All Itineraries
3-Day Family-Friendly Florida Camping
Easy campgrounds with amenities, activities, and fun for all ages
3 Days
Central & South
Best: October – April
Easy1
Blue Spring — Meet the Manatees
Camp at: Blue Spring State Park
- Arrive at Blue Spring State Park (near Orange City)
- Nov–Mar: Watch manatees from the boardwalk — kids love it
- Apr–Oct: Swim and tube in the 72°F spring run
- Easy nature trails through oak hammock (stroller-friendly)
- Junior Ranger program available for kids
- Campfire with s'mores at your full-hookup site
💡 Tip: Blue Spring has full-hookup sites perfect for families. The camp store has firewood and snacks. Playground near the campground. Manatee viewing is free!
2
Fort De Soto — Beach Day
Camp at: Fort De Soto Park Campground
- Drive to Fort De Soto Park near St. Petersburg (2 hrs)
- North Beach has calm, shallow water — ideal for young kids
- Rent bikes with child seats and ride the 7-mile trail
- Explore the historic fort — kids can climb the battlements
- Fishing pier is great for casting with kids (no license needed on pier)
💡 Tip: Fort De Soto sites have water and electric. The beach has a natural wading area perfect for toddlers. Pack sand toys!
3
Hillsborough River — Canoe Adventure
Camp at: Hillsborough River State Park
- Short drive to Hillsborough River State Park (45 min)
- Rent canoes for a gentle river paddle (Class I rapids!)
- Florida's only rapids — they're tiny but kids think they're huge
- Swim in the pool area (seasonal)
- Easy nature trails through swamp and hardwood hammock
- Pack up and head home with happy campers
💡 Tip: Hillsborough River is close to Tampa — great for an easy last day. The 'rapids' are barely bumps but kids absolutely love them. Canoe rentals on-site.
