Extensively battered by Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina, Fort Pickens reopened for business in 2009. Completed in 1839, the fort is the largest of four in the Pensacola area. It was abandoned after World War II, and opened as a National Park Service historic site in 1976.
The campground sits in a wooded area that provides excellent shade. A short wooden boardwalk with signs that explain the local plants and animals leads directly to the sugar sand beach. Ranger-led activities include fort tours and nature hikes.
Some campsites offer water and 30/50-amp electric hookups. “Primitive” sites with no hookups are available at a slightly lower rate. Sites feature paved parking pads and grills. Hot showers and flush toilets are offered at centrally located comfort stations. A small campground store offers firewood and basic camping essentials. National Park passes are accepted for discounted camping.
Fort Pickens
Gulf Islands National Seashore
1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
(850) 934-2600
nps.gov
Located on relatively undeveloped Long Key in the middle of the Florida Keys, Long Key State Park is one of the few Florida state campgrounds that permit camping directly on the beach. The park offers fishing, canoeing and hiking. Snorkeling and swimming are allowed in certain areas. Ranger programs include talks and guided hikes.
All sites offer water and your choice of 30-amp or 50-amp electric hookups. A dump station is available. The campground can accommodate RVs up to 45 feet in length. All sites provide picnic tables and grills. Restrooms offer hot showers and flush toilets.
Long Key State Park
67400 Overseas Highway
Long Key, FL 33001
(305) 664-4815
floridastateparks.org/longkey
Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Red Coconut RV Resort combines deluxe RV resort amenities with oceanfront camping. A clubhouse serves as the social hub, providing a full schedule of free and low-cost activities. Clean restrooms offer hot showers and flush toilets. Central laundry facilities are well maintained.
All sites offer 30-amp and 50-amp electric service, water and sewer connections and cable television. Sites are reasonably level, and are outfitted with concrete parking pads. Wireless Internet is provided throughout the resort, but the signal does not reach all sites. Rates are high, reflecting the resort’s beachfront location. A small daily utility fee is charged separately. No tent camping is permitted.
Red Coconut RV Resort
3001 Estero Boulevard
Fort Myers Beach FL 33931
(239) 463-7200 Extension 200
redcoconut.com
