15 Beachfront Campgrounds Across Florida That Feel Like A Real Escape
Florida is famous for beaches, but spending the night beside one is a completely different kind of magic.
Imagine drifting off to the sound of waves instead of traffic. Waking up to soft sunrise colors stretching across open water.
Brewing your morning coffee while seabirds glide overhead and the shoreline is yours alone before the world arrives. That is the quiet thrill of coastal camping in Florida, and once you experience it, ordinary vacations start to feel a little less exciting.
Sound like something out of a travel dream?
Why settle for a beach visit when you could stay right on the sand? Which coast fits your mood better, the calm emerald Gulf or the rhythmic Atlantic surf?
And how many of these hidden seaside campgrounds have you never even heard of?
From peaceful family friendly shores to wild stretches of coastline where nature still leads the schedule, these Florida beachfront camping spots promise more than a getaway. They offer moments you will replay long after the tent comes down.
1. Turtle Beach, Siesta Key (Sarasota)
Powdery white sand stretches as far as your eyes can see at this peaceful Siesta Key gem. Turtle Beach offers campers a quieter alternative to the bustling main beach areas while still delivering that signature Sarasota coastline magic.
The campground sits right where the sand meets civilization, giving you instant beach access without the typical tourist crowds. Families love this spot because kids can safely explore tide pools while parents relax under shady palms.
Local dolphins frequently swim past during morning hours, creating picture-perfect moments you will treasure forever. The nearby fishing pier attracts anglers hoping to catch snook, redfish, and tarpon throughout the year.
Sunset watching becomes a nightly ritual here, with the sky painting itself in shades of orange, pink, and purple that seem almost unreal. Pack your camera because these views deserve documentation.
Amenities include clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic areas perfect for family cookouts. The location provides easy access to Siesta Key Village, where restaurants and shops offer entertainment when you need a break from beach time.
Reserve your spot early during peak season because this hidden treasure fills up quickly with repeat visitors who know quality when they find it.
2. Flagler Beach Campground (Flagler Beach)
Atlantic breezes keep temperatures comfortable year-round at this charming coastal camping destination. Flagler Beach combines small-town warmth with big-time ocean views, creating an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and wild.
The campground stretches along several blocks of pristine coastline where surf fishing enthusiasts cast lines hoping for pompano and whiting. Morning walks on the firm sand reveal seashells, sand dollars, and occasionally sea turtle tracks during nesting season.
Downtown Flagler Beach sits just minutes away, offering local restaurants serving fresh seafood and quirky shops selling beach essentials. The historic pier provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to watch surfers riding waves below.
My cousin visited last spring and spent three days here without ever wanting to leave, calling it her new happy place. She particularly loved the friendly atmosphere where neighboring campers share fishing tips and sunset toasts.
Campsite options range from basic tent spots to full hookup RV sites, accommodating various camping styles and budgets. Hot showers and laundry facilities make extended stays comfortable and convenient.
The location offers easy access to both Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, making it perfect for day trips when you want to explore beyond your beachfront paradise.
3. Treasure by the Sea RV Park (Flagler Beach)
Luxury camping takes on new meaning at this oceanfront RV paradise where modern amenities meet natural beauty. Treasure by the Sea lives up to its name by offering premium sites with unobstructed Atlantic views that make every morning feel like a vacation commercial.
Full hookup sites accommodate even the largest rigs, while thoughtful landscaping creates privacy between neighbors. The resort-style pool provides a refreshing alternative when you need a break from saltwater swimming.
Beach access happens via private walkways that lead directly onto soft sand and rolling waves perfect for boogie boarding. Covered pavilions offer shaded gathering spaces where families play cards and share travel stories.
The park maintains spotless facilities including modern bathhouses, laundry rooms, and a well-stocked camp store selling forgotten essentials. Free WiFi keeps you connected, though many guests prefer disconnecting completely during their stay.
Nearby attractions include Washington Oaks Gardens State Park and Marineland Dolphin Adventure, both offering unique Florida experiences. Local restaurants deliver fresh catch daily, from grouper sandwiches to peel-and-eat shrimp.
Pet-friendly policies mean furry family members can enjoy beach walks and outdoor adventures alongside their humans. Monthly rates attract snowbirds seeking extended stays in this coastal paradise during winter months when northern temperatures plummet.
4. North Beach Campground (St. Augustine)
History whispers through the sea oats at this unique camping spot where America’s oldest city meets the Atlantic. North Beach Campground positions you perfectly for exploring St. Augustine’s colonial architecture while maintaining that essential beach vibe.
The campground offers direct beach access where waves crash rhythmically and shorebirds hunt for breakfast in the surf. Campsites accommodate both tents and RVs, with some spots offering partial ocean views through natural vegetation.
Walking distance to downtown St. Augustine means you can explore Castillo de San Marcos, historic streets, and charming restaurants without moving your vehicle. The beach itself remains relatively uncrowded compared to more commercial Florida destinations.
Sunrise fishing produces excellent catches of redfish and flounder, while evening beach walks often reveal bioluminescent plankton glowing in the waves. Kids love searching for coquina shells that burrow quickly into wet sand.
Basic amenities include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas surrounded by coastal hammock vegetation. The location provides easy access to Anastasia State Park and the St. Augustine Lighthouse for day trip adventures.
Seasonal rates make off-season camping incredibly affordable, though summer months bring warmer water temperatures perfect for extended swimming sessions. Reserve ahead during special events when the historic city attracts extra visitors seeking that perfect blend of culture and coast.
5. St. Augustine Beach Campground (St. Augustine)
Waves practically lap at your tent flap at this popular coastal camping destination where convenience meets natural beauty. St. Augustine Beach Campground delivers that classic Florida beach experience families dream about during long winter months up north.
The campground sprawls across several acres with sites ranging from oceanfront premium spots to more affordable inland options. Full hookups accommodate RVs while tent areas provide grassy spaces perfect for traditional camping under the stars.
Beach access happens via short boardwalks that protect fragile dune ecosystems while providing easy paths to the sand. The St. Augustine Beach Pier extends into the Atlantic, offering fishing opportunities and spectacular sunrise viewing platforms.
Local restaurants line nearby A1A, serving everything from casual fish tacos to upscale seafood dinners with ocean views. Beach shops rent equipment including surfboards, paddleboards, and beach chairs for those who travel light.
I remember camping here as a teenager and being amazed by how close the ocean sounded at night, like nature’s own white noise machine. That memory stuck with me through decades of other camping adventures.
Modern facilities include clean restrooms, hot showers, and laundry services that make extended stays comfortable. The campground sits close enough to historic St. Augustine for cultural day trips yet far enough to maintain that peaceful beach town atmosphere everyone craves.
6. Fort De Soto Park Campground (Tierra Verde)
Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches, Fort De Soto delivers camping excellence on multiple pristine shorelines. This massive park encompasses five interconnected islands offering 238 campsites surrounded by natural Florida beauty that feels untouched by time.
Gulf waters shimmer in shades of turquoise and emerald while white sand beaches stretch for miles in both directions. The campground provides paved sites with water and electric hookups, plus modern bathhouses that exceed typical state park standards.
Seven miles of paved trails wind through the park, perfect for biking, skating, or leisurely walks through coastal ecosystems. Historic Fort De Soto itself offers fascinating exploration opportunities where Civil War era cannons still point toward Tampa Bay.
Kayakers launch from calm bay waters to explore mangrove tunnels teeming with fish, birds, and occasionally manatees. The park’s dog beach allows furry friends to splash and play off-leash, creating joyful chaos that pet owners absolutely adore.
Fishing piers attract anglers targeting snook, redfish, and tarps, while shallow flats provide excellent wade fishing opportunities. Concession stands sell basic supplies, though stocking up beforehand saves money and ensures you have favorite snacks.
Reservations become essential during peak season when this beloved destination fills months in advance with savvy campers who return annually to their favorite slice of Gulf Coast paradise.
7. Fort Pickens Campground (Pensacola Beach)
Emerald green waters meet sugar-white sand at this Gulf Islands National Seashore treasure where history and natural beauty intertwine. Fort Pickens Campground occupies one of Florida’s most spectacular coastal locations, offering campers both beach access and fascinating historical exploration.
The campground features 150 sites accommodating tents and RVs up to 45 feet, with some spots offering direct views of the Gulf. Modern amenities include hot showers, flush toilets, and a camp store selling essentials and souvenirs.
Historic Fort Pickens itself provides hours of exploration through brick corridors and ramparts where Confederate prisoners once lived during the Civil War. Interpretive signs explain the fort’s strategic importance while kids imagine life as soldiers stationed in this remote outpost.
Beach access happens via short walks through sea oat covered dunes onto some of Florida’s finest sand. The water stays relatively calm, making it perfect for families with young swimmers and snorkelers exploring near-shore reefs.
Fishing opportunities abound from both beach and pier locations, with Spanish mackerel, pompano, and redfish frequently caught. Battery Langdon Trail offers scenic hiking through coastal forests where you might spot armadillos, raccoons, or various bird species.
Sunset watching becomes a nightly event where the sky explodes in colors that cameras struggle to capture accurately. Early reservations prove essential as this beloved campground fills quickly with repeat visitors who consider it their annual pilgrimage destination.
8. Grayton Beach State Park (Santa Rosa Beach)
Rare coastal dune lakes create unique ecosystems at this award-winning state park where nature lovers find their happy place. Grayton Beach State Park combines stunning Gulf beaches with freshwater lake access, offering campers diverse recreational opportunities within one spectacular location.
The campground nestles among scrub oaks and sand pines, providing natural shade and privacy between sites. Full facility campsites include water, electric, and a central dump station, while primitive sites appeal to tent campers seeking a more rustic experience.
Western Lake borders the park, offering calm waters perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing for bass and bream. The beach consistently ranks among America’s most beautiful, with powdery sand and clear waters that seem almost tropical.
Nature trails wind through various ecosystems including coastal scrub, pine flatwoods, and salt marshes where wildlife viewing opportunities abound. Photographers capture stunning images of wading birds, shore birds, and occasionally dolphins swimming parallel to the beach.
My friend’s family camps here every summer and swears the sunsets rival anything they have seen in the Caribbean, minus the expensive resort prices. They particularly love the uncrowded beaches even during peak vacation weeks.
Nearby Seaside and Rosemary Beach provide charming shopping and dining options when you want civilization breaks. The park’s relatively small size creates an intimate atmosphere where fellow campers often become friends sharing campfire stories and s’mores recipes.
9. Navarre Beach Campground (Navarre)
Pristine beaches stretch endlessly at this Gulf Coast gem where development remains minimal and nature takes center stage. Navarre Beach Campground offers that increasingly rare Florida experience where beaches stay uncrowded and the pace slows to match the gentle wave rhythm.
The campground provides both RV sites with full hookups and tent camping areas positioned close to beach access points. Clean facilities include modern restrooms, hot showers, and covered pavilions perfect for rainy day gatherings.
The longest fishing pier in Florida extends into the Gulf, attracting anglers and sightseers who enjoy watching marine life swimming below. Beach conditions typically remain calm with gradual depths, making swimming safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Gulf Islands National Seashore borders the area, offering additional beach access and nature trails through preserved coastal habitats. Sea turtle nesting season brings special programs where rangers educate visitors about conservation efforts protecting these ancient mariners.
Local restaurants serve fresh Gulf seafood at reasonable prices, from fried shrimp baskets to grilled grouper sandwiches. The nearby town maintains that old Florida charm without the high-rise condos dominating other coastal communities.
Water sports rentals provide equipment for kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing when you want active adventures. Evening beach walks often reveal ghost crabs scurrying across the sand and bioluminescent organisms glowing in the surf, creating magical moments that define perfect beach camping experiences.
10. Emerald Beach RV Park (Navarre)
Luxury meets the Gulf Coast at this premium RV destination where every amenity enhances your beachfront experience. Emerald Beach RV Park caters to travelers seeking comfort and convenience without sacrificing that essential connection to Florida’s natural coastal beauty.
Spacious pull-through sites accommodate large rigs with full hookups including 50-amp service, water, sewer, and cable television. The park maintains immaculate grounds with tropical landscaping creating a resort atmosphere that feels more vacation than camping.
Private beach access via boardwalk means you can be playing in Gulf waves within minutes of arriving at your site. The heated pool offers a freshwater alternative when you need a break from saltwater swimming.
Clubhouse facilities include clean restrooms, laundry services, and gathering spaces where guests share travel tales and local recommendations. Free WiFi keeps you connected, though many visitors prefer unplugging completely during their coastal retreat.
The park’s location provides easy access to Gulf Islands National Seashore, local restaurants, and shopping without the crowds found at more developed beach towns. Navarre’s relaxed atmosphere attracts families and retirees seeking peaceful Gulf Coast experiences.
Pet-friendly policies welcome furry travel companions who enjoy beach walks and outdoor lounging. Monthly rates during winter months attract snowbirds escaping harsh northern climates, creating a friendly community atmosphere where neighbors become friends sharing potluck dinners and sunset viewing parties on the beach.
11. Miramar Beach Campground (Miramar Beach)
Crystal-clear emerald waters define this stunning stretch of Florida’s Panhandle where camping meets paradise. Miramar Beach Campground positions you perfectly along the famous Emerald Coast, where sand squeaks underfoot and water clarity rivals tropical destinations.
The campground offers various site options from basic tent spots to full hookup RV sites accommodating rigs up to 40 feet. Amenities include modern bathhouses, laundry facilities, and a camp store stocked with beach essentials and forgotten camping supplies.
Beach access happens via short walks through protected dunes where sea oats wave in constant Gulf breezes. The shallow, gradually deepening waters create perfect swimming conditions for families with children learning ocean safety.
Nearby Destin provides world-class fishing charters, shopping outlets, and restaurants serving fresh seafood prepared countless delicious ways. The area’s reputation as the Emerald Coast stems from underwater sandbars reflecting sunlight through crystal-clear water, creating those signature green hues.
Water sports enthusiasts rent paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis from local outfitters eager to share their coastal playground. Dolphin sightings happen regularly, especially during early morning and late afternoon hours when these intelligent mammals hunt near shore.
Sunset celebrations become nightly traditions where the sky transforms into a painter’s palette of oranges, pinks, and purples. Reserve well ahead during summer months when this popular destination fills with families creating beach memories that last lifetimes.
12. Carrabelle Beach RV Resort (Carrabelle)
Forgotten Florida charm defines this quiet Gulf Coast town where camping feels like stepping back to simpler times. Carrabelle Beach RV Resort offers that rare combination of beachfront access and small-town hospitality that larger destinations have lost to development.
The resort features spacious RV sites with full hookups positioned near the Gulf, plus tent camping areas for traditional outdoor enthusiasts. Modern facilities include clean bathhouses, laundry services, and a fishing pier extending into productive waters.
Carrabelle’s commercial fishing heritage remains visible in working docks where boats unload daily catches of grouper, snapper, and shrimp. Local restaurants serve this fresh seafood at prices that seem almost too good compared to tourist-heavy coastal towns.
The Crooked River Lighthouse provides historical context and panoramic views after climbing its 139 steps. Nearby Tate’s Hell State Forest offers hiking and wildlife viewing through unique coastal ecosystems rarely seen by typical beach visitors.
I once met a retired couple here who had camped at dozens of Florida beaches but kept returning to Carrabelle for its authentic, unhurried atmosphere. They loved how locals still waved at strangers and how the beach never felt crowded even during peak season.
Fishing opportunities abound from beach, pier, and boat, with guides available for those seeking expert help landing trophy catches. The laid-back vibe attracts travelers tired of overdeveloped beaches who appreciate authentic Florida coastal experiences without tourist traps and traffic jams.
13. Bahia Honda State Park (Big Pine Key)
Tropical paradise becomes reality at this legendary Keys destination where three beaches offer distinctly different experiences. Bahia Honda State Park consistently ranks among America’s finest beaches, combining Caribbean-like waters with excellent camping facilities that book months ahead.
The campground features waterfront sites where you fall asleep watching stars reflect off calm Gulf waters. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs up to 40 feet, with full hookups, picnic tables, and grills at each location.
Sandspur Beach on the Atlantic side provides excellent swimming and snorkeling over shallow reefs teeming with tropical fish. The old Bahia Honda Rail Bridge creates stunning photography backdrops, especially during golden hour when light paints everything warm and magical.
Nature trails wind through tropical hardwood hammocks where rare plants and butterflies thrive in protected habitats. Kayak and paddleboard rentals allow exploration of mangrove-lined channels where marine life hides in roots and shallow flats.
The park’s concession offers limited supplies, so stock up in Marathon or Big Pine Key before arriving. Snorkeling gear rentals provide equipment for exploring underwater worlds without investing in expensive gear.
Sunset watching from the beach or old bridge becomes a nightly ritual where the sky performs its colorful show. Reserve campsites up to 11 months in advance because this bucket-list destination fills almost immediately when booking windows open for peak season dates.
14. Curry Hammock State Park (Marathon)
Mangrove islands dot calm bay waters at this peaceful Keys park where camping feels like a tropical getaway. Curry Hammock State Park offers a quieter alternative to busier Keys destinations while delivering that essential island atmosphere that defines Florida’s southernmost camping experiences.
The campground provides 28 sites accommodating tents and small RVs, with water and electric hookups at each location. Sites nestle among native vegetation providing shade and privacy while maintaining that open, breezy feel Keys camping demands.
The shallow bay waters remain protected from ocean swells, creating perfect conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wade fishing. A small beach area provides swimming access, though rocky bottom areas require water shoes for comfortable walking.
Nature trails loop through tropical hardwood hammocks and mangrove wetlands where birding opportunities abound. The park’s location on the bay side means spectacular sunrise views paint the sky before most campers finish their morning coffee.
Nearby Marathon offers restaurants, shops, and attractions including the Turtle Hospital where injured sea turtles receive rehabilitation. The famous Seven Mile Bridge provides scenic drives and photography opportunities showcasing the Keys’ unique over-water highway system.
Fishing from shore or kayak produces catches of snapper, grouper, and bonefish depending on season and skill level. The park’s relatively small size creates an intimate camping atmosphere where fellow campers often share fishing tips, local knowledge, and evening campfire conversations about Keys adventures and future travel plans.
15. Anastasia State Park Beach (St. Augustine)
Ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss shade campsites at this beloved state park where history meets the Atlantic. Anastasia State Park Beach offers 139 campsites ranging from primitive tent spots to full hookup RV sites, all within walking distance of four miles of pristine coastline.
The beach itself delivers classic Florida Atlantic character with rolling waves perfect for surfing, boogie boarding, and beach play. Wide sandy shores provide plenty of space even during busy summer weekends when families flock to this popular destination.
Salt Run lagoon creates protected waters ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wade fishing where redfish and sea trout hunt shallow flats. Ancient coquina rock formations appear at low tide, revealing geological history dating back millions of years.
Nature trails wind through maritime hammock and coastal scrub ecosystems where gopher tortoises, painted buntings, and occasionally bobcats make appearances. The park’s location just minutes from historic St. Augustine allows cultural day trips between beach relaxation sessions.
Modern campground facilities include clean bathhouses, a camp store, and amphitheater hosting ranger programs about local ecology and history. Campsites under massive oak canopies provide natural air conditioning even during hot summer months.
Windsurfing lessons and equipment rentals attract adventure seekers wanting to harness Atlantic breezes. This park represents everything great about Florida state park camping: natural beauty, excellent facilities, diverse activities, and that perfect blend of convenience and wilderness that keeps campers returning year after year to their favorite coastal escape.