When you look for great Florida camping spots, you can hear a lot of horror stories about sweaty, mosquito-infested evenings in marshy areas. There are many great spots to camp when the weather is just perfect, but if you choose the wrong spot at the wrong time, you're sure to have this same experience. If you want to escape scorching temperatures, possible heavy rains, and an abundance of stinging pests on your camping vacation, stick to the months of October to March.

You won't find better camping dordle in Florida than in Ocala National Forest. The southernmost national forest in the continental United States is located in this centrally located state, little north of Orlando. There are a variety of lodging options on the Ocala, from basic tent sites to RV sites with full services and even a few cottages.

Not only does the Ocala National Forest provide serene camping in the middle of nowhere, but it also has over 600 lakes, rivers, and springs, as well as the Yearling Trail, which goes by the sites of pioneer homesteads from the 19th century. While camping in the great outdoors is possible in every state, Florida offers the unique chance to do it on or near the beach. Cayo Costa State Park has rustic campsites and cottages for overnight stays, perfect for waterfront camping with beautiful views.

In spite of the fact that a ferry service operates from neighboring Punta Gorda, Pine Island, and Captiva Island, getting to this pristine Gulf Coast island requires a bit of effort. However, the reward for the effort is nine miles of undeveloped shoreline, sun-kissed palmettos, wind-sculpted dunes, and turquoise water.

Cayo Costa was temporarily closed in 2022 due to damage caused by Hurricane Ian. For the most up-to-date information, see the park's website. Myakka River State Park is a great spot to go camping in Florida, with 58 square miles of marsh, pineland, prairie, and palm hammock habitats. The palmettos, live oaks, and wildlife (ranging from alligators to ospreys) make this state park one of the most historic and expansive in Florida. Canoeing and kayaking are additional popular activities, and there are many routes and trails to ride bikes and hike on.