those who need to stay connected. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the easy access to Dead Lakes and the Apalachicola River, with boat ramps and fishing piers available for a memorable angling experience. Kayak rentals are also available nearby for those eager to explore the water. For those looking for a coastal escape, the pristine beaches are just a short drive away, making Dead Lakes RV Park & Campground the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Dead Lakes

3. Dead Lakes

18mi from Mexico Beach · 3 sites
Dead Lakes RV Park is a tranquil 40-site sanctuary designed for those who love the "Old Florida" aesthetic. Nestled among ancient cypress skeletons and longleaf pines, guests enjoy direct access to the 6,700-acre Dead Lakes via a pair of on-site boat ramps and fishing piers. The property also features private fishing ponds, a nature hiking trail, and a community playground. Modern conveniences—including high-speed WiFi at every site, a full bathhouse, laundry facilities, and a camp store with kayak rentals—ensure a comfortable stay. Your four-legged friends are also welcome at our dedicated fenced dog park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$96
 / night
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

4. T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

97%
(16)
State park 13mi from Mexico Beach · 114 sites
Get two bodies of water for the price of one in northwest Florida.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Apalachicola National Forest

5. Apalachicola National Forest

National forest 49mi from Mexico Beach · 63 sites
Florida's largest national forest reveals the tropics’ ecological diversity on a vast scale.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Mystic

6. Lake Mystic

100%
(5)
39mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site
Beautiful lot with full 30 and 50 amp hookup on Lake Mystic. Grandeur dock and large floating dock in water. Bring your kayaks, paddle boards and fishing poles and get ready to enjoy the beauty and fun or relax in the sun! Please be advised this lake is private access only and there is no public boating ramp. This lot has 170ft of water front. Close drive to many beautiful state parks and landmarks such as Torreya State Park, Three Rivers State Park, Wakulla Springs, the Apalachicola River, and the world’s most beautiful beaches!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Lakes and Springs Retreat

7. Lakes and Springs Retreat

100%
(2)
39mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site
Welcome to our little rejuvenating heaven. This is what we want to offer you, a 2.5 acres of raw nature where you can relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the best that water and nature have to offer in Northwest Florida. You will be staying in a historic 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer, the exact copy of the one in the movie The Long Long Trailer with Lucille Ball. Nothing less ! And don't forget to bring your kayaks, paddle boards, bikes and hiking shoes as there is a lot to do around here. Let's start with your accommodation: THE LONG LONG TRAILER If you ever wanted to stay in a vintage camper with a history, then this is it. You will be staying in a 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer. The previous owner bought it in California and claimed it was one of the trailers used in the movie with Lucille Ball called The Long Long Trailer. We like to believe that we own a piece of American culture. The camper has water (cold only), electricity and a split ac unit. It has been partially renovated to keep the original feel and features as much as possible. It's an old lady that survived time, so we ask that you take good care of her as well to continue the legacy. BATHROOM - TOILET Inside the camper, there is a small bathroom with a sink, a small tub, and a toilet but for number ones only. For hot showers and number two's you will have access to a separate shared bathroom with an indoor toilet and a spacious enclosed outdoor shower. (See pictures) BEDROOM - BEDDING We just replaced the mattress with a brand new queen size memory foam mattress. So far everybody likes it. We only use cotton sheets for best comfort. There are 2 nightstands on each side of the bed with lamps and cellphone charger plugs. The bedroom has its own entrance door and a room divider can provide privacy from the rest of the camper. KITCHEN - APPLIANCES A comfortable kitchen area with a large sink and lots of cabinets. It's equipped with a microwave oven, toaster oven, hot water kettle and a gas stove. We also provide basic cookware, bowls and plates. Basic seasoning (good quality foods, always), paper towels, dish towels, sponges, dish soap. The cherry on the cake is the original 1954 fridge that is still working great. CLOSET A 2-door closet with hangers and a shelf and 3 storage compartments above the bed offer plenty of space for your clothing. CLEANING STUFF Basic cleaning products and gears are at your disposal inside the camper. We privilege non harsh chemical products to preserve human, animal and plant well-being. OUTDOOR SPACE In front of the camper you will find your own private area to chill out after a day of leisure in nature. You have a small table and 2 chairs as well as 2 comfortable armchairs. An umbrella is also provided. YARD - FIRE PIT We are still working on developing the property. Many parts are still undeveloped but every day we improve something. We have set up a fire pit with some lounge chairs around that you are welcome to enjoy when permitted by county regulations. HOT TUB AND LOUNGE AREA We just finished setting up the hot tub which is now ready to be enjoyed for an extra fee. Since it's an old model, and it is solar heated, you would have to tell us in advance the time you want to use it and we'll set it up at the right temperature for you. We allow one use per day for one hour. We have also an area with 2 lounge chairs if you want to soak in the sun during the day. PROPERTY ACCESS; We live in a very rural area that you can only access by a dirt road. The roads are well maintained and regular 2WD cars are fine. If you come from I-10 / Chipley via 77, count about 3 minutes of dirt road. If you come from CR20, it's about 10 minutes of dirt road. SPRING-FED LAKE Our property is located on the biggest spring-fed lake in Northwest Florida - Porter Lake. We do not have a view of the lake but we are less than 2 minutes away from the boat ramp where you can swim, launch your kayaks/canoes/paddle boards, and of course your motor boat as well. Many other lakes are very close by, just minutes away. If you like fishing, then you found your perfect haven spot. GORGEOUS EMERALD SPRINGS We are just less than 10 minutes away from 5 of the most beautiful cold water springs on the famous Econfina creek. Each site offers a parking area, picnic settings and easy access to the springs. You can swim there and also launch your own kayaks or rent them on site. YOUR NEIGHBORS We live in a camper on the same property about 20 yards distant from the New Moon trailer. But you will have all the privacy you need. We also have a few full time neighbors around the property, the rest of the lake community are family vacation homes. It means that outside the holidays it is a pretty quiet neighborhood. MORE DETAILS Please email us if you need more information. We hope we'll have the pleasure to welcome you soon.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$89
 / night
Turtle Whisperer Houseboat

8. Turtle Whisperer Houseboat

41mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site
I am offering short-term rentals of my houseboat this season. It is located on the Apalachicola River, about 1 mile upstream of Neal Landing near Blountstown, and is only accessible by motorboat or paddle vessel. The houseboat is in a fixed location and does not move. It is furnished with two beds, a futon, and a loft for extra sleeping space, and there is a generator for power. This is a primitive camp, not a luxury resort stay. You must bring gasoline for the generator if you want power. The beds have hygienic mattress covers, but you should bring your own sleeping bag and pillow cover. You can relieve yourself at the boat ramp porta-potty (~1 mile away) or in the composting camp toilet out back. You must bring bottled drinking water or a Sawyer filter for river water. There is a propane stove/oven, a charcoal grill, and a fire pit out front if you bring wood or collect it. An outside propane instant hot water heater with a shower head and privacy screen is available if you need to get clean and don’t want to hop in the river. My goal is to offer a unique experience and provide a code to the door for the agreed time frame, not to provide every convenience. I would charge more for each stay if that were the case because it would be a real challenge for me to get to the houseboat and keep it stocked. If you come prepared for a camping trip, you will have a great time; if you come with nothing, you probably will not. This is my first time renting it out, so all the logistics are not fully sorted yet. I’m willing to talk with potential guests to see if we can work something out if additional amenities or comforts are required. This is an awesome camp for a hunting or fishing weekend, with enough room for a few friends to relax and enjoy some beers in the evening. This is not a random cash-grab rental property. This is my personal camp retreat, and I only want to share it with people who will be respectful of it and the river. More photos coming soon.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$68
 / night
Presnell's Bayside Marina & RV Resort

9. Presnell's Bayside Marina & RV Resort

15mi from Mexico Beach
Discover the charm of Presnell’s RV Resort & Bayside Marina in Port St. Joe, a unique destination that combines modern amenities with the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Our resort features 70 brand-new full-service RV sites equipped with both 30 and 50-amp service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and complete sewer hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay for all our guests. Nestled along the serene waters of St. Joseph Bay, our marina is a beloved spot for fishing enthusiasts and families alike. With breathtaking views of Cape San Blas and proximity to some of Florida’s finest scalloping areas, outdoor adventures await just minutes from your doorstep. If you don’t have an RV, we offer cozy accommodations including 1 and 2-bedroom Park Models, as well as a charming 2-bedroom cottage. As we unveil our new pool and clubhouse in Spring 2017, Presnell’s RV Resort is set to become the premier RV park in northwest Florida. Enjoy easy access to a variety of activities such as fishing, snorkeling, sightseeing, and golfing, along with nearby beaches, restaurants, and shops. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Presnell’s!
St. Andrews State Park

10. St. Andrews State Park

100%
(12)
State park 24mi from Mexico Beach · 158 sites
This park is a gorgeous setting for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunbathing.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

With its brilliant white sandy beaches, Florida’s Mexico Beach is an ideal setting for swimming, beachcombing, or simply relaxing on the shore. Because most of the Gulf of Mexico has a barren ocean floor, the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association has built up a system of artificial reefs, providing scuba divers with unique underwater areas to explore, surrounded by local fish. Traverse the sandy dunes and stunning blue-green waters of Cape San Blas, including St. Joseph Peninsula. Hike among swamps and pine forests at Apalachicola National Forest, the largest in the state. Or camp above the rolling bluffs at Torreya State Park overlooking the Apalachicola River. From primitive campgrounds to yurt glamping and RV parks with full hookups, Mexico Beach offers camping experiences like none other.

95% (36) 37 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mexico Beach

Wewa Glamping

1. Wewa Glamping

100%
(22)
17mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site · Tent, RV
Perfect rv spot with full hookups, patio, fire pit, and fenced yard for pets. Concrete pad. Right on the famous Dead Lakes. Easy to put in a canoe or kayak or use nearby launch. Easy bike to town or famous Honey Hole restaurant. Half an hour for Port St Joe, Mexico Beach and Panama City. Private lot with one camping spot. 35 foot max. Double kayak and washer/dryer available upon request.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Dead Lakes RV Park and Campground

2. Dead Lakes RV Park and Campground

83%
(9)
18mi from Mexico Beach · 27 sites · Tents, RVs
Dead Lakes RV Park & Campground offers a serene and well-equipped retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and adventurers alike. Our spacious full-size RV sites provide ample room for in-space tow vehicle parking and come with convenient electricity hookups of 20, 30, and 50 amps, as well as water hookups. Select sites (1-7 and 16-21) also feature sewer hookups for added convenience. Each site is set on a sturdy foundation of gravel and milled asphalt and includes picnic tables for enjoying outdoor meals and relaxation. All of our RV campsites are 50 feet long and 24 feet wide. Each is equipped with water and electricity (20, 30, & 50 amp). Most campsites use a soft gravel pad and milled asphalt base. All campsites are back-in spaces. Designed to be both family- and pet-friendly, the campground features a playground and picnic pavilions, making it an ideal setting for gatherings and recreation. Nature lovers will appreciate the two beautiful lakes on the property, which are perfect for youth fishing and kayaking. Additionally, we offer designated tent areas specifically for scout troops and other groups looking to experience the great outdoors in a safe and welcoming environment. Our on-site amenities ensure comfort and convenience throughout your stay. Guests have access to a store, showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities, as well as a dump station for RVs. WiFi is available at the store for those who need to stay connected. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the easy access to Dead Lakes and the Apalachicola River, with boat ramps and fishing piers available for a memorable angling experience. Kayak rentals are also available nearby for those eager to explore the water. For those looking for a coastal escape, the pristine beaches are just a short drive away, making Dead Lakes RV Park & Campground the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$20
 / night
Dead Lakes

3. Dead Lakes

18mi from Mexico Beach · 3 sites
Dead Lakes RV Park is a tranquil 40-site sanctuary designed for those who love the "Old Florida" aesthetic. Nestled among ancient cypress skeletons and longleaf pines, guests enjoy direct access to the 6,700-acre Dead Lakes via a pair of on-site boat ramps and fishing piers. The property also features private fishing ponds, a nature hiking trail, and a community playground. Modern conveniences—including high-speed WiFi at every site, a full bathhouse, laundry facilities, and a camp store with kayak rentals—ensure a comfortable stay. Your four-legged friends are also welcome at our dedicated fenced dog park.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$96
 / night
T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

4. T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

97%
(16)
State park 13mi from Mexico Beach · 114 sites
Get two bodies of water for the price of one in northwest Florida.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Apalachicola National Forest

5. Apalachicola National Forest

National forest 49mi from Mexico Beach · 63 sites
Florida's largest national forest reveals the tropics’ ecological diversity on a vast scale.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Mystic

6. Lake Mystic

100%
(5)
39mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site
Beautiful lot with full 30 and 50 amp hookup on Lake Mystic. Grandeur dock and large floating dock in water. Bring your kayaks, paddle boards and fishing poles and get ready to enjoy the beauty and fun or relax in the sun! Please be advised this lake is private access only and there is no public boating ramp. This lot has 170ft of water front. Close drive to many beautiful state parks and landmarks such as Torreya State Park, Three Rivers State Park, Wakulla Springs, the Apalachicola River, and the world’s most beautiful beaches!
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$50
 / night
Lakes and Springs Retreat

7. Lakes and Springs Retreat

100%
(2)
39mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site
Welcome to our little rejuvenating heaven. This is what we want to offer you, a 2.5 acres of raw nature where you can relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the best that water and nature have to offer in Northwest Florida. You will be staying in a historic 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer, the exact copy of the one in the movie The Long Long Trailer with Lucille Ball. Nothing less ! And don't forget to bring your kayaks, paddle boards, bikes and hiking shoes as there is a lot to do around here. Let's start with your accommodation: THE LONG LONG TRAILER If you ever wanted to stay in a vintage camper with a history, then this is it. You will be staying in a 32 ft 1954 New Moon trailer. The previous owner bought it in California and claimed it was one of the trailers used in the movie with Lucille Ball called The Long Long Trailer. We like to believe that we own a piece of American culture. The camper has water (cold only), electricity and a split ac unit. It has been partially renovated to keep the original feel and features as much as possible. It's an old lady that survived time, so we ask that you take good care of her as well to continue the legacy. BATHROOM - TOILET Inside the camper, there is a small bathroom with a sink, a small tub, and a toilet but for number ones only. For hot showers and number two's you will have access to a separate shared bathroom with an indoor toilet and a spacious enclosed outdoor shower. (See pictures) BEDROOM - BEDDING We just replaced the mattress with a brand new queen size memory foam mattress. So far everybody likes it. We only use cotton sheets for best comfort. There are 2 nightstands on each side of the bed with lamps and cellphone charger plugs. The bedroom has its own entrance door and a room divider can provide privacy from the rest of the camper. KITCHEN - APPLIANCES A comfortable kitchen area with a large sink and lots of cabinets. It's equipped with a microwave oven, toaster oven, hot water kettle and a gas stove. We also provide basic cookware, bowls and plates. Basic seasoning (good quality foods, always), paper towels, dish towels, sponges, dish soap. The cherry on the cake is the original 1954 fridge that is still working great. CLOSET A 2-door closet with hangers and a shelf and 3 storage compartments above the bed offer plenty of space for your clothing. CLEANING STUFF Basic cleaning products and gears are at your disposal inside the camper. We privilege non harsh chemical products to preserve human, animal and plant well-being. OUTDOOR SPACE In front of the camper you will find your own private area to chill out after a day of leisure in nature. You have a small table and 2 chairs as well as 2 comfortable armchairs. An umbrella is also provided. YARD - FIRE PIT We are still working on developing the property. Many parts are still undeveloped but every day we improve something. We have set up a fire pit with some lounge chairs around that you are welcome to enjoy when permitted by county regulations. HOT TUB AND LOUNGE AREA We just finished setting up the hot tub which is now ready to be enjoyed for an extra fee. Since it's an old model, and it is solar heated, you would have to tell us in advance the time you want to use it and we'll set it up at the right temperature for you. We allow one use per day for one hour. We have also an area with 2 lounge chairs if you want to soak in the sun during the day. PROPERTY ACCESS; We live in a very rural area that you can only access by a dirt road. The roads are well maintained and regular 2WD cars are fine. If you come from I-10 / Chipley via 77, count about 3 minutes of dirt road. If you come from CR20, it's about 10 minutes of dirt road. SPRING-FED LAKE Our property is located on the biggest spring-fed lake in Northwest Florida - Porter Lake. We do not have a view of the lake but we are less than 2 minutes away from the boat ramp where you can swim, launch your kayaks/canoes/paddle boards, and of course your motor boat as well. Many other lakes are very close by, just minutes away. If you like fishing, then you found your perfect haven spot. GORGEOUS EMERALD SPRINGS We are just less than 10 minutes away from 5 of the most beautiful cold water springs on the famous Econfina creek. Each site offers a parking area, picnic settings and easy access to the springs. You can swim there and also launch your own kayaks or rent them on site. YOUR NEIGHBORS We live in a camper on the same property about 20 yards distant from the New Moon trailer. But you will have all the privacy you need. We also have a few full time neighbors around the property, the rest of the lake community are family vacation homes. It means that outside the holidays it is a pretty quiet neighborhood. MORE DETAILS Please email us if you need more information. We hope we'll have the pleasure to welcome you soon.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$89
 / night
Turtle Whisperer Houseboat

8. Turtle Whisperer Houseboat

41mi from Mexico Beach · 1 site
I am offering short-term rentals of my houseboat this season. It is located on the Apalachicola River, about 1 mile upstream of Neal Landing near Blountstown, and is only accessible by motorboat or paddle vessel. The houseboat is in a fixed location and does not move. It is furnished with two beds, a futon, and a loft for extra sleeping space, and there is a generator for power. This is a primitive camp, not a luxury resort stay. You must bring gasoline for the generator if you want power. The beds have hygienic mattress covers, but you should bring your own sleeping bag and pillow cover. You can relieve yourself at the boat ramp porta-potty (~1 mile away) or in the composting camp toilet out back. You must bring bottled drinking water or a Sawyer filter for river water. There is a propane stove/oven, a charcoal grill, and a fire pit out front if you bring wood or collect it. An outside propane instant hot water heater with a shower head and privacy screen is available if you need to get clean and don’t want to hop in the river. My goal is to offer a unique experience and provide a code to the door for the agreed time frame, not to provide every convenience. I would charge more for each stay if that were the case because it would be a real challenge for me to get to the houseboat and keep it stocked. If you come prepared for a camping trip, you will have a great time; if you come with nothing, you probably will not. This is my first time renting it out, so all the logistics are not fully sorted yet. I’m willing to talk with potential guests to see if we can work something out if additional amenities or comforts are required. This is an awesome camp for a hunting or fishing weekend, with enough room for a few friends to relax and enjoy some beers in the evening. This is not a random cash-grab rental property. This is my personal camp retreat, and I only want to share it with people who will be respectful of it and the river. More photos coming soon.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$68
 / night
Presnell's Bayside Marina & RV Resort

9. Presnell's Bayside Marina & RV Resort

15mi from Mexico Beach
Discover the charm of Presnell’s RV Resort & Bayside Marina in Port St. Joe, a unique destination that combines modern amenities with the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Our resort features 70 brand-new full-service RV sites equipped with both 30 and 50-amp service, complimentary Wi-Fi, and complete sewer hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay for all our guests. Nestled along the serene waters of St. Joseph Bay, our marina is a beloved spot for fishing enthusiasts and families alike. With breathtaking views of Cape San Blas and proximity to some of Florida’s finest scalloping areas, outdoor adventures await just minutes from your doorstep. If you don’t have an RV, we offer cozy accommodations including 1 and 2-bedroom Park Models, as well as a charming 2-bedroom cottage. As we unveil our new pool and clubhouse in Spring 2017, Presnell’s RV Resort is set to become the premier RV park in northwest Florida. Enjoy easy access to a variety of activities such as fishing, snorkeling, sightseeing, and golfing, along with nearby beaches, restaurants, and shops. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Presnell’s!
St. Andrews State Park

10. St. Andrews State Park

100%
(12)
State park 24mi from Mexico Beach · 158 sites
This park is a gorgeous setting for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunbathing.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

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The best lakeside camping near Mexico Beach guide

Where to go

T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park

Also known more simply as St. Joseph Peninsula, this state park on Cape San Blas is connected to the main Florida peninsula by a sliver of land. Near the small town of Port St. Joe, St. Joseph Peninsula boasts miles of pristine, white sandy beaches with pet-friendly vacation rentals. Nearby RV parks offer full 50-amp hookups, plus pull-through RV sites with gravel pads. Nature trails provide great opportunities for birdwatching, including gray catbirds, northern cardinals, bald eagles, and Carolina chickadees. Head into St. Joseph Bay for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking, or fish for speckled trout, whiting, and scallop.

Apalachicola National Forest

At over a half-million acres, Apalachicola is Florida’s largest national forest and covers a diverse array of ecosystems, including swamps and longleaf pine forests. The natural environment opens up endless opportunities for hiking and horseback riding—keep those binoculars handy for spotting bobcats and woodpeckers. Campgrounds in the national forest allow for tent and RV camping, some with hookups. During general gun season, Mack Landing serves as a camp for hunting deer, turkey, and gray squirrel. (Always abide by local hunting regulations, including rules around state hunting licenses.)

Torreya State Park

Named for an extremely rare species of tree growing in the area, Torreya State Park is set upon rolling bluffs overlooking the Apalachicola River. Dubbed the “Mountains of Florida,” the scenic steephead ravine systems here are home to miles of challenging hiking trails. Among the animals that hikers may see along the way are Barbour’s map turtles, Florida black bears, and golden-crowned kinglets. Hike into one of the primitive camping areas or go glamping in the park’s 20-foot yurt with air conditioning and large screened windows. Tent and RV campsites feature water and electricity hookups, as well as shared showers and restrooms.

When to go

With its warm, sunny weather throughout the year, Mexico Beach, Florida is a year-round camping destination. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall aren’t nearly as hot and humid as the summer, and they attract fewer tourists, allowing for a more tranquil camping experience. Hiking and other outdoor activities can be more comfortable in this milder weather, too. Look for migratory birds during the fall and winter months. Many snowbirds (people coming from colder climates) flock to Mexico Beach in the winter, too, so be sure to book campsite reservations well in advance.