Need help!

Planning a camping vacation in early March. Family of three: mom, dad and 11 year old daughter. We were thinking of exploring the north east part of Florida either Amelia Island or St-Augustine area. I imagine the best places to camp are in the State Parks. We like long walks on the beach, we like to hike, bicycle rides and discover the local flavor. We were thinking to stay there a few days and then head to the other side of the Gulf of Mexico. We were told to go to Crystal River to see the manatees. We were also told the beaches are also lovely on the Gulf of Mexico side, less crowded, etc. We like to go off the beaten path. Any recommendations for less touristy places of interest. Thanking you in advance for your tips!!

In St. Augustine area book a site at Anastassia SP. Beautiful park right on the beach. Very short drive to St. Augustine.

As far as I know Crystal River does not have camping. I can recommend Little Manatee River SP or Lake Manatee SP.

http://www.floridastateparks.org

Are you experienced campers? Our camping days are behind us and I dearly love to camp. Camping at the beach was marked off my agenda UNLESS there are showers available. Just me but also a thought for you.

The state parks are always a good bet. I'm sure there is camping in Crystal River, also Homosassa is a good place for Manatees. In the panhandle is a beautiful state park on St George Island.

The park on St. George is lovely - I have not camped there but a cousin recently spent a week camping there and thought it was great. However, it fills up quickly. It is a beautiful beach, although there's not a lot else there (which is why some of us love it).