The 10 Best Memorial Day Camping Spots in Florida
The 10 Best Memorial Day Camping Spots in Florida
Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer adventures, and there's no better way to celebrate than a few days under the stars.
Florida's diverse landscapes—from emerald springs and pine forests to coastal dunes and coral reefs—make it a dream destination for outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking to relax by the beach, hike through tropical hammocks, or paddle a glassy river, this list has a camping spot tailored just for you. And if you’re new to camping in Orlando or beyond, this guide makes planning easy.
Not sure if you prefer glamping or camping? Don’t worry, we've got options for both!
Top Camping Spots in Florida
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Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo
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Everglades National Park
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Juniper Springs Recreation Area
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Curry Hammock State Park
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Wekiwa Springs State Park
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Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
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Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
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Anastasia State Park
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Big Lagoon State Park
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Silver Springs State Park
Camping Spots for a Memorable Memorial Day
Whether you’re looking for the best local campsite near you or you’re ready to journey somewhere new, the Sunshine State offers something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
So, from tranquil springs to oceanfront dunes, here are the 10 best places for family camping in Florida to pitch your tent, park your RV, or glamp out in style.
1 | Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo | Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo offers everything you’d want in a perfect campsite—a beautiful wide-open camping area, individual bathroom facilities with showers, and numerous family-friendly activities to enjoy day and night!
This wonderful campsite also offers space for platform camping with access to electrical outlets, a picnic table, a fire pit, and bathroom/shower facilities. If you’re into RV camping, feel free to park your RV in an available spot and immerse yourself in nature like never before!
If you’re interested in a luxury camping experience, the resort offers glamping—camping in Florida’s beautiful nature but with resort-style amenities. The spacious Conestoga wagons and the teepee-shaped glamping tents are fully furnished, include beds with luxury linens, and have air conditioning!
WHERE: 3200 River Ranch Blvd, River Ranch, FL 33867│WHO: (863) 692-1321
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2 | Everglades National Park | A visit to Everglades National Park is like stepping into another world. As one of Florida’s most iconic natural wonders, the Everglades offers vast landscapes of marshes, mangroves, and sawgrass prairies, making it an excellent choice for a Memorial Day camping getaway.
Located in southern Florida, this family camping spot allows you to explore its unique ecosystem by hiking, birdwatching, and even canoeing.
With a variety of camping options, including backcountry sites and developed campgrounds, you’ll find a perfect place to set up your tent or RV. Whether you're keen on exploring the unique wildlife of the Everglades or just enjoying the serenity of its vast, open spaces, this park will not disappoint.
WHERE: 40001 State Hwy 9336, Homestead, FL 33034 | WHO: (305) 242-7700
3 | Juniper Springs Recreation Area | Nestled in the heart of Ocala National Forest, Juniper Springs offers a nature lover's paradise with crystal-clear waters, shaded sites, and a historic millhouse.
The campground is well-maintained with accessible amenities, making it great for all ages. Families can spend their days paddling along the spring run or exploring nearby trails filled with native wildlife. It's a serene and beautiful location that feels worlds away from the city.
WHERE: 26701 FL-40, Silver Springs, FL 34488 | WHO: (352) 625-3147
4 | Curry Hammock State Park | If you’re craving a camping trip with a view of the ocean, Curry Hammock State Park in the Florida Keys should be at the top of your list.
This picturesque spot offers scenic campsites with views of crystal-clear water, making it the perfect Memorial Day destination for those who love to wake up to the sound of the ocean waves. The park also offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and even fishing.
Camping here is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of beach and nature, as it’s not overcrowded, making it a peaceful place to spend Memorial Day. It’s a top spot for both glamping and camping enthusiasts.
WHERE: 56200 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 | WHO: (305) 289-2690
5 | Wekiwa Springs State Park | Nestled just north of Orlando, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers the perfect combination of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. The park is known for its crystal-clear springs, ideal for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. You’ll also find a variety of wildlife, making it a great place for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
For family camping in Florida, Wekiwa Springs offers a range of campsites suitable for tents, RVs, or even primitive camping for those who want to get closer to nature. This is one of the best places for those who want to enjoy a weekend of outdoor recreation in a serene setting.
WHERE: 1800 Wekiwa Cir, Apopka, FL 32712 | WHO: (407) 553-4383
6 | Topsail Hill Preserve State Park | Located on the Emerald Coast, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a peaceful and beautiful location for Memorial Day camping.
The park features secluded beach campsites and lush nature trails perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature. Its dune lakes and rare coastal forests offer a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy swimming, hiking, and biking.
If you’re looking for a less-crowded beach camping spot that’s still accessible, Topsail Hill is the place to be. It’s also an excellent location for glamping or camping, with well-maintained facilities and easy access to the beach.
WHERE: 7525 W County Hwy 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 | WHO: (850) 267-8330
7 | Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park | For those looking for something a little different, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park offers a unique camping experience that blends diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Located near Gainesville, this park has a mix of prairies, wetlands, and forests that you can explore by hiking, biking, or birdwatching. The park is home to wild horses and bison, making it a fun destination for animal lovers.
The park offers both primitive and developed campsites, and it’s a perfect spot for family camping in Florida, offering educational programs for kids about the park’s rich ecosystem.
WHERE: 100 Savannah Blvd, Micanopy, FL 32667 | WHO: (352) 466-3397
8 | Anastasia State Park | For those looking for coastal beauty, Anastasia State Park near St. Augustine is a perfect Memorial Day camping spot.
The park boasts pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and a historic setting, making it a great place for family trips. You can enjoy fishing, biking, or hiking along the park’s trails, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.
Anastasia State Park offers both tent camping and RV sites, making it an ideal location for those who want to experience Florida’s coastal nature without straying too far from civilization.
WHERE: St. Augustine, FL 32080 | WHO: (904) 461-2033
9 | Big Lagoon State Park | If you’re looking for a quieter, less crowded place to camp, Big Lagoon State Park in Pensacola offers a peaceful camping experience along the water. The park features both bayfront and wooded campsites, perfect for those who enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or just relaxing by the water.
Big Lagoon is ideal for a Memorial Day weekend of nature exploration, where you can enjoy a variety of activities like birdwatching and fishing, or just sit back and enjoy the serene surroundings. The park offers glamping or camping options, making it suitable for a variety of outdoor experiences.
WHERE: 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507 | WHO: (850) 492-1595
10 | Silver Springs State Park | Famous for its glass-bottom boat tours, Silver Springs State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park features clear spring waters, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife.
It’s a great place to go camping in Orlando if you’re looking for a combination of water activities and natural beauty. The park offers tent campsites and primitive camping for those who prefer to get back to nature.
For those who enjoy paddling, kayaking, or simply exploring the Florida wilderness, Silver Springs is an excellent option for a Memorial Day camping retreat.
WHERE: 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488 | WHO: (352) 236-7148
Use Our Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!
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What To Take on Your Next Camping Trip
Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time camper it’s important to plan out your trip. From basic camping gear like a tent and sleeping bag to nice-to-haves like sunscreen and a portable shower a checklist of camping essentials can help ensure your trip goes smoothly.
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Campsite and Sleeping Equipment: Tents, sleeping bags or blankets, chairs, etc.
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Camping Tools and Accessories: Tent stakes, tape, multitool.
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Clothing and Footwear: Outerwear, extra shoelaces, hats and sunglasses.
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Camp Kitchen Gear: Cooking sources such as stove or grill, fuel, and matches.
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Essential Cookware and Utensils: Pots and pans, cutlery, dishware, cooler, aluminum foil, and Ziploc bags or Tupperware for storage.
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Camping Food Items: Plan your meals in advance for easy packing, but don’t forget cooking oil or butter, spices, and it’s always a good idea to have some non-perishables on hand.
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Health and Hygiene: Soap and shampoo, first-aid kit, prescription medications, sunscreen and insect repellent, and toilet paper.
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Personal Items and Recreational Gear: Electronics and chargers, sports gear and entertainment, identification, and of course, any reservations/necessary paperwork for your trip or campsite.
Happy Camping!
Florida offers some of the best camping destinations in the country, making it the perfect spot to spend Memorial Day weekend. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or glamping, there’s a spot for you. From the wild Everglades to the serene beaches of the Florida Keys, each location offers something unique to suit your interests.
Ready to start planning your camping adventure? For packing tips, vegetarian camping meals, activity guides, and more, visit our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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