John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Located in Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is just a little over an hour outside of Miami and 30 minutes from Homestead. It was the United States’ first undersea state park, and its coral reefs are its main draw. Divers, snorkelers, boaters, and swimmers enjoy exploring the 70 nautical miles that make up this fascinating state park. Visitors can do more than dive on the reefs, however, as canoeing and kayaking are also immensely popular here. There are even a couple of short trails in the park that take hikers through some tropical hammocks. The park’s visitor center has a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium that contains a variety of species.
Spring 74-77 F
Summer 81-85 F
Fall 78-82 F
Winter 68-74 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Traveling by recreational vehicle makes it convenient to visit state parks in South Florida. If you don't own an RV, consider getting a rental from RVshare.com. All of the following RV parks are close to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, so you’ll be able to choose the right place based on your needs.
Keys Palms Luxury RV Resort
Keys Palms Luxury RV Resort is about six miles from John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It’s right on the waterfront and has direct access to Florida Bay. Visitors can enjoy a private beach, pool, and spa. Daily rates range from $115 to $150; weekly rates range from $650 to $900.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Washers, dryers, showers, a gym
Kings Kamp RV Park
Kings Kamp RV Park is also close to the open water of Florida Bay. RV sites can accommodate campers up to 40 feet long. Trailer boats can also be accommodated here. You can rent by the day, week, or month at this RV park.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: No
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Showers, bathrooms, fire pits, picnic areas
Key Largo Kampground
Key Largo Kampground offers dockside camping with full-hookup luxury. Waterfront and standard RV camping sites are available; waterfront spots even come with dock space for your boat. Standard sites are $100 a day and $650 a week, while waterside spots are $130 a day and $870 a week.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Multiple recreational areas, hot showers, open-air lounge
Riptide RV Resort & Marina
Riptide RV Resort & Marina is 10 minutes south of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Guests can enjoy the small, private beach on premises that are ideal for snorkeling and swimming. A ramp and docks provide ample space for boats.
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• WiFi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, covered pavilion
What to Do at
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is primarily underwater, so most of its attractions are best reached via boating and diving. Snorkeling and scuba diving are very popular here since these are the most effective methods of viewing the stunning coral reefs. Glass-bottom boat tours are also popular as they can open up the fascinating world beneath the water to those who would rather stay dry.
Those who want to get wet but have no desire for deep diving can enjoy swimming on two beaches in the park. Cannon Beach is a great place for snorkeling while Far Beach is the top spot in the park for swimming and sunning.
How to Get to
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Since John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is in the Florida Keys, getting there is incredibly easy. From Downtown Miami, get on Highway 1 near the coast and drive southwest down through Homestead. You’ll pass the Southern Glades and leave Florida’s peninsula behind. Once you reach the Keys, you’ll soon see Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is just a few minutes beyond that on the left.
Entering John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to sunset.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Per vehicle (2-8 passengers) : $8.0
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Per vehicle (single passenger) : $4.0
The team at RVshare knows that you’re going to have a blast exploring the aquatic wonders of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Once you’re finished making your memories at this gorgeous state park, be sure to share to post some pics online and tag RVshare. You can also send them to [email protected]. You might find your story featured on a blog or the official social media channels sometime soon.
Frequently Asked Questions About John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
The best time to visit the Keys — especially if you want to go snorkeling — is from November to May. These are the colder, drier months in Florida when the weather isn't too hot or humid.
The reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park are home to more than 260 species of tropical fish and 80 species of coral. There are countless invertebrates at the park too, as well as fish like parrotfish, snappers and barracuda.
Yes. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has 46 spots. It's best to book in advance to ensure you get a spot, especially if you're booking for the summer months when everyone is going on vacation.
Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. There aren't any weight restrictions or pet fees at this park.
Yes, there are accessible showers and campsites to accommodate disabled visitors. Many glass-bottom tours and encounters at the park are also ADA compliant. The park is always working to make snorkeling and scuba diving tours more accessible too.
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