Forum Discussion

Jpjlauer's avatar
Jpjlauer
Explorer
Mar 05, 2014

John Pennekamp State Park

I am wintering in Florida for the first time in 6 years. Been around State Park to State Park to Corp of Engineer Parks going on 8 weeks now. Just recently found an opening at John Pennekamp and booked it for the "grand finally" of our winter trip and extending our stay in Florida by two weeks because I've never been to the Key's so I "jumped" on the opening when it popped up not knowing what I was getting into.
However, I've mentioned this to several people who have not given me good impressions of this state park. Now I'm wondering if I should spend the time and money to keep the reservation.
I'm not into diving or snorkeling, just sun - warm weather - good restaurants - dog friendly beaches - and great views.
I will greatly appreciate any one who will share their experiences or knowledge of the area with me.
  • Sharps45120's avatar
    Sharps45120
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2014
    Aside from Sombrero, there is another small beach in Marathon called CocoPlum. It's very shallow pretty far out from shore and there were loads of people with their dogs playing in the surf. Great place for a picnic.
  • bobjogone's avatar
    bobjogone
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2014
    It is also close to Key Biscayne and Everglades National Park for day visits.
    They also rent kayaks which is fun.
  • riven1950's avatar
    riven1950
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2014
    Nice facilities and good place to chill. Beaches are small but nice. Dogs must be on a leash like all SP and no specific dog beach I think. We just went in Jan for first time. Planning to return, but we were just chilling and not on a particular mission.

    Don't have a dog but best doggie beach I have seen is Ft Desoto.
  • NCWriter's avatar
    NCWriter
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2014
    I would keep your reservation if I were you. I like the friendly atmosphere there (and it is the only Keys state park campground with a laundromat, by the way). You can take their glass bottom boat trip out to the reef, and there's a nice water sports gift shop.

    Our first time Keys camping, we based ourselves there and drove south for a couple of day trips. You could go down to Sombrero for a pet friendly beach on Marathon Key.

    There are many restaurants, groceries, etc nearby Pennekamp since Key Largo is a well serviced community.

    But if you cancel, post on the forum when you are going to pull the trigger, and somebody here will jump on it.
  • fla-gypsy's avatar
    fla-gypsy
    Explorer
    Mar 06, 2014
    You should do it. Take the time to drive further down and across the 7 mile bridge for some great vistas. Maybe a day in Key West
  • Dog_Folks's avatar
    Dog_Folks
    Explorer
    Mar 05, 2014
    The campground was re done just a few years ago and has sewer now. It is the Keys, so lots of activities are orientated towards the water. There certainly are better beaches in Florida. There are plenty of land based attractions to visit also.

    Drive down and spend one day in Key West. Ride the train around and soak in the unique things seen there. The drivers are great tour guides.

    It will be warm. There are some outstanding restaurants there.

    The keys are a "quirky" place that everyone ought to try at least once. A vast majority of those that do, love it and return time after time.

    Hope this helps.
  • Sharps45120's avatar
    Sharps45120
    Explorer
    Mar 05, 2014
    Although I can't give you any specific information on John Pennekamp, I wouldn't pass up a chance to stay in the Keys. After several short trips to Key West staying in hotels, we spent 2 weeks with the Harleys and toy hauler in March 2011 and it was the best vacation ever. Scratched riding the Harley across the 7 Mile Bridge off the old bucket list.

    The Keys are our favorite destination. Too bad work gets in the way!

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