Camping near Arcadia with wildlife watching

From fossil hunting to horseback riding, Arcadia delivers dream adventures year-round.

97% (2058 reviews)

United States
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Florida
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Arcadia

97% (2058 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Arcadia

Community favorites near Arcadia

Public campgrounds near Arcadia

Panoramic from the canopy overlook! Don't miss this!

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(4)

Old Prairie Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents In Myakka River State Park

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(2)

Palmetto Ridge Campground

38 sites · RVs, Tents In Myakka River State Park

100%

(9)

Oscar Scherer Campground

96 sites · RVs, Tents In Oscar Scherer State Park

100%

(2)

Lake Manatee Campground

54 sites · RVs, Tents In Lake Manatee State Park

100%

(1)

Myakka River Cabins

5 sites In Myakka River State Park

The secluded beaches on the north side of the island can be reached by bike.

100%

(9)

Cayo Costa Primitive Campground

39 sites · RVs, Tents In Cayo Costa State Park

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(5)

Little Manatee River Campground

31 sites · RVs, Tents In Little Manatee River State Park

95%

(11)

Highlands Hammock Campground

143 sites · RVs, Tents In Highlands Hammock State Park

92%

(6)

Big Flats Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Myakka River State Park

88%

(4)

Alafia Lake Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Alafia River State Park

Lonseome Lake Campground

11 sites In Alafia River State Park

Dog-friendly getaways

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(3)

Arbor Terrace RV Resort

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Bradenton, FL

Welcome to the fun and exciting town of Bradenton, FL. Come stay in this cozy “Tiny Home” within an RV Park where you can enjoy many amenities offered by the park and close to beaches, restaurants, shopping and many attractions. This is a legitimate “Tiny Home” with 2 lofts, queen size beds in each loft, a full kitchen including microwave, coffee maker, full stove /oven, refrigerator/ freezer and in home washer and dryer. It comes with a full bath with walk in shower and a living room with a queen size sofa bed with a memory foam mattress. It has all the comforts of home only tinier. The home also offers a deck to relax on along with a charcoal grill where you can grill up some delicious meals and a fire pit (don’t forget your wood, charcoal and ingredients for s’mores). Pets are welcome at Tiny Treasures for $50 per booking. If you would like to bring your pet, please add the pet fee which is listed as an extra during the booking process. In this area there are some awesome things to see and do, from fun shopping to great outdoor activities. Dive into Southwest Florida history, arts, and nature in Bradenton on Florida’s Gulf Coast, about 30 minutes south of St. Petersburg. Bradenton’s close proximity to Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key make it the perfect place to base a vacation to the Gulf islands while enjoying all the city has to offer. Check out Village of the Arts, a working artist community, and explore Downtown Bradenton with a stroll on the 1.5-mile, taking in the views of the Manatee River. Go to Old Main Street and shop at the Bradenton Market, which offers fresh produce, lively music, and free family activities, and the Manatee Village Historical Park, where visitors can see historic buildings from Manatee County’s founding period of 1840 to 1918. Looking for outdoor adventures you can fish from the Riverwalk pier, get on the nature trails at Robinson Preserve, take a kayak tour at De Soto National Memorial Park, and visit the area’s beaches. Anna Maria Island, a seven-mile-long barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast west of Bradenton, is brimming with history, arts and culture, and its award-winning beaches draw visitors from near and far looking for a laid-back getaway. See postcard-perfect Gulf sunsets, swim, snorkel, and dive the turquoise waters, look for shells and fossilized shark teeth, take a boat tour to spot dolphins, and enjoy some of the best waterfront dining in Florida. The island is home to three cities: Anna Maria on the north, Holmes Beach toward the middle, and Bradenton Beach to the south, which all offer unique places to shop, eat, and stay. Shop the stores along Pine Avenue and Gulf Drive in Anna Maria and the colorful shops of Bridge Street in Bradenton Beach. Siesta Key is the place to go for a relaxing island getaway on Florida’s Southwest Coast. The 8-mile-long island, which is just a short bridge crossing west of Sarasota, boasts stunning quartz-sand beaches and an array of outdoor recreation opportunities, from fishing to parasailing. Siesta Beach took the No. 2 spot for beaches in the U.S. for TripAdvisor's 2023 Traveler’s Choice Awards, second only to Maui’s Ka'anapali Beach. Shop at Siesta Key Viilage, which offers plentiful dining options and live entertainment, and the South Viilage Shopping District. A quick trip to the mainland will bring you to some of the top attractions in Southwest Florida, including The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. There is so much more to do, these are just a few of the most popular attractions. Come stay in Tiny Treasures to see and enjoy for yourselves!!

100%

(4)

Punta Gorda Botanical Retreat

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

The property was originally an exotic plant nursery specializing in rare fruits and flowers.

95%

(10)

Cozy Cottage Retreat

3 sites · Lodging20 acres · Labelle, FL

My husband and I have come to the United States and we've loved it ever since. However, we always wished we have someone like grandparents to send the children during school break and to learn about basic living and how farmers live so they get a better grasp of what life means and become wiser as adults. Therefore, after years of living a very busy life in the city, in 2016 we decided to become the so called 'grandparents' for anyone who desires to either take a break from the hustle and bustle or simply learn about basic living in harmony with nature.Learn more about this land:The cabin is the perfect gateway for a couple or family with kids. Inside the cabin, there is a brand new jacuzzi , king size log frame bed, two extra twin mattresses at request, pull out sofa. fireplace, TV cable and hammock, coffee machine to name a few. This is an unique experience and opportunity for anyone looking for full privacy or not so much. Privately located to the right of the main house and attached to the pool and a round pool deck, is a perfect place to relax and unwind. Right out of the cabin you'll step right on your private porch with it's cute bistro set. Also, fie pit and picnic table available within one minute; we provide the wood.

97%

(18)

N N Farms

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Arcadia, FL

Fun off grid spirited tiny house. A 5 acre farm with Private 1 acre separate with a tiny house and pond. Nestled up next to our farm with plenty of farm animals to admire! We provide chicken, fish and goat feed for your fun. We have an outdoors area with loads of games. Bring your firewood and marshmallows! Close to Myakka State Park, 45 minutes to many beaches. Small town charm in Arcadia Florida, known for its quaint antique shops.

92%

(37)

Pine Island Paradise!

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Saint James City, FL

We fell in love with this place when we moved to Sunny SWFL! It has the best sunsets and sunrises! We are steps away from a beautiful canal that leads out to Pine Island Sound, and easy to get to Sanibel and Captiva islands! We frequently paddle board and fish the canal and sound. We can provide a boat taxi to Cayo Costa State Park, Cabbage Key, Sanibel or Captiva Islands! Our community has a boat ramp and pool available for additional cost. We have a portable fire pit that can be placed anywhere. Bring your own wood. Full Outdoor kitchen available. Shower and toilet in the shed with a full size kitchen sink, as well. Carport as a common area with table and chairs, flat top griddle/ smoker/ fridge/freezer for sunrise breakfast, and sun shades to keep the rays away on hot days! Learn more about this land: Pine Island Paradise! 3 sites available! Power hook ups up to 50 amp. 1 site with 50 amp hookup, 2 with 30 amp hookup. All sites have fresh water hook up. Black water dump service is available down the road at the koa for a fee. We have a floating dock to make kayaking and paddle boarding easy down our canal into infamous pine island sound! Pool and boat launch available, as well as a spot to dock your boat! Screened lanai as a common area. Bikes available to use. Please check with us to be sure your RV will fit! We are doing some improvements after Hurrican Ian ravished us, so keep in mind some construction will be ongoing! We always have time for a boat ride though!

12 top campgrounds near Arcadia with wildlife watching

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J and P Creekside Retreat

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · Punta Gorda, FL

Nestled on an sprawling 16.8-acre expanse along the picturesque Shell Creek, our location is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The property is adorned with a lush canopy of diverse trees, showcasing an array of Oak, Hickory, Cypress, Pine, and Sable palms. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our surroundings as you embark on a journey to boat, swim, and fish amidst the stunning natural beauty of Charlotte County, Florida. The waters of Shell Creek beckon you to explore its depths, while the vibrant native wildlife adds to the allure of our idyllic setting. Whether you're seeking a serene kayaking adventure or a leisurely paddleboarding excursion, we offer rentals to enhance your experience on the water. Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich biodiversity that define Charlotte County. From the rustling leaves of the Oak and Hickory trees to the graceful Cypress and Pine, our property is a testament to the beauty of Florida's natural habitat. Sable palms sway gently in the breeze, creating a soothing atmosphere that invites you to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Indulge in the ultimate escape as you partake in the various activities our location has to offer. Whether you prefer a day of boating on Shell Creek, casting a line for a relaxing fishing session, or simply basking in the beauty of the surroundings, our 16.8-acre haven provides a perfect retreat. Experience the best of Charlotte County, Florida, where every moment is an opportunity to embrace the wonders of nature. Come and create lasting memories as you revel in the tranquility, adventure, and natural splendor our location has in abundance.

97%

(687)

By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

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(146)

Camp Champ

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Zolfo Springs, FL

Camp Champ is a family friendly adventure. Sits on 10 acres of land. On Charlie Creek we have a dock for easy access where you can fish, fossil hunt, kayak, canoe and trails to ride. Sit back and enjoy the campfire. Tons of nature and wildlife. You can tent camp, rent our RV or bring your own RV. We have electric, water, bathroom and outdoor kitchen. Game room with ping pong, ring toss, wiffle ball, corn hole, playground and swings. Plenty of shaded areas. You will absolutely love this place. Check out our new mini farm, treats $5. Fresh farm eggs $5. Kayak or canoe $50. ATV $150.

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Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

9 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Englewood, FL

Going on Year 4 as a hipcamp host! We are so grateful to have met such wonderful guests over the years! This land is very special to us and we hope you enjoy it as much as we do. The perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the busy day to day surrounded by nature, farm animals and wildlife. Located in one of the best spots in SW Florida! Hiking trails, horse farms, shopping, restaurants, recreational activities and within minutes from the beautiful FL beaches. Ideal for a weekend getaway or a snowbird vacation!

99%

(88)

Area 61 Camping

10 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Arcadia, FL

Area 61 is a natural 5 acre property with a creek that feeds into the Peace River. We have many different types of wild life that visit including white tail deer, turkeys, alligators, otters, armadillos and all types of birds including owls. We also have access to the Peace River for canoeing and kayaking trips. Along the creek we also have several terraced waterfalls that provide a wonderful wetland area for the wildlife.

98%

(285)

Rasayana Cove

2 sites · Lodging25 acres · Ona, FL

Rasayana Cove is a 25-acre eco-retreat located in the heartland of west central Florida. An hour's drive east of Sarasota surrounded by vast tracts of orange groves and ranch land, Rasayana Cove has been operating as a small retreat center since 1995. The long eastern boundary borders Horse Creek, a major tributary of the Peace River. The property features two spring-fed ponds - one small and the other large. The cabins are accessible by well constructed shell-topped roads with good drainage and a variety of nature pathways. A natural ecosystem remains undisturbed in the middle of the property - a Florida bay head of native flora and wildlife. While most of the state is crowded and overdeveloped, this eco-retreat offers a haven of peace in the pristine nature of Florida

98%

(131)

Privacy in Fort Ogden

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Arcadia, FL

Welcome to Privacy in Fort Ogden! We are located in Fort Ogden, 45 minutes north of Fort Myers, FL. We have 3 tent campsites available to choose from. We can accommodate vehicles up to 30ft in length. The sites are flat, no hookups are available at this time. Amenities include a picnic table, toilet, potable water, and a fire ring We are pet-friendly (on leash). Small dogs are not recommended unless you keep a very close eye on them. This is a farm, cows, donkeys, coyote etc. can pose a threat to a small animal. Campfires permitted.

92%

(80)

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

7 sites · Tents8 acres · Wimauma, FL

Come relax and rejuvenate in our private oasis. Surround yourself with the tranquility of the woods and private river access in this very rustic, amenity-less experience; home to towering pine trees, fluffy saw palmettos, soaring air plants, you name it! Looking to spot a few critters? You’ll likely encounter squirrels, rabbit and may even find an occasional river otter, deer, or hog. Bird watchers welcome, it’s easy to spot real beauties in our untouched gem. Make your way down to the river for tubing, kayaking, canoeing, wading,or just picnicking on the bank overlooking the pristine golden sandy bottom where the water is almost always just knee high. Need to pick up snacks? You’ll be pleased to find that delivery is just one click away via Walmart, Instacart, Amazon and more but you’re also just minutes away from shopping, restaurants, entertainment and the interstate is no more than a 10 minute drive from the property :-) Please note that there are currently only 2 camp sites that are situated directly on the river, the other campsites will require you to make a short trek to the river. Our property is nestled in the heart of a very rural area in Wimauma, our property is large enough that you do not need to see neighboring properties, however, our neighbors may ride ATVs or shoot guns on their properties, at their will and we have no control over the sounds you may hear during your stay as a result of that, if this is something that you are not comfortable with, please seek another Hipcamp property that may be more suitable to your comfort level. We have a zero-tolerance policy for and there is absolutely no hunting, shooting, archery, or the like, permitted on our property at any time. Please contact us in advance if you are looking to book for clothing optional friendly, one of the "on the river" camp sites, to confirm their availability and/or for special pricing to book the entire property for events.

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Silver Bullet Stables

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Arcadia, FL

This property has been a horse stable since 2004. Has 11 stalls plus a 2 stall pasture board. Includes horse walker, round pen, 2 horse wash stall, and lighted arena. We have RV hookups and tent sites. We have lounge with couches, TV and tables. There is a fire pit and charcoal grill.

95%

(28)

Lake Huntley Oasis - Pvt Dock -Acre

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents1 acre · Lake Placid, FL

Live the lake life! Watch the sun set over Lake Huntley from your kitchen window, and explore the lake by docking your watercraft (or rent ours message for details) in your backyard, or use our included tandem kayak. This cozy house has three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps up to 9 comfortably. Enjoy plenty of living space, a large screened-in porch, full kitchen, campfire and BBQ grills. The house also includes a one car garage, onsite laundry, and large RV hookup and parking.Learn more about this land:Live the lake life! Watch the sun set over Lake Huntley from your kitchen window, and explore the lake by docking your watercraft (or rent ours message for details) in your backyard, or use our included tandem kayak & 3-person canoe. This cozy house has three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps up to 9 comfortably. Enjoy plenty of living space, a large screened-in porch, full kitchen, fire pit and BBQ grills. The house also includes a one car garage, onsite laundry, and large RV hookup and parking.

98%

(124)

T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

8 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Lithia, FL

We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family. Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We are offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property. You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavilions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! Learn more about this land: We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family. Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property. You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavillions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! We can accommodate two, 30 amp & one, 50 amp site plus four, 20 amps or less at this time. We do not have a septic black tank hook up for RVs or campers. We do have a bathroom in the barn with a working toilet and sink but no shower. We do have plenty of room for campers, tents, and RVs!

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(8)

Aker Brand Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Myakka City, FL

15 acre Farmland in Myakka City, just on the outskirts of Tampa Bay and not too far from St. Petersburg, Bradenton and Sarasota. 2.7 miles from Wingate Creek State Park 14.5 miles from Lake Manatee State Park 15 miles from Myakka River State Park We have an outdoor Shower and Gym that can be used by guests. - 2 RV hook ups and plenty of room for a tent set up! - Myakka River and a natural spring pond within walking distance of the campsite. - If wanted you can get up close and personal with some of our cows and chickens! We can't wait to welcome you!

Under $50

Weed Wish Hammock

2 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Babson Park, FL

Enjoy eight stunning acres situated in a charming citrus town. You'll be enchanted by the sprawling Southern Live Oaks adorned with Spanish moss that sway gently in the breeze, the chorus of crickets and frogs, and the magnificent sunrises and sunsets. The pond is teeming with fish and we're currently in the process of tidying up the beach to create a perfect spot for swimming. The property is only one mile away from the Tiger Creek Preserve: A thriving hub of wildlife with beautiful natural areas with hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and scenic views. Lake Rosalie, a large lake located about 8 miles southwest of the property, is known for its fishing and boating and also worth a visit. All guests are required to be self-sufficient with their own camp toilet and are responsible for carrying out all waste when they depart.

100%

(4)

homestead

4 sites · Tents13 acres · Port La Belle, FL

Tucked away, down a sand road, nestled among long forgotten orange groves is our 13 acre slice of paradise. A clean slate that we plan to build up with animals, gardens, outdoor showers, tiny cottages and a community fire pit. Pitch a tent and be awe-mazed by the vast skyline and undisturbed Florida.

lake view land

1 site · Tent1 acre · Sebring, FL

this property is located in sebring, florida in front of red beach lake and the surrounding are extreme relax you can do any watersport activity in this lake plus there is also a (Highlands Hammock State Park) that is a wild life watch and hiking or just rent bikes and do some exercise there is a plenty of store close to you to get your camp supplies is a very nice place you will like it

83%

(3)

Orange Grove Acres

10 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Sebring, FL

Address: Coordinates of Tract 7: 27.390407, -81.397401 This is a wide open 11 acre field surrounded by orange groves with views to a lake. Only 5 mins south of Sebring Raceway, 5 mins from Downtown Lake Placid, and many lakes and boat ramps nearby. It is very peaceful with no businesses or homes nearby to disrupt the peace. Staying here means complete contact with nature and enjoying the peace and quiet of your surroundings! You may share the 11 acres with up to 10 more vehicles. So it's about 1 acre+ per vehicle. Quiet hours are from 10pm to 9am. To locate the exact entrance please ensure you analyze the GIS picture on the listing.

Oakey Dokey Acres

2 sites · RVs10 acres · Alva, FL

This is a 10 acre private property /ranch . It is an oak hammock with a beautiful creek ( Bedman creek) that runs through . Neighboring properties are small ranches with horses and cattle . There is a large orange across the road . It is a peaceful , rural area with lots of beautiful oak trees . Please contact/message me prior to booking .

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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(13)

Myakka River State Park

Lake Sarasota, Florida

100%

(9)

Oscar Scherer State Park

Osprey, Florida

100%

(2)

Lake Manatee State Park

The Meadows, Florida

100%

(9)

Cayo Costa State Park

Dunedin, Florida

100%

(5)

Little Manatee River State Park

Sun City Center, Florida

95%

(11)

Highlands Hammock State Park

Sebring, Florida

88%

(4)

Alafia River State Park

Fish Hawk, Florida

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Arcadia with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Part of DeSoto County, Arcadia is set in the middle of Florida with the Peace River and Gulf Coast close by, so there’s plenty of splish-splashing fun for campers. Roll the campervan into a full-service, waterfront RV park; choose a glampsite or riverfront cabin with a firepit for making s’mores under the stars; or pitch a tent at an off-grid campsite for a more secluded getaway. No matter where you stay, be sure to check out Alafia River State Park for fishing, hiking, and yurt rentals. Known as “Aviation City” thanks to two nearby U.S. Army airfields built during World War I, Arcadia is rich in history and early 20th-century architecture to be seen before heading out into the wilds.

Where to go

Alafia River State Park

A reclaimed phosphate mine that’s now home to trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, Alafia River State Park features tent campsites, RV campgrounds, cabin rentals, and yurt rentals. Just make reservations online to ensure a spot during the busy months of June, July, and August. While here, kayak or canoe on the river while reeling in fish for dinner, or spend the day picnicking near the playground.

Peace River

Flowing adjacent to Arcadia, the 105-mile Peace River features fast-flowing water best for boating rather than swimming—a chartered airboat is a great way to explore. In August and September, though, water levels are lower and swimming is possible in shallower areas. The Northern Watershed area (known as Bone Valley) is a popular place for fossil digging, too. Find a waterfront campground nearby, and keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, and native birds.

Gulf Coast

Only an hour's drive west from Arcadia, the Gulf Coast is home to dozens of beaches where tepid waters make swimming, scuba diving, fishing, and strolling sandy shores enjoyable year-round. Abundant waterfront RV parks deliver easy access to the coastline for jet skiing and kayaking, too. These West Coast waves are smaller than those on the East Coast, so it’s an excellent spot to discover diverse marine life and search for seashell souvenirs.

When to go

Warm and balmy year-round, Arcadia is a hit no matter when campers come. Temperatures dip in winter (November until late February), but with an average high of 74°F in January, most find it warm enough to swim. Meanwhile, the peak of summer in July and August brings drizzly weather and temperatures up to 93°F. Most campers visit from February through May and October through December thanks to cooler weather that’s more manageable for outdoor activities.