Visited Campgrounds
Planning your next camping adventure? Maybe we can help. Here you will find all the campgrounds we've explored buring our travels and are excited to share our experiences with you. On this page, you’ll find honest and detailed reviews of the campgrounds we’ve called home. We hope that this information will be found helpful while you plan your next adventure.
Devil's Den Campground: A Unique Florida Experience
Devil's Den Campground offers a truly unique camping experience unlike any other in Florida. Nestled near the enchanting Devil's Den Spring, this campground provides a serene escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. While the campground itself offers standard amenities like RV hookups and tent sites, its proximity to the spring is its standout feature.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the crystal-clear waters of the spring, known for its stunning underwater formations and diverse aquatic life. Whether you're a seasoned diver or a snorkeling enthusiast, Devil's Den promises an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Beyond the spring, the campground offers a peaceful retreat with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and relaxation. It's important to note that while the campground provides a convenient base for exploring the area, access to the spring often requires additional fees and reservations.
Our Review
Devil's Den Campground: A Diver's Paradise, Camper's Afterthought
Amy and I recently enjoyed a short getaway at Devil’s Den Campground. While the campground itself offered a convenient base for exploring the area, it’s clear the primary focus is on accommodating day visitors and divers.
The campground is well-situated, with easy access to the spring, bathhouse, and pool. Sites are grassy and mostly level, with standard amenities like water, electric hookups, and a dump station. However, we were surprised to find our site lacked a picnic table and grill, essential camping components.
The campground's proximity to the world-famous Devil’s Den Spring is undoubtedly its biggest draw. The spring’s stunning underwater formations are a must-see for snorkelers and divers alike. However, be prepared: access requires a reservation and additional fees. We recommend booking a midday visit to maximize the sunlight filtering through the spring’s opening.
While the campground offers a peaceful setting, it lacks amenities for children. The once-promising manmade ponds appear neglected. Given the campground’s primary focus on day visitors, we found the atmosphere more akin to a busy day-use area than a tranquil camping retreat.
Despite these shortcomings, Devil’s Den Spring is a truly unique natural wonder. If you're a diving enthusiast or simply looking for a quick base to explore the area, the campground serves its purpose. However, if you’re seeking a family-friendly camping experience with ample amenities, you might want to explore other options.
Hillsborough River State Park: A Nature Lover's Oasis
Hillsborough River State Park offers a serene escape just a short drive from bustling Tampa. This expansive park boasts diverse ecosystems, including riverbanks, forests, and wetlands, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
The campground within the park provides a comfortable base for exploring the area. With 112 campsites offering electric hookups, water, picnic tables, and fire rings, it caters to both tent campers and RVers. Amenities like laundry facilities, hot showers, and a dump station enhance the camping experience.
Beyond camping, the park offers a plethora of activities:
Hiking and biking: Explore the park's seven miles of trails, encountering diverse flora and fauna.
Water activities: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in the Hillsborough River.
Wildlife viewing: Keep an eye out for various bird species, alligators, and other wildlife.
Swimming: The park features a refreshing outdoor pool.
History: Learn about the area's rich history through its historic structures.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, Hillsborough River State Park promises a memorable experience.
Our Review
Hillsborough River State Park offers a wonderful escape into nature. Our campsite was well-equipped with water and electric hookups, and the convenient dump station and dumpster made clean-up a breeze. The spacious, private sites, complete with picnic tables, provided a comfortable home base for exploring the park's many treasures.
The park itself is a natural wonderland. Miles of hiking trails wind through diverse ecosystems, offering glimpses of alligators, turtles, and a vibrant array of birdlife. The opportunity to kayak on the river, including experiencing the unique Florida rapids, is an absolute must.
While the park's large, resort-style pool holds immense potential, its prolonged closure is a significant disappointment. We hope to see it restored in the future as it would undoubtedly enhance the overall camping experience.
The park's proximity to major attractions like Busch Gardens and Adventure Island makes it an ideal choice for families. Although it lacks some amenities found in privately owned campgrounds, the lower rates and stunning natural surroundings make Hillsborough River State Park a truly special place to camp. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and look forward to returning.
Fort Wilderness Campground: A Unique Disney Experience
Fort Wilderness Campground offers a truly immersive Disney experience, combining the magic of the parks with the charm of outdoor living. Nestled amidst pine and cypress trees, this sprawling campground provides a tranquil escape while still being conveniently located near the Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
With a variety of campsite options to suit different needs, from tent sites to RV hookups, Fort Wilderness caters to both casual campers and those seeking more luxurious accommodations. Amenities include picnic tables, grills, and access to clean restrooms and showers.
Beyond camping, the resort offers a range of activities and entertainment:
Transportation: Enjoy convenient transportation options like boats to Magic Kingdom and buses to other Disney parks.
Recreation: Explore the campground's trails, rent bikes or golf carts, or enjoy swimming at the pool.
Dining: Savor delicious meals at the campground's restaurants, including the iconic Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.
Entertainment: Experience nightly campfire sing-alongs, character meet-and-greets, and other family-friendly events.
Fort Wilderness Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a destination in itself, offering a unique blend of nature, Disney magic, and comfort.
Our Review
Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground is an unparalleled camping experience. While the nightly rates are undeniably steep, the exceptional amenities and immersive atmosphere make it a truly magical stay.
Campsite accommodations are comfortable and private, with full hookups and efficient trash removal. However, the occasional noise from campground buses might disrupt early sleepers.
Beyond the standard camping fare, Fort Wilderness offers a plethora of activities to keep everyone entertained. From a stunning pool complex to nightly bonfires and entertainment, there’s something for all ages. The opportunity to enjoy horseback riding, fishing, and even archery within the campground is truly unique. Plus, the convenience of watching the nightly Electrical Water Pageant and Magic Kingdom fireworks from the campground's waterfront is simply breathtaking.
The campground's meticulous maintenance is evident in its immaculate bathhouses and well-lit pathways. And for those who appreciate nature, the occasional visit from local wildlife, such as wild turkeys, adds an extra touch of enchantment.
While the price tag is undoubtedly high, the overall experience at Fort Wilderness is unforgettable. It’s a place where the magic of Disney seamlessly blends with the joys of camping.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: A Tropical Paradise
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a true gem of the Florida Keys. Renowned as the country's first undersea park, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the vibrant marine ecosystem.
The park's campground provides a convenient base for exploring both land and sea. With campsites offering water and electric hookups, it's a comfortable spot to unwind after a day of adventure.
Beyond camping, the park offers a plethora of activities:
Diving and snorkeling: Immerse yourself in the underwater world, teeming with colorful coral and marine life.
Glass-bottom boat tours: Experience the reef's beauty without getting wet.
Kayaking and canoeing: Explore the park's mangrove forests and coastal waters.
Fishing: Cast a line in hopes of catching a variety of fish species.
Hiking and beachcombing: Enjoy the park's natural beauty on land.
The park's visitor center boasts a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium and informative exhibits. Whether you're a seasoned water enthusiast or a casual nature lover, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park promises an unforgettable experience.
Our Review
John Pennekamp State Park offers an affordable gateway to the Florida Keys. While the campground itself is a typical state park setup with dirt roads and sites, it provides a comfortable base for exploring the area. Our campsite offered full hookups, and the park's amenities, including a dump station and communal trash area, were convenient.
The park's true allure lies in its aquatic offerings. The beach, though unique with its rocky shoreline and grassy underwater terrain, is suitable for snorkeling. The on-site aquarium is a fascinating introduction to Florida's marine life. For those with their own boats, the park provides convenient access to the water, and for those without, boat tours, rentals, and snorkeling excursions are readily available.
We visited during the summer, when the Florida heat and humidity were quite intense. Bug spray is an absolute must! While outdoor activities were limited due to the weather, the park's central location in Key Largo made it an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of the Keys.
Securing a reservation at any Florida Keys state park can be challenging, so we recommend joining the waitlist. Overall, John Pennekamp State Park is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a taste of the Keys. We plan to return during the cooler months to fully enjoy all the park has to offer.
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins in Auburndale, FL, offers a laid-back, tropical getaway perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Located in Central Florida, this resort combines the charm of lakeside living with the luxury of a Margaritaville experience.
With spacious RV sites and cozy cabin rentals, guests can enjoy top-notch amenities like a lagoon-style pool, tiki bar, and hot tubs. There's also a poolside restaurant, fitness center, and pickleball courts for recreation. The resort features live entertainment, fun-filled events, and activities to keep everyone entertained, making it a fantastic destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Close to local attractions like Legoland and the Chain of Lakes, Camp Margaritaville provides the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure in a paradise setting. Whether you're kicking back with a margarita by the pool or exploring nearby parks, this resort is an ideal escape for any traveler looking to enjoy the best of Florida in a unique, tropical atmosphere.
Our Review
Camp Margaritaville is, in our opinion, an incredible resort campground that offers the perfect blend of fun and relaxation. Whether you're planning a family trip with kids or an adults-only getaway, this is the ideal spot for a long weekend escape.
While the price is on the higher side, it's worth budgeting for the experience. The campground is very clean and compact enough to walk around, but having bikes or a golf cart will help you get around even faster. Though we didn’t bring our dogs this time, we definitely will next visit—there are plenty of pet-friendly areas.
The resort offers a full schedule of activities for kids throughout the day, along with live music to keep everyone entertained. You'll find great food and drinks available on-site, and they even host concerts at their indoor venue.
If you’re camping in Florida, this place should definitely be on your list!