Van Life Florida Keys: Is It Possible?

Owning a Camper Van, I have dreams of taking it everywhere and seeing everything. I recently took a trip to Key West (without the Van) and it really made me think about the possibilities of Florida van life and whether it is possible to live Van Life in Key West.

So while I was there, I set out to find if its possible and how to do it. These are my tips and tricks for living in your Camper Van in Key West and the souringin keys.

I will admit, that doing van life in Key West is very hard, but it can be done. Some people might argue with some of these ideas, but ultimately it’s up to you to decide if this is worth it! I always recommend, be stealthy, be quiet, and BE RESPECTFUL, no matter where you travel.

Planning Your Van Life Adventure

Establish a Budget for Your Trip

Establishing a budget for your van life adventure is crucial to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip. When planning your trip to Key West and the Florida Keys, consider the following expenses:

• Van rental or fuel costs: Depending on your starting point, fuel costs can add up, so plan accordingly.
• Campsite fees: Expect to pay an average of $30-50 per night for campsites.
• Food and groceries: Budget around $50-75 per day for meals and snacks.
• Activities and attractions: Allocate $20-50 per person for various activities.
• Miscellaneous expenses: Don’t forget about souvenirs, parking fees, and other unexpected costs.

To save money, consider these tips:

• Book your campsite in advance: This helps secure the best rates and ensures you have a spot.
• Cook your own meals: Eating out can be expensive, so take advantage of your van’s kitchen.
• Enjoy free activities: Spend time at the beach, explore local markets, or take a scenic drive.
• Use cashback or rewards credit cards: These can help you save on everyday expenses.

By establishing a budget and being mindful of your expenses, you can enjoy your van life adventure in Key West and the Florida Keys without breaking the bank.

Van Life In Key West: The Easy Way

The easiest way to stay in your Van in Key West is to find a paid campsite or RV park.

There are actually several places to stay on Key West itself, and even more just outside Key West on another island. The only drawbacks to these sites is that they often book up very fast, and can be very costly.

However, you do get the best of Key West! Most of the RV parks are right on the ocean, giving you the most incredible views and ocean wave sounds to fall asleep to. You will also get amenities like hot showers and potable water… which can be very hard to find on the island otherwise.

If you have the budget for it, these are my favorite RV parks around Key West to stay at…

Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort

Probably one of the most expensive options but one of the best is the KOA. You’ll find tons of amenities here including laundry and a pool! And even better, this campsite is right on the ocean, giving you the best experience on Key West that you can ask for.

It also books up really far in advance. I checked several dates and it was booked up for more than 6 months out. So if you want to stay here, book early! While it may be an expensive option, it’s a great idea even for just a day or two to really experience Key West at its best.

They even have a dog park for your furry friends!

Book a spot at Sugarloaf by going here.

If you can’t secure a spot here, consider using a Home Depot parking lot as a temporary overnight parking option.

Boyd’s Campground

Boyd’s Campground is located in the heart of Key West, also along the ocean, and comes with several amenities as well. They have RV hookups and regular tent sites (my van usually fits in those).

Because of its location, it’s easy for you to get around Key West, especially if you already have your own bike. But Key West is very bike-friendly and you can easily rent one on the island as well.

Like other Key West campsites, Boyd’s is also very expensive. You’ll pay up to $80 a night just for a tent site and upward of $135 for a night with hookups. For those on a tighter budget, exploring options for free overnight parking can be a viable alternative.

Grassy Key RV Park & Resort

Another great… and pricey… option is the Grassy Key RV Park and Resort. this RV park is located on Marathon, one of the other keys, and a little bit of a drive from Key West. But Marathon is a great place to visit and stay also. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Big Pine Key, known for its unique wildlife and outdoor activities.

Marathon has tons of restaurants, shopping, and things to do, and is not a far drive from Key West to just visit during the day. It also has many amenities and can accommodate Camper Vans.

Van Camping At Florida State Parks

If you want the ocean views but not the RV park prices, look for a state park that allows overnight camping. Florida has dozens of state parks all up and down the Florida Keys. You may not find one on Key West specifically, but there are a few close by.

Bahia Honda State Park

My favorite campsite in Key West is at the Bahia Honda State Park. This state park is only a 45-minute drive from Key West, making it a great place to stay the night but still an easy drive to visit Key West during the day.

Let me tell you.. this place is gorgeous. I rated the beaches here as one of my favorites in Key West. And the park is pretty in its own right. There are some amenities here, but the sites themselves are worth it. You’ll find the majority of sites are lined along the ocean, but still have tons of lush green trees and bushes to give you privacy from other campers.

Curry Hammock State Park

Another great choice is the Curry Hammock State Park on Marathon. This state park is a bit further from Key West, but still a quick drive away. You’ll also find beautiful oceanfront campsites at this location.

These campsites for Camper Vans include water, electricity, a grill, and picnic table, along with centralized showers, restrooms and a dump station if needed. Regular sites without hookups are available also.

There are fun activities right at this state park also. SUP and bike rentals are available at the ranger station, and the Overseas Heritage Trail is available for biking and running.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Another great state park along the Florida Keys is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This state park is a bit further from Key West than the others but well worth it. Located near Key Largo, this park is a prime destination for van camping and exploring the underwater world.

If you have any interest in Scuba diving, snorkeling, or even glass-bottom boat rides, this is the place for you. Known for its underwater oasis, this state park is over 70 square miles. There are 42 reservable campsites, many with hookups and some primitive.

There is a marina, dive shop, boat ramp, and several trails through Mangrove trees. There’s even a swimming beach. you honestly could spend a week here and keep yourself busy.

Stealth Van Camping In Key West

Most van-lifers prefer stealth camping, and I totally understand why. It not only saves you money, but can get you closer to the sites you really want to see. Key West is no exception. While there are several RV parks and campsites near Key West, your only chance of staying on the actual island near Duvall Street is by trying to go stealth.

NOTE: Sleeping in vehicles on Key West is restricted and you’re technically not supposed to do it. In saying that, if you WERE to try going stealth, here are my recommendations:

1 – There is a ton of street parking in Key West. Almost every street has free street parking and allows cars to park overnight. The rule is that you just can’t sleep in your car. So you have to be really really stealth if you want to attempt this.

2 – The further away from Duvall Street, the better. Police obviously patrol Duvall Street the most so having a van parked along there is an easy mark. Parking is also hard to come by so trying to park here just isn’t a good idea.

3 – Find a different street than Duvall. If you want to be stealthy, try parking on one of the many streets a few blocks away from Duvall Street. There are more parking spots available and you are less likely to be noticed.

4 – Come late and leave early. If you want to try to stay in your van, park when it’s dark out, and leave before sunrise. There are plenty of places you can park during the day, like most of the beaches! And since the beach parking lots fill up fast, you’ll get a great spot and get to hang at the beach all day.

5 – Be quiet and clean. Put your window shades up, keep your lights low, and keep the noise level down.

6 – Use palm trees for setting up hammocks. They serve as convenient anchors and can enhance your camping experience.

Park N Ride Old Town Garage – As a last resort or if you are caught street parking and asked to leave, you can try parking overnight at the Park N Ride Old Town Garage on the corner of Grinnell Street and Caroline Street, $5.00 / hour, $40.00 maximum per day. Note: While overnight parking here is allowed, it’s not meant for RV’s. So again, you have to be very stealth!

Van Life Essentials for Key West

Staying Safe in the Sun and Heat

Key West and the Florida Keys are known for their sunny and hot weather, making it essential to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Here are some van life essentials to keep in mind:

• Sunscreen: Pack a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Hats and sunglasses: Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes from the sun.
• Water: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Cooling towels: Bring cooling towels to help keep you cool in the heat.
• First aid kit: Pack a first aid kit with essentials, such as sunburn relief, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

Additionally, consider these tips to stay safe in the sun and heat:

• Avoid peak sun hours: Try to stay out of the sun between 10am and 4pm when it’s the strongest.
• Take breaks in shaded areas: Find shade or go indoors to cool off periodically.
• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing: This helps keep you cool and comfortable.
• Use a sunshade or umbrella: These can provide extra protection from the sun’s rays.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your van life adventure in Key West and the Florida Keys while staying safe in the sun and heat.

Exploring Key West and the Surrounding Area

Must-see Sights and Attractions in Key West

Key West and the surrounding area offer a variety of must-see sights and attractions that are perfect for van lifers. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary:

• Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Visit the former residence of the famous author, which is now a museum showcasing his life and work.
• Duval Street: Explore the lively Duval Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.
• Fort Zachary Taylor: Visit the historic fort, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
• Key West Lighthouse: Climb to the top of the lighthouse for breathtaking views of the island.
• Seven Mile Bridge: Drive across the iconic bridge, which connects Key West to the mainland.

Additionally, consider these tips for exploring Key West and the surrounding area:

• Rent a bike or scooter: This is a great way to get around the island and see the sights.
• Take a sunset sail or cruise: See the island from a different perspective and enjoy a beautiful sunset.
• Visit local markets and shops: Find unique souvenirs and support local businesses.
• Try local cuisine: Don’t miss out on conch fritters and key lime pie, two local favorites.

By exploring these must-see sights and attractions, you can experience the best of Key West and the surrounding area during your van life adventure.

My Recommendation for Van Life in Key West

I would stay at one of the state parks in the Florida Keys. This is the safest, most legal, and most affordable option for Camper Vans. It just takes a little planning in advance. But if you want to try stealth camping, just remember those main rules and only plan to do it for one night. Any more than that is very noticeable.

Enjoy Key West!

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