Little Manatee River State Park Campground
First time lil campers
Took the littles (ages 5 &4) for their first tent camping trip - had a blast once they learned what s’mores were all about! Decent space, warm days and unusually cool nights.
265 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Wimauma, Florida include several state parks and conservation areas offering diverse camping experiences within a short drive. Little Manatee River State Park provides tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with electric hookups and water access, while Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River offers similar options with boat-in access. The surrounding region features a mix of established campgrounds like Fort De Soto Park in Saint Petersburg and E.G. Simmons Regional Park in Ruskin, both providing waterfront camping opportunities with varying levels of amenities.
Seasonal considerations affect camping conditions throughout the year, with Florida's subtropical climate creating distinct camping experiences. Summer months bring higher temperatures and increased humidity, often accompanied by afternoon thunderstorms and mosquito activity. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds and other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," noted one camper about their experience at a nearby preserve. Most campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, though winter months (November through April) represent peak season with higher occupancy rates and the need for advance reservations. Water levels in rivers and lakes fluctuate seasonally, potentially affecting paddling opportunities and wildlife viewing.
Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews across multiple sites in the region. Campers frequently mention wildlife encounters as highlights, with opportunities to see manatees, dolphins, and various bird species. Several campgrounds feature trails for hiking and biking, though shade availability varies significantly between locations. One visitor described Little Manatee River State Park as having "close access to gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores" while still providing a natural setting. Privacy between campsites varies considerably, with some reviews noting closely spaced sites at certain campgrounds. Noise levels depend on location and season, with some campgrounds experiencing higher weekend occupancy and associated activity levels. Most developed campgrounds provide standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms and showers.
"A lot of walking trails for people and horses. A surprise was the amphitheater. Washers and dryers are located outside the bathrooms. Friendly hosts and other campers. Would came again."
"This campsite is right outside of Little Manatee River State Park. I even missed the entrance and went to Little Manatee because I missed the turn."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."
"Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."
from $38 - $48 / night
Check Availability"It’s also located right off the highway, so you get all the noise. All day and all night. Now, for canoe and kayak trips, I guess it’s a good spot. There’s a lot of folk that come just for that."
"The place is tucked in and has a great vibe."
from $24 - $109 / night
Check Availability"Nearly every campsite is right on the water - easy in and out for kayaks, large boat ramp and many picnic pavilions."
"Close to the boatramp. Raccoons can be annoying. Has picnic pavilions and several fishing docks"
from $24 / night
Check Availability"Was bordered by the camp road and the bike/walking path so often noisy with no sense of privacy. Bad mosquitoes, but to be expected."
"If you’re looking for a place to camp on the west coast of Florida that is quiet and has campsites that give you privacy, Lake Manatee State Park is a great choice."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Widely known in Florida for the mountain bike trails. Not much else to do in the area, but very nice space to chill out. The night sky is far enough away that you can really take in the stars."
"For Florida this is a great campsite especially for me because it's so close overall a great place for any activity"
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"Lithia Springs Conservation Park is a hidden gem for camping in Florida. The campground is clean, well-maintained, and tucked away in a peaceful natural setting."
"Canoe and Kyak launch is easily accessible to enjoy the calm waters of the Alafia River. Restrooms and showers were clean and plentiful around the grounds. We will definitely be back."
"PX and commissary near the security gate. Campground check-in quick and efficient. Pick your site from what's available. $26/night with full hook-ups. Right on the Gulf, beautiful beach."
"Close to a small beach and marina with a restaurant walking distance. Several dog parks but muddy/dirt. Laundry available for fee. Bath houses clean and large. Good amenities on base."
"Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours. Camp sites are bit close to one another but overall amazing experience."
"Very pretty and wooded for Florida. Great to bike around and see everything. Neat to see gators. Will definitely go back."
from $24 / night
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Took the littles (ages 5 &4) for their first tent camping trip - had a blast once they learned what s’mores were all about! Decent space, warm days and unusually cool nights.
Great views! Most sites have water-access backyards. Gravel pads are long enough and grassy area behind them goes to waters edge. Room for kiddos to play and adults to wade fish for seatrout on the flats
Great lil place. Nice private bathrooms, mini splits in these and in tent, comfortable for family of 5. Fun turf play area near main office. Shark tooth sifting, trail hike, but the bank river fishing was tough. Owner/manager was a jack of all trades, very helpful and did it all.
Great little spot. Seemed to rain every 5 minutes where they had to shut everything down but had good contingency plans. Golf carts galore with some sites a little more rowdy than the next, but plenty of room. Kids loved the pools and crafts, adults loved the tiki bars and live music.
this place is nice they have their own private island can go fishing over there with no license nice Pier to walk across take your dog there and enjoy on the river
I have been trying for weeks to get someone to answer the phone. Numerous requests for a call back have got me nowhere!!!
The host Nor treated me like trash. He mandates you leave a lock off of your hitch so he can move your Rv around as needed. Mind you I was going to be paying for a reserved spot on the property paying a monthly rate. When I inquired more about their policy to see if they damaged my Rv while moving it would it be covered by them for the repairs of damages. My reservation was then automatically canceled for no reason and Nor only gave me a partial refund for my booking. He is very rude and unprofessional. There are also other reviews in the neighbor app stating damages happened while moving someone's rv and he refused to take accountability or finance the repairs for that customer. Hints the reason I was wanting clarification on the matter. Instead of providing it he decided to cancel my reservation and tried to beat me out of my deposit. Dont bring your RV here for storage it is a huge risk!
Good clean site.
We had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground! The tent sites are spacious and nicely spread out, giving you plenty of room to set up camp without feeling crowded by your neighbors. The campground has a peaceful, natural atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy being outdoors. There are 6 cabins also available with electric– no ac.
One of the things that really impressed us was the bathroom facilities. The restrooms and showers were very clean and well-maintained, which makes a huge difference when you’re tent camping. It was great to be able to enjoy a more primitive camping experience without giving up the convenience of a nice bathroom and shower.
The location next to Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is what really makes this campground special. Campers have access to the preserve’s pedestrian trails, making it easy to spend time exploring nature and then return to your campsite to relax.
Overall, Terry Tomalin Campground is a hidden gem in St. Petersburg and a fantastic place for anyone who enjoys tent camping and being surrounded by nature. We would definitely stay here again!
Notes: Only open on weekends, no pets, strict rules against vaping and alcoholic beverages. This location is very busy in the summertime as there are not many camping options in the area. Large group fire pits (not at each site)
Campsites near Wimauma, Florida offer access to natural springs and riverside camping experiences rarely mentioned in typical Florida travel guides. The area features several small conservation areas with freshwater swimming options maintaining consistent 72°F temperatures year-round. Many campgrounds maintain bike-friendly paths connecting camping loops with recreation areas.
Mountain biking at Alafia River State Park: The park features multiple difficulty levels of mountain biking trails built on former phosphate mining land. "This park is close to home for me, I come here often for the Mountain Biking and the awesome humans. The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here," notes Jennifer T.
Kayaking from primitive sites: Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River offers paddling-accessible campsites with varying distances. "We did the 8-mile trek which wasn't too bad for a group of 30 year old guys that are out of shape. However the campgrounds do get pricey. Either way its a great time for a group," shares Armando F.
Swimming in natural springs: Lithia Springs Conservation Park maintains a clear spring-fed swimming area for $2 per person. "The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" reports a visitor named Holy O.
Private waterfront sites: Fort De Soto Campground offers sites with water access and natural buffers. "Many sites are waterfront and are mostly well separated. Great bike trails. Restrooms are dated but well maintained. Electric and water. 2 dump sites on property," according to David G.
Equestrian facilities: Alafia River State Park provides horse camping options with dedicated stalls. "Very nice facilities. Miles of horseback trails to ride. Very nice horse stalls to put horses in overnight. Perfect place for equine vacation!" remarks Donna H.
Natural site separation: Most campers appreciate the vegetation between sites at nearby parks. "Natural trees providing privacy between lots. A lot of walking trails for people and horses. A surprise was the amphitheater. Washers and dryers are located outside the bathrooms," notes Patti D. about campsites near Wimauma.
Interstate noise levels: Some campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. At Winter Quarters Manatee, a visitor noted, "However, the noise of the interstate is non-stop, and traffic in this area is really congested."
Seasonal insect considerations: No-see-ums affect waterfront camping, particularly at E.G. Simmons Regional Park. "You really cannot stay outside at dusk. Citronella torches, spray, fans, Avon skin so soft...none of these work for the no see-ums," warns Christy C.
Reservation systems vary: Some parks require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "We had to show up without a reservation and take advantage of first come, first serve spots," explains one visitor to MacDill AFB FamCamp.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife at waterfront sites. "Great park with days worth of activities! The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc. made for a great visit! Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!" shares Brennan H.
Playground access: Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Peaceful, clean, natural environment," reports Gloria J., making it suitable for families with younger children.
Evening activity planning: Sunset timing affects family camping routines. "We definitely heard people talking but as it got dark which happens early this time of year things settle down pretty quickly and never had a problem at night," notes Gail W., suggesting quieter evening hours.
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should research specific site dimensions. "Arrived to find it very tight to get into our site, thankfully the nearby neighbors moved their vehicles so my husband could maneuver the 5th wheel in," cautions Jeannine D.
Water quality variations: Some campers recommend bringing your own drinking water. At one park, a visitor advised, "Don't drink the water here," suggesting filtered or bottled alternatives for consumption.
Dump station locations: Lake Manatee State Park Campground provides accessible dump stations for RVs. "Shower and facilities clean. Well kept park, level pads. No sewer or 50amp, but great anyways," reports Kevin H., highlighting the clean facilities despite limited hookup options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Wimauma, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Wimauma, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 265 campgrounds and RV parks near Wimauma, FL and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Wimauma, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Wimauma, FL is Little Manatee River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 28 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Wimauma, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Wimauma, FL.
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