State Parks
Most of the state parks in Florida are concentrated on the coasts, and there are many on the Gulf Coast, from north all the way down to Key West. Some favorites include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo and Cedar Key Museum State Park, which was visited by naturalist John Muir.
City Parks
Many parks that allow camping are very close to cities on the Gulf of Mexico, from Pensacola to Sarasota to Naples. For instance, St. George Island has rows of homes adjacent to the protected park that allows camping. There are many RV parks located in Gulf cities as well.
North Florida
North Florida parks are known for their calm waters and the quiet, bright white sandy beaches. You can find primitive sites away from cities and many people.
South Florida
The only state parks on the Gulf Coast of South Florida exist in the Florida Keys. These combine the extreme blue waters and reefs with the nightlife of Key West.
Central Florida
The central parks are often close to springs and rivers, making them tourist destinations, with many activities such as the mermaid shows at Weeki-Wachee Springs, and Monkey Island in the brackish river at Homosassa Springs.
