Essential Guide to Camping in South Florida

Posted on April 10, 2026 by JCBower

Exploring the Wild Side: Camping in South Florida

South Florida offers a camping experience unlike anywhere else in the country. Forget mountain peaks and pine forests; here, it’s all about winding mangroves, crystal-clear springs, and oceanfront views that make the humidity well worth it. Whether you are looking to pitch a tent in the “River of Grass” or wake up to the sound of the Atlantic, South Florida has a spot for you.

Top 3 South Florida Campgrounds

1. Long Pine Key Campground (Everglades National Park)

Located just inside the main entrance in Homestead, this is the quintessential Everglades experience. It is open seasonally (typically November through April) and offers a serene, wooded environment near a fishing pond and miles of hiking trails.

Best for: Nature purists and bird watchers.
Pro Tip: There are no showers here—come prepared for a primitive vibe.

2. Bahia Honda State Park (Big Pine Key)

Frequently cited as having some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda offers oceanfront camping that is usually booked months in advance. You can snorkel right from your campsite.

Best for: Snorkeling, kayaking, and sunset lovers.
Note: Keep an eye on the wind; ocean breezes can be strong but are a blessing for keeping bugs away.

3. Jonathan Dickinson State Park (Hobe Sound)

This is the largest state park in Southeast Florida and offers a diverse range of habitats, from sand pine scrub to river swamps. You can even take a boat tour to see the 1930s homestead of “Trapper Nelson.”

Best for: Active families and paddlers.
Amenities: Features full-service campsites with electricity and water, plus clean bathhouses.

The “South Florida Survival” Packing List

Camping here requires a specific strategy to handle the heat, humidity, and local “wildlife” (mostly the flying kind). Here is your minimum equipment list:

Shelter & Sleep

Water-Resistant Tent with Rainfly: Afternoon thunderstorms are common and unpredictable. Ensure your tent has a rainfly that extends over the windows.
Mesh-Heavy Tent: Airflow is your best friend. A tent with large mesh panels will help you survive the humid nights.
Sleeping Pad: Even more important than padding, a sleeping pad provides a barrier between you and the damp ground.

Climate & Bug Control

High-Performance Bug Spray: Look for formulas containing DEET or Picaridin. If you’re heading into the Everglades, consider bringing a head net for the “no-see-ums.”
Battery-Operated Portable Fan: This isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It provides a breeze in still air and helps keep mosquitoes from landing on you.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses are mandatory.

Hydration & Kitchen

Double the Water: The heat will dehydrate you faster than you realize. Bring at least one gallon of potable water per person, per day.
Sealed Food Containers: Raccoons in Florida parks are legendary for their lock-picking skills. Keep all food in hard-sided coolers or locked vehicles.
Microfiber Towels: These dry much faster than cotton in high humidity, preventing that “perpetually damp” smell.

Clothing

Moisture-Wicking Layers: Avoid cotton. Synthetics or lightweight wool will keep you cooler and dry faster after a rain.
Water Shoes/Sandals: Essential for boat ramps, rocky beaches in the Keys, or muddy trails.