If you are an experienced camper, you may already know that Florida is a camping paradise. The mild climate of the Sunshine State allows for year-round camping and nearly limitless outdoor activities. And, whether you consider yourself a “trees and trails” type or one that prefers “sand and surf,” Florida’s varied camping offering has to offer. Plus, for those who have never camped, Florida features some unique camping experiences that are sure to get you hooked on camping for the rest of your life.
You might be wondering, what is so special about camping in Florida? Several things occur to me, but at the top of the list is the weather. There’s a reason Florida calls itself the Sunshine State. Although it’s hot and humid in the summer, with afternoon storms the norm, Florida’s general subtropical climate allows for year-round camping and outdoor activities.
Next on the list would be variety. Whether you are camping in a public or private camp, you can experience everything from pristine white sand beaches and tranquil forests to exciting entertainment and thrills at theme parks. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves, the bells of a steeple or the roar of lions. Imagine spending your days canoeing down a black river, sightseeing on a Segway, or enjoying an exciting theme park. Imagine ending your day with a stunning sunset. All of these experiences (and more) are possible in Florida.
Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons to camp is because it is the cheapest way for families to get away, be it for a weekend or a week-long vacation. Of course, the tent is the least expensive. Everything from the tent and sleeping bags to the camp stove and flashlights can be purchased for $ 250 to $ 500. Families who prefer a few more creature comforts can opt for a pop-up window, trailer, or motorhome. These are good if you can afford them. After all, they can run anywhere from a couple thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands.
Also, the way you camp determines the overnight costs of a camp. Overnight charges in Florida will depend on the camp, its services and the availability of connections. Obviously, campsites with full hookups, including electricity, water, sewer, and sometimes cable TV and internet, will be the most expensive. The primitive camp is generally much less.
Florida state parks have some of the most reasonable overnight charges ($ 18 to $ 50 per night); but, although the campsites include water and electricity, they do not include sewage and there is no cable available. Private campgrounds are generally more likely to offer full hookups and more amenities (like concrete decks, cable TV, internet connection, pools, recreation, etc.), but the nightly charge will generally be higher, averaging $ 35 at $ 60. And, if you opt for a campground near a popular attraction or the beach, the amount will be even more expensive: $ 75 to $ 150 per night!
Although Florida campgrounds are open year-round, there are camping seasons that affect overall rates. Generally, the “peak” season means higher rates during the winter months, from mid-November to mid-April, when Northerners seek relief from the ice and snow and head to sunny Florida; and, the “low” season runs from mid-April to mid-November. (This is actually reversed in the Florida Panhandle, where the weather is cooler during the winter.) Lower rates may apply during these months, except in areas near popular attractions or on the beach.
Remember to also expect higher rates on or around vacations.
So now that you know camping is affordable and Florida has some great camping and adventure destinations, why not give it a try?
Find a camp
Camp experiences often don’t meet expectations. Read as much as possible about your destination and the opinions of others before making reservations.
Check out the following campgrounds and campground directories on Florida Travel :
- 10 camping experiences in Florida
- Camping in Florida State Parks
- Camping at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
- Camping on the beaches of Florida
- Florida Keys Campground
- Camping at Fort DeSoto Park Campground
- Camping along Florida’s I-4
- Camping along Florida’s I-10
- Camping along Florida’s I-75
- Camping along Florida’s I-95
Also, view online or request a copy of the following camping directory:
- Florida Camping Directory is a list of members of the Florida RV Parks and Camps Association
- The | Order online | View online |
