Explore
/
United States
/
Florida
/
Longboat Key

The best camping near Longboat Key with wildlife watching

99% (1.4K) • 68 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Longboat Key

1. Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

97%

(296)

36mi from Longboat Key · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$55

/ night

By the Pond...

2. By the Pond...

97%

(747)

26mi from Longboat Key · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$33

/ night

Rasayana Cove

3. Rasayana Cove

98%

(315)

41mi from Longboat Key · 2 sites · Lodging

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

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

from

$95

/ night

Fort De Soto Park

4. Fort De Soto Park

96%

(28)

236 sites · Tierra Verde, Florida

These five Florida Keys have white-sand beaches, lush mangroves, and a 19th-century fort.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Oscar Scherer State Park

5. Oscar Scherer State Park

100%

(12)

96 sites · Osprey, Florida

A natural gem hidden in the busy urban sprawl of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

6. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

93%

(96)

26mi from Longboat Key · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging

Welcome to Sandy Bottom River Retreat – Your Private Escape into Nature’s Serenity Discover the perfect blend of peace, adventure, and natural beauty at Sandy Bottom River Retreat. Tucked away in the heart of Wimauma’s untouched wilderness, this secluded hideaway offers private river access and a truly off-the-grid camping experience surrounded by towering pines, lush palmettos, and the soothing sounds of the great outdoors. Enjoy a refreshing dip, launch your kayak or tube, or simply unwind along the golden sandy riverbank where the water sparkles knee-deep and crystal clear. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting deer, rabbits, otters, and a colorful array of native birds that make this retreat their home. While you’ll feel miles away from everything, modern conveniences are just minutes away—restaurants, shops, and deliveries from Walmart, Instacart, or Amazon can reach you in no time. Two of our campsites sit directly on the river, while the others are a short, scenic walk away. Please note that this is a rustic, amenity-free experience designed for true nature lovers. The area is rural and neighbors may occasionally ride ATVs or enjoy target practice on their own land. For safety and peace of mind, outdoor cameras are placed around the property to help ensure the protection of our guests and the land. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for hunting, shooting, or archery on site to preserve the peaceful environment for all. Looking for a private event booking or clothing-optional friendly stay? Contact us in advance to reserve one of our coveted riverfront sites or inquire about exclusive property rentals. Come reconnect with nature, recharge your spirit, and experience camping the way it was meant to be—wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$24

/ night

T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

7. T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

98%

(128)

45mi from Longboat Key · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

from

$35

/ night

Bayou Bliss

8. Bayou Bliss

100%

(51)

6.6mi from Longboat Key · 1 site · RV

🚗 Two miles (5min drive) from downtown Sarasota 🌴 Old-Florida charm: lots of lush tropical greenery 🚣🏼‍♂️ On Whitaker’s Bayou. 🌟 It’s the best of both worlds: peaceful nature on the creek, and easy access to all the best restaurants, beaches, and charming Main St atmosphere. 💩 MUST have a bathroom on-board. No sewer hookup 💦 No water hookup, but you may fill your water tank with the hose ⚡️ 15amp & 30 amp plug ins. BYO adapter. Extension cord needed to reach the plug. 🏕️ No long term campers. No tent camping. 🚴🏼 Biking to Main St takes 8-10minutes if you have bicycles! 🏖️ Ten minute drive from St-Armands Circle and Lido Beach; 20-25 minute drive from Siesta Key Beach. The Bayou goes all the way out to the Gulf - we see large schools of mullet here, occasionally turtles, hawks, and herons. If you are lucky, you might see a manatee or an otter! We have a 36” campfire pit you are welcome to use. We are still working on getting seating for the campfire pit, but if you have camping chairs, it’s perfect! We have an amazing location to share AND we also have neighbors to the left, and across the creek. We value and respect them. We wish to share our space with quiet and mindful campers. The property is 0.5 acre. You will be parking in part of the yard, under the shade of one of the oaks, slightly tucked back away from the house. We can be available to help/welcome you, and offer local guidance if you like. **A sweet but fearful rescue dog lives here and we are not allowing any other animals to camp or stay on the property.** NO DOGS WHATSOEVER. You will be made to leave if you violate this condition. ***Our acceptance rate is lower because people with dogs, 5 people in their party, or no onboard facility of their own submit booking requests, which we must decline.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$60

/ night

Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

9. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%

(104)

22mi from Longboat Key · 3 sites · RVs

Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 Everyone Welcome 🌈 As a family who has towed campers across the US a couple times utilizing Hip Camp we know others will appreciate the ease of pulling into our little 1 acre urban oasis just a couple miles off the interstate in Floridas Coolest City. It’s an ideal location to explore St Pete as we are right between the beaches and downtown (5 miles to St Pete beach, 4 miles to downtown -$10 Uber ride), Sarasota and/or Tampa. Ours is an urban spot based on ease, safety and location, not a wilderness "experience" We have a paved circular driveway overlooking our beehives, henhouse and seasonal garden where you’ll find a table with chairs and plenty of space to cookout and enjoy a quiet evening with a great sunset by the blowing bamboo. This is one of South St Pete’s oldest neighborhoods- it surrounds an active former PGA golf course and lively country club. It’s a great place for safely biking or walking with green spaces, tennis courts, playgrounds and dog parks nearby. There are many owls, raptors, green parrots, purple martins and osprey overhead as we’re just a few blocks from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. - not to be missed! The Pinellas Trail is just a short bike ride away too and can lead you to downtown. It is a cyclists favorite! We love our city - happy to give recommendations.

Electrical hookup

Pets

from

$39

/ night

Lake Manatee State Park

10. Lake Manatee State Park

100%

(6)

54 sites · The Meadows, Florida

Discover Lake Manatee State Park's natural charm and outdoor fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Myakka River State Park

11. Myakka River State Park

93%

(14)

86 sites · Lake Sarasota, Florida

You're almost guaranteed to see some alligators in this wild ecosystem.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Little Manatee River State Park

12. Little Manatee River State Park

100%

(5)

31 sites · Sun City Center, Florida

Over the river and through the woods to scenic Florida vistas we go!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Alafia River State Park

13. Alafia River State Park

88%

(4)

27 sites · Fish Hawk, Florida

Get on your bike and explore some of Florida’s best mountain bike trails.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Area 61 Camping

14. Area 61 Camping

99%

(97)

49mi from Longboat Key · 12 sites · Tents

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.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$50

/ night

Privacy in Fort Ogden

15. Privacy in Fort Ogden

99%

(135)

47mi from Longboat Key · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

from

$40

/ night

N N Farms

16. N N Farms

98%

(22)

42mi from Longboat Key · 1 site · Lodging

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. We have a TV with a Firestick and DVD player complete with plenty of dvd’s.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

from

$77

/ night

Island Retreat Florida

17. Island Retreat Florida

98%

(32)

37mi from Longboat Key · 1 site · Tent

*****PLEASE READ THIS PRIOR TO BOOKING: THIS IS TRUELY AN ISLAND THAT IS UN-INHABITED OTHER THAN NATURE. DUE TO THIS FACT YOU MUST HAVE YOUR OWN PERSONAL WATERCRAFT OR ADD AN "EXTRA" KAYAK/CANOE RENTAL OR SHUTTLE SERVICES TO YOUR BOOKING FOR ADDITIONAL COST BEYOND CAMPING FEE. THE ADDITIONAL SERVICES REQUIRE A HUMAN BEING TO BE ON CALL AND DELIVER EQUIPMENT AND MACHINES FOR YOUR ADVENTURE. **** if ok with the above please proceed as there has been some confusion about islands. About the Island: Ever wonder what it would be like to stay on a deserted island? This is truly an adventure you will never forget. Once you land in paradise you will wander thru the looping trail system to find your campsite. There are (5) campsites with elevated tent platforms tucked back in the trees. Once you are settled in,  it is time to gather wood and build a fire in one of the (2) 8 foot wide,  2 ton concrete fire pits.   Awake a dawn with a nice kayak/canoe trip on a secluded water trail thru mangrove islands and stop for lunch at River's Edge Bar and Grill across the river from the island.  Having too much fun, take a nap in hammock and rock to breeze and sounds of river.  This is an island is accessible via water only so there is some preparation to get here and stay here.  Kayaks, Canoes and a shuttle are available if you don't have your own transportation.  Please contact prior to booking to ensure you understand the packages, for example,  if you want to rent the whole island for yourself and need transportation for your group. We offer tailored quote for package based on your needs. Our Story: After 6 years of my neighbor bugging me to buy this island, I finally took him up on it. My neighbor bought it in the 1970's but did little with it. It has been overgrown for years. I am actively work to develop multiple campsites of the island for enjoyment of the river and its surrounding. All money from your stay here is re-invested back into the property.

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

from

$100

/ night

Scenic Waterway [NOT Active]

18. Scenic Waterway [NOT Active]

96%

(36)

36mi from Longboat Key · 10 sites · RVs

Currently NOT hosting because greedy Sarasota County, Florida and homeowner's insurance both want too much money as to not make this worth it. I wanted to share my extra land and help others due to campgrounds being full and/or too expensive, but the government and insurance want to penalize me for that so we all lose. Beautifully landscaped waterfront setting. 15 minutes to world famous Warm Mineral Springs and 35 minutes to Gulf beaches. Clean and orderly. No smoking, marijuana, heavy vaping or illicit drugs. 14 day limit per 6 months. Maximum RV length 25', no trailers (except for bikes and kayaks), no buses. No vehicles older than 2015 unless presentable and well maintained. Please include description of vehicles so I can determine placement. Considered a safe area. Trash and recycle bins, bench swing, outside seating and tables. Power is protected with a surge protector. Water is filtered from a well. The waterway offers fishing, small boating and wildlife watching. I have two friendly dogs that wander around off leash. Please don't allow them to access any of your or your pet's food. Visit econeato.org/host for list of other rules and very helpful info. The longer your stay, the more likely I will ask questions to understand compatibility as this is a residence. It would help if you let me know what kind of RV you have (length, slide-outs, etc.) and basic info about your pets, if any. During tornado warnings or hurricane winds, guests are offered to come inside. Host is 56, single and never married; considering looking overseas for younger girlfriend. Retired from a large variety of jobs. Not a MAGA fan. Diet is strictly healthy which mainly omits sugar and corn syrup. Have lived in a campervan six years full time from 2016 to 2021; traveled most of the U.S. to include Alaska but not Hawaii. Have visited popular Canadian areas. Have a 2018 Ford Transit customized and highly developed campervan. Born in Ohio, grew up in Texas / Arkansas. Bought this Florida home in early 2021 that is energy efficient and withstands strong storms well, but not storm proof. Worked diligently for four years to upgrade and improve the property.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

from

$25

/ night

Florida Palms

19. Florida Palms

100%

(20)

28mi from Longboat Key · 3 sites · RVs

Park your RV on our property. There are 2 different locations to choose from. The paved driveway is lined with palm and myrtle trees. Manatee viewing center 22 minutes, Tampa airport 35 minutes, Tampa Aquarium 40 minutes, Busch Gardens 45 minutes, Beaches 50 minutes There is access to several stores, restaurants 5-10 minutes down the road.

Pets

from

$35

/ night

Aker Brand Farms

20. Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

34mi from Longboat Key · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

15 acre bmx training farm in Myakka City. Good vibes, pond, lots of wildlife and night sky views! 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!

Pets

Campfires

Showers

from

$32

/ night

100%

(51)

6.6mi from Longboat Key · 1 site · RV

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

from

$60

/ night

Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

9. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%

(104)

22mi from Longboat Key · 3 sites · RVs

Electrical hookup

Pets

from

$39

/ night

Lake Manatee State Park

10. Lake Manatee State Park

100%

(6)

54 sites · The Meadows, Florida

Discover Lake Manatee State Park's natural charm and outdoor fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Myakka River State Park

11. Myakka River State Park

93%

(14)

86 sites · Lake Sarasota, Florida

You're almost guaranteed to see some alligators in this wild ecosystem.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Little Manatee River State Park

12. Little Manatee River State Park

100%

(5)

31 sites · Sun City Center, Florida

Over the river and through the woods to scenic Florida vistas we go!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

100%

(20)

28mi from Longboat Key · 3 sites · RVs

Pets

from

$35

/ night

Aker Brand Farms

20. Aker Brand Farms

100%

(12)

34mi from Longboat Key · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Campfires

Showers

from

$32

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

We went on a hike and fell in love with the beautiful bald cypress trees and roots

Jose Manuel Enrique

1 week ago

2 nights at Rasayana Cove

Cozy little cabin. Perfect place to disconnect from everyday life. Host had everything ready for us to have a comfortable stay. 10/10 would come again

Cornel

2 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

1 night at Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

Safe and clean place to park for the night, with a very well-maintained driveway. There’s space to set up a folding chair on the grass and enjoy your morning coffee while watching the hens in the nearby enclosure. No rooster to wake you up too early :) Communication with the host was fast and friendly. I stayed here with a converted van about 22 feet long and had no issues at all. Highly recommended for a safe, peaceful, and relaxing stop during your travels.

Nateo

2 weeks ago

18 ft Class C

1 night at Bayou Bliss

Steph accommodated us very last minute. We wld have been parking in Walmart parking lot for the night had she not, but she did.🌌

Amber

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

It was a lovely stay, clean property, great hosts.

Jason

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

Beautiful site. We didn’t have time to cast a line in the lake, but it was an amazing scene to wake up to. Would love to return.

Robyne

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

2 nights at By the Pond...

We enjoyed our primitive site next to the pond. Huge banana trees and native tropical plants surrounded us. Mike was a gracious host. Porta potty was super-clean.

Torrie Moxie

2 weeks ago

24 ft Class B

6 nights at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

This spot was exactly what we were looking for. The amenities were great, electric hookup, water, and a bathroom with a shower, which made the stay very comfortable. The farm itself was adorable. The horses were beautiful, and we loved spotting a peacock wandering around the property. It was a short drive to the beaches, yet still far enough away to enjoy wonderfully dark skies for stargazing at night. We also enjoyed having nighttime fires, with firewood conveniently available for purchase on-site. Overall, it was a perfect little getaway for my partner, our pets, and me. We’d absolutely stay again.

Andrew

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Rasayana Cove

Off grid camping with a hot (gas) shower and stove. Beautiful Oak trees dressed in Spanish Mosh, it’s was an ideal getaway for our natural loving weekend, clean and well maintained. We recommend!

3 weeks ago

30 ft Class C

With kids

2 nights at Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

This campsite makes you feel like you're a hundred miles from anyone yet your only a few miles away from everything.

Rick

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Sandy Bottom River Retreat

As always, an excellent camping experience, very connected with the natural environment here. Love being near the river! Also, the new fire pits are a nice touch. I will definitely be back, was a great camping trip overall, and perfect weather for it. Thanks again, Kira!

Molly

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at By the Pond...

This space was very peaceful! You can hear the traffic on the nearby highway however. The area feels very safe and the sites are well spaced out. There are soo many fruit trees, so there is bound to be something fruiting no matter what time of year you visit. We bought some juicy starfruit and a few fruit plants as well! There are two cute piggys, some lovely chicken and guinea hens. The portable potty was super clean and we were even able to use the outdoor shower. We will definitely keep this place in mind next time we are in the area!

Morgan

December 2025

2 nights at Rasayana Cove

Beautiful land and cute little cabin on the property. We loved the fire pit. Checked out peace river fossils nearby as well

Ashley

December 2025

3 nights at Rasayana Cove

This nature retreat is very private and definitely just what you need if you are looking to get away from the city life. So much nature to explore and so many beautiful trees and animals. Can't wait to return for another peaceful getaway. Thank you Dennis for your amazing hospitality. You have a special place in our hearts. ♥︎

Bernadette

December 2025

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach

Easy 5 min from the beaches. And just down the road from Venice.

Renee'

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Rasayana Cove

Amazing rustic getaway in old Florida! Property is beautiful! I will stay again. Be sure to check out Solomons castle right down the street. We really relaxed & enjoyed our time. So much wildlife. Horse creek is peaceful to walk along. We loved everything about this place! See you again one day!

Ramon

December 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

First time tent camping here and I loved it! Location was easy to find, site was clean and beautiful pond nearby. Also the owner the next day came by and introduced himself which was very nice. Will camp again!

Jeremiah

December 2025

Tent

6 nights at T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

Gave us a place when nowhere else in the area was available. The minor electrical issues we had (not really the fault of the owner) were quickly resolved. Great atmosphere. The owner was communicative, and always made sure someone was on hand.

Artist Driven

December 2025

2 nights at Rasayana Cove

I loved the scenic views and the sounds of wildlife. The property is great for walking, scenic photos, and provides a peaceful retreat from everyday life. The treehouse has a wrap around porch with pretty views on all sides. I loved the campfire area with wide benches a cozy two seater rocker. The host, Dennis, was very kind and knowledgeable.

Bailey

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sandy Bottom River Retreat

On top of being right next to the creek and a clean camp site, you don't get the typical 100 spot camp grounds vibe where you see the next 5 camp site next to you at site #2. Also the clothing optional is hella cool. 💁 lastly as a queer couple we get nervous camping in FL, but felt safe the entire stay here.