Alderman's Ford Conservation Park holds four primitive campsites along the Alafia River in Lithia, Florida, accessible only by foot. The parking area sits roughly 1.5 miles from the camping area, so visitors arrive on their own two feet with everything they need on their backs. Sites 1, 3, and 4 include hammock poles fitted for up to three hammocks at a time, and each site has a picnic table, fire pit, and trash can. Rangers have stocked firewood in a covered hut on recent visits.
The closest restroom facility is about a half-mile down the trail from the campsites, with a water spout nearby. No water or power runs to the sites themselves. Cleanliness at the sites has been a consistent point in reviews, though some visitors have noted trail litter left by day users. Road noise carries through the night, which is worth factoring in for those expecting full immersion in forest sounds. On the other hand, "lots of birds and wildlife in the late day and early morning," as Jeanene A. observed, are reliably present.
The forested terrain, river access, and hike-in requirement make this a reasonable entry point for families new to primitive camping. Cell service is listed as available. Reservations can be made in advance, and pets are permitted. Campers wanting a different setup nearby can look at Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve to the north, or Edward Medard Park for a more developed experience, both within the same general corridor for places to camp around Lithia.
Description
In 1848, settler James Alderman built his homestead south of the Alafia River in Lithia. He fashioned a crossing by cutting down the steep banks of the river, creating Alderman’s Ford. This historic site is now home to Alderman’s Ford Conservation Park, a hot spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park's most popular attraction is a 1.9 mile paved loop that follows the north and south prongs of the Alafia River-- one of the most popular canoe spots in the state. The loop, which is hiker, dog walker, and bicycle friendly, links with a boardwalk and foot bridges, leading into shaded woods of gigantic cypress and oak trees. Visit Alderman's Ford Conservation Park and enjoy a day of birdwatching, fishing or hiking the lush woods. The park also hosts four remote campsites for anyone seeking a real wilderness experience without going too far from home.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsAlderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground is located in Florida near Lithia
Directions
Primitive campsites can be reserved by calling the park office at (813) 757-3801. These remote sites have a picnic table, hammock stands, and fire pits. There is no water or electricity. An approximately 1 to 1.5 mile hike is required to reach the sites. Restroom facilities (no showers) are located approximately one-half mile from the sites. Important Information Swimming is not permitted anywhere in the park. There is no electric at the shelters, and generators are not allowed. Dogs are allowed in the park, but must be on a 6-inch hand held leash at all times. Alcohol and intoxicated people are not permitted in the park. Pets, bicycles and skateboards are not permitted on the boardwalk
Coordinates
27.86817511 N
82.13737427 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 2/18/26- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 2/18/26
- Verizon5GExcellent Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 user
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
