Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

Star4.63
19 reviews
Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
Peace & QuietSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

7 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

An 1,800-foot sectio...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Opens Florida State Parks site

Official Website
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Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
No fees available
Campsite Fees
No fees or campsite rates are listed on the official park camping information. Primitive camping is permitted on the very north end of Anclote Key;...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Florida State Parks
Provider
(850) 245-2157
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What Campers Say

4.63

Top-Rated

Based on 19 reviews

1862 Google reviews

Most mentioned

waterbeach

Some mention

mosquitoes

"Visitors and reviewers praise the secluded, undeveloped island setting, clear blue water, white sand beaches and excellent boating, fishing and birdwatching; overall sentiment is very positive for those seeking primitive island camping. Main negatives are the lack of amenities, insects in warm months, and the need for boat access."

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Campground Map

Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

28.1662, -82.8441

Driving directionsIsland access is by boat; ferries operate from Tarpon Springs and New Port Richey. Overnight campers must arrange their own boat or paddlecraft.

Best Time to Camp at Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

Plan your island adventure between late fall and spring, when cooler temperatures, gentle breezes, and lower humidity create ideal camping conditions with fewer mosquitoes to contend with. Summer months bring intense heat, afternoon thunderstorms, and hungry insects, though the shoulder seasons of April and October can offer a sweet spot of warm days and manageable conditions. Always check marine forecasts before heading out—wind and wave conditions can change quickly on these exposed Gulf waters.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Top 17% in FL

Excellent swimming and boating in summer; Florida heat/humidity are a factor.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 6% in FL

Warm water, fewer crowds after peak season likely—great beach camping season.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 13% in FL

Pleasant temperatures, good wildlife activity and beach conditions for camping and swimming.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
4.0 / 5
Average

Mild Florida winters make island camping pleasant; water cooler but still scenic.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: An 1,800-foot section of Three Rooker beach is closed May 1 to August 1 for nesting. (No specific seasonal closures for the primitive camping area are listed on the official page.)

About Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

Escape to a true wilderness island experience at Anclote Key, where primitive camping awaits on the northern tip of this pristine barrier island. Accessible only by boat, this pack-in/pack-out adventure offers just you, the Gulf, and a single composting toilet—no frills, just unforgettable coastal solitude.
Primitive, undeveloped beach/barrier-island camping allowed only on the very north end of Anclote Key; campers must bring all supplies and select informal sites within the designated area.
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Activities you can enjoy

Beach and marine-focused activities including primitive beach camping, boating, fishing, snorkeling, swimming, shelling and birdwatching. The preserve is noted for shorebird nesting and abundant gulf waters for boating and snorkelers.
FishingFishing is described as outstanding; anglers report catches such as sea trout, redfish, snook and sharks.
SwimmingClear blue Gulf waters are good for swimming and snorkeling; there are no lifeguards and swimming is at your own risk.
Boating
Wildlife viewing
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsShorebird nesting areas require keeping distance; an 1,800-foot section of Three Rooker is closed May 1–Aug 1 for nesting. There are no lifeguards on duty and beach warning flags indicate swim conditions. Marine and weather hazards include open Gulf crossings to reach the island and variable seas; insects (notably mosquitoes) can be intense in warm months.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

Reviews

4.6
19 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitors and reviewers praise the secluded, undeveloped island setting, clear blue water, white sand beaches and excellent boating, fishing and birdwatching; overall sentiment is very positive for those seeking primitive island camping. Main negatives are the lack of amenities, insects in warm months, and the need for boat access.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews

What Campers Love

Secluded undeveloped island, clear water and white sand beaches, excellent birdwatching, great for boating/kayaking and snorkelers, outstanding fishing, beautiful sunrises/sunsets and dark skies for...
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Based on 19 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring all water and supplies and pack out trash; arrange reliable boat access and check marine/weather forecasts; bring strong insect protection and secure tents for wind and soft sand; choose high,...
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Based on 19 reviews

Camper Quotes

Great place if you have a boat; Beautiful water, great for shelling; Primitive, but that's what I like best!; Calm and clear water, very accessible for our boat.
Based on 19 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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