Elliot Key Campground
4.4017 reviewsnull
Elliot Key Campground
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
Fees are required for overnight camping and docking. Docking fees apply Friday to Monday and Federal Holidays ($25). Overnight camping fees are $35. Payments must be made via the Recreation.gov mobile app and are non-refundable.
About this campground
Venture by boat to Elliott Key, the crown jewel of Biscayne National Park's island chain, where adventure awaits on this pristine tropical paradise. This boat-access-only campground invites you to disconnect from the mainland and immerse yourself in island life, complete with restrooms featuring refreshing cold water showers, shaded picnic areas with tables and grills, and fresh drinking water to keep you hydrated under the Florida sun. Cast your line from shore, explore winding nature trails, or simply relax at your picnic spot while taking in the island atmosphere. Come prepared with insect repellent—the island's mosquitoes and no-see-ums are as much a part of the authentic Florida Keys experience as the swaying palms and ocean breezes.
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.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time on an island where pioneering spirits once carved out lives among the palms, cultivating sweet pineapples in neat rows and diving for precious sponges in the surrounding waters. These hardy souls made their fortunes salvaging ships that met their fate on nearby reefs, and their legacy lives on in scattered remnants throughout the island—silent testaments to a bygone era when Elliott Key bustled with the dreams and determination of Florida's early settlers.
Weather and SeasonsTime your island escape for the winter months when cooling breezes sweep away the bugs and create perfect camping conditions under star-filled skies. Summer transforms Elliott Key into a lush, humid paradise where mosquitoes thrive in the thick air—adventurous souls who brave these months should pack extra bug spray and lightweight, protective clothing for maximum comfort during their tropical getaway.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryLose yourself in a tapestry of maritime forests where ancient hardwoods create cathedral-like canopies overhead, sheltering an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. Meandering trails lead through this tropical wonderland to secluded beaches where pristine sand meets crystal-clear waters. Keep your binoculars handy—the island's varied habitats attract an impressive array of wildlife, from colorful songbirds flitting through the forest canopy to gentle manatees gliding past offshore. Every turn reveals another snapshot of untouched Florida beauty.
Geological RegionRising from the turquoise waters of Biscayne National Park like an emerald gem, Elliott Key reigns as the park's largest island sanctuary. This remarkable landmass showcases South Florida's unique maritime forest ecosystem, where tropical hardwoods have adapted to life between sea and sky, creating a lush haven that serves as both protective barrier and thriving habitat for countless species found nowhere else in the continental United States.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is insufficient information about specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeSpecific sizes of campsites are not detailed.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy levels of campsites are not explicitly provided.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended to camp during breezy or cooler days to minimize bug activity. Explore the perimeter for the best views.
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
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Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
Group camping details are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutConsists of 33 boat slips and designated campsites, but specific layout details are not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with first-come, first-served availability starting June 20, 2025. Facility operates through December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made using the Recreation.gov mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served only; visitors must physically arrive to claim sites.
Cancellation PolicyPayments are non-refundable and modifications are not allowed under the Scan and Pay system.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
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
A mile-long loop trail starts near the campground, and the six-mile Spite Highway runs through the island, offering a variety of habitats. Trails are appreciated for their scenic value and accessibility.Fishing
Fishing is permitted from the maintenance dock and shoreline areas outside the no-wake zone. Specific fishing regulations apply.Boating
The campground is accessible only by boat. There are 33 boat slips in the marina.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for wildlife viewing are available, particularly on the trails.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, but reviews suggest fewer bugs and better conditions during the cooler months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- BBQ grills are available, but specific campfire policies are not detailed.
- Quiet hours are enforced between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes and no-see-ums are a year-round concern. Limited cellular service and no onsite sales facilities present additional challenges.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Thunderstorm
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash packing is required as visitors are instructed to pack out all trash. No details on recycling options are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Biscayne Bay with nearby access to recreational water activities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include excessive noise from groups ignoring quiet hours, high mosquito activity, and lack of staff enforcement of rules.
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Campground Map
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Driving directionsElliott Key is only accessible by boat. Use of a nautical chart and/or GPS is recommended for safe navigation.
Boat access only; no major road routes to the island. Navigation tools such as GPS or nautical charts are strongly recommended.Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
17 reviews
Elliot Key Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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 17 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 17 reviewsShow more
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 17 reviewsPro 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 17 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter is the preferred season due to fewer bugs and cooler weather. Summer visits are challenging due to heavy mosquito activity.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper 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 17 reviewsSite-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 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
Limited information is available, but no user comments specifically address accessibility.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-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 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025