Best Dispersed Camping near Belleair Beach, FL

Dispersed camping near Belleair Beach, Florida centers primarily on boat-accessible island preserves. Shell Key Preserve and Anclote Key Preserve State Park offer primitive camping experiences on uninhabited barrier islands. Both locations require water transportation, as no land access exists. Shell Key Preserve features open camping areas with no specifically cleared sites. According to camper Elliott B., "You need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect your tent."

Permits are mandatory for both preserves. Shell Key requires a free camping permit from Pinellas County, while Anclote Key requires advance online reservations. Both preserves operate under strict Leave No Trace principles. All supplies must be packed in and all waste packed out. Neither location provides drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities. Campers at Anclote Key report that the island "closes during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight," so weather monitoring is essential.

The primitive nature of these sites demands thorough preparation. Summer brings intense mosquito activity at Anclote Key, with reviews noting "mosquitos are insane during the summer." Shell Key allows campfires on the beach except during sea turtle nesting season in summer months. Both locations offer exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including shorebirds, dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles. Anclote Key encompasses four islands with over 11,000 acres of habitat and more than 40 bird species. The 1887 lighthouse on the southern end of Anclote Key serves as a historical landmark, with occasional ranger-led tours available.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Belleair Beach, Florida (4)

    1. Shell Key Preserve

    7 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 453-6900

    "specifically cleared sites) so you do need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect"

    "Shell Key is one of the larger uninhabited islands off of the west coast of Florida near St. Petersburg."

    2. Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Holiday, FL
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 638-4447

    "Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access!"

    "There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse."

    4. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    3 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 796-7211

    "Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!"

    "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Belleair Beach, FL

23 Photos of 4 Belleair Beach Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Belleair Beach, FL

9 Reviews of 4 Belleair Beach Campgrounds


  • Alyssa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Only accessible by water!

    Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access! Depending on the weather and the tides/current, the may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak). Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer.

    Must make reservation online for camping permit.

  • SukiDookie ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Very quiet and peaceful

    We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn’t check it out, so I’m not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren’t so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2019

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Best Primitive Island Camping for Bird Lovers

    Anclote Key Review There is only 1 way to get to Anclote Key and that is by boat. Whether you take the few hours and kayak the 3 miles over from Tarpon or motor in from one of the many docks in the area that is the only way you can get here.

    “Ferry services do not drop visitors off for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar.” 

    This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island. 

    There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse. Once you arrive take time to explore each area- Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40! The 1887 lighthouse stands as a historical reminder on the southern end of the island. Occasionally tours can be made available by contacting the onsite ranger. 

    Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE. Fire up the grill but make sure you leave no charcoal or burned wood pieces on the beach! EVERYTHING- and they mean everything you bring on the island must be taken off with you! There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash.. 

    Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach. There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. Make sure all food is secured (we anchored our boat with provisions on board a bit off shore and swam in to no risk raccoons getting into gear as it was a calm night with clear weather). Usually it is quite windy so plan ahead.

    A Florida Saltwater Fishing license is required to fish. 

    Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight.

  • Kaitlin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 25, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Primitive camping on a "private" island

    We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak. During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 11, 2024

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Primitive, easy pull through sites

    Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town.

  • Dan X.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 5, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    An island to yourself!

    As others have noted, boat access only, primitive put-your-tent-wherever type camping. BYO everything, and please bring it all back.

    No skeeters in October.

  • mandy P.
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Serene and Natural

    Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves. Camping is definitely pack in pack out. It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless

  • Nina O.
    Mar. 15, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Nice and quite

    Didn‘t find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn’t run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out.


Guide to Belleair Beach

Dispersed camping near Belleair Beach, Florida requires water transportation and advance planning. Boat-accessible camping destinations are located on barrier islands with Gulf Coast proximity. Campers need to prepare for primitive conditions with no permanent facilities and must be self-sufficient. Summer months bring challenging weather conditions with high temperatures averaging 90°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

What to do

Wildlife observation and photography: Anclote Key Preserve State Park features diverse ecosystems with "over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40!" according to visitor Jeanene A. The preserve's four islands provide excellent opportunities for nature photography.

Kayaking and paddleboarding: Shell Key Preserve offers accessible paddling routes. One camper notes, "We paddled from Ft Desoto (one on kayak, other on paddleboard) with all of our gear roped on." The relatively protected waters between barrier islands create ideal conditions for paddle sports, with multiple launch points available.

Fishing opportunities: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides freshwater fishing options as an alternative to coastal sites. Visitor Scott O. mentions it's "Harley-Davidson approved" with "Golden Coral buffet in town," making it accessible for those preferring mainland camping with fishing options.

What campers like

Island seclusion after day visitors depart: Anclote Key campers appreciate the transformation of the island after sunset. Camper Mandy P. describes the experience as "Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when Florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves." Day-use visitors typically depart by late afternoon.

Natural coastal environment: Shell Key Preserve maintains minimal development to protect natural habitats. Camper Alacyn B. shares, "The greatest thing about camping here is that it's super cheap, secluded, and so beautiful. Sunsets are to die for. Tons of edible flora, and fishing of course." The preserve's management prioritizes ecosystem protection.

Night sky viewing: The barrier islands offer minimal light pollution. A camper at Anclote Key notes, "It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless." October through April typically provides the clearest viewing conditions with lower humidity.

What you should know

Seasonal insect considerations: Summer months bring significant insect activity at these primitive camping locations. At Anclote Key, camper Alyssa D. warns "Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer." Consider camping during cooler months for reduced insect pressure.

Weather monitoring requirements: Marine-based camping sites require attention to changing conditions. Campsites may close during adverse weather, and transportation safety depends on conditions. Dan X. reports, "No skeeters in October," suggesting fall camping offers more comfortable conditions.

Preparation for primitive conditions: Shell Key Preserve requires complete self-sufficiency. Reviewer Alyssa D. emphasizes, "Once you get to the island, is is 100% primitive as it's a preserve. Absolutely amazing with stunning views." There are no facilities, requiring campers to bring portable toilets and pack out all waste.

Reservation and permit processes: Each camping area has specific requirements. At Shell Key, campers report, "Get your permit online" before arrival, while others note varying reservation requirements. Check official sources for current permit procedures as they may change seasonally.

Tips for camping with families

Accessibility considerations: Family camping trips should factor in transportation logistics. For Shell Key, one camper notes, "Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there. One of the easiest island paddles out there - just a little over a mile."

Weather timing: Plan family trips during optimal weather windows. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers mainland alternatives when coastal weather threatens. A visitor mentions, "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free."

Site selection for comfort: Finding appropriate tent sites requires assessment. On Shell Key, camper Elliott B. advises, "You can find some sandy spots tucked into the vegetation every so often along the 'beach', but you won't fit a large tent in these areas." Advance preparation with tarps and padding improves comfort.

Tips from RVers

Alternative options for RVs: Since barrier island camping isn't suitable for RVs, mainland alternatives exist. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings," according to visitor Scott O. This provides RV camping within driving distance of coastal activities.

Day-use strategy: RV campers typically base at mainland locations and visit islands as day trips. Kaitlin B. notes about Anclote Key, "During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves." This approach allows RV amenities while accessing primitive islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Belleair Beach, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Belleair Beach, FL is Shell Key Preserve with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Belleair Beach, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Belleair Beach, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.