Camping at the Beach
Sleep under starry skies on pristine, powdery white sand just steps away from the gentle waves of our warm Gulf waters.
Experience the simple pleasures when camping at Shell Key Preserve.
Ever dream of sleeping under a starry sky on pristine, powdery white sand? Just steps away from the gentle waves of our warm gulf waters? And come first light, epic outdoor adventures await you such as kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, bird watching and more? Then read on to learn about the area’s best beach camping spots!
No matter where you camp, you’ll want to remember these essentials:
- Lots of water, ice and coolers for food and drinks
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Know the daily timing of sunrise, sunset and the high and low tides
- Don’t forget a bag to bring home seashells! (Leave live shells alone, but the rest are fair game.)
- If you plan to fish, make sure you get a fishing license and know the regulations
See our list of campground options in St. Pete-Clearwater to plan your camping vacation.
Back-to-Nature Camping at Shell Key Preserve
Camping at Shell Key is truly getting away from it all.
Shell Key Preserve is primitive: no amenities, access by boat only, and a Pinellas County camping permit is required. But these small and undeveloped barrier islands feature 1,800 acres of protected land, including the main island Shell Key, as well as smaller mangrove islands and sea grass beds. This sensitive habitat is one of the state’s most important shorebird sanctuaries, so the birding is spectacular, as are the peaceful beach views (be sure to stay out of restricted areas that protect bird nesting sites). Don’t forget: In addition to food, water and shelter, you’ll also need portable toilets, which are required by the county.
Classic Camping at Fort De Soto Park
Launch kayaks or just relax at a waterfront campground at Fort De Soto Park.
Locals love Fort De Soto Park for its perfect mix of nature and convenience with boat ramps, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and almost three miles of beachfront. Here you'll find approximately 230 campsites – some waterfront, and all a short distance from the park's amazing beaches – with water and electricity to accommodate tents and RVs. Take advantage of restrooms, showers, grills, picnic tables, laundry facilities and a camp store. Pets are welcome in designated areas, including Fort De Soto Park's designated dog beach, and you're close to good eats at Island Grille and Raw Bar, Tony & Nellos and Billy's Stonecrab.
Be aware that the campsites at Fort De Soto are very popular, so reserve as far in advance as possible.
Primitive Camping at Anclote Key Preserve State Park
Set your course for Anclote Key near Tarpon Springs, where your own stretch of beach awaits.
No frills, just paradise: Located in the Gulf at the mouth of the Anclote River near Tarpon Springs, Anclote Key is a barrier island that's full of tropical beauty that you have to see to believe. Its 400 acres includes sandy beaches, more than 40 species of birds and an 1887 lighthouse. Plan your trip ahead of time by calling the park ranger's office at 727-638-4447. Take note: Anclote Key only has basic camping amenities (i.e., toilet only), and overnight guests need a boat to access the area (you can come by private boat or charter).
Boat Camping at Caladesi Island State Park
An uninhabited island near Dunedin, Caladesi Island State Park is a heavenly stretch of sand only accessible by boat, ferry or kayak.
Camp out on your boat by docking overnight at Caladesi Island State Park, a barrier island famous for its three miles of award-winning, white-sand beaches. The marina has 108 boat slips with both water and electric (please note that the capacity is currently much lower as the marina is undergoing repairs; check with the ranger station for details).
By day, you’ll also find a cafe and gift shop renting beach chairs, umbrellas and kayaks. Showers, bathrooms, picnic tables and grills are available and leashed pets are allowed too.
Enjoy snorkeling, swimming, fishing, hiking and three miles of kayak trails through the mangroves and bay.
Youth Group Camping at Wall Springs Park
Wall Springs Park offers only primitive camping, only for youth groups. Here you'll find boardwalks, nature trails, a covered playground and a 35-foot observation tower overlooking the Gulf. To check in, youth representatives can contact Pinellas County parks officials at 727-582-2100.
Modern Camping Near the Beach at Madeira Beach KOA
OK, so the camping experience at Madeira Beach KOA isn't technically ON the beach, but you are only two miles from it, and right on the Pinellas Trail, a local-favorite 45-mile path for biking, hiking and rollerblading that stretches from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. Take advantage of the pool, hot tub, fishing dock, kayak rentals, shuffleboard and volleyball while you're here.