Consider Camping In The Florida Keys

When you think of the Florida Keys you may think of miles of highway stretching over empty ocean and assume that there would be no need to bring your camping equipment, but that is far from the truth. In actuality, there are many private campgrounds and 10 state parks that are composed of hundreds of acres and many of them have full facility campsites.

The Florida Keys is a series of over 1700 islands that are linked by an underwater coral reef. In some places the width of an island may be less than 1 mile and much of the land has been set aside to preserve the integrity and ecosystem that exists there. But, that doesn't mean that the Florida Keys have forgotten about people. People from all over the country and the world come to the Florida Keys every year to enjoy the abundance of wildlife and for the variety of activities, festivals and events that it offers.

While there are many five-star hotels and resorts throughout the Florida Keys, there is also the unequaled pleasure of tent or RV camping next to the ocean. For instance, Long Key State Park just outside of the town of Layton, offers camping practically on the beach of the Atlantic Ocean. Because of all of the water nearby, it is one of the only state parks that allows open campfires.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is another park that has almost 50 full facility campsites. This park is near Key Largo, which is the most northern city of the Florida Keys. Another very popular State Park is called Bahia Honda. This State Park is near the town of Marathon and offers over 80 full facility campsites and three cabins that each sleeps six people. The cabins can run about $120 per night. This park and campsite is very popular because it is only about 40 miles to the southern town of Key West. The city of Key West offers almost unlimited attractions, shops, and nightlife.

For a completely unique camping experience, consider camping on an island just outside of a Fort that was built before the Civil War. Fort Jefferson is on its own key, called Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas. The fort was never used as defense and for a while served as a prison. It was used again during both World Wars I and II as a Navy port and also as an observation post. Today, it is a historical monument and the only way to reach it is by boat. There are campsites located near the outer wall of the fort and packages can be purchased in Key West that combine camping and snorkeling around the island.

Reservations usually need to be made to hold a campsite and most parks allow pets during the day, but some do not allow pets in the campsite area. It is always best to check with the park when making reservations. Campsite fees can range anywhere from $6-$50 a night. There are also dump station charges and in some cases parks will charge for shower use (usually about six dollars per shower.)

If you love camping and if you especially love to camp in different areas around the country, experiencing all of the variety that it offers, then you must try camping in the Florida Keys. It will be an unforgettable experience sleeping next to the ocean, having the sound of the waves lull you to sleep and the smell of tropical breezes in the air. Plan this trip as soon as possible.

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