Caladesi Island State Park Campground operates as boat slips rather than traditional campsites, requiring visitors to sleep aboard their watercraft. At $24 per night with reservations available, the facility accommodates boats up to 40 feet and provides power and water hookups at the docks. A pavilion with grilling facilities allows campers to prepare meals on land rather than relying solely on boat kitchens.
Access requires boat transportation from the mainland, as the island lacks road connections. "Only accessible by water," notes Alyssa D., with many visitors launching kayaks from the causeway leading to nearby Honeymoon Island. The approach can present challenges for smaller watercraft, particularly during rough weather conditions.
The 650-acre barrier island features hiking trails and boardwalks through forested areas, plus mangrove kayak trails that wind through the island's waterways. Campers can explore beaches before day-use visitors arrive via ferry service. "At times it's a pretty much deserted island with lots of wildlife to watch," observes one reviewer who regularly accesses the site by kayak.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis for boat slips and welcomes pets. For those seeking land-based camping options, camping near Dunedin provides alternatives accessible by vehicle. Cell service reaches the island, helping boaters stay connected during their stay.
Description
One of the few untouched islands along the Gulf Coast, Caladesi Island State Park is accessible only by boat, but is worth the extra effort. Whether it is a stroll along the island's pristine beaches or a kayak trip through the bayside mangrove forest, a trip to Caladesi Island is an unforgettable experience. Take a nature trail walk to the historic Scharrer Homestead through the island's interior and listen to the ocean breeze whisper through old-growth slash pines and feel the embrace of expansive live oaks. Discover why homesteader Myrtle Scharrer Betz called this place "Paradise" in her memoirs.
Caladesi Island State Park has a marina with floating docks with 30 amp electric service and water hookups. A covered pavilion with a grill is available for picnicking. A snack bar and gift shop is located in the marina. Three sites are ADA accessible.
The marina is a designated Clean Marina. For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287. Reservations can be made online, first-come, first served in the marina.
Fee Info
Boat Camping $24 per night, tax included, for reservable sites, plus a non-refundable $6.70 reservation fee (reserve by calling 800-326-3521). $1 per foot, plus tax, non-reservable sites. T-Docks are non-reservable and rent for $2 per foot, plus tax.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
*The park is only accessible by boat. The marina offers first-come, first-served boat slips and overnight stays. Limit boat beam/width to 12 feet. Advanced reservations may only be made for boat slips #22, 24, 26, 52 and 54.*
Boaters will enjoy the 108-slip bayside marina, where overnight docking is permitted. Boaters should register before sunset. Picnic pavilions, bathhouses and a park concession all make the visit more comfortable. Fishing, shelling and nature studies are all ways to enjoy a visit to Caladesi Island State Park. Please stay off beach dunes. Please stay out of protected bird nesting and resting areas posted on island. Please do not disturb sea turtle nests, which are posted during nesting season.
Caladesi Island State Park offers BOAT CAMPING ONLY.
RV and tents are not allowed.
Boaters Note: Boat slips and facilities for visitors with special needs or who are disabled are available at this park. Contact the park at 727-469-5918 for more information.
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For everyone's enjoyment, including pets, please observe the pet camping rules found in the complete Florida State Parks Pet Policy, click here.
Pets are not allowed in any state park cabins or cabin areas.
Service animals are welcome in all areas of the park where visitors are normally allowed.
No one younger than 18 may stay overnight unless accompanied by a responsible adult, who will remain onsite for the period rented.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCaladesi Island State Park Campground is located in Florida
Address
#1 Causeway Boulevard
Dunedin, FL 34698
Coordinates
28.0328472328446 N
82.8195119275202 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Pets







