Fort De Soto Campground sits on a 1,136-acre county park made up of five interconnected islands near Anna Maria, Florida. The area features mangrove swamps, wetlands, and palm hammocks with a subtropical climate averaging 74°F annually. The campground requires proof of rabies vaccination for all visiting pets, so paperwork should be prepared in advance.
What to do
Kayaking and wildlife viewing: Visitors at E.G. Simmons Regional Park can paddle through mangrove canals for unique wildlife encounters. "Great place to paddle a kayak in the Mangrove canals. Right on Tampa Bay... Several Osprey nests and other birds to watch on the water," reports Bran P.
Hiking with views: At Little Manatee River State Park, trails accommodate various experience levels. "Extremely helpful rangers who warned that some of the trails were still not cleared from Hurricane Irma. Even with the down trees, it was a wonderful hike filled with Black Swallowtail butterflies," notes Elizabeth G.
Beach access: Many campers use St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday as a base for beach trips. "Great inner city spot... Friendly staff and the grounds are bigger then expected. Full hook ups for RVs and separate tent area. Has a small shallow marina," writes Doug E.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers at Fort De Soto Park appreciate the private water-adjacent sites. "We had rented site 28 (mostly because it was one of the only ones available and best of the litter). There are three loops, and we were in the 1-86 loop. There are no pets and no RV's allowed, which was perfect for us," explains Joe R.
Clean facilities: Lake Manatee State Park maintains well-kept bathhouses and camping areas. "We were here last year when the hurricane evicted is, so this is our return... Shower and facilities clean. Well kept park, level pads. No sewer or 50amp, but great anyways," reports Kevin H.
Natural separation between sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide vegetation barriers for privacy. "Great little campground, clean with good natural foliage dividers between campsites. Nice walking trails, & a gentle river for an easy paddle," says Nicole D. about Little Manatee River State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "Okay so maybe the title isn't very nice but that is what stands out to me when I think of this campground... 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. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are common visitors at many campgrounds. "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 tons of Birds!" says Brennan H.
Reservation timing: Buttonwood Inlet RV Resort and similar facilities fill quickly during peak season. "We loved our stay at Buttonwood. It is a popular snowbird community, but they also have spots for people that are short term. It is in a very desirable location- 0.8 miles to the beach and 0.2 miles from an awesome fish taco place," explains Julia M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks have dedicated play areas for children. "I find myself torn between four and five stars on this campground... The playground has good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," shares Joe R.
Swimming options: Many parks offer water recreation beyond beaches. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday provides "a heated pool, mini golf course, shuffle board, dog run. There are the typical bike rentals, four person bikes, that are found at most KOAs," according to Doug E.
Educational opportunities: Fort De Soto offers historical sites alongside natural attractions. "The beaches are gorgeous, there are plenty of secret trails, a dog beach, general store, historic walks, boat ramps, kayak access, and much more!" explains Alyssa D.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: RV sites vary significantly throughout pet friendly camping near Anna Maria, Florida. "Campsites have everything you need, including power, washer/dryer/, running water, and a centrally located bathroom. The unfortunate part was just how close all camp sites are together," reports Shaun C. about Little Manatee River State Park.
Utility placements: Holiday Cove RV Resort and other parks have specific hookup arrangements. "Enjoyed the private lot surrounded by landscape and had a nice built in grill as each lot is privately owned. Management was great and helped resolved a few RV issues," notes Elicia Renee B.
Levelness of pads: Lake Manatee State Park offers "level pads. No sewer or 50amp, but great anyways," according to Kevin H., which matters significantly for larger RVs seeking pet friendly accommodations near Anna Maria Island.
