Since my wife and I started camping four years ago, we have camped at least one weekend every month and for extended weekends during the summer months. Below is a short list of the County campgrounds that we visit each year.

Fort Desoto sits on the Island of Tierra Verdi just south of St Petersburg. This campground has two locations for camping. One circle is wooded and nearly every site backs up to inter coastal waters and the ones that are not water sites are pull through sites in the center. The other circle is not near the water, yet it is a much wooded campground. The campground is not large enough for long bicycle rides; however, one can ride a few miles farther south on a large paved path, this path allows riders to stay off the highway. This bicycle path will take you to South, Central, and North beaches as well as the old Fort. Many people use this bicycle path for enjoyable rides. In addition, there is a boat ramp and is a great campground for campers’ that enjoy fishing.

Savannas campground in Ft. Pierce is a place for relaxation. However, there is a hiking trail that leads to a lookout tower, a basketball court, and they have kayak and canoe rentals for the camper that would like a little exercise. Paddling a canoe in the canals around the campground in itself can be pretty relaxing. Most of the camping sites back up to the canals and some have full hookup. On the north end of the campground is a location for the camper that likes primitive camping.

Jetty Park located in Cape Canaveral is a campground with a lot to offer. The North side of the campground sits on the inter-coastal waters while the East side sits on the Atlantic Ocean. This campground has sites that will fit the camper wanting a primitive camp site to the camper with the big RV. Although this campground does not have a boat ramp, they do have a 1500 foot pier for the fisherman. Recreational activities include a playground, volley ball court, and horseshoes. There is a nice bike path around the South side of the campground that leads to the ocean. The office and camp store is located in the center of the campground, while the snack shop is located on the beach. In addition, this campground has an excellent view of the Space Shuttle launches, as well as Cruise Ships that are departing and arriving to the Cruise Port that sits just east of the campground.

Manatee Hammock located in Titusville is a tranquil place to enjoy the canopy of trees and the river’s edge. The campground activities include shuffleboard, volleyball, horseshoes, a 197 foot fishing pier, and swimming pool. In addition, there is a camp store and recreation hall with grill. On the East side of the campground is an open grassy area overlooking the river with a superb view of Shuttle launches at the Kennedy Space Center.

No matter which one of these campgrounds we visit, the day can be filled with things to do or just a day of being lazy. Most important, at the end of the day it’s nice to get out the outdoor camping grill and filling the air with the aroma of grilled food.

Article by Larry West