7 Best Family Friendly Campgrounds In Florida
There is oh, so much more to a great Florida family vacation than Orlando. Whether you are looking for something on the Gulf Coast, the Panhandle, or Atlantic, we've got the 7 best campground options that will introduce you to the other Florida. History, alligators, birding, beautiful beaches (of course), seashells, fighter jets, and a couple of great old forts just to name a few.
1. Sanibel Island, Florida

On the Southwest Gulf Coast of Florida, tropical paradise Sanibel Island and nearby Captiva Island consistently rank as one of the top destinations in the world for shelling. Winter months bring storms, and is thus the best time to shell on Sanibel. Sanibel Island is also home to J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, an immense mangrove ecosystem world famous for its migratory bird populations. Peak visitation season is between December and April - with the holiday weeks particularly busy.
Family Favorites: Ability to bike everywhere and the abundant and spectacular seashells.
Periwinkle Park & Campground: RV/tent; open year-round
Amenities: hot showers, flush toilets, laundry, ice/propane for sale, complete hookups for RV sites. No Wi-Fi.
For more details about the campground and things to do, see our Sanibel Island post.
2. Fort Clinch State Park, Florida

On the Northeast coast of Florida, Fort Clinch State Park is home to the historic Fort Clinch. For a small fee, explore the self-guided museum, extensive grounds, and 1864-era furnished rooms. Camping at Fort Clinch State Park also offers access to pristine white beaches that stretch along the shoreline. Swim, fish, hike, and hunt for shells and shark teeth. Outdoor showers and restrooms at the boardwalk entrances.
Family Favorite: Exploring the nooks and crannies of Fort Clinch
Two Campgrounds in Fort Clinch: Amelia River & Atlantic Beach (RV/tent; open year-round; 58 campsites)
Amelia River Amenities: Water/electric, hot showers, flush toilets, laundry, shade & privacy
Atlantic Beach Amenities: Water/electric (at RV sites only), hot showers, flush toilets, laundry, no shade/privacy
For more details about the campground and things to do, see our Fort Clinch State Park post.
3. Blue Spring State Park, Florida

Little over an hour north of Orlando, Blue Spring State Park is one of the premier places to watch manatees in the winter and one of the best springs to cool off in the summer. Depending on the season of your camping visit to Blue Spring State Park, take part in: river cruise tours, snorkeling & scuba diving, picnicking, hiking, paddling, birding, and swimming.
Family Favorite: Paddling with the manatees and the gorgeous, green spring-fed waters
Campground: RV/tent; open year-round; 44 campsites
Amenities: Hot showers, flush toilets, laundry, water/electric, dump station
For more details about the campground and things to do, see our Blue Spring State Park post.