Best Tent Camping near Tampa, FL

Tampa's tent camping options range from developed sites to natural settings. Tampa City Park Campground has spacious tent sites near basic amenities, with level ground that makes setup quick and straightforward. Tampa Area State Park tent sites sit among trees and vegetation, giving campers more privacy while still being close to clean restrooms. In the nearby National Forest, tent campers will find designated pads with shade and parking spots that aren't far from where you'll pitch your tent. Tampa Recreation Area has thoughtful tent-specific features like lantern hooks, plus flat terrain that's good for sleeping comfortably. At Tampa County Park Campground, you can choose between sunny or shaded tent sites depending on what you prefer. You'll likely see local wildlife including deer and various birds while camping in these areas. Remember to keep your food secure so animals aren't attracted to your campsite. Following proper food storage is key to staying safe while camping here. It's smart to book your tent site ahead of time, particularly during busy camping seasons, so you know you'll have a spot when you arrive.

Best Tent Sites Near Tampa, Florida (28)

    1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 987-6771

    $24 / night

    "Fantastic Campground not far from Tampa. This could be a good park to stay at if you want to do Busch Gardens which is just 16 miles away."

    "I typically avoid tent camping here in the summer months– early summer the trails are heavy with mosquitoes and summer rains bring a large amount of flooding."

    2. Lithia Springs Conservation Park

    12 Reviews
    Durant, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 744-5572

    $24 / night

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    3. Lake Park

    5 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 264-3806

    "I live in an adjacent neighborhood (2 years) and walk this park daily with my doggos. I’ve biked all the trails and been here from sunrise to sunset."

    "This is a great park with trails, restrooms, boating, a fun playground, nice picnic areas, volleyball, BMX, and more."

    4. Lake Rogers Park

    3 Reviews
    Odessa, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 264-3917

    "This centrally located primitive camping spot is centrally located near the Odessa area near Tampa."

    "Lake Rodgers trail and campsites are beautiful and well kept up. The 3 trails( upper, mid, and lower) make it nice to walk thru different terrains."

    5. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    12 Reviews
    New Port Richey, FL
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 834-3247

    "Part of the Starkey Wilderness Preservethis location is full of multi use trails, has primitive cabin rentals (no electric"

    "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."

    6. Island Retreat Florida

    1 Review
    Gibsonton, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 523-6834

    $50 - $75 / night

    7. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve

    2 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    13 miles
    Website

    "Other parks and trails are located at the Wilderness Park Off Road Loop Trail System, [Flatwoods Park](https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us"

    "No hookups or dumpsites. There is a pump well for non potable water and a port a potty on site. Miles of trails and plenty of space to explore."

    8. Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    4 Reviews
    Lithia, FL
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 757-3801

    "This location is utterly beautiful! So many different environments can be seen just walking the trials."

    "The camp sites are hike in only. I LOVE this. Bring a manageable pack with everything you need. There is no water, power, or restrooms at the sites."

    9. Terry Tomalin Campground

    3 Reviews
    Gulfport, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 893-7441

    $30 / night

    "The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren’t to close to other campers. The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost."

    "It’s in an awesome location, too - we had other plans but made last-minute plans to stay here for a night and they were pretty empty on a Friday night."

    10. Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    38 Reviews
    Nobleton, FL
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    "Crooked River Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Hernando County), and a short 5-mile drive from I-75."

    "Tent camping only, with a picnic table, fire ring and water faucet. You have a bath house you can get to by walking and it has hot water in the fall and winter months."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 28 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Tent Camping Reviews near Tampa, FL

732 Reviews of 28 Tampa Campgrounds


  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2017

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    Anything but stark...

    Part 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!

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2017

    Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    A favorite for the locals

    This location is utterly beautiful! So many different environments can be seen just walking the trials. The 4 primitive campsites we found were along the river and we did not see bathrooms or picnic tables or fire rings. The trails are marked well but not often maintained - so you really get the feel that you are in the middle of nowhere. No traffic was heard at night and I would not camp out there alone on a weekend due to the "local party crowd". This is a hike in and hike out site. We only stayed 1 night. No amenities. Lots of birds and wildlife in the late day and early morning. Parking is a small fenced in area before turn in road - no security/lighting appx 1.5 miles from camping area that we found

    I would have given this location a 5 except for the large amount of trash we found on trails (that we carried out) and the obvious disregard for rules of no swimming and no alcohol.

  • J
    Jul. 18, 2021

    Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    Great Place!

    The camp sites are hike in only. I LOVE this. Bring a manageable pack with everything you need. There is no water, power, or restrooms at the sites. There is a restroom facility about a 1/2 mile down the trail. There was firewood for use when I went. Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit. There was also a trash can. I had a great time, the whole park to myself for the night. Strongly recommend if you enjoy primitive camping.

  • James A.
    Sep. 9, 2020

    Colt Creek State Park Campground

    Tired Tree Primative Site

    Okay, so I didn’t do a ton of research, but I have driven around here before so I decided to get one of the primitive sites and do a little gear testing.

    -$5+ per person/night -Bundles of firewood available for purchase (located at the site) -$5 arm loads -Fire ring, Picnic Table, Bench, and Garbage pail at the site

    Walked the long way in (3.25miles), instead of the 1 mile route. The entire hike is through typical open grass “roads” cut and maintained in the Florida brush. The site itself had a nice vibe and is far away from any other sites at the park. A large open clearing could easily allow for a dozen tents, unfortunately, I brought my hammock,.. and this site is not set up for hammock camping.

    With a little rigging and placement over a dried up gator hole, I found a spot that I could hang my hammock and shelter for the night.

    I thoroughly enjoyed the spot, other than the lack of clearing for a hammock, and the mosquitos were absolutely unbearable... I am aware that it was rainy season in Florida, near a WMA named Green Swamp, but I went home with hundreds and hundreds of bites, despite my preparedness.

    I would camp here again, maybe when it’s a little cooler and more dry, and also would hike in with a tent, or potentially take the shorter route and pull a wagon full of gear, to enjoy a bit more “glamped” feel.

  • Cosmo L.
    May. 31, 2019

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Nice once you get in.

    Reservations months in advance required. Nice dog beach. No alcohol allowed so keep it inside along with music. No hookups.

  • A
    Aug. 31, 2021

    Hog Island Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    Spacious camp sites!

    We loved the large sites. And pretty private. Wooded areas between sites. Nice clean restrooms and showers. Only 2 showers in the ladies bath house. It's old but clean. But it's sapose to be no pets. And a camper near us had a very large dog in a cage that barked all day. Very annoying. Bad area for ticks. Rangers check sites several times a day and are very nice. Also there is water but no electricity. We will go back. No generator after 10pm.

  • Monte W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 7, 2020

    Green Swamp — West Tract

    Peaceful and free!

    Stayed here for a night in November of 2020. We stayed at the Ashley campsite. It is free but had to register at watermatters.org - (Southwest Florida Water Management). They provide you with a code to unlock the gate once registered. At the campsite there were about 15 sites. Most had non-potable water. All had a picnic tables and fire ring. My site had a covered picnic table. A vault toilet was also provided and was pretty clean. The campsite was about half full when I was here and it was pretty quiet even though you can see your neighbors. You are permitted to collect fire wood as long as it has fallen from the tree. For a free campsite, I can’t complain. I would stay here again.

  • Elliott B.
    Jul. 15, 2017

    Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    Old-Florida-style camping at its best.

    Crooked 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

    · Canoe trail

    · Sorry, no pets allowed

    Facilities

    • These are tent only primitive campsites with the standard uncovered picnic table and fire ring with a grate and/or a grill.
    • Flush restrooms and warm/hot water showers
    • The campground also is available for organized youth groups, but requires a reservation. You can’t do this online (at ReserveAmerica) like the normal sites. For reservations call (352) 797-4140.

    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.

  • L O.
    Sep. 6, 2020

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Breathtaking beaches, get the low, tent-site numbers.

    Stayed two nights here. Arrived in the afternoon and found site number (38) easily. The tent sites on the outer side of the loops are bedded in sand, and the ones on the inner side are bedded in crushed shells and are nearer the restrooms and facilities. The back side of number 38 leads to a grassy area lined by trees on the far side that block the sunset. Recommend site 30 or below so that the back side of your site leads to the water and beautiful sunsets. Be prepared to deal with mosquitoes and raccoons. On the first night, a raccoon approached the table without regard and tried to open the portable trash can! They're active and large, and can be seen at night throughout the campground raiding the trash bins. Went on a bike ride the following day, and upon returning saw that a raccoon had opened the Coleman 52-gallon cooler, taken out the carton of eggs, cracked all six eggs, and eaten each egg yolk, leaving the whites and the shells strewn about the picnic table and ground nearby. Thankful that it had not touched the Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Resolved to put the cooler inside the car when absent henceforth. There is a campground store near the entrance with everything from ice to wood to tuna, milk, fishing supplies... it's a mini-market. There is a souvenir shop and food shop near the fort part. Didn't go to the fort or museum. Had a delicious fish and chips meal at the food shop. The bike paths are wide along the main vehicular roads. The highlight of the site is the North Beach. It's ample and clean. White sands. Shallow shores. Pleasant, perfect.


Guide to Tampa

Tent camping near Tampa, Florida offers a variety of beautiful settings and amenities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the city. With options ranging from serene parks to adventurous wilderness areas, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Some prices for tent camping range from $12 to $25

  • Camping at Lake Park is affordable at $12 per night, making it a budget-friendly option for groups.
  • The Cypress Creek Preserve offers free primitive camping, ideal for those looking to save while enjoying nature.
  • For a unique experience, Island Retreat Florida provides a boat-in camping option, with prices around $25 for a memorable island getaway.

Local activities for outdoor enthusiasts

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best tent camping sites near Tampa, Florida?

Tampa offers excellent tent camping options within a short drive. Hillsborough River State Park Campground stands out just 16 miles from Tampa with over 13 miles of hiking trails and is conveniently located near attractions like Busch Gardens. For a more secluded experience, Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest offers tent sites with dense forest between each campsite, creating privacy while being just 5 miles from I-75. Other notable options include Alderman's Ford Conservation Park for primitive hike-in camping and Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offering both front-country car camping and back-country hike-in options.

How much does tent camping cost in the Tampa area?

Tent camping costs in the Tampa area vary based on amenities and location. Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract offers free camping with a reservation, making it an excellent budget option. Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground has primitive hike-in sites typically ranging from $5-15 per night. Most developed state park campgrounds around Tampa charge between $18-30 per night for tent sites, with discounts sometimes available for Florida residents. Private campgrounds tend to be more expensive, averaging $25-45 per night, but often include additional amenities like showers, electricity, and Wi-Fi.

What type of tent is best for camping in the Tampa, Florida climate?

For Tampa's hot, humid climate with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, a 3-season tent with excellent ventilation is ideal. Choose a tent with ample mesh panels and a full-coverage rainfly that can be adjusted for different weather conditions. A tent with a bathtub-style floor and sealed seams will help keep you dry during sudden downpours. Consider models with multiple doors for better airflow. In summer months when camping at places like Lithia Springs Conservation Park, lightweight, breathable tents are preferable. For winter camping at Terry Tomalin Campground, a 3-season tent is still sufficient as temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Always bring a ground tarp to protect against moisture and insects.

What state parks offer tent camping near Tampa, FL?

Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is a notable state-managed area near Tampa offering both drive-in and hike-in tent camping options with miles of multi-use trails. Green Swamp — East Tract provides a more primitive experience with well-maintained campsites featuring picnic tables, benches, and fire rings. Other state-managed options include Withlacoochee State Forest with multiple campgrounds, Little Manatee River State Park, and Myakka River State Park. These parks typically require reservations, especially during peak season (October-April), and offer varying levels of amenities from primitive sites to those with water and electric hookups.