Camping near Seminole, Florida offers access to both Tampa Bay and Gulf Coast waters within a 20-mile radius. Sites typically range from $35-85 per night depending on location and water proximity. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September, requiring popup shelters and rain gear for prepared campers.
What to do
Kayaking at Shell Key Preserve: This primitive boat-in camping area provides natural exploration opportunities just over a mile's paddle from the mainland. "Great spot for free camping (you do have to get the permit), and the best part is you can only get there by water! We paddled from Ft Desoto (one on kayak, other on paddleboard) with all of our gear roped on," reports one camper at Shell Key Preserve.
Wildlife viewing at E.G. Simmons Regional Park: Many waterfront sites allow campers to observe native Florida species directly from their campsites. "We always see Manatees there and lots of great areas to Kayak or paddle board. When you kayak down the channel into Tampa Bay what a great view of Tampa, St. Petersburg and the Skyway bridge," notes a regular visitor to E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Explore hiking trails and historic sites: Several campgrounds offer access to both natural areas and cultural attractions. "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 a visitor to Fort De Soto Campground.
What campers like
Privacy despite urban proximity: Many campgrounds maintain natural barriers between sites. "The sites are spaced out far from each other which was great! I have travelled to a lot of parks That have sites right on top of one another. I was pleasantly surprised to have additional space from my neighboring travelers," notes a camper at Caladesi RV Park.
Water access for recreation: Direct water access ranks as a top feature for campers staying near Seminole. "We have an inflatable raft that we took out in the water. We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees," shares a tent camper at Fort De Soto Campground.
Clean facilities: Maintained bathhouses and amenities receive consistent praise. "The bathhouse is pretty central and literally across the road from our site. We had expected a much further walk based on the map, but it was just a 1 minute walk. They were ample, but nothing to write home about. They clean them daily," notes a reviewer.
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be persistent, particularly at dusk. "Hot, hot, hot. And not in a good way. Not a lot of shade. Lots of no-see-ums so bring a bug repellent and apply religiously, or else," warns a visitor to E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Space constraints at some parks: Sites vary dramatically in size between campgrounds. "The RV park is in a great location, however its amenities fall short of what I'd consider a RV Resort. The pool is small but the beach is close, lacks activities but located in an area with lots going on. I'd avoid this park during the rainy season," advises a guest at Encore Vacation Village.
Advanced booking requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly, especially during winter months. "Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," recommends a camper at Fort De Soto Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for cooling off: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to beach activities. "Down for a week kinda last minute and he was able to give us a good spot. Decent size spot with stone drive and cement patio. Bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Nice laundry facilities with area to play cards if you wanted. Pool area is nice with shade spots," shares a family staying at St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday.
Playgrounds and kid-friendly recreation: Some parks offer dedicated children's areas. "The playground is good with 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," notes a family at Fort De Soto Campground.
Water safety considerations: Proximity to water requires vigilance with children. "Nicely organized, clean and with large spots," reports a recent visitor to E.G. Simmons Regional Park, though others note the need for close supervision near water areas.
Tips from RVers
Site width variations: RV sites range from spacious to extremely tight based on campground layout. "Sites were small, service was friendly, okay amenities- small pool, dog 'park' was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities," reports an RVer at Avalon RV Resort.
Access challenges for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. "Be careful entering the park. Very sharp turns. Many full time residents with older park models," warns an RVer at Encore Vacation Village.
Utility hookup quality: Water and electric service quality varies between parks. "The utilities were set up poorly and we struggled a bit with septic hookup. Showers were clean, laundry was good, fun pool and small putt putt course," shares an RV camper visiting St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday.
