Alafia River State Park draws a specific crowd. The campground, managed by Florida's Division of Recreation and Parks, sits within a forested state park that has built a regional reputation around its mountain bike trails, and that context shapes everything about the camping experience here.
Sites are large and well-spaced, with tree cover that has grown noticeably denser over the years. Campers consistently mention the privacy between sites and the clean facilities. Clay E. calls it "widely known in Florida for the mountain bike trails," and that reputation holds up on the ground: the park draws far more riders than hikers, and the trail system is the main event. Campers who arrive expecting a broad activity menu may find the offerings lean heavily toward cycling, with horseback riding and campfires rounding out the options. Firewood gathering is not permitted, so bring your own or plan to pick some up before arrival.
The park rents bikes suited to the sandy, stump-laden terrain, which works well for visitors who don't travel with their own gear. Trails are described as well-maintained and frequently reconfigured, which keeps the riding varied for return visitors. Hikers can access some mixed-use trails, though they'll share space with bikes. At $22 per night with electric and water hookups at sites accommodating rigs up to 60 feet, the campground draws a steady RV crowd, and reviewers note that electrical issues have been reported at some sites, so testing your connection on arrival is worth the extra few minutes.
One practical note: the park is open year-round, but Florida summers bring serious heat. One reviewer documented real-feel temperatures around 110 degrees with functional power being the difference between staying and leaving. Reservations are available and worth booking ahead, particularly on weekends. The night sky here is dark enough to reward those who stay up for it, well removed from the light pollution of the Tampa metro. Campers interested in places to camp around Alafia River State Park will find a few alternatives in the corridor, including Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground and Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve to the north.
If mountain biking is the plan, this campground delivers a practical, well-maintained base. If it isn't, come in knowing the park is built around the trails and plan accordingly.
Description
Standing out from the relatively flat topography of Central Florida is Alafia River State Park, a reclaimed phosphate mine with some of the most radical elevation changes in the state. This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikers, who traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike Association trails.
Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes.
Canoeing and fishing opportunities are available along the South Prong of the Alafia River with some lakes scattered throughout the park.
The park also offers picnic pavilions, a playground, a full-facility campground and a full-service bike shop.
Family campground is suitable for RVers and tent campers. Campers will find water and electrical hookups at each of the 30 campsites. Clean restrooms feature solar-heated showers. There are two large picnic pavilions in the campground.
Equestrian campers have access to 12 sites with equestrian designation and tie-outs for horses. Equestrian campers can access the barn, which is a short walk from the campground. There are 12 stables and 6 paddocks available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Extra parking for trailers can be accessed near the barn area. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes.
For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
The park gates close at sunset. If you plan to arrive late please, contact the park prior to 5 p.m. on the day of your arrival.
Check in time is 3 p.m. Check out time is 1 p.m.
For everyone's enjoyment, including pets, please observe the pet camping rules found in the complete Florida State Parks Pet Policy, click here.
Pets are not allowed in any state park cabins or cabin areas.
Service animals are welcome in all areas of the park where visitors are normally allowed.
No one younger than 18 may camp overnight unless accompanied by a responsible adult, who will remain onsite for the period rented.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAlafia River State Park Campground is located in Florida near Lithia
Directions
From the South take I-75 North to exit 240 and go east on State Road 674. Continue on State Road 674 for approximately 15 miles and turn left at the flashing light onto County Road 39. Continue for approximately five miles, the main park entrance will be on the right. From the North take I-75 South to exit 257 and go east on State Road 60. Continue to County Road 640 (Lithia Pinecrest Road) and go right. Go 11 miles and turn right at County Road 39. Continue to the park entrance on left.
Address
14326 S.County Road 39
Lithia, FL 33547
Coordinates
27.7791168744539 N
82.1402218883831 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/20/26- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/8/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/12/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 7/20/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/8/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/12/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 35 min from Tampa, FL
- 35 min from Lakeland, FL
- 1 hr 6 min from Sebring, FL
