The 12 Best Florida Gulf Coast Campgrounds
As a full time traveler living on the road, I’ve stayed in many campgrounds all over the world. Recently, I spent six months camping throughout Florida. What I loved most about camping in Florida Gulf Coast campgrounds was the ease of access to water and the ability to be more social than you might be camping in other destinations.
Florida welcomes many long term RVers and campers, especially in the winter months, so you’ll find that many campgrounds on Florida’s Gulf Coast have luxurious amenities and community spaces. Keep reading to learn my favorite campgrounds on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Top Florida Gulf Coast Campgrounds in the Panhandle
In the Panhandle you’ll find campgrounds on the Florida gulf coast near cities such as Pensacola and Panama City. These destinations are great for college students looking for a fun spring break trip or families looking to spend time in the sun.
Sun Outdoors Panama City Beach
Sun Outdoors has many campgrounds on the gulf side of Florida that prioritize getting their guests closer to nature. Sun Outdoors Panama City Beach is a prime waterfront location full of fun amenities for the whole family to enjoy on their grounds and it’s also within walking distance of many attractions in Panama City Beach.
- Location: Panama City Beach, FL
- Nearest Airport: Panama City Airport (ECP)
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/ Amenities: General store, internet access, laundry facilities, dog park, two heated swimming pools and a hot tub, fitness center and a sauna
- Things To Do Nearby: Walk directly to the water from your campsite or head into town for a full day of fun. Go swimming with dolphins at Gulf World Marine Park or splash around at Shipwreck Island Water Park. Get to know the different flora and fauna of the area by exploring ZooWorld or the Botanical Conservatory.
Ed & Bernice’s Fish Camp
Ed & Bernice’s Fish Camp is a cozy little hideaway just outside of Tallahassee boasting 275 feet of riverfront property along the Ochlockonee River. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a serene camping location or if you’re an avid boater or fisherman.
- Location: Approximately 45 minutes from Tallahassee
- Nearest Airport: Tallahassee International Airport (TLH)
- Type of Sites Available: Tent sites, RV sites
- Cool Features/Amenities: Boat launch, fishing, canoeing/kayaking, bathrooms and showers, internet access, dog-friendly
- Things To Do Nearby: There’s so much to do on this property that you’ll probably want to stay secluded here most of the time. Take advantage of all the activities available to you on Lake Talquin, go hiking in nearby Apalachicola National Forest, or take a day trip to Tallahassee.
Oaks RV Resort & Motel
The Oaks RV Resort & Motel is located near Capitol City, Florida and is just steps away from the charming Ochlockonee Bay. This is an excellent place to bring the family if you’re looking to go boating and have some more modern amenities.
- Location: Capitol City, FL
- Nearest Airport: Tallahassee International Airport (TLH)
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/Amenities: bathhouses, laundry, free wifi, free (limited) boat parking, dog park
- Things To Do Nearby: Launch your boat in the nearby Ochlockonee Bay for a full day out on the water, ride the popular Sea Bike Trail, visit Mashes Sand Beach, or visit Tallahassee.
Top North Central Florida Gulf Coast Campgrounds
The North Central region in Florida is a great place to visit if you’re looking to go fishing and boating a little more off the beaten path without running into large crowds of tourists.
Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort
Named one of the top resorts in the United States, Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort sure does not disappoint. This resort is perfect for the active adult looking to enjoy a luxurious RV experience and activities such as golf, tennis, and swimming without ever having to leave the resort.
- Location: Citra, FL
- Nearest Airport: Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV)
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/Amenities: Restaurants and alcohol, community entertainment area, pool, boat launch, general store, dog park, internet access, golf cart rentals.
- Things To Do Nearby: There’s so much to do on the resort and also restaurants to try in nearby Citra or other water sports adventures awaiting on the lake.
Moonshine Acres RV Park
Moonshine Acres RV Park is a special place to visit and the perfect spot if you’re looking to make new friends! This RV Park was founded by a local moonshiner who built each unique structure with community in mind and even hand–painted the logo. They make sure every stay is both welcoming and memorable.
- Location: About an hour north of Gainesville FL
- Nearest Airport: Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV)
- Type of Sites Available: tent sites, RV sites
- Cool Features/Amenities: log cabin clubhouse, general store, lounge area, laundry, internet access, off-leash dog park, community events
- Things To Do Nearby: Explore different nature trails or go scuba diving in nearby Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Top Central Florida Gulf Coast Campgrounds
Central Florida is a popular area to visit due to its close proximity to Disney World Resort and Universal Studios theme parks in Orlando.
Hide-A-Way Harbor Mobile Home & RV Park
Hide-A-Way Harbor Mobile Home and RV Park is a relaxing getaway located on Little Lake Harris, perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.
- Location: Astatula, FL, about an hour away from Orlando
- Nearest Airport: Orlando Airport (MCO)
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites
- Cool Features/Amenities: All sites provide direct waterfront access and full service hook-ups, fishing, showers, internet access
- Things to Do Nearby: Explore Lake Harris or visit the theme parks, shops, and restaurants in Orlando
Sun Outdoors Orlando Champions Gate
Sun Outdoors Orlando Champions Gate is one of the closest RV parks to Disney World and all the other exciting attractions in Orlando. Use it as a base to explore the city and nearby lakes while enjoying the natural serenity at night.
- Location: Orlando, FL
- Nearest Airport: Orlando Airport (MCO)
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/Amenities: Spacious grassy and paved areas, heated swimming pool, clubhouse, horseshoes, planned events.
- Things To Do Nearby: Visit Disney World and other amusement parks, outlet malls, restaurants, and entertainment centers or spend the day boating, fishing, or jet-skiing on the lake.
Mill Creek RV Resort
Mill Creek RV Resort is open to people of all ages, but you’ll generally find entertainment for an older crowd here. This RV park is located in Kissimmee Florida which is right near Orlando Airport. It’s great for those looking to enjoy social events in nature without having to deal with the crowds around Disney World and other nearby resorts every day.
- Location: Kissimmee, FL, 20 to 30 minutes from Orlando
- Nearest Airport: Orlando Airport (MCO)
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/Amenities: Over 150 full-site hookups that contain a picnic table, concrete patio, and grill. There are bathrooms, showers, laundry, internet access, a pool, dog park, and community events going on daily.
- Things To Do Nearby: Discover all there is to do in Orlando just 30 minutes from your doorstep.
Read Next: What Type of RV Should I Buy?
Top Campgrounds in Florida’s North Gulf Coast Region
In Florida’s North gulf coast, you’ll find many campgrounds located directly on the coast that are great for those looking to have direct beach access and explore cities in Tampa Bay.
Rainbow Village of Largo RV Resort (55+ Only)
Rainbow Village of Largo is a seniors only, gated RV park with over 300 full hook-up sites that aim to create a peaceful community for active retired folks looking for longer term stays.
- Location: Largo, FL, 20 minutes from Clearwater or about an hour from Tampa
- Nearest Airport: St. Petersburg Regional Airport (PIE) or Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/Amenities: spacious well-manicured sites with the option to include picnic tables or concrete pads, cable tv and internet access, bathrooms, laundry, dog park, clubhouse, community events
- Things to Do Nearby: Explore the vibrant cities of Largo and St. Petersburg or relax on the beaches of Clearwater. Take a drive over to Tampa for an evening in the city or spend your time relaxing at the resort.
Tampa East RV Resort
Tampa East RV Resort is perfect for campers looking for easy access to Tampa or fun social activities during their stay. This campground also has some impressive amenity packages available, and is located within close proximity to Tampa International Airport.
- Location: Tampa, FL
- Nearest Airport: Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Type of Sites Available: Tent sites, RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/ Amenities: Three swimming pools, hot tub/sauna, shuffleboard and pickleball, playground, general store, internet access, laundry.
- Things To Do Nearby: There are many golf courses nearby and the campground is also close to many attractions in Tampa such as Busch Gardens and various bars/restaurants downtown.
Top Campgrounds in Florida’s South Gulf Coast Region
Florida’s southern portion of the Gulf Coast is home to popular vacation destinations such as Fort Myers, Marco Island, and Naples. Naples has a large variety of RV campgrounds for seniors only. It’s an excellent area for retired folks looking for long term stays.
Woodsmoke Camping Resort
Woodsmoke Camping Resort is located in Fort Myers and is locally known as one of the friendliest and most beautiful campgrounds on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Enjoy luxurious amenities on site or white sand beaches for your next spring break destination!
- Location: Fort Myers, FL
- Nearest Airport: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) – Fort Myers
- Type of Sites Available: tent sites, RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/Amenities: 300 RV sites with full hookups and concrete pads, two lakes for fishing, heated pool, hot tub, nature trails, dog park, clubhouse, community events
- Things to Do Nearby: Fort Myers Beach (white sandy beach), state parks, OHV trails, fishing, golfing, breweries and wineries
Naples RV Resort
Naples RV Resort does an excellent job of making you feel like you’re in a private tropical oasis while being just steps away from everything there is to do in Naples. The sites are carefully secluded among palm trees and other plants providing a hideaway from your neighbors.
- Location: Naples, FL
- Nearest Airport: Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) – Fort Myers
- Type of Sites Available: RV sites, lodging
- Cool Features/Amenities: Cable TV, bathrooms, internet access, restaurant, laundry, pool, clubhouse, dog park
- Things To Do Nearby: Naples is known for its white sandy beaches, incredible restaurants, and outdoor activities available nearby. Go swimming with dolphins in Marco Island, hunt for sand dollars on the beach, or go kayaking through marshes in the Everglades.
When it comes to Florida Gulf Coast campgrounds, you can’t go wrong. Each region has something special to explore and offers incredible opportunities for rest, relaxation, and connecting with the outdoors. Ready to find your Campspot? Explore top Florida Gulf Coast campgrounds on Campspot today.
Read Next: 15 Things to Do in Panama City With Kids
Megan Fine is a freelance content creator and full time traveler living in a Jeep Wrangler with her dog adventuring around North America. In her free time you’ll find her doing yoga on the beach, riding her bike around the mountains, and sleeping under the stars.
Photo credit in order of appearance: Adobe Stock – Benjamin, Sun Outdoors Panama City Beach, Ed & Bernice’s Fish Camp, Oaks RV Resort & Motel, Grand Lake RV & Golf Resort, Moonshine Acres RV Park, Hide-A-Way Harbor Mobile Home & RV Park, Sun Outdoors Orlando Champions Gate, Mill Creek RV Resort, Rainbow Village of Largo RV Resort, Tampa East RV Resort, Woodsmoke Camping Resort, Naples RV Resort