Bell tents near New Smyrna Beach with campfires

Sunseekers and surfers congregate at New Smyrna Beach, where small-town charm meets miles of sandy beaches. Once you’ve browsed the downtown galleries and distilleries, head shoreside to take a surf class, stroll the boardwalk through the Smyrna Dunes, and swim, sunbathe, or stand-up paddleboard along 17 miles of white-sand beach. Campers will find plenty of options along the coast around New Smyrna Beach and neighboring Daytona Beach—check into a beachfront cabin or a family-friendly RV resort, pitch your tent in Tiger Bay State Forest, or snag a spot at the riverside campground in Tomoka State Park.

The sun shines year-round in central Florida, making it the ideal spot for some winter sun and a perennial favorite among spring breakers. March through May provide the best weather for camping, while summer temperatures can soar over 90°F with high humidity and frequent showers, so avoid July and August if possible, especially if tent camping. Surfers take note—the winter months bring the biggest waves.