Dreaming of escaping the winter chill and embracing warm sunshine and coastal breezes? For snowbird RV enthusiasts, Florida offers the ultimate retreat. With its endless stretches of sandy beaches, vibrant cities, and a wide selection of RV-friendly parks from Fort Myers to Clearwater, the Sunshine State has everything you need for a winter escape. Read on as we explore why Florida is the top choice for snowbirds looking to enjoy the best of RV living while soaking up the sun.
Florida’s Winter Weather: Why Snowbirds Flock to the Sunshine State
Florida’s winter weather is one of the biggest draws for snowbirds seeking to escape the cold and enjoy the best of RV living. With temperatures typically ranging from the mid-60s to the low 80s, the Sunshine State offers a mild, comfortable climate perfect for outdoor activities year-round. Snowbirds can bask in the warm sun, enjoy cool ocean breezes, and wake up to clear blue skies almost every day—creating the ideal environment for beachside relaxation, exploring nature trails, or setting up camp at a picturesque RV park.
Unlike other destinations that may still experience chilly spells or rainy seasons, Florida’s consistent warmth and sunshine make it a haven for RV enthusiasts who crave a stress-free, sun-soaked retreat all winter long.
Navigating Florida in an RV
Florida is generally easy to navigate in an RV. The state has a well-maintained network of highways, including major routes like I-95, I-75, and the Florida Turnpike, all of which are RV-friendly and provide smooth driving conditions. Many of the popular destinations and parks have accessible RV parking and pull-through sites, making it convenient for snowbirds to explore.
However, it’s important to plan ahead, as some areas—especially tourist hotspots and coastal roads—can experience heavy traffic during peak winter months. Keeping a GPS or navigation app handy is recommended to find the best routes and avoid congested areas.
Top RV Parks in Florida for a Warm Winter Getaway
Florida hosts a range of RV parks, giving snowbirds options suited to every want and need, with many campgrounds conveniently located near top beaches, natural attractions, and vibrant cities. Browse this list of some of the top RV parks in Florida for snowbird RVers, ensuring a warm, scenic, and adventure-filled winter season.
1. Fort Myers RV Resort (Fort Myers, FL)
Located near the Gulf Coast, this resort offers convenient access to stunning beaches, golf courses, and shopping. With full hookups, a heated pool, and organized activities for guests, it’s a popular spot for snowbirds looking to enjoy both relaxation and community.
2. Clearwater Travel Resort (Clearwater, FL)
Situated minutes away from Clearwater Beach, this park is perfect for RVers who want to experience Florida’s best coastal living. The park features spacious sites, a heated pool, and easy access to fishing, boating, and waterfront dining.
3. Bluewater Key RV Resort (Key West, FL)
For those craving a tropical paradise, Bluewater Key offers a luxury experience with private sites surrounded by lush landscaping and crystal-clear waters. Snowbirds can enjoy their own piece of the Keys, complete with docks, tiki huts, and a laid-back island vibe.
4. Henderson Beach State Park (Destin, FL)
This park combines the natural beauty of Florida’s Emerald Coast with the convenience of an RV-friendly setup. With easy access to white-sand beaches and coastal dunes, it’s a top spot for RVers who want to immerse themselves in nature while escaping the winter chill.
5. Jetty Park Campground (Cape Canaveral, FL)
Located along the Space Coast, Jetty Park Campground is a great choice for snowbirds who love both beach and adventure. With fishing piers, stunning beach views, and a chance to watch rocket launches, it’s a unique and exciting option for winter RV getaways.
6. Tampa East RV Resort (Tampa, FL)
Offering a central location, Tampa East RV Resort provides easy access to Tampa’s urban attractions, as well as beautiful beaches and wildlife preserves. With a full range of amenities, including pools, sports courts, and social activities, it’s perfect for those who want both city life and natural beauty.
7. Sunshine Key RV Resort & Marina (Big Pine Key, FL)
For a coastal paradise in the Florida Keys, Sunshine Key RV Resort is a top choice. Snowbirds can enjoy direct water access for fishing and boating, while nearby attractions like Bahia Honda State Park offer some of the best snorkeling spots in the state.
8. Bahia Honda State Park (Big Pine Key, FL)
Famous for its turquoise waters and coral reefs, Bahia Honda State Park is a dream destination for snowbird RVers who love outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. The park offers full RV hookups with an unbeatable beachfront view, making it a must-visit spot for winter travelers.
9. Naples Motorcoach Resort & Boat Club (Naples, FL)
A luxury RV destination on Florida’s Gulf Coast, this resort offers upscale amenities like a private marina, infinity pools, and a fitness center. Snowbirds can enjoy both high-end relaxation and easy access to Naples’ dining, shopping, and golf courses.
10. Orlando RV Resort (Clermont, FL)
For snowbirds who want a mix of nature and theme park fun, Orlando RV Resort is an excellent choice. Located in a peaceful setting, yet close enough to Orlando’s attractions, this park offers spacious sites, lakes for fishing, and plenty of activities for a perfect winter getaway.
Coastal Bliss: Exploring Florida’s Best Beaches in Your RV
No trip to Florida is complete without endless days by the state’s iconic sandy beaches. Here are some of Florida’s best beaches and everything you need to know before exploring in your RV.
1. Clearwater Beach (Clearwater, FL)
Location: Situated on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Clearwater Beach is a popular destination for its soft, white sands and crystal-clear waters.
What to Do: Enjoy beachside activities like parasailing, jet-skiing, or a relaxing walk along Pier 60, where you can catch stunning sunsets and live entertainment. Visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium or take a dolphin-watching cruise for more family fun.
RV Parking: RVs can park at the Clearwater Beach Recreation Complex, offering limited oversized vehicle spots close to the beach. Alternatively, nearby RV parks like Clearwater Travel Resort offer convenient access to the beach with shuttle services.
2. Siesta Key Beach (Sarasota, FL)
Location: Located on Siesta Key, just off the coast of Sarasota, this beach is famous for its powdery, white quartz sand that stays cool underfoot.
What to Do: Perfect for swimming, beach volleyball, and sunbathing, Siesta Key Beach also has playgrounds and picnic areas for families. Don’t miss the Siesta Key Drum Circle on Sunday evenings for an eclectic experience of music and dancing.
RV Parking: While Siesta Key Beach itself has limited parking for larger RVs, nearby Turtle Beach Campground offers RV-friendly sites with direct beach access. From there, you can take a short drive or bike ride to the main beach.
3. St. Augustine Beach (St. Augustine, FL)
Location: On Florida’s northeast coast, this beach is part of the nation’s oldest city, providing a blend of history and beautiful shores.
What to Do: Aside from relaxing on the sandy beach, explore the St. Augustine Lighthouse or take a scenic stroll down the historic district. Water sports like kayaking and surfing are popular, and the fishing pier offers great views and catches.
RV Parking: Anastasia State Park, located just minutes from the beach, offers RV sites with full hookups and easy access to the shoreline. RVers can also park at St. Augustine Beach’s public parking areas, though availability for large RVs may be limited during peak times.
4. Fort Myers Beach (Fort Myers, FL)
Location: Situated on Estero Island, Fort Myers Beach is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it a favorite for families.
What to Do: Spend the day swimming, paddleboarding, or exploring Times Square for shopping and dining. Visit Lovers Key State Park for a chance to spot dolphins and manatees or to bike along scenic trails.
RV Parking: RVs can park at Lovers Key State Park, which has spaces for oversized vehicles and easy beach access. For more extended stays, Red Coconut RV Park offers beachfront RV sites directly on the sand, making it a perfect base for snowbirds.
5. Daytona Beach (Daytona Beach, FL)
Location: Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Daytona Beach is iconic for its 23-mile stretch of hard-packed sand, perfect for beach driving.
What to Do: Take your RV right onto the beach for a unique experience, or enjoy the vibrant boardwalk filled with rides, arcades, and oceanfront dining. For motor enthusiasts, the Daytona International Speedway offers tours and events year-round.
RV Parking: Daytona Beach offers designated beach access points where RVs can park directly on the sand. However, spaces are limited, and it’s advised to arrive early. Additionally, RV parks like Daytona Beach KOA offer shuttle services to the beach.
6. Destin Beach (Destin, FL)
Location: Situated on Florida’s Emerald Coast, Destin Beach is known for its emerald-green waters and sugar-white sands.
What to Do: Enjoy fishing off the pier, snorkeling, or dolphin-watching cruises. The nearby Destin Harbor Boardwalk offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options for a full day of fun.
RV Parking: Henderson Beach State Park, just a short drive from the main beach, provides RV campsites with beach access, picnic areas, and nature trails. For day visits, oversized parking lots are available but can fill up quickly during peak times.
7. Hollywood Beach (Hollywood, FL)
Location: Situated between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Hollywood Beach offers a lively atmosphere with its famous Broadwalk and stunning beach views.
What to Do: Walk or bike along the two-and-a-half-mile Broadwalk, lined with shops, cafes, and bars. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
RV Parking: While there is limited RV parking directly on Hollywood Beach, nearby parks like Topeekeegee Yugnee (TY) Park offer RV-friendly sites and shuttles to the beach. Arriving early is key to securing parking near the beach.
8. Sanibel Island (Sanibel, FL)
Location: Off the coast of Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is famous for its shell-filled beaches and serene natural environment.
What to Do: Collect seashells, explore J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge for bird-watching, or rent a kayak to paddle through mangrove forests. It’s a peaceful spot for those who enjoy nature and tranquility.
RV Parking: RV parking on the island is limited, but Periwinkle Park and Campground offers RV sites and is centrally located, providing convenient access to Sanibel’s beaches and attractions.
RV-Friendly Destinations: A Guide to Florida’s Best Snowbird Stops
Florida’s sunny weather, diverse landscapes, and iconic attractions make it the perfect place to explore in your RV this winter. Each stop offers a unique adventure from the historic charm of St. Augustine to the tropical beauty of the Florida Keys. Whether you’re craving beachside relaxation or thrilling outdoor activities, Florida has it all. Buckle up and explore the best snowbird destinations the Sunshine State has to offer!
1. Everglades National Park (Homestead, FL)
As one of the most iconic natural wonders in Florida, Everglades National Park offers snowbirds a chance to explore unique ecosystems filled with mangroves, swamps, and a variety of wildlife, including alligators and manatees.
What to Do: Take an airboat tour for a thrilling ride through the wetlands, go bird-watching on one of the many trails, or kayak through the Ten Thousand Islands. Visitors can also enjoy ranger-led programs that offer insights into the park’s diverse environment.
RV Accessibility: The Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground within the park offer RV sites with hookups, making it easy for RVers to park and enjoy extended stays while exploring the park’s beauty.
2. St. Augustine Historic District (St. Augustine, FL)
As the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine is rich in history and charm, making it a must-visit for RVers who love culture and history.
What to Do: Wander the cobblestone streets, visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, or explore the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The district also features unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, providing plenty to do for an entire day or more.
RV Accessibility: Anastasia State Park, located just minutes from the historic district, offers RV-friendly sites and easy beach access. Alternatively, several RV parks near St. Augustine provide convenient shuttle services to the historic area.
3. Florida Keys Scenic Highway (Key Largo to Key West, FL)
The Florida Keys Scenic Highway is an iconic drive that offers snowbirds stunning ocean views, charming coastal towns, and numerous outdoor activities.
What to Do: Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for snorkeling, visit Bahia Honda State Park for pristine beaches, and explore the vibrant nightlife and culture of Key West. The drive itself is an experience, with plenty of scenic overlooks and fresh seafood spots along the way.
RV Accessibility: Many campgrounds along the route, like Sunshine Key RV Resort and Boyd’s Key West Campground, offer RV-friendly amenities and stunning waterfront sites, making it easy for RVers to soak in the coastal beauty.
4. Walt Disney World Resort (Orlando, FL)
A trip to Florida isn’t complete without experiencing the magic of Walt Disney World, and RVers can enjoy all the excitement while staying nearby.
What to Do: Explore the four iconic theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Don’t forget to check out the Disney Springs area for shopping and dining or take a boat ride around the resort’s lakes.
RV Accessibility: Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers a premium RV experience with full hookups, shuttle service to the parks, and amenities like pools, horseback riding, and nature trails. It’s the perfect base for RVers wanting to immerse themselves in Disney magic.
5. The Kennedy Space Center (Cape Canaveral, FL)
For those fascinated by space exploration, the Kennedy Space Center offers a thrilling look at NASA’s space programs, launch sites, and interactive exhibits.
What to Do: Tour the Space Shuttle Atlantis, watch a rocket launch if your timing is right, or experience astronaut training simulators. The center’s exhibits and hands-on activities make it a fun and educational stop for all ages.
RV Accessibility: Jetty Park Campground, located nearby, is a great option for RVers. It offers waterfront sites, beach access, and proximity to the Space Center, allowing visitors to easily explore the area’s attractions.
6. Naples Botanical Garden (Naples, FL)
The Naples Botanical Garden is a lush, tropical garden that offers snowbirds a tranquil escape filled with vibrant plant life and themed garden areas, perfect for those who love nature and gardening.
What to Do: Stroll through the Brazilian Garden, Asian Garden, or Children’s Garden, and take part in guided tours or gardening workshops. The garden’s art installations and water features add to its scenic beauty.
RV Accessibility: RV parks like Naples Motorcoach Resort & Boat Club offer luxury amenities and are located nearby, providing convenient access for snowbirds wanting to explore Naples and its attractions.
7. Shopping in Miami (Miami, FL)
Miami is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury boutiques and designer outlets to unique local markets. It’s a must-visit for snowbirds looking to enjoy a mix of high-end retail, vibrant culture, and a lively atmosphere.
What to Do: Explore the upscale shops at the Design District and Bal Harbour Shops, or stroll through the open-air Bayside Marketplace for a blend of shopping, dining, and waterfront views. For a local flavor, visit the Art Deco-inspired Lincoln Road Mall or hunt for treasures at the Miami Design District’s antique markets.
RV Accessibility: While Miami’s urban layout can be challenging for RV parking, nearby RV parks like Miami Everglades RV Resort and Larry and Penny Thompson Park offer convenient stays. From there, you can use public transit or rideshares to reach Miami’s shopping hotspots with ease.
8. Cedar Key (Cedar Key, FL)
For a taste of “Old Florida,” Cedar Key provides a quiet, laid-back destination with charming shops, art galleries, and stunning sunsets.
What to Do: Enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, paddle through salt marshes, or visit the Cedar Key Historical Museum. The area is perfect for bird-watching and fishing, offering a glimpse into Florida’s natural coastal beauty.
RV Accessibility: RV-friendly sites are available at Cedar Key RV Resort, which provides full hookups and a serene atmosphere. The park’s location allows easy access to the island’s attractions while offering a peaceful retreat.
9. Destin Harbor Boardwalk (Destin, FL)
Located along the Emerald Coast, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk is known for its lively atmosphere, fresh seafood, and stunning views of the Gulf.
What to Do: Stroll the boardwalk for shopping, dining, and entertainment, or hop on a boat tour for dolphin watching and fishing adventures. The beautiful beaches and harbor views make it an excellent destination for a fun day out.
RV Accessibility: Henderson Beach State Park, nearby, offers RV sites with beach access, making it a convenient spot for snowbirds looking to stay close to Destin’s attractions while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
10. Universal Studios Florida (Orlando, FL)
Universal Studios is a must-visit for snowbirds seeking thrilling entertainment and theme park magic. It offers a world of movie-inspired attractions, from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to epic roller coasters and immersive shows.
What to Do: Explore Diagon Alley, hop on the Jurassic World VelociCoaster, or enjoy interactive experiences like the Minions ride. Universal CityWalk also provides a great spot for dining, shopping, and nightlife.
RV Accessibility: RVers can stay at nearby campsites like Orlando RV Resort, which offers convenient shuttle services to the park. For those staying at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, transport to Universal is also available, making it easy to enjoy all the excitement.
Discover Florida’s National Parks and Hike the Trails
A highlight of any snorbirder’s RV trip around Florida is the national parks, offering adventure, beautiful nature, and wildlife. Whether you’re chasing gators or just soaking up some sun, these parks are the ultimate escape from winter’s chill. So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore Florida’s wild side, one hike at a time!
1. Everglades National Park
The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., hiking trails in the Everglades National Park are home to diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, marshes, and forests. It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot alligators, manatees, and a variety of bird species.
Top Hikes:
Anhinga Trail: The Anhinga Trail is a short, 0.8-mile loop trail is perfect for observing wildlife up close. It’s a paved and boardwalk path, making it accessible for all visitors and an excellent spot for spotting alligators, turtles, and wading birds.
Gumbo Limbo Trail: A quick 0.4-mile loop that takes you through a shaded, lush hammock forest. It’s a great complement to the Anhinga Trail for those looking to explore the Everglades’ plant life.
Pa-Hay-Okee Overlook Trail: This short, 0.16-mile boardwalk offers panoramic views of the “River of Grass.” It’s an ideal spot for bird-watching and catching the sunset over the sawgrass prairie.
2. Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park’s hikes are a paradise for water lovers, offering a mix of coral reefs, mangrove forests, and marine wildlife just a short distance from Miami. While it’s mostly a marine park, there are some excellent land-based exploration opportunities.
Top Hikes:
Convoy Point Trail: This short, 0.5-mile trail near the visitor center is perfect for learning about the park’s ecosystems. The trail offers views of Biscayne Bay and leads through mangroves and coastal habitats, making it a peaceful spot for a stroll.
Elliott Key Spite Highway Trail: Accessible by boat, this 7-mile trail runs the length of Elliott Key, the park’s largest island. It offers a chance to hike through tropical hardwood hammocks and enjoy secluded, scenic views.
3. Big Cypress National Preserve
Bordering the Everglades, Big Cypress National Preserve features a blend of swampland and forest, providing a critical habitat for the endangered Florida panther and other wildlife. It’s a fantastic park for hiking and nature exploration.
Top Hikes:
Gator Hook Trail: A 5.6-mile out-and-back trail that takes you through cypress swamps, offering a chance to see orchids, wildlife, and the area’s diverse plant life. Be prepared for wet conditions, especially during the rainy season.
Kirby Storter Boardwalk: This easy 1-mile boardwalk trail leads visitors through the cypress swamp, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and photography. It’s a great spot for seeing alligators and bird species without wading into the swamp.
4. Canaveral National Seashore
Located along Florida’s east coast, this protected seashore offers a mix of pristine beaches, dunes, and coastal ecosystems. It’s a great destination for those who love both beach hikes and wildlife encounters.
Top Hikes:
Castle Windy Trail: A 1.5-mile round-trip hike that meanders through coastal scrub and oak hammock. It’s perfect for seeing native plant life and provides access to a secluded shell-midden site with views of the Mosquito Lagoon.
Turtle Mound Trail: This short, 0.3-mile hike takes you to the top of a prehistoric shell mound, offering panoramic views of the coast and lagoon. It’s a quick but scenic hike that showcases the area’s natural and archaeological history.
5. Gulf Islands National Seashore
Spanning both Florida and Mississippi, the Gulf Islands National Seashore is known for its stunning white-sand beaches and coastal dunes. It’s an ideal park for beach lovers and those interested in coastal ecosystems.
Top Hikes:
Fort Pickens Trail: A 2.5-mile round-trip hike located on Santa Rosa Island, this trail takes you through dunes and historical ruins of Fort Pickens. It’s a great combination of nature and history with views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Johnson Beach Discovery Trail: A 0.75-mile boardwalk trail on Perdido Key that offers views of dunes, wetlands, and the Gulf’s emerald waters. It’s a family-friendly hike perfect for bird-watching and spotting coastal wildlife.
Tips for Snowbirds exploring Florida in an RV
| Tip | Details |
| Plan & Book Early | Reserve RV spots and campgrounds early to secure prime locations, as Florida is a popular snowbird destination. |
| Pack Smart for Mild Weather | Bring light layers for cooler evenings and plenty of sun protection like hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses for the daytime. |
| Choose RV-Friendly Routes | Stick to well-traveled highways like I-75, I-95, and the Florida Turnpike, which are RV-friendly and well-maintained. These routes provide easy access to major attractions and have plenty of rest stops for breaks. |
| Take Advantage of RV Clubs | Join RV clubs for discounts on campgrounds and local services, and to connect with fellow snowbirds for social activities. |
| Explore Beyond the Beaches | Discover Florida’s diverse landscapes, from state parks and wildlife reserves to historic towns and cultural attractions. |
| Embrace Local Events | Check out local festivals, farmers’ markets, and live music events to fully immerse in Florida’s lively culture and vibe. |
| Be Ready for Weather Changes | Though Florida’s winter is mild, be prepared for occasional weather changes or showers, and always stay informed. |
Ready, Set, Sunshine: Your Florida Adventure Awaits!
So, snowbirds, as you embark on your sun-soaked RV adventure through Florida, remember to stick to well-maintained roads, visit the stunning beaches, embrace nature, and have fun at Florida’s endless attractions. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, exploring hiking trails, or screaming on rollercoasters, Florida’s got the magic to keep you coming back winter after winter. Now, all that’s left is to hit the road and let the fun begin—don’t forget your sunscreen!
FAQs
Are there RV parks with long-term rental options in Florida?
Yes, Florida has numerous RV parks that offer long-term rental options, especially for snowbirds. Popular areas like Fort Myers, Clearwater, and the Florida Keys have RV resorts with discounted monthly rates and amenities like pools, Wi-Fi, and social activities.
Is it easy to find RV-friendly beaches in Florida?
Absolutely! Many of Florida’s beaches, such as those in Destin, St. Augustine, and Daytona Beach, have nearby RV parks with easy beach access. Some even offer direct beachfront RV sites, like Red Coconut RV Park in Fort Myers Beach.
Do I need a special license to drive an RV in Florida?
No, you do not need a special license to drive a standard RV in Florida as long as it is under 26,000 pounds. Most RV models fall within this range, making it easy for snowbirds to navigate Florida’s roads with a regular driver’s license.
Are there any discounts available for RV campgrounds in Florida?
Yes, many RV parks in Florida offer discounts for members of RV clubs like Good Sam, Passport America, or Escapees. Additionally, state parks often provide senior discounts and seasonal specials, making it more affordable to explore the Sunshine State.
How do I avoid crowded RV parks and traffic in Florida?
To avoid crowds, book your sites well in advance, especially in popular destinations. Traveling during weekdays or early mornings can help you dodge traffic. Exploring less touristy areas, such as the Nature Coast or inland parks, is also a great way to find peaceful spots.
