Canaveral National Seashore Backcountry Island Camping

Open

Open year-round. Reservations required through Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance. Permits must be printed 14 days before arrival and cannot be modified after printing. Check-in and check-out are both at 11:00 AM.

Rip Current Statement issued May 23 at 12:08AM EDT until May 24 at 4:00AM EDT by NWS Melbourne FL

12:08 AM — May 24th, 4:00 AM

* WHAT...Dangerous rip currents. * WHERE...The beaches of Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, Saint Lucie, and Martin Counties. * WHEN...Through late tonight. * IMPACTS...Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.

About

Backcountry Island Camping at Canaveral National Seashore provides a true primitive camping experience on 14 designated islands within Mosquito Lagoon and the Intracoastal Waterway. These natural and spoil islands offer solitude and direct access to one of Florida's most pristine coastal lagoon ecosystems. Sites vary in capacity from 6 people at Orange Island to 60 at Brickhouse Cove, accommodating solo paddlers through larger groups. All campsites are boat-access only. Sites 1-5 (Orange Island, Homestead, Shipyard, Headwinds, and Government Cut) are accessible via canoe rental from the Apollo Visitor Center for $25 per night. Sites 6-14 require personal watercraft such as a motorboat, kayak, or canoe. Waterways can be shallow, so route planning is essential. This is Leave No Trace camping with no facilities whatsoever. Campers must bring all water, pack out all trash, and use biodegradable toilet paper. Containerized fires are permitted when authorized in designated areas; bring your own firewood or camp stove. Cell phone reception is available, and a phone is strongly recommended for emergencies.

Directions

Apollo Beach entrance: I-95 exit 249, proceed east and follow signs. Located on FL A1A at the southern end of New Smyrna Beach at 7611 S Atlantic Ave. Canoe renters must arrive at Apollo Visitor Center before 4:00 PM on check-in day.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets No
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed No
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $25

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (386) 428-3384

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile Yes

Photos

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