Best Camping near Bay Pines, FL

Bay Pines is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Bay Pines campgrounds just for you. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Bay Pines, FL (163)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground

    1. Fort De Soto Campground

    134 Reviews
    531 Photos
    1181 Saves

    Located off the St. Petersburg coast, near the mouth of Florida’s Tampa Bay, the tiny islands that make up Fort De Soto County Park have a long and storied history. More than 1,000 years ago, the islands were home to the Tocobaga peoples, who sustained themselves on local plants and seafood. In the 1500s, Spanish conquistadors began exploring Florida’s barrier islands and mainland, among them, Hernando de Soto. From the Civil War in the 1860s until the conclusion of World War II in the 1940s, the islands were used as military emplacements, first as a Union blockade, then as coastal defensive batteries. The islands finally became a state park in 1963 as an effort to preserve their long history, and provide a recreation area for locals and visitors. The park was designated America’s Top Beach in 2009, and sees more than 2.7 million annual visitors. Fort DeSoto County Park reservations offer 238 sites for tent and RV campers. It is located on the St. Christopher and St. Jean Keys, approximately 10 miles southwest of St. Petersburg. The campground is mostly wooded, and divided up into three areas: Area 1 for tents, vans, and small campers, and Areas 2 and 3 for larger RVs. All sites are equipped with electrical and water hookups, picnic tables and cooking grills. Comfort stations with restrooms, showers and laundry facilities are located in each area; a dump station is located near Area 2. The campground also features a small store, dayroom, two playgrounds, and Wifi service; bike and kayak rentals are available. Dogs are permitted in Area 2 and the designated dog park only. Alcoholic beverages and gas-powered generators are not permitted in the park. Reservations are recommended, and can be made up to six months in advance; seven months for locals. Campsite rates are $36–$42/night. There are plenty of activities to enjoy on a visit to Fort DeSoto County Park, including visiting Fort DeSoto. Located on the southernmost point of Mullet Key, the historic military emplacement is open to the public for self-guided tours. Explore officers’ quarters, the bakery, the hospital and various other facilities. Look out across the Gulf of Mexico for the lighthouse, constructed in 1858, on neighboring Egmont Key. The park also features more than 7 miles of sparkling, white sand beaches, including East Beach and North Beach, for sunning and swimming. These can be reached via a paved, multi-use path from the campground. There are also boat launches, a fishing pier and a snack bar. As part of the Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge, bird watchers can scan for some of the more than 300 species of resident and migratory birds, including waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, woodpeckers, and raptors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $34 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA

    2. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA

    26 Reviews
    86 Photos
    198 Saves

    Welcome to St. Petersburg Madeira Beach KOA Holiday! Take a look around St. Petersburg KOA with our virtual tour. Camp minutes from the Gulf Coast's sugar white beaches, bordered by the lush mangrove-lined bayou and Pinellas Trail. Offering spacious Deluxe Patio RV sites, secluded back-in RV sites and full hookup, 50amp, pull through sites. No RV? No problem! Leave the packing to us and stay in one of our Deluxe Cabins. Deluxe Cabins allow you to enjoy all the amenities of home with private bath, patio with a grill, fresh linens and many with a fully stocked kitchen. Participate in the campground's endless activities all year round! Summer campers love our outdoor movies, themed weekends and fishing right from the dock. Active snowbirds stay busy during the winter months with a wide array of classes, including water aerobics, yoga, quilting and painting. Campground amenities include: TWO hot tubs(our newest edition is a private area just for adults!), a crystal clear outdoor pool, sandy volleyball court, pet-friendly play area, shuffleboard and more. Rent a kayak and paddle the peaceful Long Bayou inland waterway; alive with herons, egrets, dolphins and other wildlife. If you are looking for some healthy fun, jog, walk, or bike the popular 38-mile Pinellas County Fitness Trail. Come and visit us in paradise!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park

    3. Hillsborough River State Park

    63 Reviews
    275 Photos
    337 Saves

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Manatee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Manatee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Manatee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Manatee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Manatee River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Manatee River State Park

    4. Little Manatee River State Park

    24 Reviews
    118 Photos
    267 Saves

    LMR1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park

    5. Caladesi RV Park

    16 Reviews
    44 Photos
    122 Saves

    Full hook up RV park with air conditioned club house and laundry facilities. Caladesi RV Park is nested in the heart of Palm Harbor, Florida, right on the Pinellas Trail, an exercise trail spanning from Tarpon Springs to Clearwater. The Caladesi RV Park is minutes from 5 Tampa Bay area beaches. Tons of shopping and restaurants withing walking distance. Trolley pick up on the property. Just 20 minutes from Tampa or St. Petersburg. 5 minutes to Honeymoon Island, where you can park your RV.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Group

    $45 - $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
    Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park

    6. E.G. Simmons Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    64 Photos
    277 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve

    7. Shell Key Preserve

    7 Reviews
    47 Photos
    182 Saves

    Overnight Camping the South Public Use Area Only Primitive camping is allowed only on the South Public Use area of Shell Key. Camping Permits Camping Permits are required for any overnight activity on Shell Key. Permits can be obtained for free from the county. Leave No Trace We are required to remove absolutely all trace of our camp – including food, refuse and anything that came with us on our boat. Campfires You must remove all trace of your campfire before you leave. This means removing (not burying) all the charred wood from the fire. Remember that you are not at a permanent campsite. You are in a nature preserve and are required to leave no trace at all. Portable Toilets Required The county requires all campers to bring a portable toilet for overnight activities. A simple DIY toilet can be made with a 5 gallon bucket, a trash bag and some sand. Place the trash bag in the bucket as a liner, put in a scoop of sand and use the toilet. When done, put another scoop of sand on top. Some people even bring some scented cat litter to use instead of sand. No Pets or Alcohol It doesn’t seem fair to leave the member of the family that would perhaps get the most joy out of island wilderness camping. However, pets are completely banned from the entire preserve including all of the aquatic boundaries. Read more about the pet ban. Alcohol is also forbidden within the preserve boundaries.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park

    8. Lake Manatee State Park

    26 Reviews
    96 Photos
    149 Saves

    1

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River
    Camper-submitted photo from Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River

    9. Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River

    14 Reviews
    49 Photos
    232 Saves

    The Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River is a private, small, family business in operation since 1978. We offer RV and tent camping, group camping area, and cabin rentals, in a rustic setting under many oak trees on six acres on the banks of the Little Manatee River adjacent to the Little Manatee River State Park. We are also a full service canoe and kayak outfitter.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $24 - $109 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp

    10. MacDill AFB FamCamp

    8 Reviews
    12 Photos
    88 Saves

    For Active and Retired Military only.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
Showing results 1-10 of 163 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Bay Pines

Recent Reviews In Bay Pines

749 Reviews of 163 Bay Pines Campgrounds


  • Laura B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Fort De Soto Campground

    BUGSsssssss

    This was the first time we had camped at Fort De Soto and I was so excited because we planned it for my 61st birthday. However, the bugs were so bad. We set up camp with our tent and all our gear, the bugs became so bad we took it all down and went home.I love the fact that my two dogs could come, but the bugs are a no go. It was absolutely miserable. Other than that it’s a beautiful area so maybe we will try again in the winter. I live north of here in Pasco County and frequently bring my dogs down to the dog beach, which is absolutely beautiful. A shame the campground is so infested.

  • Kytka The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
    Aug. 27, 2024

    St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA

    Natural Spot Hidden in the City

    I recently had a wonderful experience at the St. Petersburg/Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, and I’m excited to share my positive review! I’ve hosted friends in their Deluxe Cabins before, and they were thoroughly impressed. The cabins were equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay—fresh linens, a full kitchen, and even a private patio with a grill and fire ring. And they had a great view of the lush mangrove lined Long Bayou.

    They loved the blend of cozy and convenient, making their getaway truly enjoyable. At the end of the road driving out of this campground is a great restaurant called Doe Doe's that makes a delicious homestyle breakfast if you don't want to cook it yourself.

    Wanting to be close to them I opted for one of the small tent sites at the end of the park where I car camped in my Subaru Outback. It was a peaceful and charming spot, perfect for a relaxing camping experience - and away from more of the centrally located activities that people camping with children enjoy. 

    Overall, the amenities were top-notch, including the heated outdoor pool, bike and kayak rentals, and clean and large facilities. They have something called KampK9 which is a fenced in dog park area. Less than a mile away is Bay Pines Park which is nice to jog or ride your bike through and there is also a super Walmart nearby so you can stock up for your drive to the next campground. You also have easy access to the Gulf Coast's stunning beaches and the scenic Pinellas Trail.

    Driving on the main road, and seeing the somewhat industrial area you pass through on your way down the small side street to this campground, you wouldn't expect much - but this KOA has been there for decades and is one of the nicest family campgrounds in the middle of a city I have experienced.

  • Kytka The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Campers Cove RV Park
    Aug. 27, 2024

    Campers Cove RV Park

    More of a permanent living trailer park than an active vacation campground

    Unfortunately, the description is incorrect. This is no where near KEY Largo or the Everglades park. This is in the city of LARGO in Pinellas County. It's in Tampa Bay near the Gulf of Mexico. 

    Largo is a big and busy city and this park on Seminole Blvd. is nowhere near nature. Many people who park there actually live there in permanent trailers. It is an adults only park with a pet weight limit of 20 pounds.

  • MO R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Aug. 3, 2024

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Morning SUP

    I stay for 5day during the last week of July 2024. It was beautiful, I stayed at site 34 in had water view and access. So I was able to wake up early and walk 10step and I was on my SUP. Plenty of wild life & I was able to do some fishing and got a few spotted sea trout. Staff at the front desk, store and grounds were friendly and attentive. My site had water and electric and walking distance to a clean restroom.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Beach Campground
    Aug. 2, 2024

    Turtle Beach Campground

    Can’t beat the price and location

    This is an all around winner. On the beach with shells, sunsets, waves and all that the beach has to offer. PLUS nice wide sites - wider than I was expecting. We’ve got a drivers side slide and gave it plenty of room plus the picnic area. Love the foliage dividing sites. Nice laundry, great bathrooms, tons of rinsing and washing opportunities. The cherry on top - the bathroom/showers has an AC!! Everyone hates to get sticky after a shower and the AC took that muggy edge right off in August! Unexpected awesomeness.

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park
    Aug. 1, 2024

    Caladesi RV Park

    Easy reservation and great location

    A FCFS spot we had wanted didn’t pan out so we made a last minute online reservation here. Got a text with check in instructions and got there in time to hit the pool and grab ice cream at the super delicious ice cream place next door. East in and out and we were on our way the next day.

  • Rodd S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
    Jun. 22, 2024

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    One night stay

    Stayed in spot #8, not as much shade as I had hoped for, would've been better in 10-14. Sites are plenty large and relatively well spaced out. There was a large anthill between the spot and where you park which made packing in and out an adventure (very active colony). Otherwise, the site was level and devoid of rocks & roots. A good night's sleep despite the racoon who pilfered my SunChips during the night.

  • C
    Camper-submitted photo from Ducky's Day Off RV Park
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Ducky's Day Off RV Park

    Used to be great, now bad bad bad

    This used to be such a great park when it was Ralph's. It's nothing but bad now. Feels like it's been taken over by some corporation that sits around discussing how much they can squeeze out of the elderly every month. There is no communication, no fairness, no consideration for residents. You simply pay more and more every month and then they come at you with the most ridiculous fees for things they made up (ask someone who lives here about their new "shed fee"). Horrible. I'm sad to see it go like this and I'm sure we will be selling due to the awful management/ownership they have in now. Preying on the elderly is not a good look....

  • Joy K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    May. 26, 2024

    Hillsborough River State Park

    Absolutely beautiful park

    We were down for a funeral so we, unfortunately, didn’t spend any time in the park or campground. The park is absolutely gorgeous and we can’t wait to return in November for a week long stay. The roads in the campground are a little narrow so maneuvering a larger rig might take some time backing into sites but there were plenty of big rigs there so it is doable. The sites have picnic tables and a fire ring. As far as we could tell, all sites are sandy so I’m sure it would be a little messy after a rain with possible flooding. Our site was perfectly level with no side to side adjustments needed. Our loop was very shaded with gorgeous trees. The rangers were amazing and patrolled the campground on a regular basis. There is a huge pool but it was closed for renovations, opening sometime this summer. There is a small cafe with ice cream and you can rent kayaks or canoes to take a trip down a wonderfully, peaceful river. It was so clear that we could see fish swimming around. No swimming is allowed in the river because of gators but experienced paddle boarders would love the easy paddle. Lots of trails to hike as well.

    Definitely a great place to stay right outside the Tampa area. Recommend highly.

  • J H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ducky's Day Off RV Park
    May. 24, 2024

    Ducky's Day Off RV Park

    Greedy New Owners

    This place is going downhill fast! The new owners are beyond greedy. They raised the rent twice last year, management promised it wouldn't go up again for a couple years but then this year it goes up again! Now they're adding all kinds of fees every couple of months for the most outlandish things! Sheds, carports, washing machines, using anything but cash etc. 

    Do not bother with this place! They only see you as something to squeeze money from. It wasn't that way with the owners before them. They don't offer any improvements or new services to account for such a drastic rate increase or for how many fees they're adding either - it's purely for profit. Lawn care only happened a few times last winter when it's supposed to be once a week. 

    Go down the road, there's plenty of other parks way better and more fair than Ducky's!

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Avalon RV Resort
    May. 4, 2024

    Avalon RV Resort

    Good for a short stay

    Sites were small, Service was friendly, Okay amenities- small pool, dog ‘park’ was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Linger Lodge RV Resort & Restaurant
    May. 1, 2024

    Linger Lodge RV Resort & Restaurant

    We will be back!

    We came back to this gem and met with friends from Florida, we had our RVs next to each other and it was so much fun. We had a great time. Big thanks to the Linger Lodge RV Team, you do an excellent job! Everything is so clean and everybody is so friendly!  We stayed at Linger Lodge RV Park for the first time and will definitely be back! We enjoyed every minute. The place was very clean, we loved the pool. The management was very accommodating and helpful. It was very nice to chat with him, he helped us find our lot and accommodate our trailer. We came late and he checked on us several times to make sure that we had everything we needed. We stayed on a River Site#37. Just be aware you are next to the River, there will be mosquitos at night. The gym is small but clean and has everything we needed. Staff was Amazing and check out the Restaurant!

  • N
    Camper-submitted photo from Linger Lodge RV Resort & Restaurant
    May. 1, 2024

    Linger Lodge RV Resort & Restaurant

    What a treasure!

    Wonderful Park, everything is very clean. We had a wonderful time. Did some great Art crafts in the afternoon and the chili, the manager made for the guests, on January 1st by the fire pit was absolutely delicious. The pool and Spa are spectacular. You are close to everything but you still feel like being far away. Everybody is very accommodating. Great Management, great Team! We will be back soon!

  • Ray & Terri F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Point RV Park
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Hickory Point RV Park

    Nice, quiet, well maintained, friendly, wooded CG on the water

    We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 132 for 3 days in mid April. The CG is very clean, well maintained, but relatively expensive. The CG is a mixture of long-term and transient folks. The roads are paved, but the sites are sandy, shelly gravel. The staff is friendly and very helpful. They have beach chairs near the water and a fire pit that they lit every evening near sunset. In addition to the Bark Park area, there is a nice wooded area where you can walk your dog as well. 

    AT&T coverage was pretty good, with 3-4 bars of 5G service and speeds up to 11 MB/s. The CG has a lot of trees, but the sites in the front of the park are pretty open. We had no line-of-site to the DISH satellites, but did have an open view north, so Starlink usable, but the CG had WiFi and we were right across from the antenna, so we didn’t use Starlink. The CG WiFi achieved speeds up to 8 MB/s.

  • B
    Camper-submitted photo from Terry Tomalin Campground
    Apr. 20, 2024

    Terry Tomalin Campground

    Really Nice Campground

    Friendly people running the campground and it’s pretty spacious! 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. Nice facilities, but restrictive like another review says - we didn’t have our dog this time around but they don’t allow dogs so it may be hard for us to come back. We didn’t try the trails but everything else we saw was well-kept. We liked it!

  • beth H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Suncoast RV Resort
    Apr. 16, 2024

    Suncoast RV Resort

    Negative Stars - False and Misleading Information Provided to the Public

    Suncoast RV doesn't have a clubhouse and hasn't for years.  It had propane gas leaks and the ceiling fell in.  The Wifi doesn't work.  Cable issues.  Pool table has a shredded top, bent sticks, missing balls and cobwebs in the pockets.  Pavilion is a storage area for the park.  The park will tell you background checks are done.  They aren't or they are ignored.   Do a simple search online of registered sex offenders living in this family friendly park.  The park manager's husband (has a different name than hers) and is one of the registered sex offenders living here.  He is parked within feet of the pool and where kids play.  The pool's heater is broken and they refuse to fix.  The park floods and many people's units were destroyed in the fall of 2023.  The park lied for years about building a new clubhouse and didn't put in for a permit until the end of 2023 according to Pasco County.  The shower houses are closed down due to falling in and you have to use portable units that homeless wander into the park and use.  The park wasn't maintained and at least 1 vehicle had a branch fall and crush their hood and shattered their windshield.  People bring guest to live in their "pop-up" rooms outside.  Laundry's washers can only be used on cold water.  Full-time residents are what keep the park looking decent and they get targeted for speaking up.  The public and the residents are being lied to and have been lied to.  Suncoast RV and Gemstone Communities put out false and misleading material about what is being offered knowing fully that the listed items do not exist.  And from what I am reading vacationers who pay don't get refunds.  Park will also turn your water off and it is provided with your lot rent.  A lot I can put here and I have taken tons of photos and videos of what is going on.  It sounds like a class action lawsuit or an individual one might be needed or the government to get involved with the false and misleading information being put out on the internet about their amenities, services, buildings, and accommodations that are not provided.  I provided a few photos and have a lot more on my phone.

  • Wendy P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Springs RV Resort
    Apr. 12, 2024

    Oak Springs RV Resort

    Pretty Park, Awful Management

    Nice park, great residents. We had a park model for two seasons. December 2023, we'd been there about a month, our boxer dog caught parvo in the park. As soon as I realized she was sick, I let the park know. We were immediately kicked out. I had already been quarantining her, but they made me leave. It was Christmas time and my husband was in the hospital, they didn't care. It was so unnecessary and cruel. I wouldn't let my worst enemy stay there.

  • Wendy P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Oak Springs RV Resort
    Apr. 10, 2024

    Oak Springs RV Resort

    Beautiful old campground

    The ground are lovely and people are wonderful but the office management just ruins the experience. One of the ladies is a gossip who pics favorites and is openly mean to those she doesn't like. The atmosphere is oppressive. We were 6/6 residents for two seasons, we had to move somewhere else. I wouldn't advise anyone to purchase or stay for any length of time.

  • Eleanor the Airstream R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
    Apr. 4, 2024

    MacDill AFB FamCamp

    Utilitarian

    No surprise on a military base but felt like a campground equivalent of base housing. Tight spots with full hook ups. Lots of snow birds, so getting in was a challenge. We had to show up without a reservation and take advantage of first come, first serve spots.

    Full hook up (electric/water/sewer) and cable. No wifi (so weak it didn't work) and cell coverage almost non-existent (AT&T).

    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. Gym not too far and massive.

    Make sure you arrive at the base through the gate at the end of Dale Mabry, as it's the only gate campers can come thru. And be sure to go to the far right lane, even if it's got a red X showing the lane is closed. They will open the wider lane for you. You don't want to know why I know that or how close our Airstream was to the guard shacks if you don't go in the far lane!

  • Amy P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park
    Mar. 13, 2024

    Lake Manatee State Park

    Great Weekend Spot

    We were lucky to grab a weekend spot thanks to a snowbird cancellation. Park rangers were great. Pine firewood available for $5 a bundle. (Not the greatest campfire fuel, but it works.) not heavily wooded as others have stated, but nicely private between most sites. Bathhouses were always clean in the AM and early PM. Options for basic, sand-based hikes. Great views from the lake and I am sure fishing is wonderful, though we did not try. I will say that the racetrack nearby made the location a bit unsettling, but we were thankful that the drivers were only doing quarter mile runs. Cars ran from 8am to 11pm, it seems.

    Overall, we would stay on the outside of loop 2 for less than 4 nights of we came again.

  • Brian and Janet S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
    Mar. 11, 2024

    E.G. Simmons Regional Park

    Water access and dog friendly!

    Amazing water access and dog friendly! The staff and rangers are kind and helpful. During our stay, there was E. coli in water which means water activities and fishing were restricted. Lots of raccoons and no see-ums. Bring citronella candles. Overall, beautiful park and friendly people. Would definitely return.

  • R
    Camper-submitted photo from Caladesi RV Park
    Mar. 1, 2024

    Caladesi RV Park

    Bit pricey

    Called to check in and Managers had gone home for the day it was 3pm. Refered to a website that did not work. Called again and the prices on line did not match the fees we had to pay.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
    Feb. 25, 2024

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Amazing park for the adventurer

    Fort De Soto county park is a fantastic park for the nature adventurer. With a huge variety of activities available it’s perfect for the whole family.

    Dog friendly it has a huge dog beach and separate dog run.

    Bike and kayak rentals are available as well as additional fee ferries to Shell and Edmont islands.

    The campground area is huge with a separate area for those campers with dogs and kid friendly.

    The restrooms are clean with hot water and have washer/dryer available for $1.75 per load.

    Most campsites have electric and good water hookups. A pump out station is available near the entrance. 

    The camp store and park gift shop are fully stocked with any thing you could need.

    One negative is the loop I stayed on the loop road itself is full of potholes and really need to be dragged.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bay Bayou RV Resort
    Feb. 24, 2024

    Bay Bayou RV Resort

    Great location, and exceptional serivce.

    The expansion area is amazing and the staff are so friendly. You can not go wrong

  • Kathy L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hillsborough River State Park
    Feb. 15, 2024

    Hillsborough River State Park

    Love this campground

    Love it! Great campground with good shade and privacy between sites. Peaceful. Cool weather in February meant little to no bugs (yay!). Clean facilities, level site. Really nice hikes - but unfortunately it’s a bit of a walk from the campground to the trailheads. Worth it though! We will return!



Guide to Bay Pines

Camping near Bay Pines, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Explore Nature: Visit Fort De Soto Campground for its stunning beaches and wildlife. One camper mentioned, "I love coming here when I am in St. Pete! They have a dog beach too! It’s wonderful to have a natural beach without all the noise and crowds."
  • Kayaking and Fishing: At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, you can rent kayaks and enjoy fishing. A visitor shared, "You can rent kayaks or canoes to take a trip down a wonderfully peaceful river."
  • Wildlife Watching: Myakka River State Park is great for spotting alligators and various birds. One camper noted, "It’s quiet, and there’s plenty of wildlife to be seen: Lots of birds, alligators, deer, wild turkeys."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review from Oscar Scherer State Park Campground stated, "The bathrooms were clean and plenty of them throughout the campground."
  • Privacy Between Sites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness and privacy of sites. One visitor at Colt Creek State Park Campground said, "We stayed in site 26, which was tucked back and fairly private."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A review from Hillsborough River State Park Campground highlighted, "The rangers were amazing and patrolled the campground on a regular basis."

What you should know

  • Bugs Can Be a Problem: Some campers have reported issues with bugs, especially at Fort De Soto Campground. One camper lamented, "The bugs were so bad... it was absolutely miserable."
  • Limited Amenities at Some Parks: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Lake Manatee State Park Campground mentioned, "The only downside and a potentially big one for some people, is the commercial drag strip not far from the park."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Blue Spring State Park Campground advised, "A reservation will guarantee you access to the spring, which sometimes gets full."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers plenty of activities, and one reviewer said, "There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy."
  • Plan for Outdoor Fun: Bring bikes or kayaks for family adventures. A camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground noted, "There are lots of trails for walking, hiking, and biking."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks. A visitor at Oscar Scherer State Park Campground mentioned, "The location of this campground is right in the middle of at least 4 different beaches."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review from Colt Creek State Park Campground said, "Spacious and open sites that are very big rig friendly."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground noted, "Most campsites have electric and good water hookups."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A visitor at Manatee Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "You’ll get 1 bar to tease you and think you can do something."

Camping around Bay Pines, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be prepared for the bugs and plan ahead for a great experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Bay Pines, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Bay Pines, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 163 campgrounds and RV parks near Bay Pines, FL and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Bay Pines, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bay Pines, FL is Fort De Soto Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 134 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bay Pines, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Bay Pines, FL.

  • What parks are near Bay Pines, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Bay Pines, FL that allow camping, notably National Forests in Florida and Ocala National Forest.