The best camping in Biscayne National Park, FL

Set sail to explore a scenic slice of the Florida Keys, where much of the fun is found on–and under–the water. Biscayne National Park preserves Biscayne Bay and several islands. Explore the underwater wonders of the Florida Reef and the Maritime Heritage Trail. Go snorkeling amid the ruins of a shipwreck, catch your own lobster, or canoe through a lagoon to observe marine life. Two campgrounds are located on islands accessible by boat, with campsites for tent camping only. RVers and campers seeking more amenities may enjoy camping at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Everglades National Park, or private RV parks and glamping rentals in the Homestead, Florida, region.

• Best for amenities: Elliott Key Campground offers restrooms with sinks and cold water showers. Drinking water is also available (though campers should bring a backup water supply).
• Best scenery: Boca Chica Key Campground is on the park’s most popular island.
• Best for RVers: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers tent and RV sites with full hookups. 
• Best for national park lovers: Combine your trip to Biscayne with a visit to Everglades National Park, where Long Pine Key Campground offers dry camping and Flamingo Campground has partial hookups.

• Both campgrounds in Biscayne National Park are first-come-first-served. 
• Download the Recreation.gov app before arriving at Biscayne National Park. Campsite payments may be made on the app.
• You may book a dock site for a boat along with a campsite.
• Reservations for John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park open 11 months in advance.
• Reservations for the Everglades National Park campgrounds are recommended for the busier months of December through April. Reservations are made through a concessionaire online and by phone.

No matter when you visit, you are likely to find sunny skies at this subtropical paradise. Summer brings on the heat and humidity, with highs in the 80s and 90s and afternoon thunderstorms. June, August, and September tend to be the rainiest months. Insects may be abundant, especially during the summer. The rest of the year isn’t significantly cooler, as daytime temperatures are generally in the 70s through spring, fall, and even winter. You won’t find freezing temperatures or snow here, either. No matter when you visit, bring sun protection.

• Visiting any part of the park beyond the visitor center requires a boat. Guided tours depart from the visitor center. 
• The Biscayne National Park Institute offers a variety of eco-adventures and guided tours.
• Hiking trails and open exploration may be enjoyed on the various islands. Elliott Key is the most developed, with restrooms and more.