If you plan on doing some island hopping in the near future, with only a tent and backpack, consider heading to the Florida Keys.

With incredible weather, crystal blue waters, and outstanding ocean vistas, this archipelago stretches from Marathon, Florida, out into the Atlantic Ocean.

With amazing wildlife and intriguing history, don’t miss these five unforgettable campgrounds in the Florida Keys.

1. Boyd's Key West Campground

Located on the beautiful island of Key West, Boyd’s Campground has plenty of sites and a breathtaking view. With 250 sites, you are always just a stone’s throw from the water’s edge. Kayaking, snorkeling, body-surfing, fishing, and shell-collecting are just a few of the many outdoor activities available to campers.

If you’re feeling adventurous, head out of the campground to the Dry Tortugas National Park or Ernest Hemingway’s house. This campground is the perfect spot at the most southern point of the United States to enjoy a family camping trip or a secluded getaway.

2. Bluewater Key RV Resort

Right off of Highway 1 is the Bluewater Resort, offering 81 sites and a boat ramp for all manner of fun boating experiences. Kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, or sailing are all close at hand when you camp at Bluewater Resort, and the campground also includes a RV wash and laundry facilities.

For adventures off the beach, head to the Shipwreck Museum or lounge around at Blue Resort, where some sites even have full tiki bars.

3. Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge

At mile marker 33, you’ll see Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge, a full-service campground with 166 sites ranging from $79 to $86, which are good prices for this area. Big Pine Key is a protected environment of the Key Deer, an endangered species that only stands 2½ feet off the ground.

The Big Pine Key island is centrally located in the archipelago and boasts some of the clearest waters around, perfect for fishing, kayaking, and boating. Because it’s a protected area, you will likely see a lot of wildlife during your visit. Don’t forget to bring the right gear to ward off the intense Florida sun.

4. Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda has some of the most pristine beaches in the keys. Known as a romantic destination, Bahia Honda State Park is often the site for weekend getaways and anniversary trips.

Try to plan ahead as this is a very popular spot, and it is worth the effort to book a site on the water so you can enjoy the spectacular sunsets to the west. You will be astounded by the gorgeous crystalline waters and sugar sand beaches.

5. El Mar RV Resort

This campground on the very last island of the archipelago has 11 sites, which is just about perfect for some. With 6 sites on the water and 5 non-water sites, you can truly feel as if you have escaped from the stresses of modern life. 

Make a trip to the Key West Lighthouse or simply laze around your campsite in your camping gear and watch the iguanas. There’s no wrong way to enjoy this Key West campground unless you miss all the breathtaking sunsets.

As the most southern U.S. point, Key West occupies a unique place in the United States’ cultural history. Chock full of swashbuckling stories and gorgeous vistas, you can’t get closer to the waterfront than these camping spots in the Florida Keys.