Florida State Parks Camping Guide: Tips & Top Spots
"Wild About Florida: Your Ultimate Camping Adventure Awaits!"
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the Sunshine State’s breathtaking natural beauty? Look no further than Florida’s state parks, where the great outdoors beckons with its siren song. With over 150 parks to choose from, you’ll find a camping spot that suits your style, from beachside retreats to scenic inland getaways. In this article, we’ll delve into the top state parks for camping, share insider tips, and provide you with maps and directions to make your trip planning a breeze.
Getting There: Maps and Directions
Before we dive into the parks themselves, let’s talk about how to get there. Here are some of the nearest airports, harbors, train stations, and transportation hubs to help you plan your trip:
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): Located in Broward County, this airport is a great starting point for exploring South Florida state parks.
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): In the northeastern part of the state, Jacksonville’s airport is perfect for visiting the many state parks along the Atlantic coast.
- Miami International Airport (MIA): If you’re heading south, Miami’s airport is your best bet for reaching state parks in the Everglades and the Keys.
- Tampa International Airport (TPA): For a west coast adventure, Tampa’s airport is just a stone’s throw from many Gulf Coast state parks.
Some popular harbors and marinas include:
- Fort Lauderdale Harbor: A great spot to catch a cruise or rent a boat to visit coastal state parks.
- Jacksonville Harbor: Visit the nearby state parks or take a scenic boat tour along the St. Johns River.
- St. Petersburg Harbor: Head to this Gulf Coast city for easy access to state parks like Fort De Soto Park.
For those traveling by train, Amtrak’s Silver Star and Silver Meteor lines connect major cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Jacksonville. The train stations are:
- Fort Lauderdale Tri-Rail Station: Connect to state parks like Dania Beach State Park.
- Jacksonville Passenger Terminal: Catch a train to visit state parks like Little Talbot Island State Park.
- Miami Tri-Rail Station: Reach state parks like Oleta River State Park.
Top Picks: State Parks for Camping
Now that you know how to get there, let’s explore some of the top state parks for camping in Florida.
1. Three Rivers State Park
Located in the Panhandle, Three Rivers State Park offers stunning views of Lake Seminole and the Chattahoochee River. Campers can choose from 32 campsites with water and electric hookups, or opt for primitive sites with picnic tables and grills. Don’t miss the boat ramp and fishing pier for an easy day on the water.
Directions from nearest airport: Drive 45 minutes from Panama City Beach Airport (ECP) via Highway 77.
Facilities: RV dump station, restrooms with showers, and a camp store.
Activities: Fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife watching.
Price: $16/night for standard campsites.
2. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
This popular park in Key Largo is a snorkeler’s and scuba diver’s paradise. Spend the night at one of the 47 campsites with water and electric hookups, or try glamping in a scenic cabin. Take a guided kayak tour or rent a paddleboard to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
Directions from nearest airport: Drive 90 minutes from Miami International Airport (MIA) via the Florida Turnpike.
Facilities: Swimmer’s toilet, snorkeling gear rentals, and a camp store.
Activities: Snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Price: $25/night for standard campsites.
3. St. Andrews State Park
Near Panama City Beach, St. Andrews State Park boasts pristine shores and pristine waters. Choose from 85 campsites with water and electric hookups, or opt for a cozy cabin with a full kitchen. Explore the coastline on a bike or kayak, or take a leisurely walk along the shore.
Directions from nearest airport: Drive 25 minutes from Panama City Beach Airport (ECP) via Highway 98.
Facilities: Playground, picnic pavilions, and a nature center.
Activities: Swimming, shell searching, and birdwatching.
Price: $20/night for standard campsites.
4. Fletcher Park
Nestled in Henderson County, Fletcher Park offers a serene camping experience. Relax in one of the 45 campsites with water and electric hookups, or try primitive camping for a more rugged experience. Visit the nearby Appalachian Trail for a scenic hike or hike to the overlook for panoramic views.
Directions from nearest airport: Drive an hour from Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) via I-40.
Facilities: River access, grills, and picnic tables.
Activities: Hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
Price: $10/night for standard campsites.
Other Top Spots
Some more state parks worth mentioning for their great camping facilities:
- Bahia Honda State Park, near Key West
- Myakka State Park, in Sarasota
- Fort De Soto Park, in St. Petersburg
Public Facilities Near State Parks
In case you need any extra amenities, here are some popular hotels and restaurants near our top picks:
- Three Rivers State Park: Jacksonville Landing Marriott (30 minutes away) and the iconic Beachcomber Bar & Restaurant (20 minutes away).
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort (15 minutes away) and Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen (10 minutes away) for some classic Florida cuisine.
- St. Andrews State Park: The Pearl Hotel, Panama City (20 minutes away) and Andy’s Flour Power Cafe & Bakery (10 minutes away) for some fluffy breakfast goodness.
Tips and Tricks
- Book Ahead: Reserve your campsite well in advance, especially during peak season (December-April).
- Bring Bug Spray: Those mosquitoes and no-see-ums can get vicious!
- Respect the Wildlife: Keep a safe distance and don’t feed the critters.
- Stay Safe: Make sure to lock up your belongings and secure your campsite at night.
Positive Reviews
Here’s what our fellow campers have to say about their state park experiences:
"Three Rivers State Park is an amazing gem! The campground was well-kept, and the sunsets were simply stunning." – Amanda B. from Miami
"John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was the highlight of our vacation! Snorkeling and swimming in the clear waters was absolutely incredible." – Justin W. from LA
"St. Andrews State Park has everything you need for a fun family vacation – bikes, kayaks, and even a playground for the kids!" – Krista J. from Tampa
Conclusion
Florida state parks offer an incredible array of camping options to suit every taste and preference. With stunning natural scenery, diverse wildlife, and great amenities, you’ll be itching to get outside and explore the Sunshine State’s wild side. Use this guide to plan your next adventure, and get ready to make memories that’ll last a lifetime!
FAQs
Q: Can I reserve a campsite online?
A: Yes! Book your campsite through the Florida State Parks website or by calling (800) 326-3521.
Q: Are the state parks pet-friendly?
A: Most state parks allow leashed pets, but always check ahead with park management to confirm.
Q: What’s the typical check-in and check-out time?
A: Check-in is usually at 3 pm, and check-out is at 1 pm. Don’t forget to return your key before departing!
Q: Can I have a campfire?
A: Sure thing! Just make sure to follow park guidelines and fully extinguish the fire before leaving it unattended.
