Looking to go glamping near Aripeka and enjoy a rustic retreat into nature? Camping has always been a favorite form of travel for many, but Aripeka, FL glamping is a new and unique way to do it. Search nearby glamping or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Just minutes from downtown Tampa, this Hillsborough River State Park Camping offers a refuge from city life with its seven miles of nature trails and ample places to cool off in the water.
Except for occasional reenactments, the cannon and guns are now silent at Fort Foster. No longer do Seminole Indians have to fight to keep a foothold in Florida, and soldiers no longer guard a strategic river crossing. The reconstructed fort and its surroundings are now part of Hillsborough River State Park.
Besides a living history lesson, visitors can kayak or canoe class II river rapids, rare in Florida, hike seven miles of nature trails and swim in an ADA accessible swimming pool.
Tucked away, only a short distance from the bustling city of Tampa, camping is a popular activity at Hillsborough River State Park.
$24 / night
Separate primitive camping areas available for individual and equestrian camping. Backcountry camping available. Campsites for cars and primitive cabins available. Groups can reserve tent site or cabins up to 90 days in advance. Reservation and fee are required and can be made up to 30 days in advance.
Enjoy a beautiful RV resort on Florida's scenic West Coast. Indulge in the nearby Gulf beaches, shopping, restaurants, golf courses and fishing. Crystal Isles RV Resort lets you create the perfect blend of peace, pleasure and play for the Florida RV vacation you have been dreaming of. Hit a golf ball, stroll on the wide beaches, rent a boat, catch a fish in local streams and lakes, or visit nearby King's Bay to swim with a manatee - it's all waiting for you! We offer a wonderful experience for the whole family at Encore's Crystal Isles RV Resort in Florida. Perfect blend of peace and pleasure at a Nature Coast RV resort Whether you're planning a retreat for the whole family, a group of friends or a getaway for two, there's no shortage of unique activities to explore at Crystal Isles RV Resort. Plan activities upon arrival or visit this page before your departure to plan ahead. Looking for more? Our friendly staff can fill you in on all of the great ways to make your stay a memorable experience.
Mutual Mine Campground has campsites in a horseshoe formation next to a picturesque, rain-filled lake that was formerly a mine pit. This campground does not have showers. Features - No pets allowed Hiking trails: - Citrus C Loop is 16.9 miles. - Citrus D Loop is 19.4 miles. No alcohol allowed Facilities - 13 non-electric campsites with water, picnic table and fire ring Restrooms (no showers) - Youth group camp area. - Reservations required. Call (352) 797-4140. - Reservation required for ALL campsites. Call (352) 797-4140.
Ten campsites are available for overnight tent camping at the park. There is also a group tent camping area. Reservations must be made in advance through the Pasco County Parks & Recreation Department.
Some Features and Amenities of our resort:
Free Snow Removal
Free Wi-Fi
Free Cable TV
Heated Pool
Well Stocked Camp Store
"NO RIG TOO BIG!"
292 Sites
39 Pull Thru
Guide
We stayed here to glamp in their new glamping yurts. First time glamping in FL and it was a great experience. The yurt was chic and smelt really good like essential oils. Everything was very clean and they put in a lot of effort to customize the stay for you. Best way to “camp” while staying clean and comfy. The bathrooms were nearby and immaculate at well.
Guide
This is a great free camping area in the Florida wilderness. Plenty of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. The Florida trail is nearby.
Traveler
You must reserve a site with Southwest Florida Water Management by website. It is sometimes closed to hunting. There are lakes and multiple varieties of terrain.
GuideLoved the hiking, huge pool (closed due to cover though) will go back. Hiking along the river almost forgot we were even in Florida :-)
Legend
Jake from the Dyrt here! Cristal Camping has great access to the river for enjoying the warm Florida coast water. Check it out and share a review on the Dyrt!
Guide
We camped overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area. Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails. We'll definitely visit again when we're in Florida.
GuideThe river was an obstacle course but adventurous and challenging. What we were really impressed was the campsites. Very shaded and quiet. One added bonus is the Florida Trail starts there also. She have a you tube channel called trailandcampreport.com. Always great to add new sites.
Traveler
Always a nice camp with multiple access hike in points. Check for scheduled hunts, hunters do not like hikers even though Florida trail is open year round. 5 minute walk from river if you need drinking water. Make sure to filter and watch for gators.
GuideThis was my first time at a campground in Florida! I was surrounded by beautiful wildlife (alligators, birds, and even a wild boar). The hiking trails were perfect for a beginner or a regular hiker. The little shop/restaurant sells a nice, quick meal for when you're done hiking as well! I will definitely be going back.
TravelerI love this park, this section of the Hillsborough River has some of the only class 2 rapids in Florida! This park has every amenity you can imagine for camping from a giant swimming pool, kayak/canoe rental, bike rentals, fishing, hiking, so much to do. Its honestly a kind of hidden gem so close to Tampa!
TravelerWe stayed here to attend the Florida RV Supershow and it was perfect. Less than a half hour to the fairgrounds. Peaceful campground with nice size sites. We were in site 51A (pull through) for 2 nights and site 42 for 2 nights. Both were level and shaded. Bathhouse was nice. We really enjoyed the trails.
TravelerThis park has RV sites, regular tent sites, cabins and primitive camping. I like the regular tent sites, not much of a walk in but secluded. The park includes restrooms and showers and seem to be taken care of. There are several trails around, one paved, and I believe the Florida Trail is very close. Quiet at night and peaceful.
Traveler
There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse. We are in a 24' class C and found a nice private area that was surprisingly level. Trailers are accommodated at the equestrian campground. I suggest you arrive before dark as the road is a bit rough and narrow, with no light.
Scout
My boyfriend and I just camped here for 4 days. Weekends have a different vibe on the weekdays it’s quiet. Each campground has its primitive camp charm all come with a picnic table, parking spot, a wooden pole you can hang your garbage, and a water spout near by. Overall we had a great time it’s clean, there’s mosquitoes but that is Florida camping bring bug spray and keep the fire going helps. We’ll definitely be going back one day!
Traveler
We stayed at one of the hike-in sites and had a good time. Be prepared for a trek, as the site was a couple miles in. The trail was nice and paved though, suitable for bicycling in. Be prepared for sun exposure, with sunblock and lots of water recommended as you will be hiking under open sky in the Florida heat. You will also need to bring firewood in with you. No bathrooms where we were, so have some camping toilet paper and a shovel for human waste disposal. They have water stations, but do not count on these being full at all times. Bring water with you. Don’t risk it! Have fun!
Traveler3.2 mile hike through mostly open Florida pine forest with the occasional swamp. Perfect time of year to come. Site has great shade and opens up at the fire pit for great star gazing. Only downside is that you are under the flight path for Tampa Intl. so you get the occasional jets above. We had a small spike buck come into our camp at night and he didn’t even flinch at us from 20 yards. Awesome experience for my son. Weather was absolutely perfect. For being generally surrounded by urban areas this place is a win for ease of access. Good cell service with T-Mobile as well. We will definitely be doing this again!
GuideThis was a very nice swimming and paddle boat park on the Hillsborough River when I was a kid.As a family we visited many times. Now everything is closed down except camping, hiking, canoeing if you bring your own. But still a nice place to camp. Better if not during rainy season here in Florida. The ground was wet. Some sites had overflow from the river, I guess? Our site was nice. We had water and electricity. Pretty quiet. Lots of dogs. Very nice Rangers. Also someone went through every evening selling ice and firewood, which was great! Overall we will go back.
GuideGreat get away in west-central Florida as a day trip or long weekend stay.
We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer. The park has separate primitive tent, car-camping (tent) and cabin campgrounds near the entrance of the park along with over 50 miles of biking, hiking, nature as well as equestrian trails to enjoy. Not to mention several parking areas throughout with playgrounds and an educational center make this a favorite for families to just get away.
Reservations can be made for camping up to 90 days in advance either online or at the park. We noticed several rangers and volunteers performing various tasks to improve the parks appearance. Will definitely be returning!
ScoutA beautiful park that is a real taste of old Florida , with a campground that is completely shaded by oak trees. At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy. Unfortunately , the fireflies aren't the only bugs . The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June . We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them. You can rent Surrey's and golf carts to cruise the park which is a nice plus , although they are overpriced. Nature Trails are amazing.
Also , don't come expecting the pool to be open , just consider it a lucky bonus if it happens to be. They look for any reason possible to close it , and it seems to be closed almost all the time.
GuideI had two locations during my stay, first in Site 83 in Loop 1 and then in Site 6 in Loop 2. Loop 1 is definitely quieter. I’d pick a site that backs to the woods rather than the middle of the loops. Be aware that some of these sites get flooded during the rainy season. It’s a great park to launch your kayak from, a spot near the trails and another in Loop 2. Yes, there are gators, this is Florida (see video). There are numerous scenic trails. The ones across the river are less travelled and quieter, the ones near the parking areas tend to be filled with noisy families. Clean, well maintained restrooms. A cart comes by with firewood and ice, not sure if that’s just because if COVID but it was convenient.
LegendCrooked River Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Hernando County), and a short 5-mile drive from I-75. Thankfully the furthest away from the interstate which remains busy 24/7. The complex is on the shore of Silver Lake, which is part of the Withlacoochee River system, this campground is part of the Silver Lake Recreation Complex. The Withlacoochee travels around the different campgrounds here and there is a large day use boat ramp onto the lake away from the campgrounds.
At Crooked River (The Native American name for the Withlacoochee) it seemed like every site was surrounded by dense undergrowth which really added more privacy. You can see from my campground and another random site I took a photo of that you are really nestled into the underbrush. If you want to get to the water there is a staircase which provides access to the Withlacoochee River for small boats. I took my folding kayak out and the water was very nice and refreshing against the unbearable heat of Florida. I think there was only 1 maybe 2 other campers while I was there and saw more people on mountain bikes going around the roads than anyone else.
Local Features and Activities
· Nature trail and boardwalk.
· Fishing
· Sorry, no pets allowed
Facilities
Directions: Take I-75 Exit 301 onto US98/SR50. You'll then turn east (away from Brooksville) and go about 1 mile until you reach the second stoplight at Croom Rital Road. Turn left and proceed north. Follow the signs to the Withlacoochee State Forest Silver Lake Recreation Area and turn right into the complex and follow the signs to the campground.
GuideThis park has so much to offer and comes through on most, but (you knew this was coming) it needs an infusion of money to update and upgrade the campground. We had to request a site change as the site we had reserved was under water when we arrived. Rangers were more than accommodating and in fairness to them a tropical storm had just made a pass of the state in the Gulf of Mexico. Also because of Covid the pool was closed. We did take a very cautious dip in the river but it’s Florida and gators are present. Bring a kayak, biking is limited, for us it was restricted to the park as we were uncomfortable with the county roads with no shoulder outside the park. Not much to see in nearest town Zephryhills but good for restocking the pantry and if you want it fast food.
LegendPart of the Starkey Wilderness Preservethis location is full of multi use trails, has primitive cabin rentals (no electric) and tent camping available. Front country (car camping) and back country camping (hike in only). There are specific equestrian camping sites as well.
Cabins are pretty close to each other. All sites need to be reserved.Tent, cabin, shelter and pavilion reservations: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, (727) 834-3247. Picnic tables and fire pits are provided. Pavilions are also available to rent and they take reservations for large groups as well.
We chose car camping for our visit to check the place out. A favorite for hiking and biking. This place has gotten busier as development has been growing steadily over the years. Many of the trails are without shade and the recent fire season hit the back part of the tract pretty hard (Spring 2017) but you would not see any signs of this unless you hiked out the furthest trails from entrance.
Bring your bikes, hiking shoes, horses, or telescopes. Birders bring your binoculars! Over 150 species call Starkey home either full or part time. There is something here for everyone.
As always in Florida bring bug spray, sunblock, hat, and please leave no trace!
GuideHottest month in Florida but still we had a lovely time here at this park. It was our first time taking our 2016 class C out on the road as total newbies. We checked in at the office with Duane (very friendly) & all the signs are clearly labeled. #2 RV spot was a little small but #3 is lovely & tucked off from the road & almost all the spots are nicely shaded by trees. We saw armadillos, turtles, large Ospreys, and a small gator by the fishing dock. We didn’t catch any fish but got a few good bites. Picnic table + bonfire area. You can buy wood before coming so make sure to call so you don’t have to go back out. Duane & Russel who worked there were so kind & made our stay very enjoyable. The dump area was clean + had water hoses to clean your sewage hose out. Not a lot to do activity wise but the walking trails were quiet & peaceful. Make sure to visit the viewing tower + lending library in the small chapel. It felt nice to get away from the hustle & bustle to relax.
LegendThis is a nice pleasant location with nothing around but nature. This totally primitive site can be found 12 miles out from the McNeil Trailhead near Colt Creek State Park on Hwy 471. Choose your hiking dates well, the warmer and more humid the more difficult the hike. Trails can get pretty wet in the rainy season also.
Site was clear and open, which was good because there is an abundance of ticks to be found in the brush. There are places for tents and hammocks using tree safe straps. benches, fire ring and even a picnic table. Insect repellent is a must have!
The insects and frogs put on an amazing chorus after a rain. You will need to hang food and trash at night to keep critters away.
There are 65 miles of trails here, 37350 acres, and you really need to pay attention to the trail signs. there are separate equestrian sites in the area and separate trails as well.
A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at campground.
Trails can also be access from 13347 Ranch Road in Dade City, Florida
Guide
If someone were to read my past reviews of other campgrounds one might think I’d never found one I didn’t like. Until now that would be true. This campground is a full-time and appears long-term residence for many and as a result has very little feeling of getting away from sprawl. Our site A-20 was one of the hardest back-ins I’ve yet experienced and it had everything to do with how close adjacent sites were. It’s a shame because it’s location on a tributary of the Homosassa river is prime but it’s just too many people. The amenities pool, laundry, bathhouse, on-site bar& grill are all nice but not really something we look for when camping. They offer pontoon boats for rental which we did only to discover we wouldn’t be allowed to take it anywhere near the Gulf of Mexico where the best fishing can be found. Boat ran fine but the motor was the only part that wasn’t long overdue for retirement. All in all the whole experience has turned me off to one of my all time favorite parts of Florida. As for the long-term residents, I understand the attraction of a permanent home on wheels and a safe place to park it. What I can’t tolerate is the flying of Confederate flags, Trump No More Bullsh*t flags it’s just impolite and I think would be bad for business. To each his own but we will not go back or recommend it.
TravelerRecently enjoyed 3 nights here. It is a nice quiet park that is still recovering from Hurricane Irma.
This park offers some great amenities that are not common to state parks so I will start with those.
The campsites were well kept, the restrooms/showers were clean and easily accessible. The hosts were great about coming around frequently selling ice and wood.
My biggest disappointment with the Park was the site descriptions. Sites that were listed as having full or part shade did were in full sun. This is a pretty big deal in Florida. For the sites that do not have trees maybe they could build simple sheltered areas over the tables or to sit under during the heat of the day.
Overall, this is a great park and will definitely return!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Aripeka, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Aripeka, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 63 reviews.
What is the best site to find glamping camping near Aripeka, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 27 glamping camping locations near Aripeka, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring