Best Time to Visit Florida RV Parks: A Guide

Florida is known for its sunny weather, stunning beaches, and endless recreational activities. It's no wonder that RVers from all over the world flock to Florida to experience the state's natural beauty. But with so many RV parks to choose from, it can be challenging to decide when the best time to visit is. In this article, we'll explore the best seasons for RV camping in Florida, top destinations for RVers, and tips for making the most out of your RV camping experience in the Sunshine State.

Florida RV parks offer a wide range of amenities, including swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, and more. RVers can choose from a variety of campgrounds, ranging from rustic to luxurious. Some of the most popular destinations for RVers in Florida include the Florida Keys, Orlando, and the Gulf Coast. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly destination or a romantic getaway, Florida has something for everyone.

When planning your RV trip to Florida, it's important to consider the best seasons for camping. While Florida is known for its year-round warm weather, summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be chilly. The best time to visit Florida RV parks is during the fall and spring months, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. In the following sections, we'll explore the best seasons for RV camping in Florida, top destinations for RVers, and tips for making the most out of your RV camping experience in the Sunshine State.

Key Takeaways

• The best time to visit Florida RV parks is during the fall and spring months.

• Popular destinations for RVers in Florida include the Florida Keys, Orlando, and the Gulf Coast.

• RVers can choose from a variety of campgrounds, ranging from rustic to luxurious.

Overview of Florida RV Parks

Florida is a popular destination for RV enthusiasts due to its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities. There are many RV parks in Florida that cater to all types of travelers, from families with children to retirees. In this section, we will provide an overview of the different types of RV parks in Florida and the amenities they offer.

Types of RV Parks in Florida

There are many types of RV parks in Florida, including state parks, private parks, and luxury resorts. State parks are a popular choice for those looking for a more rustic experience, with many offering campsites in natural settings. Private parks offer a range of amenities, from basic sites with water and electricity to full-service sites with full hookups, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. Luxury resorts offer the most amenities, including heated pools, clubhouses, and on-site restaurants.

Amenities Offered

RV parks in Florida offer a wide range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Basic amenities include picnic tables, laundry facilities, and full hookups for water, sewer, and electricity. Many parks also offer swimming pools, heated pools, and hot tubs for guests to enjoy. Clubhouses are also common, providing a place to socialize and relax. Wi-Fi is available at many parks, and some are even pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along on your trip.

In summary, Florida offers a range of RV parks to suit every traveler's needs, from rustic state parks to luxury resorts. The amenities offered vary from basic to full-service, with something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an outdoor adventure, Florida's RV parks have you covered.

Best Seasons for RV Camping in Florida

When it comes to RV camping in Florida, choosing the right season to visit is crucial. The state's subtropical climate can make a significant difference in the quality of your trip. Here are some highlights of each season to help you decide when to visit:

Winter Season Highlights

Winter is the peak season for RV camping in Florida. The weather is mild and dry, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities. The average temperature during this season ranges from 60-70°F, which is perfect for exploring the state's beautiful beaches, parks, and attractions. The winter season in Florida runs from December to February.

Summer Season Benefits

Summer is the off-season for RV camping in Florida. The weather is hot and humid, but you can still enjoy many benefits of visiting during this time. The state's beaches are less crowded, and many campgrounds offer discounted rates. The average temperature during this season ranges from 80-90°F, which makes swimming and water activities popular. The summer season in Florida runs from June to August.

Shoulder Seasons Advantages

The shoulder seasons in Florida are the months of March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. You can enjoy the state's outdoor activities without the peak season rates. The average temperature during these seasons ranges from 70-80°F, which is perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the state's natural beauty.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Florida for RV camping depends on your preferences. If you want to avoid the crowds and save money, visit during the shoulder seasons. If you want to enjoy the state's outdoor activities without the heat, visit during the winter or spring. And if you want to enjoy the state's beaches and water activities, visit during the summer.

Top Destinations for RVers

Florida is a popular destination for RVers, with plenty of options for campgrounds and RV parks throughout the state. Here are some of the top destinations for RVers looking to explore Florida:

Florida Keys and Key West

The Florida Keys and Key West are a must-see for any RVer traveling through Florida. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Bahia Honda State Park is a popular spot for RVers, offering beachfront camping and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico. Big Pine Key is another great option, with plenty of opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Panhandle and Gulf Coast

The Panhandle and Gulf Coast offer a different side of Florida, with miles of white sand beaches and emerald green waters. St. George Island State Park is a popular destination for RVers, with beachfront camping and plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. Grayton Beach State Park is another option, with scenic hiking trails and beautiful sand dunes.

Central Florida and Orlando

Central Florida and Orlando are home to some of the state's most popular attractions, including Disney World and Universal Studios. Kissimmee is a popular spot for RVers, with plenty of RV parks and campgrounds located just a short drive from the theme parks. Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota are also worth a visit, offering beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Overall, Florida is a great destination for RVers, with plenty of options for campgrounds and RV parks throughout the state. Whether you're looking for a beachfront getaway or a theme park adventure, Florida has something for everyone.

Recreational Activities in and Around RV Parks

When planning a trip to Florida RV parks, one of the key considerations is what recreational activities are available in and around the parks. Fortunately, Florida has a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, whether they prefer water-based activities or land-based excursions.

Water-Based Activities

Florida is famous for its beaches, and RV parks near the coast offer easy access to swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. For those who prefer freshwater activities, there are also plenty of lakes and rivers for fishing, boating, and canoeing.

One of the most popular water-based activities in Florida is fishing. The state has a diverse range of fish species, including largemouth bass, tarpon, and redfish, and many RV parks have their own fishing ponds or offer guided fishing trips.

Land-Based Excursions

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, Florida has plenty of options as well. Hiking and biking trails are abundant throughout the state, from the flat terrain of the Everglades to the rolling hills of the Panhandle.

Birding is another popular activity in Florida, with the state's diverse ecosystems providing habitats for a wide range of species. Many RV parks are located near birding hotspots, making it easy to spot everything from pelicans to bald eagles.

Finally, Florida is home to some of the best scuba diving sites in the world, with clear waters and diverse marine life. Many RV parks offer scuba diving excursions, or are located near dive shops that can provide equipment and training.

Overall, Florida RV parks offer a wide range of recreational activities for visitors. Whether you prefer water-based activities like fishing and kayaking or land-based excursions like hiking and birding, there's something for everyone in the Sunshine State.

RV Camping Tips for Florida

If you are planning to go RV camping in Florida, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make the most of your trip. Here are some tips to help you choose the right campsite, prepare for Florida weather, and make the most of your RV rental or ownership.

Choosing the Right Campsite

Florida has a wide variety of campsites to choose from, ranging from state parks to private campgrounds. When choosing a campsite, consider the following factors:

• Location: Choose a campsite that is close to the attractions you want to visit. If you plan to spend most of your time at the beach, choose a campsite that is near the coast.

• Amenities: Look for a campsite that offers the amenities you need, such as electric hookups, water, and sewer.

• Size: Make sure the campsite is large enough to accommodate your RV.

• Reviews: Read reviews from other campers to get an idea of the quality of the campsite.

Preparing for Florida Weather

Florida is known for its hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months. Here are some tips to help you prepare for Florida weather:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the hot Florida weather.

• Use sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen with a high SPF rating.

• Stay cool: Use air conditioning or fans to stay cool in your RV.

• Be prepared for rain: Florida is known for its afternoon thunderstorms, so be prepared with rain gear and waterproof shoes.

RV Rental and Ownership Tips

If you are renting an RV, make sure you choose a reputable rental company and inspect the RV thoroughly before you drive off the lot. If you own an RV, make sure it is in good condition and has been serviced recently. Here are some additional tips:

• Plan your route: Plan your route in advance and check for any road closures or construction.

• Pack wisely: Pack only what you need and make sure everything is secured in your RV.

• Know the rules: Familiarize yourself with the rules of the campsite and follow them to avoid any issues.

• Be respectful: Be respectful of other campers and keep noise levels down during quiet hours.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable RV camping experience in Florida.

Family and Pet-Friendly Options

Florida is a great place to visit with your family, including your furry friends. Many RV parks in Florida offer a variety of amenities for the whole family to enjoy.

Amenities for the Whole Family

When traveling with family, it's important to find an RV park that has something for everyone. Many parks in Florida offer playgrounds, swimming pools, and other activities that are perfect for kids. Some parks even have mini-golf courses, basketball courts, and other recreational facilities that the whole family can enjoy.

Pet-Friendly Parks and Facilities

For those traveling with pets, it's important to find an RV park that is pet-friendly. Many parks in Florida allow pets, but some go above and beyond to cater to furry friends. Some parks have dog parks where pets can run and play off-leash. Others have pet-friendly walking trails or even offer pet grooming services.

Some of the top pet-friendly RV parks in Florida include Orlando Southwest KOA Holiday, Lazydays RV Resort, Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, and Destin West RV Resort. These parks offer a variety of amenities for both pets and their owners, including dog parks, pet-friendly walking trails, and even pet washing stations.

When planning a trip to Florida with your family and pets, be sure to research RV parks in advance to find the best options for your needs. With so many family-friendly and pet-friendly options available, you're sure to find the perfect RV park for your next Florida adventure.

Unique Florida RV Park Experiences

Florida is a destination that offers a wide range of experiences for RVers. Whether you're looking for a beachside retreat or a nature-filled adventure, there's an RV park in Florida that can cater to your needs. Here are some unique experiences you can have while camping in Florida.

State Parks and Natural Reserves

Florida is home to a number of state parks and natural reserves that offer RV camping. Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine is a popular choice for RVers who want to be close to the beach. The park offers 139 campsites with water and electric hookups, as well as access to hiking trails, fishing, and kayaking.

Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna is another great option for RVers who want to experience the state's natural wonders. The park is home to stunning limestone caves that visitors can explore on guided tours. The park also offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping.

Torreya State Park, located in the Apalachicola River Valley, is a great place to experience Florida's diverse wildlife. The park offers RV camping, hiking trails, and fishing. Visitors can also explore the nearby Apalachicola River and the Gulf of Mexico.

Luxury RV Resorts with Spa and Fitness

For RVers who want to indulge in luxury, there are several high-end RV resorts in Florida that offer spa and fitness facilities. One such resort is the Ocean Grove RV Resort in St. Augustine. The resort offers RV sites with full hookups, as well as access to a fitness center, swimming pool, and spa.

Another luxury RV resort in Florida is the Miami Everglades RV Resort. The resort offers RV sites with full hookups, as well as access to a fitness center, swimming pool, and hot tub. The resort is also close to the Everglades National Park, where visitors can explore the unique ecosystem of the area.

Theme Parks and Nearby RV Accommodations

Florida is home to several world-renowned theme parks, including Disney World and Universal Studios. RVers who want to visit these parks can find nearby RV accommodations that offer convenience and comfort.

The Orlando/Kissimmee KOA Holiday is a popular choice for RVers visiting Disney World. The park offers RV sites with full hookups, as well as shuttle service to the park. The park also offers a swimming pool, hot tub, and miniature golf.

For RVers visiting the Kennedy Space Center, the Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park is a great option. The park offers RV sites with water and electric hookups, as well as access to hiking trails, fishing, and kayaking. The park is also close to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, where visitors can enjoy the beach and wildlife.

Accessibility and Special Needs

Accessible Facilities and Services

Florida RV parks offer accessible facilities and services to accommodate guests with special needs. Wheelchair access, special transportation, TDD (Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf), signers, interpreters, or special medical equipment are some of the facilities and services that guests with special needs can expect.

It is best to plan ahead and ask plenty of questions to ensure that the RV park can accommodate specific needs. Reservations should be made well in advance to ensure availability of accessible facilities and services.

According to the Florida Special-Needs and Disabled-Access Traveler Guide on TripSavvy, guests with special needs should make their requests and reservations well in advance. The guide also recommends asking plenty of questions to ensure that the RV park can accommodate specific needs.

The Able Trust offers helpful links to disability resources throughout the state from Florida's Governor's Alliance for the Employment of Citizens with Disabilities. The Florida Disabled Outdoors Association provides resources on disabled outdoor travel in Florida.

Universal Orlando rolled out a new AAP pass in mid-2023 to aid individuals with a disability that may influence their ability to wait in line at the Universal theme parks. The pass allows guests with special needs and their families to maximize the enjoyment of their vacation and stay comfortable along the way.

Guests with special needs can have a great time at Orlando's theme parks, including those at Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, and LEGOLAND® Florida Resort. However, going in the morning, taking a break, and then coming back at night is usually the best option to avoid the hottest time of day, as well as crowds.

In conclusion, Florida RV parks offer accessible facilities and services to accommodate guests with special needs. It is important to plan ahead and make reservations well in advance to ensure availability of accessible facilities and services. Guests with special needs should ask plenty of questions to ensure that the RV park can accommodate specific needs.

Economic Considerations

When planning a trip to Florida RV parks, economic considerations are important to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you stay within your budget.

Budget-Friendly RV Parks

Florida is home to many budget-friendly RV parks that offer affordable rates without sacrificing amenities. Some of the most popular options include:

• Ocala National Forest

• Big Cypress National Preserve

• Florida Caverns State Park

• Withlacoochee State Forest

These parks offer a range of activities and amenities, including hiking trails, fishing, and picnic areas. Additionally, they often have lower rates than private RV parks, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Maximizing Value During Your Stay

To get the most value out of your stay at a Florida RV park, consider the following tips:

• Book early: Reservations at popular parks can be hard to come by, so it's important to book well in advance. Some parks allow reservations up to 11 months in advance, so be sure to plan ahead.

• Consider off-peak travel: Rates at private RV parks tend to be higher in the winter than in the summer. If you're looking to save money, consider traveling during the off-peak season.

• Look for discounts: Many parks offer discounts for extended stays or for members of certain organizations, such as AAA or Good Sam Club. Be sure to ask about any available discounts when making your reservation.

• Bring your own supplies: To save money on food and supplies, consider bringing your own groceries and cooking meals at your RV site. Many parks offer grills and picnic tables for guests to use.

• Research park fees: In addition to nightly rates, many parks charge additional fees for amenities such as Wi-Fi or laundry facilities. Be sure to research these fees ahead of time so you can budget accordingly.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Florida RV parks without sacrificing comfort or amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What times of year offer the most affordable rates for RV parks in Florida?

The most affordable rates for RV parks in Florida can usually be found during the summer months, from June to August, when temperatures are at their highest and humidity is at its peak. However, it's important to note that these months are also the peak of hurricane season, which may lead to closures and evacuations. Some RV parks may also offer discounts during the off-season, from September to November and from January to March.

Are there any restrictions on the duration of stay at Florida state park RV campgrounds?

Yes, there are restrictions on the duration of stay at Florida state park RV campgrounds. Most parks have a maximum stay of 14 consecutive days, although some may allow longer stays with prior approval. After the maximum stay, campers must leave the park for at least 48 hours before returning.

What is the typical cost for a monthly stay at RV parks throughout Florida?

The typical cost for a monthly stay at RV parks throughout Florida can vary greatly depending on the location and amenities offered. On average, monthly rates range from $500 to $1500 per month, with some parks offering discounts for longer stays. It's important to research and compare rates before booking to find the best deal.

Which RV parks in Florida are considered the best for amenities and location?

There are many RV parks in Florida that are considered the best for amenities and location, depending on individual preferences. Some popular options include Fort Wilderness Resort at Disney World, Bluewater Key RV Resort in Key West, and Jetty Park Campground in Cape Canaveral. It's recommended to read reviews and research amenities before booking to find the best fit.

Can you recommend any RV-friendly beaches in Florida that allow free camping?

Unfortunately, there are no RV-friendly beaches in Florida that allow free camping. However, some beaches do offer affordable camping options, such as the beachfront campsites at Anastasia State Park in St. Augustine and the Gulf-front campsites at St. George Island State Park.

What options are available for free RV parking in Florida?

There are limited options for free RV parking in Florida, as most public parking areas and rest stops have restrictions on overnight parking. However, some Walmart stores and Cracker Barrel restaurants may allow overnight parking in their lots, although it's always recommended to ask for permission before parking.