St. Petersburg is a gem on Florida's Gulf Coast with its vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and seaside location.
This guide shares the area's top-rated RV parks for exploring this sunny destination. Find peaceful retreats, family-friendly resorts, and parks close to attractions.
Get tips on amenities, free options, and things to do.
Hitch up and settle into the welcoming warmth of St. Petersburg, using these premier RV spots as your home base!
Find Your Sunny Escape at RV Parks Near St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida is a popular destination for RV enthusiasts looking for sun, sand, and sea.
With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and a variety of attractions, it's no wonder why RVers flock to the area.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, there are plenty of RV parks in and around St. Petersburg to choose from.
1. Bay Bayou RV Resort
Just a short drive from St. Petersburg, Bay Bayou RV Resort provides a scenic waterfront haven on the banks of Double Branch Creek.
The 300-site resort features 190 full hookup sites to accommodate RVs up to 100 feet long.
Amenities include a heated pool, fitness center, rec hall, laundry, WiFi, and clean restrooms with private showers.
Sites have shaded patios, and the resort offers kayaking, fishing, and planned activities.
With its natural surroundings and deluxe facilities, Bay Bayou makes the ideal home base for exploring Tampa and St. Petersburg.
2. St. Petersburg / Madeira Beach KOA
This popular KOA sits right on Long Bayou, feeling secluded yet close to St. Petersburg and Tampa.
It offers full hookup sites, cabins, and amenities like a pool, hot tub, cafe, and bike rentals.
Guests can launch kayaks on site to explore the bayou’s lush mangroves and wildlife.
The campground provides easy access to attractions like Tampa, Busch Gardens, Salvador Dali Museum, and Gulf Coast beaches.
Planned activities range from BBQs to live music. With waterfront recreation and urban convenience, this KOA appeals to active RVers.
3. River Vista RV Village
Tucked along the tranquil Little Manatee River between Tampa and Sarasota, River Vista RV Village provides a peaceful riverfront escape.
The 55+ resort features over 400 full hookup sites with ample room for large RVs.
Shady, sunny, and waterfront sites are available. Amenities include cable TV, WiFi, a pool, laundry, and access to fishing and boating on the river.
The pet-friendly park is known for its pristine facilities, friendly service, and natural beauty.
Its convenient location allows easy access to Tampa, St. Pete, and Sarasota attractions.
4. Caladesi RV Park
Just minutes from St. Petersburg, this affordable family-owned park offers a quiet retreat for RVers.
Caladesi provides full hookups at spacious, shaded sites - perfect for larger motorhomes and 5th wheels.
On-site amenities include restrooms, laundry, LP gas service, and a swimming pool.
The convenient location allows visitors to easily access St. Pete's vibrant downtown and endless Gulf Coast beaches.
With its peaceful atmosphere and welcoming owners, Caladesi appeals to RVers seeking an economical yet comfortable stay.
Also read: 9 Best RV Parks in Florida for a Memorable Road Trip
Are there any free camping options in St. Petersburg, FL?
While there are not many free camping options in St. Petersburg, a few nearby options offer a great camping experience without breaking the bank.
One of the best free camping options near St. Petersburg is the Shell Key Preserve. This 1,800-acre preserve is located just 8 miles from St. Petersburg and offers a variety of camping options.
Also read: Egmont Key: Florida’s Lesser-Known Island of History and Wildlife
The preserve includes one of the county's largest undeveloped barrier islands, Shell Key, and numerous mangrove islands and expansive seagrass beds.
Visitors can camp on the beach or in designated camping areas, and hiking trails and picnic areas are available.
Another option for free camping near St. Petersburg is the Gabby Walmart in Tampa.
While not technically in St. Petersburg, Walmart offers overnight RV parking for free. This is a great option for those passing through the area and needing a place to park their RV for the night.
Also read: Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard: Florida’s Pedestrian Paradise With A World Record
It is important to note that while these camping options are free, some restrictions and regulations may be in place.
For example, camping at the Shell Key Preserve requires a permit, and there may be restrictions on the number of people and vehicles allowed in the camping area.
Visitors should also be aware of any wildlife or environmental concerns in the area and follow all rules and regulations to help protect the natural environment.
Start Your St. Petersburg Adventure from Top RV Sites
With secluded nature, resort-style amenities, and easy access to attractions, St. Petersburg’s RV parks let you experience it all.
Find your ideal launch pad, whether you crave luxury features or budget-friendly simplicity.
Then venture out to create memories amid sugar-sand beaches, lively downtown, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf.
With amazing options for every style and budget, hitch up your rig and escape to the St. Petersburg RV getaway of your dreams!