St. Andrews State Park – Hours, Fees & Visitor Tips
Planning a trip to St. Andrews State Park in Florida? To make the most of your visit, it’s important to know the park’s hours, entry fees, camping options, and insider tips. This guide combines official information with insights gathered from visitor experiences.
Park Operating Hours
- Open Daily: 8:00 a.m. until sundown, 365 days a year.
- Late Arrivals: Campers arriving after dark should call St. Andrews State Park for gate instructions and combination access.
Admission & Fees Overview
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Vehicle (2–8 people) | $8 |
| Single-occupant vehicle | $4 |
| Pedestrians, bikers, extra passengers, or vehicle with Annual Pass holder | $2 |
| Bus tours (1–29 passengers) | $2 per person |
| Bus tours (30+ passengers) | $60 total |
| Boat Launch (1 person) | $12 |
| Boat Launch (2–8 people) | $16 |
| Campsite (standard, includes water & electricity) | $28 + tax, plus $6.70 reservation fee & $7 utility fee |
| Primitive Group Camp – Youth (≤17) | $1/night |
| Primitive Group Camp – Adults (≥18) | $5/night |
Camping & Reservations
- Standard camping reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance for youth groups and up to 30 days for adult groups.
- Florida residents 65+ or with Social Security disability certificates may receive 50% off base campsite fees. Proof is required. Reservation & utility fees are excluded.
- One adult chaperone (21+) is required for every 10 youth campers and must remain with the group at all times.
Visitor Tips & Best Practices
- Arrive Early: Park capacity fills quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Aim to arrive by 8:00 a.m.
- Choose Weekdays: Monday–Thursday visits help avoid crowds.
- Explore Shell Island: Take the ferry or rent a pontoon. Ideal for shell collecting, nature walks, and peaceful scenery.
- Snorkel & Fish at the Jetties: Rocks near the jetties are excellent for spotting fish, crabs, and other marine life.
- Pack Your Own Food & Drinks: Onsite options are limited and pricey; bring water, snacks, and a cooler.
- Sun Protection: Shade is limited. Bring umbrellas, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Shark Tooth Hunting: Visitors with small sieves or similar tools have more success finding fossils on Shell Island.
Final Thoughts
St. Andrews State Park is a natural gem that offers safe, shallow waters, pristine beaches, and rich wildlife. Following these tips—especially arriving early—will help you enjoy a seamless, unforgettable day at one of Florida’s most scenic coastal parks.