How much does camping cost at Elliot Key Campground?

Camping fees at Elliot Key Campground range from $25-$60/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Elliot Key Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Elliot Key Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Elliot Key Campground before I book?

Yes! Elliot Key Campground has 2 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Elliot Key Campground?

Elliot Key Campground is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Elliot Key Campground?

Yes, Elliot Key Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Elliot Key Campground have?

Elliot Key Campground has 33 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Elliot Key Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Elliot Key Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Elliot Key Campground?

Elliot Key Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Elliot Key Campground?

Popular activities at Elliot Key Campground include Hiking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Elliot Key Campground

4.20

46 reviews

null

Top 21%Winter

Featured in:Camping Near Biscayne National Park#2 Camping Near Everglades National Park

Quick Facts

Price

$25 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

33 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

$25 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

33 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Elliot Key Campground

$25.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping and Docking (Fri-Mon): $60.00; Campsite Only Up to 6 people 2 tents: $25.00; Docking and Campsite Up to 6 People and 2 Tents: $35.00;...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(305) 230-1144BISC_Information@nps.gov

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Elliot Key Campground

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

null

Elliot Key Campground

null

Nearby places

null

Weather at Elliot Key Campground

Current alerts(1)

Elliott Key is only accessible by boat. No services are available on the island. This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Once all designated campsites are filled, there will be no additional space allowed for overnight camping.

Best Time to Camp at Elliot Key Campground

Best season: winter. Winter offers the most comfortable island camping with lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and steady cooling breezes that make hiking, boating, snorkeling, and fishing much more pleasant (typical highs ~70–76°F, lows ~60–65°F). Sea conditions are often calmer and clearer, so water activities and wildlife viewing are at their peak and snorkeling visibility is best. Expect higher visitation on winter weekends and holidays, so plan boat transport and arrive early for first-come, first-served camps. Peak months: January, February, December, March Avoid: September, October

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.5 / 5

Top 21% in US

Winter noted as best: lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, calmer seas for snorkeling and fishing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Elliot Key Campground

Elliot Key Campground sits on a barrier island in Biscayne National Park, accessible only by boat. The National Park Service operates this mid-sized facility with flush toilets, showers, and potable water. Campers hike island trails, fish surrounding waters, and snorkel coral reefs during the winter season when mosquitoes ease and sea conditions calm.

The campground primarily caters to tent and boat-in campers, with no reservation system in place. All sites are first-come, first-served and require arrival for payment through a scan-and-pay system.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: winter. Winter offers the most comfortable island camping with lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and steady cooling breezes that make hiking, boating, snorkeling, and fishing much more pleasant (typical highs ~70–76°F, lows ~60–65°F). Sea conditions are often calmer and clearer, so water activities and wildlife viewing are at their peak and snorkeling visibility is best. Expect higher visitation on winter weekends and holidays, so plan boat transport and arrive early for first-come, first-served camps. Peak months: January, February, December, March Avoid: September, October

Elevationnull

Natural Features and SceneryThe island supports a maritime forest of tropical hardwoods, rare in the continental United States. Trails wind through the forest to beaches where clear water meets the Atlantic. Wildlife includes manatees offshore and songbirds in the canopy. The turquoise waters around the island offer good visibility for snorkeling when conditions cooperate. Reviews consistently mention the beauty of the trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The forest provides shade, but the island's humidity and insect populations reflect its tropical location.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available on the island.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Null

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

Group camping details are not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made using the Recreation.gov mobile app.

AccessibilityThere is insufficient information about specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities.

Site SizeSpecific sizes of campsites are not detailed.

PrivacyThe privacy levels of campsites are not explicitly provided.

Total Campsites33 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommended to camp during breezy or cooler days to minimize bug activity. Explore the perimeter for the best views.

Need help booking Elliot Key Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Elliott Key Campground offers essential amenities such as restrooms with sinks, cold water showers, picnic tables, and grills. Drinking water is available on-site, but visitors are advised to bring their own water as a precaution in case of generator failure. The campground also has 33 boat slips available in the marina. There are no sales facilities, so campers should bring all necessary supplies. The site operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors must pay for their site using the Recreation.gov app due to limited cell connectivity. "Showers and restrooms very awesome to have available," one user commented. "The facilities are clean and nice," noted another. However, some reviews raised concerns about compliance with campground rules and the absence of on-site personnel.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Elliott Key Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The mile-long loop trail and the six-mile Spite Highway are popular for hiking and offer scenic views of maritime forests. Fishing is allowed at designated areas such as the maintenance dock and shoreline outside the no-wake zone, with applicable regulations. "Great trails, enjoy it while it is cool," noted one user. Picnicking facilities with tables and grills are available. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with opportunities to see the local fauna.

Hiking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Elliot Key Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.2

46 reviews

Satisfactory

Elliot Key Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Elliott Key Campground is praised for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and unique accessibility by boat. However, many reviews highlight issues with mosquitoes and no-see-ums, especially during warmer months. Noise disturbances from other campers and lack of on-site personnel for rule enforcement are also noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 46 reviews

What Campers Love

Users enjoy the beautiful trails, wildlife viewing, and the peaceful environment. Clean facilities and the opportunity to fish and boat are additional highlights. "The facilities are clean and nice,"...

Based on 46 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitoes and no-see-ums are a recurring problem. Noise disturbances from other campers and lack of on-site personnel for rule enforcement are common concerns.

Based on 46 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews about specific campsite conditions emphasize the need for bug spray and the challenges with site marking and noise disturbances. No specific site numbers are highlighted as the best or worst.

Based on 46 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray and prepare for challenging insect conditions. Visit during the winter for fewer bugs and cooler weather. Ensure you're well-equipped, as there are no sales facilities on-site.

Based on 46 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter is the preferred season due to fewer bugs and cooler weather. Summer visits are challenging due to heavy mosquito activity.

Based on 46 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great trails, enjoy it while it is cool." "Bring DEET there is plenty of mosquito activity." "People who visit that place are nice and friendly." "Must have a boat to get to it, but worth it."

Based on 46 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited information is available, but no user comments specifically address accessibility.

Based on 46 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on leashes in developed areas. "It is a relaxing place where you can enjoy the nature and bring your dog in a safe and different environment," wrote one user.

Based on 46 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Elliot Key Campground

$25.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping and Docking (Fri-Mon): $60.00; Campsite Only Up to 6 people 2 tents: $25.00; Docking and Campsite Up to 6 People and 2 Tents: $35.00;...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(305) 230-1144BISC_Information@nps.gov

Go if

You have boat access and want island camping with amenities during the winter dry season.

Skip if

You need drive-up access or want to avoid seasonal mosquitoes and group noise.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.5

(101)

Boca Chita Campground

Biscayne National Park

Boca Chita Campground sits on a small island in Biscayne National Park, accessible only by private boat or charter. The National Park Service operates this primitive waterfront site where campers snorkel over nearby reefs, kayak turquoise shallows, and watch wading birds from a historic lighthouse island. Winter brings the calmest seas and clearest water, with far fewer mosquitoes than the humid summer months.

$25.00 - $60.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.4

(22)

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Campground

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park sits on the southern tip of Key Biscayne and offers a long Atlantic beachfront, coastal dunes, maritime hammock and mangrove wetlands. The park highlights include the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse, beach access, trails and picnic facilities; there is no public campground with reservable individual campsites (only limited primitive group or boat camping uses).

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

102601 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Nestled within America's first undersea park, this intimate campground puts you steps away from some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the continental United States. With 47 sites featuring modern amenities and full hookups, you'll enjoy comfortable camping while glass-bottom boats, snorkeling adventures, and diving excursions await just beyond your tent or RV. It's the perfect blend of convenience and natural wonder in the heart of the Upper Keys.

$0.50 - $8.00 / night

Campgrounds you may also like

Frequently Visited

4.5

(101)

Boca Chita Campground

Biscayne National Park

$25.00 - $60.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.2

(323)

Long Pine Key Campground

40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034, USA

Long Pine Key Campground sits in Everglades National Park near Homestead, operated by Flamingo Adventures. This large campground offers tent, RV, and primitive camping with flush toilets, showers, and a dump station. Visitors explore the park's wetlands and wildlife from a well-maintained base with fire rings, picnic tables, and educational programming nearby.

Bear Island Campground

33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, 34141

Bear Island Campground sits deep in Big Cypress National Preserve, reached by a 20-mile gravel road from Ochopee. Operated by the National Park Service, this mid-sized campground offers primitive tent and RV sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables amid the preserve's cypress strands and wet prairies. Visitors come for winter wildlife viewing, birding, and freshwater fishing when the dry season concentrates animals into accessible sloughs.

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

Everglades National Park

Flamingo Campground sits at the southern tip of Everglades National Park, where Florida Bay meets the mangrove wilderness. Operated by Flamingo Adventures, this low-elevation campground serves as a base for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing in one of the country's most distinctive ecosystems. Sites range from electric hookups for RVs to primitive walk-in options, with a marina store, showers, and dump station on-site.

Burns Lake Campground

52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL, USA, 34141

Burns Lake Campground sits in Big Cypress National Preserve near Ochopee, operated by the National Park Service with a 10-day stay limit. This small, budget-friendly campground offers tent, RV, and primitive camping with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables in the low-elevation Everglades ecosystem. Visitors fish, watch wildlife, and enjoy dark skies during the fall and winter season when water levels drop and migratory birds pass through.

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Frequently Visited

4.0

(100)

Mitchell Landing Campground

33100 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141

Mitchell Landing Campground sits in Big Cypress National Preserve near Ochopee, Florida, operated by the National Park Service. This small, budget-friendly campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables in a quiet, secluded setting ideal for wildlife viewing and stargazing. Open seasonally during peak months, it attracts visitors seeking a low-key base for exploring the preserve's trails, waterways, and abundant birdlife.

$24.00 - $24.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.3

(915)

Midway Campground (Fl)

52105 Tamiami Trail East, Ochopee, FL 34141, USA

Midway Campground sits in Big Cypress National Preserve near Ochopee, operated by the National Park Service. This mid-sized campground offers electric hookups, a dump station, and flush toilets for tent and RV campers exploring the preserve's wetlands and wildlife corridors. Level sites with fire rings and picnic tables provide a base for visiting Shark Valley and the Oasis Visitor Center, with stargazing and wildlife viewing popular after dark.

$24.00 - $30.00 / night

Less Visited

0.0

(7)

Gator Head Campground

33100 Tamiami Trail E, Ochopee, FL 34141

Gator Head Campground sits in Big Cypress National Preserve near Ochopee, offering National Park Service-managed primitive camping in the heart of Florida's swamp wilderness. This very small campground provides vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables for tent campers seeking a backcountry experience. Visitors come for wildlife viewing, fishing, and biking through one of the state's most biodiverse ecosystems.

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

67400 Overseas Highway, Long Key, FL 33001

Escape to a secluded slice of paradise where your tent sits just steps from the Atlantic Ocean. Orb Trail offers primitive hike-in camping along Long Key's pristine shoreline, nestled within coastal hammock and mangrove habitats that feel worlds away from the everyday. Each site comes equipped with a picnic table, grill, and hammock stand—perfect for swaying beneath the palms as ocean breezes wash over you.

$4.50 - $6.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.6

(86)

Bahia Honda State Park Campground 3

Bahia Honda State Park

Picture yourself camping on a sun-drenched coral island where powder-white beaches meet impossibly clear turquoise water. Bahia Honda State Park Campground offers front-row access to some of the Keys' most stunning beaches, world-class snorkeling, and unforgettable views of the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge arching over the water. With waterfront sites booking quickly, planning ahead ensures you'll secure your slice of this tropical paradise.

Oleta River State Park

Prim Campground sits in Oleta River State Park, a mangrove-fringed oasis on Biscayne Bay inside metropolitan Miami. The primitive campground is reserved exclusively for organized youth groups. No individual tent camping. And offers 14 sites at $55/night with cold showers, flush toilets, and no electricity. It's an easy drive from North Miami Beach on paved roads, yet feels like a quiet green hideout from the city.

14 campsites

Reservable

51.929 km

$55.00 - $55.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.6

(86)

Bahia Honda State Park Campground

4 Nautical Miles West of Pine Island (26.685789, -82.245381), Cayo Costa, FL 33922

Perched on a sun-drenched key in the lower Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park welcomes campers with powder-white beaches and crystalline turquoise waters that seem almost too perfect to be real. The iconic Old Bahia Honda Bridge stands sentinel over this tropical paradise, where your campsite becomes your gateway to world-class snorkeling, pristine shorelines, and some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in all of Florida.

$2.00 - $2.00 / night

Campgrounds

Elliot Key Campground

About Biscayne National Park

Context for the broader area surrounding Elliot Key Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Within sight of Miami, yet worlds away, Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. Evidence of 10,000 years of human history is here too; from prehistoric tribes to shipwrecks, and pineapple farmers to presidents. For many, the park is a boating, fishing, and diving destination, while others enjoy a warm breeze and peaceful scenery.

Directions

The Dante Fascell Visitor Center may be reached from the Florida Turnpike by taking Exit 6 (Speedway Boulevard). Turn left from exit ramp and continue south to SW 328th Street (North Canal Drive). Turn left on 328th Street and continue for four miles to the end of the road. The park entrance is on the left just before the entrance to Homestead Bayfront Marina.

Featured in these camping guides

Elliot Key Campground appears in our curated guides. Explore more top-rated campgrounds for the same activities and regions.