The best camping near Cayo Costa State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cayo Costa State Park adventure.

100% (9 reviews)

Nature rules on this Gulf of Mexico island.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Cayo Costa State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Cayo Costa State Park

The secluded beaches on the north side of the island can be reached by bike.

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Cayo Costa Primitive Campground

39 sites · RVs, Tents In Cayo Costa State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Cayo Costa State Park

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Smokey Acres

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Brooksville, FL

Welcome to Smokey Acres! This property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires out there. Down a hidden gravel drive with wetlands on either side you will find a completely fenced in field surrounded by pine, oak, and swamp maple trees. There are two ponds located on the property both stocked with bass, bluegill, and sunfish. The front pond is home to many natural Florida wildlife and is a great location to bird watch. Located a few miles from Brooksville and the Suncoast Parkway, this quiet and peaceful setting is just 5 minutes from the parking area and trailhead for the Suncoast Trail and 10 miles from the famous Weeki Wachee Springs, where you can spend the day at the local park or float down the river with the manatees. Withlacoochee State Park and other natural preserves with trail access and kayaking are only a short distance away, and Dames Cave, Homosassa Springs, and Chasawiska Springs are all within a ~20-minute drive as well. Spending a day at the beach is easy with plenty of options along the Nature Coast. We’re also less than an hour from Tampa and Clearwater and two hours from Orlando. A perfect weekend get-away for anyone looking to “unplug,” Smokey Acres is also a great stop for those passing through the area. We are a close distance to many racing, livestock, boating and fishing events. We have no problem accommodating whatever you’re towing! Whether you'd like a leisurely day on the river or an adventure in the Gulf, there are plenty of boating options nearby. Be sure to make it back to the property in time to enjoy amazing sunsets that bring peace and tranquility to your experience. Our neighbors, JG Ranch, offers U- Pick Fruit and Vegetables or a great selection of local harvest at their roadside stand. This 10-acre property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires together out there. I've recently moved back home with my own family and as much as we enjoy the land for ourselves we'd love to share it. Any profit from hosting campers will help us maintain our sustainable farm that we're hoping to expand onto Smokey Acres. Just in! Our dirt road has been repaved. So no worries about a bumpy drive in!

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By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Ruskin, FL

Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which emerges at our property and flows West about five miles to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for space and social distancing. Site is loaded with hundreds of fruit trees Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava), and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!

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Cotee River Bend

15 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · New Port Richey, FL

Our RV Campsites are located in a grassy field next to dense woods. Electric and water hookups are included in the RV/Camper sites, but not the Tent Site. All sites have a picnic table. Cell phone service is not a problem, as we are not that remote (although it sort of feels like we are when you are here) - we are 5 min from downtown New Port Richey, 2 minutes from groceries, gas, restaurants. This beautiful slice of Old Florida is named for the Pithlachascotee River that bends along the back side of the property. Pithlo is the Creek word meaning canoe, and chaskita means to dig or chop out, together signifying "place where canoes are chopped or dug out". Seminoles of this area used canoes dug out from the great cypress trees found along Florida rivers. From the 1980s until 2014, this property was owned by the Cotee River Lions Club. They held a popular monthly pancake breakfast fundraiser in the large pavilion along the river. We purchased this 4.9 acres of land in late 2019. It is now where we live and have a woodworking shop. It has been a magical place for us, with no shortage of wildlife, rich jungle forest, a lazy winding narrow river, and even the occasion river otter sighting. We are grateful to all the humans who have occupied this place over the centuries before us for keeping it as nature intended it. It is our intention to do our part to conserve and protect its natural beauty as long as possible. We hope you find it to be as restful and rejuvenating as we do.

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The Olive Grove Cabin Tent

19 sites · Lodging4 acres · Brookridge, FL

Glamping in The Olive Grove. Aframe Cabin Tent nestled in a 4 acre olive orchard. We are a working farm and harvest and mill our olives into high quality, extra virgin olive oil. Free range chickens and ducks and rescue dogs roam the grounds. Cabin tent side opens, queen bed, Wi-fi, heat and AC, TV, electric outlets and fire pit. Kitchenette and bathrooms are separate from the cabin tent. Kitchenette has coffee maker, toaster over/ air fryer, hot plate, pots and pans. Bathrooms have showers with hot water and flushing toilets. Located on the bike path, close to Weeki Wachee River Mermaids and the beautiful Chassahwitzka River. Relax, rest and take it all in. No pets please. Enjoy farm fresh eggs and fresh olive oil with your stay, our gift. Firewood available $1 per log. Farm Store open on weekends August thru March. Ask about our kayak and sailboat adventures.

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Mad Beach Rv Or Trailer Spot

1 site · RV1 acre · Madeira Beach, FL

Experience the ultimate beachside getaway at our charming single home, just a short 3-block walk from the beach. Park your RV alongside our property and enjoy all the amenities of the home right at your fingertips. With both 30-amp and 50-amp plug connections available, you'll have everything you need to power up your RV and settle in for a relaxing stay. Our outdoor toilet and shower facilities are accessible 24/7, providing convenience and comfort during your beachside retreat. Relax and unwind on our spacious patio, complete with exterior seating and a cozy breakfast nook where you can enjoy your morning coffee or a leisurely meal. For entertainment, our outdoor smart TV with surround sound is perfect for movie nights under the stars. As the sun sets, watch your favorite films in style with our exterior chandelier casting a warm glow over the patio area. Whether you're lounging in the evening breeze or soaking up the sun during the day, our beachside oasis offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your RV adventure.

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St Pete Micro Farm

1 site · Tent1 acre · St. Petersburg, FL

Founded in 2018, the St Pete Micro Farm (SPMF) is an ambitious project located in Saint Petersburg Florida. Resting on just 1/10th of an acre, this 1957 mid-century modern home hosts over 80 different species of fruiting tree and shrub. With the goal of blending natural beauty and innovative design, it's an ever-evolving space that is both inviting and surprising. During your stay, we invite you to enjoy an open-air yet tastefully private shower under the bananas, or relax back into the big enough for two garden tub under the olive tree. A large outdoor kitchen area with a gas burner and grill will also be available for your use. An 8' x 7' yoga deck is a great place to stretch out, and doubles as your tent's platform when it's time to set up camp. If you're bringing your own tent (standard), please ensure it will fit on the available deck. Or, if you'd like for us to provide a tent for you, please select it in the add-ons section before completing your booking (Heat beating, air conditioned/AC option also available under extras). In the outdoor shower area there's a "Nature's Head" composting toilet just a few steps away from where you'll be staying. On chillier evenings, you can toast marshmallows by the fire pit, or just star gaze and let time trickle by. During the day, you'll be free to get online and catch up with the work world, or walk the garden and discover one of the many hideaways scattered around the property. You never know what will be in season, but with the guidance of one of your hosts, you can try a variety of fruits, greens, and berries if they're ready for harvest. A rich variety of wild birds visit regularly, recognizing it as a safe haven for wildlife. And though we can't guarantee you'll see a rare one, we can guarantee you'll see CHICKENS! Six of them in fact, Salty, Sleepy, Jet, Little Comb, Tapatio, and Dutchess. These friendly, curious, and fearless little marauders are guaranteed to make your acquaintance, and if you're not looking, invite themselves to share your breakfast. They free roam the backyard during daylight hours, so please help us keep all gates shut to prevent them from going on an unscheduled field trip. They will also leave "landmines" on the pathways, so be sure to watch your step. We do our best to keep everything clean and tidy, but chickens abhor tidiness. And will go out of their way to unleash chaos at every turn. Still, we love the little bird brains and they are an entertaining addition to the grounds. They're also the reason we ask that all pets, and children under 12, be left at home. We thank you for your understanding and help in preserving the safety of our flock, and as thanks, please help yourself to any fresh eggs in the chicken coop. This is only a brief description, there's so much more to see on-site, but you'll also want to make your way out into the city (15 minute drive) for some of the unique flair St Pete is known for. Check out the Salvadore Dali museum and see his famous surrealist paintings. Visit some of the best beaches in the country, like St Pete Beach (15 minutes drive due West). Wander the Fort Desoto historical park area. Or play ultimate frisbee at a local course located 10 minutes down the road. Stop by the Morean Arts Center and see live glass blowing demonstrations, or just walk along Central Ave to soak up the cool vibe and rich city art scene. Complete with murals, sculptures, and a pier scene that's not to be missed.

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Weeki wachee Sharing the Main river

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Weeki Wachee, FL

Location location! We sit on the Main river of Weeki Wachee. You can snorkel from the seawall, boat, swim, fish, and cookout. Watch the manatees / dolphins go by! Kayak and enjoy what a water front property has to offer. We are settled in a rustic two story 2 bed 1 bath cabin on the main river what a beautiful view screened in porch downstairs with a kitchenette, medium-size fridge ,microwave coffee pot ! Downstairs is owner occupied with pets totally separate units and entrances.

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Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

3 sites · RVs1 acre · St Petersburg, FL

Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 Everyone Welcome 🌈 As a family who has towed campers across the US a couple times utilizing Hip Camp we know others will appreciate the ease of pulling into our little 1 acre urban oasis just a couple miles off the interstate in Floridas Coolest City. It’s an ideal location to explore St Pete as we are right between the beaches and downtown (5 miles to St Pete beach, 4 miles to downtown -$10 Uber ride), Sarasota and/or Tampa. Ours is an urban spot based on ease, safety and location, not a wilderness "experience" We have a paved circular driveway overlooking our beehives, henhouse and seasonal garden where you’ll find a table with chairs and plenty of space to cookout and enjoy a quiet evening with a great sunset by the blowing bamboo. This is one of South St Pete’s oldest neighborhoods- it surrounds an active former PGA golf course and lively country club. It’s a great place for safely biking or walking with green spaces, tennis courts, playgrounds and dog parks nearby. There are many owls, raptors, green parrots, purple martins and osprey overhead as we’re just a few blocks from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. - not to be missed! The Pinellas Trail is just a short bike ride away too and can lead you to downtown. It is a cyclists favorite! We love our city - happy to give recommendations.

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Lake Thomas

3 sites · RVs1 acre · Dade City, FL

Full electrical, sewer, water hookups, WiFi included, dedicated parking spot, property manager/camp ranger lives on property in private house. 18 total parking spots. Plenty of room for your slides and outdoor set up. Quiet, residential neighborhood setting.Dade City is centrally located in heart of Florida and is close to all the exciting Florida attractions. Just an hour's drive away you can visit beautiful Gulf Beaches, Busch Gardens, Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World. Additionally, there are many antique malls, shopping, breweries, restaurants, museums and other places to explore during your stay. In the quaint Dade City square you can explore several boutiques and locally owned restaurants. So you can enjoy either a small town pace or drive a bit for some big city adventures. Either way, you will love your time spent here.

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Boulevard Landing

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Port Richey, FL

5645 Bay Boulevard is 2 blocks off US 19 in Port Richey Florida. The property is 1 mile east of the Gulf Of Mexico. There are 5 restaurants on the water that are a short ride bicycle, golf cart or 1 wheel ride away. One is a Hooters. Within 2 blocks is a Dunkin Donuts, Culvers and Hardees. Walmart is accessible without driving on 19. If you need fuel there is a WaWa and Walmart station. The Veteran's Expressway is a short drive east which makes a drive to the Tampa Fairgrounds less than 1 hour. We have a 50 amp covered full hook up spot, a 50 amp with water spot and 6 plus boondocking spots. We have a place to dump and refill the water tank. We aren't fancy, just very convenient. Convenience is what makes our property special. We enjoy being able to help people save while enjoying a nice safe place to stay John Thompson is the manager of the property and lives in the house .

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10 Minutes From Anna Maria

1 site · RV1 acre · Bradenton, FL

Are you seeking a tranquil retreat near the finest beaches in Southwest Florida? Look no further than this spacious RV pad, nestled within a lush fenced yard in a serene West Bradenton neighborhood. Our RV pad provides: Privacy Full drainage Easy water hookup 20, 30, and 50 amp power outlets -- extension should reach 35 feet to hookup. Convenient access to both Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island in either direction Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and convenience at our secluded oasis.

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Spotted Dance Ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Brooksville, FL

We opened to the public on Labor Day 2014. Most people come to stay either in our rental cottage or in their horse trailers/RVs with their horses to ride the awesome trails in the 20,000+ acre adjacent Croom Forest. However, because our ranch is so peaceful, many stay here without horses just to enjoy the peace and quiet. There are many opportunities to recreate in the area, including outstanding mountain and road biking, OHVing, hiking, golfing, and canoeing/kayaking. Many full-time and working RVers stay for extended periods. Note that our camping area is small and intimate, so you will be close to other campers. We have 5 30-amp hookups, and 2 50-amp hookups; if you need 50-amp service, please request it. WiFi is available, but we call it "Country WiFi" since it sometimes can be slow and may or may not be accessible from where you are parked; also, Verizon cell service in our area is terrible. If internet access is important to you, we suggest having your own hotspot or internet service (many working RVers have Starlink). Note that GPS can be very mean in our rural area; make sure your turn off Highway 50 is onto paved High Corner Road, which is 2 miles west of I-75 (if GPS tries to turn you down unpaved, dead-end roads, DO NOT LISTEN..you will get stuck!).

The best camping near Cayo Costa State Park guide

Overview

About

Nine miles of beautiful beaches, lush mangroves, and unspoiled hiking trails await on Cayo Costa Island, one of Florida’s largest barrier islands. Of course, you have to get there first, and with access only by boat, this Gulf Coast getaway is strictly for the adventurous only. Catch the ferry from one of the surrounding islands or bring your own boat and sail across the Charlotte Harbor Estuary. Don’t forget your snorkel or scuba gear—manatees, porpoises, and sea turtles have all been spotted around the island, or you can swim, fish, or go shelling along the pristine beaches.

When to go

The state park welcomes day visitors from 8am to sunset. The best time to visit southwest Florida is from late-October through May, when the weather is warm enough for beach days without the high humidity of the summer months. However, you might also want to time your trip to enjoy the winter seabird migrations or sea turtle nesting season (May through October). Hurricane season runs from June through November, and may affect travel to the island.

Know before you go

Cayo Costa State Park encompasses the entire island of Cayo Costa, which sits between Boca Grande (Gasparilla Island) and North Captiva Island just west of Cape Coral and Fort Myers. You can only reach the island by private boat, kayak, or ferry, and Captiva Cruises offers ferries and day trips to the island from Captiva Island, Punta Gorda island, and Pine Island.
There are day-use fees for all Florida State Parks, and an honor box system is in place on Cayo Costa island. The island’s tent campsites and primitive cabins have been closed since Hurricane Ian in 2022, and it’s not yet known when they will reopen.
Accessible restrooms are available on the island, but there are no other facilities, so bring everything you need with you, including drinking water.
Dogs are permitted in the park, but not on the beaches, and must be kept on a 6-foot, hand-held leash at all times.