Welcome to Florida, where the sun, sand, and sea combine to make a perfect vacation destination. But Florida is not just a place to relax and unwind – it is also a state that is steeped in rich history and culture, with a wealth of historic districts and landmarks scattered throughout its cities and towns. For RV enthusiasts looking to explore these fascinating sites and soak up some of the state’s unique heritage, the options are endless.
In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the best RV parks near Florida’s best historic districts, allowing you to enjoy all the comforts of home while immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of this beautiful state. From charming downtown areas to living history museums, each of these destinations is RV-friendly and offers something unique for history buffs.
So, pack your bags, load up your RV, and get ready to hit the road. We’ll take you to some of the most picturesque locations in the state, where you can park your RV and explore the many historic districts and landmarks that Florida has to offer. Get ready for a journey through time as we showcase the best RV parks near Florida’s historic districts.
Here are some of the best RV parks near Florida’s best historic districts:
1. Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park is a beautiful park located on Amelia Island in Nassau County, Florida. The park features a historic fort, hiking trails, a fishing pier, a beach, and a campground. Here are some of the historic sites near Fort Clinch State Park that you can visit:
a) Fort Clinch
Fort Clinch is a historic fort that was built in the 1800s to protect the entrance to the St. Marys River and the city of Fernandina Beach. The fort was used during the Civil War and was later restored by the State of Florida.
b) Amelia Island Museum of History
The Amelia Island Museum of History is located in the heart of historic downtown Fernandina Beach. The museum features exhibits on the island’s history, including the Spanish occupation, the Civil War, and the island’s role in the development of the shrimping industry.
c) Fernandina Beach Historic District
Fernandina Beach is a charming historic district with over 50 blocks of Victorian architecture. The district is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and historic sites, including the Palace Saloon, the oldest bar in Florida.
d) Kingsley Plantation
Kingsley Plantation is located on nearby Fort George Island and is one of the oldest surviving plantation houses in Florida. The plantation dates back to the early 1800s and was once home to hundreds of enslaved people.
e) Cumberland Island National Seashore
Cumberland Island is a barrier island located just across the St. Marys River in Georgia. The island is home to numerous historic sites, including the ruins of Dungeness, the home of the Carnegie family, and the First African Baptist Church, the first African-American church in the state of Georgia.
These are just a few of the many historic sites near Fort Clinch State Park. Whether you’re interested in military history, plantation life, or local architecture, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of Florida.
2. Anastasia State Park
Anastasia State Park is a beautiful park located on Anastasia Island in St. Johns County, Florida. The park features over 1,600 acres of natural beauty, including a beach, hiking trails, and a campground. Here are some nearby historic districts that you can explore:
a) St. Augustine Historic District
The St. Augustine Historic District is just a short drive from Anastasia State Park and is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the United States. The district features numerous historic sites, including the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, and the Lightner Museum, which is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel and features an extensive collection of decorative arts.
b) Fort Matanzas National Monument
Fort Matanzas is a historic fort that was built by the Spanish in the 1700s to protect St. Augustine from attacks by the British. The fort is located on Rattlesnake Island, which is accessible only by boat.
c) Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park
Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park is located just a few miles north of Anastasia State Park and features the ruins of an early 19th-century plantation.
d) St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is located on Anastasia Island, just a short drive from the state park. The museum features exhibits on maritime history and culture, as well as the opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the area.
e) Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is located in St. Augustine and features a spring that was once believed to have restorative powers. The park also features exhibits on the history of the area, as well as a reconstructed Timucuan village.
These are just a few of the many historic districts and sites that you can explore during your visit to Anastasia State Park. Whether you’re interested in military history, plantation life, or local architecture, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of Florida.
3. Boyd’s Key West Campground
Boyd’s Key West Campground is a popular campground located on Stock Island, just a short drive from Key West, Florida. Here are some nearby historic districts that you can explore during your stay:
a) Old Town Key West Historic District:
The Old Town Key West Historic District is a designated National Historic Landmark district and features numerous historic sites, including the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, and the Key West Lighthouse.
b) Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park:
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is located on the southern edge of Key West and features the ruins of a pre-Civil War fort. The park is also home to a beautiful beach, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
c) Historic Seaport at Key West Bight:
The Historic Seaport at Key West Bight is a charming historic district that features numerous restaurants, shops, and galleries housed in historic buildings. The district is also home to the Key West Aquarium and the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.
d) Bahama Village:
Bahama Village is a historic neighborhood in Key West that was settled by Bahamian immigrants in the 1800s. The neighborhood features colorful houses, art galleries, and restaurants that serve up traditional Bahamian cuisine.
e) Key West Cemetery:
The Key West Cemetery is a historic cemetery that dates back to the 1800s. The cemetery is known for its above-ground tombs, colorful grave markers, and the graves of notable Key West residents, including writer and journalist, Ralph Kiner.
These are just a few of the many historic districts and sites you can explore at Boyd’s Key West Campground. Whether you’re interested in military history, literature, or local culture, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and historic part of Florida.
4. Kissimmee RV Park
Kissimmee RV Park is a popular RV park located in Kissimmee, Florida, which is just a short drive from several historic districts. Here are some nearby historic districts that you can explore during your stay:
a) Kissimmee Historic District:
The Kissimmee Historic District is a designated historic district that features numerous historic buildings, including the Osceola County Courthouse, the Monument of States, and the Beaumont House. Visitors can take a walking tour of the district or explore the area on their own.
b) Downtown Kissimmee:
Downtown Kissimmee is a charming area that features numerous restaurants, shops, and galleries housed in historic buildings. Visitors can also take a stroll along Lake Tohopekaliga or visit Kissimmee Lakefront Park.
c) Celebration:
Celebration is a planned community that was built by The Walt Disney Company in the 1990s. The community is designed to resemble a small town from the early 1900s and features numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions.
d) St. Cloud Historic District:
The St. Cloud Historic District is a designated historic district that features numerous historic buildings, including the St. Cloud Hotel, which was built in 1909. Visitors can take a walking tour of the district or explore the area on their own.
e) Old Town:
Old Town is a shopping and entertainment complex that features numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions housed in historic buildings. Visitors can also enjoy carnival rides, go-kart racing, and live music.
These are just a few of the many historic districts and sites that you can explore during your stay at Kissimmee RV Park. Whether you’re interested in local history, shopping, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in this part of Florida.
5. Indian River RV Park
Indian River RV Park is located in Titusville, Florida, which is a city that has a rich history and several historic districts to explore. Here are some nearby historic districts that you can visit during your stay:
a) Historic Downtown Titusville:
Historic Downtown Titusville is a designated Main Street district and features numerous historic buildings, including the Pritchard House, which is a restored Queen Anne-style home that dates back to 1891. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining in the downtown area.
b) Canaveral National Seashore:
Canaveral National Seashore is a protected area that features numerous historic sites, including the Eldora State House, which is a restored home that dates back to the late 1800s. Visitors can also explore the historic shipwrecks and other cultural resources in the park.
c) American Space Museum & Space Walk of Fame:
The American Space Museum & Space Walk of Fame is a museum that honors the history of space exploration and features numerous exhibits on the Apollo missions and other historic space flights. Visitors can also take a walk through the Space Walk of Fame, which honors astronauts and other space pioneers.
d) Historic Cocoa Village:
Historic Cocoa Village is a designated Main Street district that features numerous historic buildings, including the Cocoa Village Playhouse, which is a restored theatre that dates back to the 1920s. Visitors can also enjoy shopping, dining, and other cultural activities in the village.
e) Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum:
The Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum is a museum that features numerous historic aircraft and artifacts from World War II and other conflicts. Visitors can also take a ride in a historic warbird plane.
These are just a few of the many historic districts and sites that you can explore during your stay at Indian River RV Park. Whether you’re interested in military history, space exploration, or local culture, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating part of Florida.
6. Sherwood Forest RV Resort
While Sherwood Forest RV Resort is located in Kissimmee, Florida, which is primarily known for its theme parks and entertainment options, there are also several nearby historic districts that you can visit during your stay. Here are a few:
a) Historic Downtown Kissimmee:
The downtown area of Kissimmee is home to numerous historic buildings and landmarks, including the Monument of States, which was built in 1943 to commemorate the unity of the United States during World War II. The area also features numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural activities.
b) Osceola County Historical Society Pioneer Village:
The Pioneer Village is a living history museum that features numerous historic buildings and exhibits from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore a blacksmith shop, a one-room schoolhouse, and other structures that have been preserved and restored.
c) St. Cloud Historic District:
The nearby city of St. Cloud features a historic district that has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1992. The district features numerous historic homes and buildings from the early 1900s.
d) Winter Park Historic District:
Winter Park is a nearby city that features a historic district with numerous preserved and restored homes and buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can also enjoy shopping, dining, and cultural activities in the area.
These are just a few of the many historic districts that you can explore during your stay at Sherwood Forest RV Resort. Whether you’re interested in early American history, architecture, or local culture, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating part of Florida.
7. Stagecoach RV Park
Stagecoach RV Park is located in St. Augustine, Florida, a city rich in history and culture. Here are some nearby historic districts that you can explore during your stay:
a) Historic Downtown St. Augustine:
Historic Downtown St. Augustine is a designated National Historic Landmark district and features numerous historic sites, including the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the United States, and the Lightner Museum, which is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel.
b) St. George Street:
St. George Street is a pedestrian-only street in the heart of downtown St. Augustine that is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Visitors can take a stroll down the street and explore the many shops and attractions.
c) Lincolnville Historic District:
The Lincolnville Historic District is a designated National Register of Historic Places district that was settled by African Americans in the late 1800s. The district features numerous historic homes and buildings, including the Excelsior School, which was the first school for African Americans in St. Augustine.
d) Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park:
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is a historic site that features a reconstruction of a Timucuan Indian village, as well as numerous exhibits on Florida’s colonial history. The park is also home to a natural spring that is said to have restorative powers.
e) Fort Mose Historic State Park:
Fort Mose Historic State Park is located just north of St. Augustine and features the site of the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in what is now the United States. Visitors can explore the historic site and learn about the lives of the people who lived there.
These are just a few of the many historic districts and sites that you can explore during your stay at Stagecoach RV Park. Whether you’re interested in military history, local culture, or archaeology, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating and historic part of Florida.
Importance of RV Parks from a Historical Point of View:
The RV parks near Florida’s historic districts are important because they provide a convenient and comfortable way for visitors to explore and experience the rich history and culture of these areas. Many of these historic districts are located in or near urban centers, where finding parking for an RV can be a challenge. By staying at an RV park nearby, visitors can park their RVs safely and conveniently while they explore the surrounding historic district.
In addition, RV parks offer amenities that are often lacking in traditional hotels or motels, such as full hook-ups for water, electricity, and sewage. This allows visitors to enjoy all the comforts of home while they explore the historic district.
Moreover, staying at an RV park also allows visitors to extend their stay in the area, giving them more time to explore the many historical sites and landmarks nearby. By immersing themselves in the local culture and history, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the people and events that shaped the area.
Overall, RV parks near Florida’s historic districts play an important role in promoting and preserving the state’s unique history and culture. They provide a comfortable and convenient way for visitors to experience these areas and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the past.
If you’re looking to explore Florida’s historic districts while enjoying the convenience and comfort of an RV, there are several RV parks in the area that cater to your needs.
Summary
Florida is a state that truly has something for everyone, from sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife to charming historic districts and cultural landmarks. And for RV enthusiasts, the options are endless. By exploring the best RV parks near Florida’s historic districts, you can enjoy all the comforts of home while immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of this beautiful state.
Whether you’re interested in early American history, architecture, or local culture, there’s something for everyone in these fascinating destinations. From the quaint charm of St. Augustine to the bustling streets of downtown Kissimmee, these RV-friendly destinations are perfect for history buffs and adventurers alike. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the best that Florida has to offer.
FAQs
1. What are some of the best RV parks near Florida’s historic districts?
There are many great RV parks near Florida’s historic districts, including Fort Clinch State Park, Anastasia State Park, and Boyd’s Key West Campground.
2. What historic districts are located near Sherwood Forest RV Resort?
Sherwood Forest RV Resort is located in Kissimmee, Florida. It is close to several historic districts, including Historic Downtown Kissimmee, Osceola County Historical Society Pioneer Village, St. Cloud Historic District, and Winter Park Historic District.
3. Are RV parks near Florida’s historic districts pet-friendly?
Many RV parks near Florida’s historic districts are pet-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check with the specific park you plan to visit for their policies on pets.
4. Are RV parks near Florida’s historic districts family-friendly?
Yes, many RV parks near Florida’s historic districts are family-friendly and offer amenities like playgrounds, swimming pools, and organized activities for kids.
5. Can I make reservations for RV parks near Florida’s historic districts?
Yes, most RV parks near Florida’s historic districts allow you to make reservations online or by phone. It’s always a good idea to book your spot ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons.