Dog-friendly and waterside camping in Florida Keys
Palm-fringed beaches, island camping getaways, and dazzling coral reefs lie along Florida’s southern tip.
- Florida Keys
Popular camping styles for Florida Keys
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Dog-friendly and waterside camping in Florida Keys guide
Overview
If your dream camping destination involves white-sand beaches, swaying palms, and ocean views, the Florida Keys will fulfill all your postcard fantasies. Take your pick of islands and spend your days snorkeling and scuba diving along vibrant coral reefs, boating, and fishing along the coast, or kayaking and canoeing at state parks. Camping lets you experience the Keys’ natural landscapes up close, and there are plenty of spots to park your RV, pitch a tent, go glamping, or check into a beachside cabin. The best camping weather is in winter (December-February), while summer campers have high humidity and hurricane season (June-November) to contend with.
Where to go
Key Largo & Biscayne
The gateway to the Keys and the self-proclaimed Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo is ground zero for snorkelers and scuba divers. Uncover the underwater wonders at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, dive the USS Spiegel Grove shipwreck, or take a glass-bottom boat cruise through the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. RV parks and campgrounds dot Key Largo, or head north into Biscayne National Park to pitch your tent at a secluded island campsite reachable only by boat.
Upper & Middle Keys
A road trip along the Overseas Highway is the only way to explore the Keys, stopping off along the way to discover the six islands of Islamorada, go hiking in Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, or enjoy fishing along the coast. Incredible views are guaranteed along the Seven Mile Bridge to Marathon, where you can camp at Curry Hammock State Park.
Lower Keys
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, the tiny islands of the Lower Keys are the perfect spot, where you’ll find tranquil campgrounds and seaside cottages for rent. The public campground at Bahia Honda State Park is a popular choice, where you can swim, snorkel, and stand-up paddleboard at picturesque beaches. Stop by the National Key Deer Refuge at Big Pine Key to fawn over the miniature Key deer, an endangered species.
Key West & Dry Tortuga
With its colorful conch houses, lively nightlife, and Cuban heritage, Key West is a town like no other, perched at the western tip of the Keys. After visiting the Ernest Hemingway House, watching the sunset from Mallory Square, and bar-hopping along Duval Street, hop on a boat or seaplane to discover the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. Better yet, bring your tent and spend the night.
