If you love camping but don’t love scraping ice off your windshield, winter is the perfect excuse to point your rig (or your little tent) south.
The best part about winter camping in the Southern U.S. is that you can still get those crisp mornings and cozy campfire night, without spending all day bundled up like a sleeping bag burrito. In this environment, you can enjoy beach walks in a hoodie, sunny desert hikes, and starry skies that feel extra clear this time of year.
Choose destinations with milder daytime temps, lower humidity, and campgrounds that stay open year-round.
Keep in mind that while the climate in the south is usually much more pleasant, even the southernmost places can get chilly at night, and a random cold snap can roll through.
Below are my favorite warm-ish winter camping picks across the Southern U.S., with a mix of tropical, coastal, and desert options so you can pick what sounds best right now.
Affiliate Disclaimer: This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission on purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
What to Pack for Warm Winter Camping
Even if daytime temps are dreamy, nights can still dip and bring chilly air. So there are a few things that can make a huge difference:
A layered sleep system – This should include a sleeping pad, a warm sleeping bag or quilt, and a liner if you run cold
Wind protection – Especially important on beaches and open desert sites
A warm hat & socks for sleeping – This may seem like a tiny item, but it can provide big comfort
A headlamp & camp lighting – Winter means longer nights
Extra water storage – Desert camping is especially dry
Bug spray – Yes, even in winter
The Best Warm Winter Camping Destinations in the Southern U.S.
1) Florida Keys (Key West & the Lower Keys)
If you’re chasing the warmest winter weather you can get in the continental U.S., the Keys are always near the top of the list. January temps in Key West average around the mid-70s for highs, with lows in the mid-60s.
Why it’s great in winter
Comfortable temps for kayaking, snorkeling, biking, and beach days
Less buggy than summer (but still bring spray)
Sunrise/sunset views are unreal
Good to know
Campgrounds and state parks book out fast in winter.
Breezes off the water can make evenings feel cooler than the forecast.
Great for: RVers, couples trips, “I need a real break” camping
2) Everglades National Park, Florida
Winter is the Everglades sweet spot, because of the lower humidity, fewer mosquitoes, and temps typically ranging from the low 50s to upper 70s during the dry season.
Why it’s great in winter
Best season for wildlife spotting
Comfortable temps for paddling and hiking
You can actually sit outside without melting
Good to know
A breeze can make nights feel cooler (especially near water).
Bring binoculars and plan for early mornings.
Great for: nature lovers, birders, paddlers, photographers
3) Padre Island National Seashore, Texas
If you love beach camping, this is a fun winter option. You’ll get wide-open shoreline, steady ocean air, and that peaceful “off-season” vibe. The National Park Service notes spring/fall averages around 70–80°F for daytime temps, with cooler nights.
Why it’s great in winter
Less crowded than peak summer
Huge skies, great sunrise walks
Perfect “simple camping” reset
Good to know
Wind is the main issue on the beach. Bring sand stakes, a windbreak, and warm layers.
Know the beach driving rules and tide conditions if you’re heading out on the sand.
Great for: minimalist campers, anglers, beach walkers, stargazers
4) Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend is one of those places that feels like a different planet. Winter is popular because you can hike without the extreme heat, but temperatures vary a lot depending on where you are in the park (desert areas vs. higher elevation). The park posts average temperature tables by area.
Why it’s great in winter
Prime hiking season
Dark skies (seriously… bring a star app)
Big scenery, big solitude
Good to know
Nights can be cold (especially in higher elevations).
Reservations can be competitive during peak winter weeks.
Great for: hikers, photographers, anyone who loves desert landscapes
5) Tucson Area & Saguaro Country, Arizona
If you want winter sunshine without the Florida humidity, southern Arizona is a solid pick. Tucson’s January normals are around 66°F highs and low 40s at night.
Why it’s great in winter
Sunny days that feel amazing for hiking
Iconic saguaro scenery
Lots of nearby camping options (from developed sites to desert boondocking)
Good to know
Once the sun drops, it cools off quickly.
Bring more water than you think you need (dry air will fool you).
Great for: active campers, hikers, anyone who loves desert sunsets
6) Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona
This one is a gem if you want a quieter desert park with a true “get away from it all” feel. Winter temps can swing however, so expect days in the 50s/60s and nights down into the 40s or even below freezing at times.
Why it’s great in winter
Mild hiking weather
Gorgeous desert drives
Peaceful camp vibe (less hectic than some big-name parks)
Good to know
Temperature swings are real, so pack layers like you mean it.
Winter rains can pop up mid-season.
Great for: slower-paced trips, desert lovers, scenic driving
7) Southern Louisiana
If you want a totally different vibe, like swamps, mossy trees, slow mornings, and comfort food, Louisiana is a fun winter option. It’s not always “hot,” but it’s often milder than the northern half of the country, and the atmosphere is hard to beat.
Why it’s great in winter
Unique scenery and culture
Great food towns nearby
Lower bug pressure than summer
Good to know
Bring rain gear (winter can be damp).
Choose campgrounds with solid drainage.
Great for: foodie trips, slower travel, “something different” weekends
Quick Tips for Booking Warm Winter Camping Trips
Reserve early for Florida and popular desert areas (snowbird season is real).
Plan for wind on beaches and open desert sites.
Bring layers even if the forecast looks warm, because night temps can surprise you.
Check local alerts (fronts can push cold air farther south than you’d expect).
Pick Your Ideal “Warm” and Go
Warm winter camping in the Southern U.S. is basically the cheat code for staying outdoors year-round. Whether you’re chasing tropical air in the Keys, a quiet beach on the Texas coast, or desert sunshine in Arizona, you’ll get the best of winter camping without the full-on deep freeze.
Check out my article on the 10 Must-Have Camping Cookware for Outdoor Cooking. It's packed with essential gear recommendations to make your camping meals even more delicious and hassle-free!
