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ScoutButtonwood Inlet RV Resort
None Responsive Campground
I have been trying for weeks to get someone to answer the phone. Numerous requests for a call back have got me nowhere!!!
Camping near Belleair Beach, FL
179 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Campgrounds near Belleair Beach, Florida primarily cluster along the Gulf Coast, offering a mix of established facilities and waterfront sites. Fort De Soto Campground in Saint Petersburg provides tent, RV, and glamping options with waterfront access, while the St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday features cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping areas. Most campgrounds in this coastal region maintain year-round operations, with several properties situated within 15 miles of Belleair Beach proper, providing convenient access to both beach activities and urban amenities.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the area, particularly during winter months when seasonal visitors increase demand. Fort De Soto Campground typically requires bookings up to six months in advance, with limited sites released on Friday mornings for weekend stays. The subtropical climate creates ideal camping conditions from October through April, while summer brings higher humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and mosquito activity. Hurricane season officially runs from June through November, potentially affecting camping plans. Many campgrounds offer full hookups and amenities like swimming pools to mitigate the summer heat. A visitor noted, "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds and other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat."
Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from campers, particularly those at Fort De Soto Park where several sites offer direct water access. Campers frequently mention the privacy between sites created by natural vegetation barriers, with one reviewer describing Fort De Soto as having "plenty of options for both clothes lines and hammocks" with sites that "divide the tent area up into two sides." The region's mixed-use campgrounds typically accommodate both tent and RV camping, though some properties like Caladesi RV Park and Indian Rocks Travel Park cater specifically to RV travelers. Several campgrounds in the area feature pet-friendly policies, though restrictions apply at certain properties including Fort De Soto's tent-only loop where pets are not permitted.
Best Campgrounds near Belleair Beach (179)
1. Fort De Soto Campground
"As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."
"Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."
from $38 - $48 / night
Check Availability2. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday
"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."
"It has all of the amenities you would ever want and is so close to Florida beaches. Pool, hot tub, store, workout room, fishing and kayaking and lots more to do right in the park."
3. Caladesi RV Park
"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."
"I stayed two weeks here with my dog and loved the location— great bike access to nearby trails and easy drives to Honeymoon Island."
from $45 - $75 / night
Check Availability4. Caladesi Island State Park Campground
"One of the last undeveloped barrier islands in Florida. It's around 650 acres with tons of boardwalks and hiking."
"Next to honeymoon island state park and just south of anclote Boat camping ONLY — tents/Rvs are not permitted.
First come/first serve boat slips, pet friendly (yay for dogs)"
from $24 / night
Check Availability5. Encore Vacation Village
"The park is small, parking is crammed, and there’s a lot of older trailers but overall it’s a great location. This is our go to location when we have appointments at Bay Pines VA!"
6. Clearwater / Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday
"We camped at Clearwater/ Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday in a Fifth Wheel."
from $45 - $120 / night
Check Availability7. Clearwater RV Resort
"Off a very busy road hidden behind a hotel and a restaurant. Very clean and tidy park with RV sites and park models. Huge laundry room and very nice bath houses. Customer service is good."
"Best location for moving around the area. Use Drew not Gulf to Bay to move across the city. Great customer service Suzy and the crew are very helpful. "
8. Avalon RV Resort
"The sites are a little tight but that's normal for most of Florida, specially in a heavy populated are like Clearwater. It's unbelievably quiet although it's right off of US 19. Staff is so great."
"Sites were small, Service was friendly, Okay amenities- small pool, dog ‘park’ was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities."
9. Bay Bayou RV Resort
"There’s a place to fish, a place to chill on the dock and not fish, trees are everywhere and lots of random wildlife roaming around. Staff has been super friendly too."
10. Indian Rocks Travel Park
Drive Time
- 32 min from Tampa, FL
- 1 hr 1 min from Lakeland, FL
- 1 hr 17 min from Homosassa Springs, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Belleair Beach, FL
160 Photos of 179 Belleair Beach Campgrounds
Lawrence Robert T.
St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday
Amanda B.
Caladesi RV Park
Adam W.
St Pete Get a Way Spot
Becky M.
Terry Tomalin Campground
Alacyn B.
Shell Key Preserve
Kaitlin B.
Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
Jeanene A.
Lake Rogers Park
Kelly D.
Fort De Soto Campground
Tom&Jennifer D.
MacDill AFB FamCamp
Rich S.
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
Raul Z.
E.G. Simmons Regional Park
Danilo M.
Hillsborough County E. G. Simmons Regional Park
Recent Reviews near Belleair Beach, FL
777 Reviews of 179 Belleair Beach Campgrounds
Joe F.ScoutTropical Acres RV Park & Storage
Nor the host was extremely unprofessional and disrespectful
The host Nor treated me like trash. He mandates you leave a lock off of your hitch so he can move your Rv around as needed. Mind you I was going to be paying for a reserved spot on the property paying a monthly rate. When I inquired more about their policy to see if they damaged my Rv while moving it would it be covered by them for the repairs of damages. My reservation was then automatically canceled for no reason and Nor only gave me a partial refund for my booking. He is very rude and unprofessional. There are also other reviews in the neighbor app stating damages happened while moving someone's rv and he refused to take accountability or finance the repairs for that customer. Hints the reason I was wanting clarification on the matter. Instead of providing it he decided to cancel my reservation and tried to beat me out of my deposit. Dont bring your RV here for storage it is a huge risk!
Buddy M.ScoutLower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
Love this place
Good clean site.
Jeanene A.
LegendTerry Tomalin Campground
We had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground
We had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground! The tent sites are spacious and nicely spread out, giving you plenty of room to set up camp without feeling crowded by your neighbors. The campground has a peaceful, natural atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy being outdoors. There are 6 cabins also available with electric– no ac.
One of the things that really impressed us was the bathroom facilities. The restrooms and showers were very clean and well-maintained, which makes a huge difference when you’re tent camping. It was great to be able to enjoy a more primitive camping experience without giving up the convenience of a nice bathroom and shower.
The location next to Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is what really makes this campground special. Campers have access to the preserve’s pedestrian trails, making it easy to spend time exploring nature and then return to your campsite to relax.
Overall, Terry Tomalin Campground is a hidden gem in St. Petersburg and a fantastic place for anyone who enjoys tent camping and being surrounded by nature. We would definitely stay here again!
Notes: Only open on weekends, no pets, strict rules against vaping and alcoholic beverages. This location is very busy in the summertime as there are not many camping options in the area. Large group fire pits (not at each site)
Stuart K.LegendShell Key Preserve
A Deserted Island Escape Worth the Effort
Arriving at Shell Key feels like stepping off the grid, and that sense of removal is exactly what makes it so special. Accessible only by kayak, paddleboard, boat or ferry from nearby Fort DeSoto State Park, this barrier island preserve greets you with white powder sugary sand, shallow turquoise water and a quiet, calm stillness that is best described as reverent. I camped here with my older brother Matt, who fled-20 degree Chicago winter weather with his expert camera gear in tow in order to spend a week here with me. From the moment we beached our kayaks, it was clear this was going to be something special.
Shell Key is as primitive as coastal camping gets, with no facilities, no freshwater and absolutely no developed campsites, just open stretches of sand where you carefully choose a high, wind-protected spot above the tide line. Camping is limited and regulated to protect the preserve and the experience is intentionally minimalist, which keeps crowds at bay and the island feeling truly wild. You pack in everything, pack out everything and rely on common sense, weather awareness as well as respect for nesting zones for turtles and waterfowl clearly marked along the beach.
What makes Shell Key extraordinary is its birdlife. Matt spent hours crouched low with his telescopic lens while I played spotter and together we photographed an incredible range of species, including brown pelicans, great blue herons, snowy egrets, roseate spoonbills, reddish egrets, ospreys, black skimmers, willets, least terns, royal terns, but the prize? Black-masked parrots that call this isle home. Dolphins cruised just offshore while rays ghosted through the shallows and every turn of the shoreline revealed another pocket of life, including the oversized snow white pelicans that seem to guard this oasis. The paddle over from Fort DeSoto was not what I would call calm, with a series of rollicking waves between the stretch where North Beach ended and Shell Key began, although the entire journey was scenic, with views back toward the Skyway Bridge and plenty of chances to stop, float, and soak it all in.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) Plan your paddle with tides and wind in mind, as the crossing is straightforward in calm conditions but can feel much longer with chop – and don’t forget that you’ll have to cross some designated shipping lanes, where the currents are strong; (2) Bring a lightweight kayak cart or be prepared for soft sand landings when fully loaded; (3) Set camp well above the high tide line and away from posted bird nesting areas; (4) Dawn and dusk are prime times for bird photography when the light is nothing short of spectacular; (5) As a survivalist, everywhere I camp, I prepare to fish or hunt for my meal, so here, you’ll have decent fishing, but the gem on Shell Key is the abundance of crabs, both large and small - so bring a spear or fishnet if you hope to catch any; and (6) There are ABSOLUTELY no amenities on Shell Key (not even a trash can), so stock up at Fort DeSoto before launching, including water, sun protection, and extra batteries for cameras and headlamps.
Happy Camping!
Dajah B.
TravelerFind Out Farms
Beautiful and peaceful
It's very peaceful. Chickens roam free and we were able to see cows and get farm fresh eggs. 50 AMP and water connections, I saw reviews about the road being bumpy but we didn't have that experience. Everything was smooth. 10/10.
Celeste A.TravelerLake Manatee State Park Campground
Campground Stay
The bathrooms are rather hot at any time of the day, but they are clean. One of the showers doesn’t work but there is no sign posted. 30 sites for 1 bathroom/ bathhouse so showering at night may take longer than usual. The campground isn’t too shady, but the Day Use Rec Area is nice and has a small play ground. However, if you’re looking to cool off in the lake, think again. It’s very warm water and there is a caution sign about green blue algae being possibly present in the waters. Lots of squirrels and ants
- LLaura H.
RangerFort De Soto Campground
Crowded but worth it
Day 1 we had electrical issues. Thanks to park rangers we were relocated and our vacation resumed. Great beach!
- Dylan M.Scout
Camp Nebraska RV Park
Camp Nebraska Tampa FL 33612
The park itself is very nice not much amenities besides bathroom and shower building and the nearby area is not that good , its relatively safe but its just a lot of homeless nearby an its just not a nice area at all to walk around during the day or night its a shame. But the park itself keeps you very protected from that ive never had a issue for over 7 months being here
Guide to Belleair Beach
Camping near Belleair Beach offers year-round access to Florida's subtropical ecosystem and Gulf shoreline. The average winter temperature ranges between 55-75°F, creating comfortable off-season camping conditions when mosquito activity decreases and humidity drops. During summer months, camp sites with shade become premium as temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with afternoon thunderstorms common.
What to do
Kayaking through mangroves: Fort De Soto Campground provides direct water access for paddlers with natural launch areas. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!" reports camper Brennan H., who explored the park's diverse ecosystem. Many sites allow you to keep watercraft at your campsite for multiple excursions.
Bicycling on dedicated trails: Caladesi RV Park sits adjacent to the Pinellas Trail, offering easy access to miles of paved pathways. A reviewer noted, "The Pinellas bike trail is also located right behind the park and easy to get on." Several area campgrounds rent bicycles for daily or weekly use.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Fort De Soto Campground features abundant wildlife viewing with minimal effort. "Great bike trails. Restrooms are dated but well maintained. Electric and water. 2 dump sites on property," mentions David G., highlighting the infrastructure supporting longer stays for nature observation.
Beach exploration: Caladesi Island State Park offers unique beach access for boaters. A camper explained, "You can only access this island by boat or ferry from honey moon island. We have always accessed it via kayak from the causeway leading to honeymoon island. There's lots of great sandbars, and mangrove tunnels for kayaking."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday maintains natural buffers between camping areas. "It was very quaint. There is a fishing dock near where we stayed. Lots of catfish," notes Jenny K., highlighting the peaceful setting despite the park's popularity.
Clean facilities: Bay Bayou RV Resort maintains exceptionally clean amenities. A camper stated, "Immaculate grounds, clean and modern bath houses, three laundry rooms. Very dog friendly with doggy bag stations and dog parks." This consistency in maintenance appears across multiple reviews.
Water access sites: Many campers specifically request waterfront sites for wildlife viewing. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!" mentions one Fort De Soto camper, while another notes "Cant go wrong with a waterfront stay. Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two."
Shade coverage: Fort De Soto Campground maintains natural vegetation that provides crucial shade. As one camper described, "Very private spots lots of trees. Lots of bugs in the summer time." This natural canopy helps mitigate Florida's intense summer heat.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Belleair Beach require advance planning. For Fort De Soto Campground, a reviewer advises, "Note that they do start booking 6 months out and open up 10% of the sites for the weekend each friday at 7am if you want to try and get lucky."
Bug preparation: Insect protection remains essential year-round. One camper at Vacation Village RV Resort warned, "This is a mosquito heaven!!! Being bug spray or candles! You will see a large amount of bugs in your area." Mosquito activity increases after rainfall and during summer months.
Camping limitations: Caladesi Island State Park has unique restrictions. A reviewer clarified, "These camping 'sites' are really just boat slips which allowing you to overnight at the docks on the island." This means traditional tent camping isn't permitted - visitors must sleep aboard their boats.
Traffic noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. At Clearwater Lake Tarpon KOA, a camper reported, "This park was okay, but we were at the front and the road noise was bad. Lots of sirens and traffic. It was noticeably quieter at the back of the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access priority: Clearwater Lake Tarpon KOA maintains a clean swimming pool that receives positive reviews. "Bathhouse very clean and nicely done. Doggie playground nice. They are still updating many of the sites but it is very nicely landscaped and clean. Workers very friendly and helpful. Pool was excellent," notes camper Nancy I.
Playground options: Fort De Soto provides child-friendly play areas with safety features. "There is a playground with good 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," explains Joe R.
Mini-golf activities: St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA includes family recreation options. "Great inner city spot. Friendly staff and the grounds are bigger then expected. Full hook ups for RVs and separate tent area. Has a small shallow marina. Great for Kayaks, canoeing... etc. They have a heated pool, mini golf course, shuffle board, dog run," describes Doug E.
Beach proximity: Caladesi Island State Park offers unique beachgoing opportunities. A camper explains the main benefit: "However, the main draw of staying overnight at the dock is that it allows you to get onto the beaches and explore the trails before too many people start arriving on the ferry or other boats."
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Many Belleair Beach area campgrounds have compact sites. At St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA, a camper reported, "Site was small, couldn't even put awning out all the way because we were so close to next site." Request specific site dimensions when booking.
Water drainage issues: Some campgrounds experience flooding during typical Florida rain. At St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, a camper observed, "Rain comes and sites are so easily flooded that we kept sandals on the entire time. Sites just stacked on top of each other."
Hookup configurations: Bay Bayou RV Resort offers full hookups with convenient layouts. "Immaculate grounds, clean and modern bath houses, three laundry rooms. Very dog friendly with doggy bag stations and dog parks. Right on the bayou with a kayak launch and docks for fishing and relaxing," notes Mary G.
Site surface materials: Several campgrounds use crushed shells for site bases. A Clearwater Lake Tarpon KOA camper mentioned, "Didn't like the spots were crushed sea shells as they are hard on the feet and easily tracked in." Consider floor mats or outdoor rugs when setting up your site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Belleair Beach, FL?
What camping is available near Belleair Beach, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Belleair Beach, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 179 campgrounds and RV parks near Belleair Beach, FL and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Belleair Beach, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Belleair Beach, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Belleair Beach, FL is Fort De Soto Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 144 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Belleair Beach, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Belleair Beach, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Belleair Beach, FL.
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