The 7 Best Campgrounds in Florida

Florida has a warm climate year-round and offers a variety of lodging options, including treehouses, houseboats, and tiny homes, making the state an ideal destination for glamping. In fact, glamping has become so popular that the state has added glamping sites to 10 state parks, including three tents at Manatee Springs State Park, one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. But in addition to the amenities of state parks, which tend to be less glamorous, the state is also home to a range of private glamping resorts.

Here are the 7 best places to camp in Florida.

Coldwater Gardens, Milton

Coldwater Gardens is an eco-resort north of Pensacola with 385 acres of gardens, orchards and wetlands along a creek. Each planted plant has been carefully selected to support both local and migratory butterflies, so it is truly a paradise for nature lovers. Fruits and vegetables are grown on site, and there is an apiary and chicken coop.

For accommodation, Coldwater has it all, from luxurious climate-controlled cabins, cabins, and tiny houses to stilts, above-ground canopy cabins, and modern treehouses.

Live Oak Landing, Freeport

Live Oak Landing is the ultimate vacation destination on the Gulf Coast. It sits on a creek and is just a short drive from a series of famous Costa Smerald beaches. There is an outdoor pool, a playground and boat rentals for those who want to do water activities. While Live Oak Landing is technically an RV resort, it has more than 30 glamping cabins, most of which sit right on the water. Each cottage is fully furnished with a kitchen (or kitchenette for smaller units), bed linen and an outdoor fire ring. The one-bedroom cottage also has a private bathroom and a washer and dryer.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, River Ranch

At first glance, Westgate River Ranch may seem like somewhere in Wyoming, but this proud Florida resort ranch promises a “less touristy adventure,” with safari tents, cabins and cabins set under a canopy of oak trees, and a row of covered wagons

This popular glamping hotel is nestled in one of the few unspoiled areas of the Florida wilderness. There’s endless outdoor fun, including ropes courses, zip lines, and a climbing wall. Mechanical bulls, horseback riding, and petting farms bring a Western twist – rodeos with cow riding, calf sets, and barrel races are held weekly in the 1,200-seat arena.

Island Oaks RV Resort, Glen St. Mary

At St. Mary’s Island Oaks RV Resort, it’s all about water. There are plenty of lakes, ponds and pools to cool off, as well as miniature golf, sports courts and a fitness centre. As the name suggests, there are plenty of RV campgrounds at this resort, but campers will want to turn their attention to the tiny houses for rent, which are clean and modern with covered patios, outdoor picnic tables, and fire rings.

Notably, in the 2023 report of Campspot, the glamping booking engine, Island Oaks is one of the hottest private campgrounds.

The Crystalmarine Houseboat Suite, Key West

Spend a night at sea in arguably the most romantic suite in Florida. The ship is anchored about five minutes from the coast and offers complete privacy. While you may sleep on a boat, the Crystal Ocean Suite is full of luxury. The main room has floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping sea views, and the luxurious venue features a kitchenette and a full bathroom with a rain shower. There is a sandbar and a small island nearby, and kayaks, hammocks and snorkeling gear are provided.

Blue Ocean Yacht Charters, Key West

Camping on a boat isn’t the most common form of glamping, but it’s a must-try activity in Florida, with its crystal clear waters and sandy beaches. Pretend, even if it’s just for one night, you’re staying on a yacht moored in the Caribbean. The staff at Blue Ocean Yacht Charters rents out the boat overnight so you can “camp” on the water. These landscapes – whether it’s the night sky overhead or the surrounding sea – can’t be replicated on land.

Treehouse Cabin Retreat, Old Town

With only two offerings – a treehouse and a cottage – this small hotel is a favorite on Hipcamp’s booking site, with a 98% approval rating from past guests. The property is just minutes away from the Suwannee River, where freshwater springs are perfect for swimming and boating. The hotel has an outdoor shower, a bonfire ring and a hammock for stargazing.