Shell Mound Campground Introduce
For local users searching for "camping near me" along the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida, Shell Mound Campground, located at 17650 SW 78 Pl, Cedar Key, FL 32625, USA, offers a quieter, more nature-focused camping experience. You can reach them at (352) 221-4466 or their mobile number, +1 352-221-4466, for inquiries. Based on recent customer reviews, this is a smaller campground with direct access to a boat launch and a generally peaceful atmosphere, although it has been affected by recent hurricane damage.
One recurring theme in the reviews is the size of Shell Mound Campground, described as "small." This suggests a more intimate camping experience, potentially with fewer crowds than larger campgrounds. For those seeking "camping near me" with a sense of tranquility and a less bustling environment, this could be a significant advantage. The availability of sites both with and without water hookups offers flexibility for different camping preferences and setups.
A notable point from the reviews is the impact of Hurricane Helene. Currently, according to one review, there is "no electricity on any sites" due to the hurricane. This is a crucial piece of information for anyone planning to camp here, especially those relying on electricity for their RVs or other equipment. Potential visitors should inquire about the current status of the electrical infrastructure when booking or calling. Despite the lack of electricity, the campground still offers other amenities.
The bathroom facilities at Shell Mound Campground are described as "simple but clean." One reviewer specifically mentioned that the "hot shower was awesome!" This indicates that while the facilities might not be luxurious, they are well-maintained and provide essential comforts, including hot water for showers, which is often a welcome feature for campers looking for "camping near me" with basic amenities.
A significant feature of Shell Mound Campground is the "boat launch available." This makes it an excellent choice for those interested in boating, fishing, or exploring the waterways around Cedar Key. The presence of a boat ramp and a cleaning station, mentioned in another review, further supports this, catering directly to the needs of boat owners and anglers looking for "waterfront camping near me" with convenient access to the water.
The location of the campground is described as "out in the boonies" and "very quiet." This reinforces the idea of a peaceful and secluded camping experience, away from the noise and hustle of more developed areas. For local users seeking "camping near me" where they can enjoy nature and tranquility, Shell Mound Campground's remote setting could be a major draw.
Customer service also receives positive mention, with "Gail at the front desk" being described as "helpful and friendly." This suggests that visitors can expect a welcoming and supportive experience from the campground staff, which can significantly enhance a camping trip.
However, the impact of the hurricane extends beyond the lack of electricity. One review notes that "boardwalks damaged, closed." This likely refers to boardwalks providing access to scenic areas or the waterfront, which are temporarily unavailable. Additionally, a "short hiking trail around the shell mound" is mentioned. This offers a potential activity for campers interested in exploring the local environment and the unique shell mounds that give the area its name.
In summary, Shell Mound Campground offers a small, quiet camping experience with a boat launch, clean (though simple) bathrooms with hot showers, and a helpful staff member at the front desk. However, potential visitors need to be aware of the current lack of electricity due to hurricane damage and the closure of boardwalks. The campground's location "out in the boonies" provides a peaceful environment, and the presence of a short hiking trail adds to the outdoor activities available.
For local users searching for "camping near me" in the Cedar Key area who prioritize a quiet setting and access to a boat launch, Shell Mound Campground is worth considering. However, it is essential to be informed about the current limitations regarding electricity and the boardwalks. If these are critical for your camping needs, you should contact the campground directly for the most up-to-date information on the status of these services and facilities.
Promotional aspects of Shell Mound Campground, based on the reviews, include its quiet atmosphere, the availability of a boat launch, clean bathrooms with hot showers, and the helpfulness of the staff. The natural environment of the Cedar Key area, including the shell mounds and the coastal setting, is also an inherent attraction. However, the current lack of electricity and the damaged boardwalks would need to be considered by potential visitors.
For those seeking a more rustic and nature-oriented "camping near me" experience near Cedar Key, particularly if you plan to bring a boat, Shell Mound Campground offers these advantages. Just be sure to inquire about the current operational status of all amenities, especially the electricity, before making your plans. The peaceful environment and the access to the water could make it a worthwhile destination for the right camper.
Shell Mound Campground Photos










Shell Mound Campground Location
Shell Mound Campground
17650 SW 78 Pl, Cedar Key, FL 32625, USA
Shell Mound Campground17650 SW 78 Pl
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Shell Mound Campground Reviews
Small campground. Sites with and without water. Currently no electricity on any sites due to Helene. Bathrooms are simple but clean. Hot shower was awesome! Boat launch available. Out in the boonies. Very quiet. Gail at the front desk was helpful and friendly.
Apr 04, 2025 · Katia SpiessSmall campground with a boat ramp, cleaning station. Clean bathroom. No electricity due to hurricane damage. Boardwalks damaged, closed. Short hiking trail around the shell mound.
Jan 08, 2025 · Susan StricklandCamp sites are fairly good, more level than others. Trees for shade. Easy in and easy out. Dump station a but hard to maneuver but with two folks (one spotting) should be ok. We were in a Winnebago campervan. Dave, the host and manager is very nice and accommodating. The women's bathhouse area needs serious upgrading. It is also dirty. The only place to put clothes when showering is over the door or outside the shower. No locks on the one shower nor the two toilets.Price is right. Cash only, $25. We stayed for two nights and would frequent again if in the area, but not use the bathhouse., which might be problematic for us, like this time. Also, a small public boat ramp in the campground. Nice area.There is a very nice small hike in the shell Mound area. Woodsy all around with water, and wildlife. Close enough to the town of Cedar Key.Quiet at night and felt safe.
Feb 24, 2024 · debbieI’ve reviewed this place before and I’ll say it again - I love this campground and stay here whenever I’m in the area. It’s not fancy. It’s just the basics. But it’s way, way out there, with spectacular birding and fishing available. Plus some pretty cool hiking trails. And the history associated with the shell mound is cool, too. Warning - be prepared to deal with bugs, in a major way!
Nov 30, 2022 · Anna L. ContiGreat campground, clean, friendly staff... It's first come, first serve, NO reservations accepted... Close to Shell Mound Trail & Archaeological Site, and the Observation Deck. Two boat ramps to put in your boat or kayak... Lots of great spots to take pix of sunrises, sunsets & wildlife... Max stay is 7 days...
Sep 02, 2022 · Robert Banach
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