"Hook, Line, and Sinker: Reel in the Fun at these 10 Florida State Parks Perfect for RV Camping Trips"
"Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than the Sunshine State! Florida’s plethora of state parks offer the perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and natural beauty. And what better way to experience it all than on an RV camping trip? In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 Florida state parks that’ll have you hooked from the get-go. Grab your hiking boots, and let’s hit the road!"
1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – Key Largo
"Up first, we’ve got a real treat for you beach lovers. Located in Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is America’s first underwater park. That’s right, folks! This park is a snorkeler’s paradise, with an abundance of marine life and coral reefs just waiting to be explored.
- Getting There: Fly into Miami International Airport (MIA), then take a 1.5-hour drive south on the Overseas Highway (US-1) to Key Largo.
- Facilities: 47 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking.
- Prices: $36 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, Key Largo Underwater Park, and the famous Key Largo Bridge.
But wait, there’s more! Visitors rave about the park’s tranquil atmosphere and picturesque scenery. As one reviewer noted, ‘The sunsets at John Pennekamp are simply breathtaking.’ We couldn’t agree more!
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2. Blue Spring State Park – Orange City
"All right, nature enthusiasts, gather ’round! Blue Spring State Park is a haven for those who love the great outdoors. Located near Orange City, this park is a designated manatee refuge, making it an absolute must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Getting There: Fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO), then take a 45-minute drive north on I-4 to Orange City.
- Facilities: 72 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Swimming, hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching (including manatees!).
- Prices: $24 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: St. Johns River, Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, and the historic town of Orange City.
One reviewer exclaimed, ‘The spring water is crystal clear, and the manatees are such a delight to watch!’ We couldn’t agree more – this park is a true gem.
3. Myakka River State Park – Sarasota
"How about a park that’s a little off the beaten path? Myakka River State Park, located near Sarasota, offers a unique blend of wilderness and adventure. With its many hiking trails and vast wildlife viewing opportunities, it’s the perfect destination for the outdoorsy type.
- Getting There: Fly into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), then take a 20-minute drive east on I-75 to Sarasota.
- Facilities: 105 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching (including alligators and birds!).
- Prices: $20 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Sarasota Jungle Gardens, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, and the beautiful beaches of Siesta Key.
Reviewers rave about the park’s serene atmosphere and excellent customer service. One reviewer wrote, ‘The park rangers are so friendly and knowledgeable – they really make the experience special.’
4. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park – Santa Rosa Beach
"Looking for a park that’s close to the action but still offers plenty of natural beauty? Look no further than Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, located near Santa Rosa Beach. With its scenic hiking trails and stunning views of the Gulf Coast, this park has something for everyone.
- Getting There: Fly into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), then take a 45-minute drive south on US-98 to Santa Rosa Beach.
- Facilities: 156 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Hiking, biking, swimming, and beachcombing.
- Prices: $40 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Topsail Beach, The Hub on 30A, and the iconic St. Andrews State Park.
Visitors love the park’s pristine beach and excellent amenities. One reviewer wrote, ‘The RV sites are spacious and well-maintained, and the staff is super friendly.’
5. Sebastian Inlet State Park – Melbourne Beach
"Calling all surfers and beach enthusiasts! Sebastian Inlet State Park is the place to be. Located near Melbourne Beach, this park is known for its world-class surfing, fishing, and sunbathing.
- Getting There: Fly into Melbourne International Airport (MLB), then take a 30-minute drive south on US-1 to Melbourne Beach.
- Facilities: 51 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Surfing, fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
- Prices: $28 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Sebastian Beach, Indian River Lagoon, and the historic town of Sebastian.
Reviewers rave about the park’s laid-back atmosphere and excellent surfing conditions. One reviewer exclaimed, ‘The waves are gnarly, dude – this is a must-visit for any surfer!’
6. Bahia Honda State Park – Bahia Honda Key
"Ready for a tropical getaway? Bahia Honda State Park, located near Bahia Honda Key, is a hidden gem. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque scenery, this park is a nature lover’s paradise.
- Getting There: Fly into Key West International Airport (EYW), then take a 45-minute drive north on the Overseas Highway (US-1) to Bahia Honda Key.
- Facilities: 80 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and beachcombing.
- Prices: $36 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Old Bahia Honda Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park Beach, and the vibrant town of Key West.
Visitors love the park’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery. One reviewer wrote, ‘The sunrises at Bahia Honda are breathtaking – it’s the perfect way to start the day.’
7. Lake Manatee State Park – Bradenton
"How about a park that’s close to civilization but still offers plenty of natural beauty? Lake Manatee State Park, located near Bradenton, is just the ticket. With its scenic hiking trails and excellent water sports opportunities, this park has something for everyone.
- Getting There: Fly into Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ), then take a 20-minute drive east on I-75 to Bradenton.
- Facilities: 60 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.
- Prices: $20 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Lake Manatee, Robinson Nature Preserve, and the historic town of Bradenton.
Reviewers rave about the park’s scenic views and excellent customer service. One reviewer wrote, ‘The park rangers are super friendly and knowledgeable – they really make the experience special.’
8. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area – Flagler Beach
"Ready for a park that’s a little off the beaten path? Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, located near Flagler Beach, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With its scenic hiking trails and excellent water sports opportunities, this park is a must-visit for any nature enthusiast.
- Getting There: Fly into Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), then take a 30-minute drive north on A1A to Flagler Beach.
- Facilities: 34 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.
- Prices: $24 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Flagler Beach, Jacksonville Beach, and the historic town of St. Augustine.
Visitors love the park’s peaceful atmosphere and scenic views. One reviewer wrote, ‘The sunrise over the ocean is breathtaking – it’s the perfect way to start the day.’
9. St. Andrews State Park – Panama City Beach
"Calling all beach lovers! St. Andrews State Park, located near Panama City Beach, is a must-visit destination. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent water sports opportunities, this park is a nature enthusiast’s paradise.
- Getting There: Fly into Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP), then take a 30-minute drive north on US-98 to Panama City Beach.
- Facilities: 60 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and beachcombing.
- Prices: $28 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: Panama City Beach, St. Andrews State Park Beach, and the vibrant town of Panama City.
Reviewers rave about the park’s excellent amenities and natural beauty. One reviewer wrote, ‘The beaches are pristine, and the water sports opportunities are endless – we’ll definitely be back!’
10. Anastasia State Park – St. Augustine
"Last but certainly not least, we’ve got Anastasia State Park, located near St. Augustine. This park is a nature lover’s dream come true, with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent water sports opportunities.
- Getting There: Fly into Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), then take a 45-minute drive south on US-1 to St. Augustine.
- Facilities: 139 RV sites, bathroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and a dump station.
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and beachcombing.
- Prices: $30 per night for RV sites, plus tax.
- Nearby Attractions: St. Augustine Beach, Castillo de San Marcos, and the historic town of St. Augustine.
Visitors love the park’s natural beauty and excellent amenities. One reviewer wrote, ‘The sunsets at Anastasia are breathtaking – it’s the perfect way to end the day.’
Conclusion
And there you have it – the top 10 Florida state parks perfect for RV camping trips! Each park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re a beach lover, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a fun family vacation, these parks have something for everyone. So pack up your RV, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
FAQs
- What are the best Florida state parks for RV camping?
The top 10 Florida state parks for RV camping are John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Blue Spring State Park, Myakka River State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Sebastian Inlet State Park, Bahia Honda State Park, Lake Manatee State Park, Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, St. Andrews State Park, and Anastasia State Park. - How do I get to each park?
Each park has its own unique location, but most are accessible by car or RV. You can fly into nearby airports and then take a short drive to each park. - What are the best activities to do at each park?
The best activities to do at each park vary, but most offer hiking, biking, swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Some parks also offer snorkeling, scuba diving, and wildlife watching. - How much do RV sites cost at each park?
Prices vary depending on the park, but most RV sites cost between $20 and $40 per night, plus tax. - Are there any nearby attractions and amenities?
Yes, each park has its own unique nearby attractions and amenities, including beaches, historic towns, and local restaurants."
