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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.
The preserve has recently undergone improvements to enhances visitors' experiences, including the new Terry Tomalin Campground, St. Pete's first public primitive family campground; Hammock Hall, a multipurpose building to provde rental space and programming opportunites; and a trail expansion. The 12-site campground's name honors the late Terry Tomalin, a former Tampa Bay Times outdoors writer who supported the preserve through several service projects. The campground is open to both individuals and groups.
Well-known for its natural spring which flows year-round, cool, clean water into the Alafia River, the Lithia Springs Park was originally purchased by Gardinier, Inc., a mining company that soon became Mosaic Phosphate, Inc. When the company leased the park to Hillsborough County as a recreational area in 1957, the 160-acre site slowly became a popular camping spot. After setting up camp, hikers can explore the woodsy trails and its diverse plant communities, river cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks. But it is the natural spring that serves as the park’s major attraction, which---courtesy of the water’s 72 degree temperature---provides an excellent swimming experience all year long. In addition to swimming, visitors can fish and play volleyball. There is also a bath house for the parents to rest and chat, while their kids can play at the park’s playground. The park’s 44 camping sites---which is also suitable for RVs---include water/shower and electrical services. The campers also have access to picnic shelters and tables, restrooms, and barbecue grills. There are no reservations for these sites; everything is done on a first-come, first-serve basis. Park rules to know: -Picnic shelters are not rented for the months April - September. -All shelters, tables and grills and parking spaces are first come first serve -Due to the high demand of the swimming area and current conditions maximum capacity is -No rain checks / refunds
$24 / night
$24 / night
Ever wonder what it would be like to stay on a deserted island? This is truly an adventure you will never forget. Once you land in paradise you will wander thru the looping trail system to find your campsite. There are (4) campsite with elevated tent platforms tucked back in the trees. Now that you are settled in, time to gather wood and build a fire in one of the (2) 8 foot wide, 2 ton concrete fire pits.
Awake a dawn with a nice kayak/canoe trip on a secluded water trail thru mangrove islands and stop for lunch at River's Edge Bar & Grill across the river from the island. Having too much fun, take a nap in hammock and rock to breeze and sounds of river.
This is an island is accessible via water only so there is some preparation to get here and stay here. Kayaks, Canoes and a shuttle are available if you don't have your own transportation. Please contact prior to booking to ensure you understand the packages, for example, if you want to rent the whole island for yourself and need transportation for your group. We offer tailored quote for package based on your needs.
$50 - $75 / night
Located in northwestern Hillsborough County, Lake Rogers Park is the “newest” of the County’s regional parks when it opened in 2000. Owned by the City of St. Petersburg, this 272-acre park was developed as a joint venture between the City and Hillsborough County. First time visitors will notice that the park has two public entrances along North Mobley Road, with kiosks and parking lots, while an entrance for staff access and maintenance is along Gunn Highway. Fishermen and kayakers can enjoy the two fresh water lakes that enhance the beauty of the park, including Lake Rogers, which is the one of the largest Lakes in the County and the only one that is completely under public ownership by the City. After strolling and biking through trails flanked by pine flatwoods and oak hammocks, Campers can take advantage of the park amenities, such as picnic shelters and tables, portable restrooms, and barbecue grills.
A free camping reservation is required and must be displayed.
Scout
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.
Scout
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.
GuideI 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.
Legend
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.
Scout
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.
Traveler
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.
Guide
Sites were small, Service was friendly, Okay amenities- small pool, dog ‘park’ was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities.
Scout
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!
ScoutWonderful 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!
Legend
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.
Traveler
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!
Traveler
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.
Scout
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.
ScoutThe 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.
Ranger
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!
Traveler
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.
Guide
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.
GuideFort 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.
RangerLove 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!
RangerI 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. Make sure to bring shoes because there are a lot of sticker burrs!
Guide
We stayed there during the Tampa Show. Last minute decision. Park has a lot of long term RV's and many of them older. Dog friendly and has a decent sized dog run. We had a pull thru spot that was plenty long enough to leave our dolly hooked up to our 33' class A, and still have plenty of room to park in front. Although it was very narrow and I was a little concerned about my leveling jacks sinking in when it rained due to it being all grass. Fortunately it didn't rain much. There were cable hook ups, but I couldn't get a signal. Not sure about wifi, because I just used my hot spot. Most, if not all, of the short term spaces had picknick tables. Overall just a fairly quiet place to park with hookups and not too far off the highway.
TravelerI was in town for a clinic and didn't want to stay downtown in a hotel. I found this little gym. Traffic to the city was a pain, and parking was iffy at best. However the campsite was nice and quiet. There is a sushi place down the road I highly recommend. The reviews of the Raccoons are no joke and saw one the size of a bear cub but harmless for sure. The bathroom and shower were what you expected from a park. Everything was clean. I doubt I will ever be back that way. However, if I am, I won't hesitate to stay there again.
ScoutWouldn’t of found the spot without the app!!!!
Scout
The campsites are well-shaded and have easy access to walking & biking trails. We've visited Myakka on day trips previously, and just recently camped there for the first time. It's quiet, and there's plenty of wildlife to be seen: Lots of birds, alligators, deer, wild turkeys. Bathrooms with laundry facilities were conveniently located, but we didn't use them. Campsite was clean, level, and easy to back into.
Guide
Great location between beaches, trails, and place to stay. Restrooms/showers were clean and staff were very helpful.
TravelerGreat place to camp! Keep your boat in the water right behind you site! Kayaks and bicycles for sent at the campground store. Very clean restrooms and showers. Top notch campground in every aspect!
LegendSite 71 back in and HC and paved Very long 50 amp and water only Restrooms and showers across from site and very clean. 2washers $2.50 and 2 dryers $2.25 Lots of trails for walking, hiking, and biking Store and pool. Pool currently closed.
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.
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
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Bay Pines, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Bay Pines, FL is Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park with a 4.3-star rating from 12 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Bay Pines, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Bay Pines, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
