Roland PhillipsFlorida’s county campgrounds are hidden gems that combine affordability with authentic outdoor experiences. Unlike private resorts or state parks, these locally managed sites often sit along rivers, lakes, and coastlines, offering campers a chance to enjoy nature close to home. From shaded forest retreats in the Panhandle to waterfront RV parks near Lake Okeechobee, county campgrounds provide diverse options for families, solo travelers, and adventurers seeking a quieter, budget‑friendly way to explore the Sunshine State.
Top 40 County Campgrounds In Florida
1. Navarre Beach County Park – Santa Rosa County
Navarre Beach County Park offers campers direct access to the Gulf of Mexico’s sugar‑white sands. RV and tent sites are available with picnic areas, restrooms, and boardwalks leading to the beach. Families enjoy swimming, fishing, and dolphin spotting, while the park’s location near Pensacola provides easy access to restaurants and attractions. Affordable rates and a relaxed atmosphere make this county‑run campground a favorite for locals and visitors seeking a coastal camping experience without the crowds of larger resorts.
2. Perdido Key Park Campground – Escambia County
Perdido Key Park Campground sits along Florida’s western Gulf Coast, offering shaded sites near pristine beaches. Managed by Escambia County, it provides campers with opportunities for surf fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. The campground’s proximity to Perdido Key State Park ensures access to natural dunes and wildlife habitats. Visitors enjoy quiet evenings, Gulf sunsets, and affordable amenities. With its blend of coastal beauty and county‑level hospitality, Perdido Key Park Campground is a hidden gem for campers seeking a peaceful beach retreat.
3. Bear Lake Campground – Okaloosa County
Bear Lake Campground is nestled within Blackwater River State Forest, offering shaded campsites along a scenic freshwater lake. Managed locally, it provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. Families appreciate the picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails surrounding the campground. Wildlife is abundant, with deer and birds often spotted nearby. Affordable rates and rustic charm make Bear Lake a popular destination for campers who want to experience Florida’s natural forests while enjoying easy access to water‑based recreation in a serene setting.
4. Dead River Landing – Santa Rosa County
Dead River Landing is a rustic county‑managed campground located along the Blackwater River system. It offers primitive campsites with direct river access, ideal for paddlers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Shaded by tall pines, the campground provides a peaceful retreat away from crowds. Visitors enjoy fishing, canoeing, and wildlife viewing in a quiet, natural environment. With its affordable rates and simple amenities, Dead River Landing is perfect for campers seeking an authentic back‑to‑nature experience in Florida’s Panhandle region.
5. Krul Lake Campground – Santa Rosa County
Krul Lake Campground, part of Blackwater River State Forest, is a county‑managed site offering shaded campsites near a spring‑fed lake. Families enjoy swimming, picnicking, and hiking on nearby trails. The campground features restrooms, pavilions, and a boardwalk around the lake. Wildlife is abundant, and the peaceful setting makes it ideal for relaxation. Affordable rates and easy access to outdoor recreation make Krul Lake a favorite for locals and visitors seeking a quiet camping experience in Florida’s Panhandle forests.
6. Karick Lake Campgrounds – Okaloosa County
Karick Lake North and South Campgrounds provide twin camping areas around a scenic freshwater lake in Okaloosa County. Managed locally, they offer shaded sites, picnic areas, and boat ramps. Campers enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming in the clear waters. The surrounding forest provides hiking opportunities and abundant wildlife. Affordable rates and family‑friendly amenities make Karick Lake Campgrounds a popular destination for weekend getaways. Their peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty highlight the charm of county‑run campgrounds in Florida’s Panhandle region.
7. Hurricane Lake Campground – Okaloosa County
Hurricane Lake Campground is a county‑managed site within Blackwater River State Forest, offering shaded campsites along a scenic lake. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming, while families appreciate picnic areas and playgrounds. The campground’s rustic charm and affordable rates make it a favorite for locals. Wildlife is abundant, and the peaceful setting provides a relaxing escape from urban life. Hurricane Lake Campground showcases the natural beauty of Florida’s Panhandle and the value of county‑run outdoor recreation facilities.
8. Ochlockonee River Campground – Wakulla County
Ochlockonee River Campground, managed locally, offers shaded campsites along the river in Wakulla County. Campers enjoy fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, including the area’s famous white squirrels. Picnic areas and trails provide family‑friendly recreation. Affordable rates and a quiet atmosphere make it a popular destination for nature lovers. The campground’s location near coastal forests and rivers highlights Florida’s diverse ecosystems. Ochlockonee River Campground is a prime example of how county‑run facilities connect visitors to natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
9. Eastbank Campground – Lake Seminole, Jackson County
Eastbank Campground sits on the Georgia side of Lake Seminole but serves Florida campers in Jackson County. Managed in partnership with federal and local agencies, it offers shaded sites with lakefront views. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and birdwatching on this major reservoir. Affordable rates and family‑friendly amenities make Eastbank a popular destination. Its connection to COE water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting regional recreation. Eastbank provides a peaceful retreat with abundant natural beauty and outdoor activities.
10. Three Rivers State Park Campground – Jackson County
Three Rivers State Park Campground, managed by Jackson County, offers shaded campsites along Lake Seminole. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking in a scenic setting where Florida, Georgia, and Alabama meet. Picnic areas and playgrounds make it family‑friendly, while affordable rates ensure accessibility. Wildlife is abundant, and the campground’s peaceful atmosphere provides a relaxing escape. Three Rivers showcases how county‑run campgrounds connect visitors to regional waterways and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in North Florida.
11. Torreya State Park Campground – Liberty County
Torreya State Park Campground sits high above the Apalachicola River, offering dramatic bluffs and shaded forest sites. Managed locally, it provides access to hiking trails, historic structures, and river overlooks. Wildlife is abundant, and campers enjoy birdwatching and peaceful surroundings. Affordable rates make it accessible, while its unique terrain sets it apart from typical Florida campgrounds. Torreya showcases how county and state partnerships preserve natural beauty while offering rustic camping experiences in North Florida’s diverse landscapes.
12. Camel Lake Campground – Apalachicola National Forest
Camel Lake Campground is a quiet retreat in Apalachicola National Forest, managed with county support. Shaded by tall pines, it offers primitive campsites near a clear swimming lake. Families enjoy picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching in a serene environment. Affordable rates and simple amenities make it ideal for campers seeking solitude. Its connection to the Apalachicola watershed highlights the importance of county campgrounds in preserving natural ecosystems while providing accessible outdoor recreation opportunities in Florida’s Panhandle.
13. Silver Lake Campground – Withlacoochee State Forest
Silver Lake Campground, located in Withlacoochee State Forest, offers shaded campsites along a scenic river system. Managed locally, it provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Families enjoy picnic areas and forest trails, while wildlife enthusiasts appreciate the abundance of birds and deer. Affordable rates and rustic charm make Silver Lake a popular destination for campers seeking a peaceful retreat. Its connection to federal water‑flow regulation highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting regional recreation and conservation.
14. Holton Creek River Camp – Hamilton County
Holton Creek River Camp is part of the Suwannee River Wilderness Trail, offering screened shelters, tent sites, and riverfront views. Managed locally, it provides paddlers with a convenient stop along the trail. Campers enjoy fishing, wildlife viewing, and quiet evenings by the river. Affordable rates and simple amenities make it accessible to all. Its connection to upstream water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s river recreation and eco‑tourism.
15. Suwannee River State Park Campground – Suwannee County
Suwannee River State Park Campground sits at the confluence of the Withlacoochee and Suwannee Rivers. Managed locally, it offers shaded sites, picnic areas, and riverfront trails. Campers enjoy fishing, kayaking, and hiking in a scenic natural setting. Affordable rates and family‑friendly amenities make it a popular destination. Its connection to federal water management upstream highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s river ecosystems and outdoor recreation.
16. Yellow Jacket RV Resort – Dixie County
Yellow Jacket RV Resort is a county‑connected campground located along the Suwannee River. It offers full RV amenities, riverfront views, and abundant wildlife. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and birdwatching in a peaceful setting. Affordable rates and modern facilities make it accessible to families and retirees. Its connection to upstream water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s river recreation and eco‑tourism. Yellow Jacket blends comfort with natural beauty, making it a standout destination.
17. Lake Rousseau RV Park – Levy County
Lake Rousseau RV Park sits near the Inglis Dam and Cross Florida Barge Canal. Managed locally, it offers shaded RV sites, fishing access, and boating opportunities. Campers enjoy peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife. Affordable rates and modern amenities make it popular with retirees and families. Its connection to Corps structures highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting regional water recreation. Lake Rousseau RV Park blends convenience with natural beauty, offering a relaxing escape in Central Florida.
18. Rainbow Springs Campground – Marion County
Rainbow Springs Campground, managed locally, offers shaded sites near crystal‑clear spring waters. Campers enjoy swimming, tubing, and kayaking in one of Florida’s most beautiful natural areas. Picnic areas and trails provide family‑friendly recreation. Affordable rates make it accessible, while its connection to historic Corps canal projects highlights the role of county campgrounds in preserving natural ecosystems. Rainbow Springs blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a refreshing outdoor experience.
19. Ross Prairie Campground – Marion County
Ross Prairie Campground sits near remnants of Corps projects tied to the Cross Florida Barge Canal. Managed locally, it offers shaded campsites, equestrian trails, and prairie views. Campers enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing in a peaceful setting. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to regional waterways highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation and conservation. Ross Prairie provides a unique blend of prairie landscapes and forested trails.
20. Rodman Campground – Putnam County
Rodman Campground is located near the Rodman Dam, originally part of the Cross Florida Barge Canal. Managed locally, it offers shaded sites, fishing access, and boating opportunities. Campers enjoy peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife. Affordable rates and family‑friendly amenities make it popular with locals and visitors. Its connection to Corps engineering highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting regional water recreation. Rodman Campground blends history with natural beauty, offering a relaxing escape in North Central Florida.
21. Salt Springs Recreation Area – Marion County
Salt Springs Recreation Area, managed locally within Ocala National Forest, offers shaded campsites near crystal‑clear spring waters. Campers enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and boating in a natural setting. Picnic areas and trails provide family‑friendly recreation, while wildlife is abundant. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to historic Corps planning highlights the role of county campgrounds in preserving ecosystems. Salt Springs blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
22. Juniper Springs Campground – Marion County
Juniper Springs Campground is a peaceful retreat in Ocala National Forest, offering shaded campsites near spring‑fed waters. Families enjoy swimming, picnicking, and hiking along scenic trails. Wildlife is abundant, and the campground’s rustic charm makes it ideal for nature lovers. Affordable rates and simple amenities ensure accessibility. Its connection to downstream Corps‑managed systems highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s water recreation. Juniper Springs blends natural beauty with outdoor adventure, making it a favorite destination for campers.
23. Alexander Springs Campground – Lake County
Alexander Springs Campground, located in Altoona, offers shaded campsites near one of Florida’s most beautiful spring systems. Campers enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in clear waters. Picnic areas and trails provide family‑friendly recreation, while wildlife is abundant. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to river systems influenced by Corps engineering highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting ecosystems. Alexander Springs blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers.
24. Silver Springs State Park Campground – Marion County
Silver Springs State Park Campground offers shaded sites near the famous Silver River. Campers enjoy glass‑bottom boat tours, swimming, and hiking in a scenic setting. Picnic areas and trails provide family‑friendly recreation, while wildlife is abundant. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to historic Corps water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in preserving ecosystems. Silver Springs blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a refreshing escape.
25. Ocala North RV Campground – Orange Lake
Ocala North RV Campground offers shaded RV sites near Orange Lake, connected to the Ocklawaha River system. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing in a peaceful setting. Affordable rates and modern amenities make it accessible to families and retirees. Its connection to regional waterways highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation. Ocala North blends convenience with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a relaxing escape in Central Florida.
26. Lake Griffin State Park Campground – Lake County
Lake Griffin State Park Campground offers shaded campsites along the Harris Chain of Lakes. Campers enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking in a scenic setting. Picnic areas and trails provide family‑friendly recreation, while wildlife is abundant. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to Corps‑influenced rivers highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting ecosystems. Lake Griffin blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a peaceful retreat.
27. Lake Louisa State Park Campground – Lake County
Lake Louisa State Park Campground offers lakeside campsites surrounded by rolling hills and forests. Campers enjoy fishing, kayaking, and hiking along scenic trails. Picnic areas and playgrounds provide family‑friendly recreation, while wildlife is abundant. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to regional watersheds highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s ecosystems. Lake Louisa blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a relaxing escape.
28. Trail Lakes Campground – Okeechobee County
Trail Lakes Campground sits near Lake Okeechobee, the hub of federal water management. Campers enjoy RV and tent sites with easy access to boating and fishing. Wildlife is abundant, and the campground’s rustic charm makes it ideal for nature lovers. Affordable rates and simple amenities ensure accessibility. Its connection to Corps water structures highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation. Trail Lakes blends convenience with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for campers.
29. South Bay RV Campground – Palm Beach County
South Bay RV Campground offers shaded RV sites near Lake Okeechobee’s southeastern shore. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing in a peaceful setting. Affordable rates and modern amenities make it accessible to families and retirees. Its connection to Corps water‑control structures highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s ecosystems. South Bay blends convenience with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a relaxing escape in South Florida.
30. Torry Island Campground – Palm Beach County
Torry Island Campground sits near major Corps levee structures, offering shaded campsites and fishing access. Campers enjoy boating, birdwatching, and peaceful surroundings. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to federal water management highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation. Torry Island blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a quiet retreat near Lake Okeechobee.
31. Okeechobee KOA – Okeechobee County
Okeechobee KOA is a full‑service RV resort near Lake Okeechobee, offering modern amenities like pools, tennis courts, and organized activities. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and exploring the nearby lock‑and‑dam systems managed by the Corps. Affordable rates and family‑friendly facilities make it accessible to all. Its location near federally managed waters highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s recreation. Okeechobee KOA blends convenience with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for campers seeking comfort and adventure.
32. Lakeport RV Park – Glades County
Lakeport RV Park sits near the Herbert Hoover Dike, a major Corps project surrounding Lake Okeechobee. Managed locally, it offers shaded RV sites, fishing access, and boating opportunities. Campers enjoy peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife. Affordable rates and modern amenities make it popular with retirees and families. Its connection to federal water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s ecosystems. Lakeport RV Park blends convenience with natural beauty, offering a relaxing escape in South Florida.
33. Harney Pond Canal Campground – Glades County
Harney Pond Canal Campground is a rustic site near Lake Okeechobee, directly tied into water‑control structures. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing in a peaceful setting. Affordable rates and simple amenities make it accessible to all. Its connection to Corps water management highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation. Harney Pond Canal blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a quiet retreat near federally managed waters.
34. Clewiston RV Resort – Hendry County
Clewiston RV Resort serves as a hub for exploring Corps water‑management facilities around Lake Okeechobee. Managed locally, it offers shaded RV sites, fishing access, and modern amenities. Campers enjoy boating, birdwatching, and peaceful surroundings. Affordable rates make it accessible to families and retirees. Its connection to federal water structures highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s ecosystems. Clewiston RV Resort blends convenience with natural beauty, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a relaxing escape.
35. C. Scott Driver Recreation Area – Okeechobee County
C. Scott Driver Recreation Area is a county‑managed campground offering boat launches, shaded campsites, and picnic areas near Lake Okeechobee. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing in a scenic setting. Affordable rates and family‑friendly amenities make it accessible to all. Its connection to federally managed waters highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation. C. Scott Driver blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a peaceful retreat.
36. Kissimmee Prairie Preserve Campground – Okeechobee County
Kissimmee Prairie Preserve Campground offers prairie‑based camping with stargazing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Managed locally, it drains into the Kissimmee River, deeply connected to Corps management. Campers enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and quiet evenings under dark skies. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to federal water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s ecosystems. Kissimmee Prairie blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking solitude.
37. Kissimmee River Park Campground – Okeechobee County
Kissimmee River Park Campground sits near the Corps‑led river restoration project, offering shaded campsites and fishing access. Campers enjoy boating, birdwatching, and peaceful surroundings. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to federal water management highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation. Kissimmee River Park blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a quiet retreat near restored river ecosystems.
38. Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground – Osceola County
Lake Kissimmee State Park Campground offers shaded campsites along the Kissimmee‑Okeechobee water chain. Campers enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking in a scenic setting. Picnic areas and trails provide family‑friendly recreation, while wildlife is abundant. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to Corps water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s ecosystems. Lake Kissimmee blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers seeking a peaceful retreat.
39. Dead River Landing – Santa Rosa County
Dead River Landing is a rustic county‑managed campground located along the Blackwater River system. It offers primitive campsites with direct river access, ideal for paddlers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts. Shaded by tall pines, the campground provides a peaceful retreat away from crowds. Affordable rates and simple amenities make it accessible to all. Its connection to regional water management highlights the role of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s outdoor recreation. Dead River Landing blends natural beauty with authentic camping experiences.
40. Bear Lake Campground – Okaloosa County
Bear Lake Campground, part of Blackwater River State Forest, offers shaded campsites along a scenic freshwater lake. Managed locally, it provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. Families enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails surrounding the campground. Affordable rates and rustic charm make it accessible to all. Its connection to regional water management highlights the importance of county campgrounds in supporting Florida’s ecosystems. Bear Lake blends natural beauty with recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for campers.
Closing
Whether you’re drawn to the Suwannee River’s peaceful banks, the Gulf Coast’s emerald waters, or the vast prairies of Central Florida, county campgrounds deliver a unique blend of accessibility and natural beauty. They reflect the character of local communities while connecting visitors to Florida’s waterways and wildlife. Affordable, scenic, and welcoming, these campgrounds prove that you don’t need luxury resorts to enjoy unforgettable outdoor adventures. With thoughtful planning, your next Florida camping trip can be both memorable and budget‑friendly.