The best camping near Fort Matanzas National Monument

There aren't many places where you can watch dolphins playing from atop a Spanish fort. Fort Matanzas is one of them.

Hop aboard a ferry—the fort is only accessible by water. The Ranger takes you back to 1565, when the Spanish and French fought for control of Florida. At the fort, examine the cannons on the gun deck. Walk through the soldiers' and officers' quarters in the tower. The real gem is on the top level. Squeeze up a narrow ladder to the lookout deck. From here, you can see how soldiers kept watch on the river inlet. Be sure to keep an eye out for dolphins.

If you're bringing kids, burn some energy before the return trip on the nature trail. Look for egrets, osprey, and hermit crabs on the shaded, elevated boardwalk. Need to spice up your Instagram feed? Come for the park's legendary sunsets.

On the weekends, Fort Matanzas comes alive with historical reenactments. Watch costumed actors shoot the cannons or work on Spanish flintlock muskets. If you're lucky, you can watch a soldier make a bullet over a fire. During the torchlight tours, you can explore the fort after dark.

Want to be on the first boat to the fort? Camp close by in the Matanzas State Forest, which is just to the west.