Camping sites near Odessa, Florida spread across the Starkey Wilderness Preserve system and adjacent water management areas. These lands sit on Florida's central west coast limestone bedrock, with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet. Most tent and RV camping options require advance reservations, with primitive sites filling quickly during the mild winter months when temperatures average 65-75°F.
What to do
Trail exploration on foot or wheels: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features over 50 miles of biking, hiking, and equestrian trails through diverse Florida ecosystems. "Great get away in west-central Florida as a day trip or long weekend stay. We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer," notes Steve S. from Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Paddling and fishing: Fort De Soto Campground provides water access for kayaking with abundant wildlife viewing. "We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees," shares Joe R. Access points along the Hillsborough River at Lake Rogers Park offer canoe launching facilities. "Site near canoe launch and very shallow lake - not far from road traffic," notes a camper about Lake Rogers Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife spotting conditions throughout the region. "Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!" reports Brennan H. about their stay at Fort De Soto. Serenova Tract campers regularly encounter deer, wild boar, and diverse bird species.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many Odessa area campgrounds offer good site separation. "Very private spots lots of trees," mentions Ralph B. about Fort De Soto Campground. At Serenova Tract, "Each site has a picnic table and fire ring which doubles as a grill - you must provide your own firewood. The campsites are very well maintained, shaded by oak trees and separated enough to allow everyone to enjoy their peace," notes Steve S.
Accessibility to supplies: Proximity to stores makes resupply convenient. "Across Route 52 is a Publix shopping center where you can get your water, groceries and ice," mentions a reviewer about Serenova Tract Campsites. Another camper notes, "Food shopping right across the street, Publix. Also a couple take out places. Campground itself was clean, quiet."
Night sky viewing: Several campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for stargazing. "Nice place, relatively quiet. Little light pollution," reports AJ G. about Starkey Wilderness Preserve. "It's nice and dark at night," mentions Lorilee S. about their Hillsborough River State Park experience.
What you should know
Seasonal insects: Summer brings significant mosquito activity. "The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June. We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them," warns Jason D. from Hillsborough River State Park Campground. Another camper advises, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog."
Reservation requirements: Most camping areas require advance booking. For Serenova Tract, "You need a reservation, there are just a handful of sites. Each has a fire ring and a table. Locked gate (you need a code they give you in your reservation confirmation)," explains Hootmon H.
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas experience regular flooding, especially May through October. "Be mindful of going after/during a good rain, it floods pretty easily," warns Brett D. about Serenova Tract. Another camper mentions, "During the rainy season, half of the park is closed off due to the road being flooded."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature kid-friendly play areas. Lake Park offers "a park type area for kids," while Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park has "playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers," according to Tim L. Fort De Soto features "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."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences for children. "Nature education center for children," mentions Tim L. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park. "I've camped here with my 4/5 year old boys and our Cub Scout pack," shares Melanie B.
Site selection for shade: Florida's heat makes shade critical for family comfort. "We noticed several rangers and volunteers performing various tasks to improve the parks appearance," notes a camper. Look for sites with established tree cover, especially for summer camping when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Many Odessa area campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. "Small, tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites," notes Billie S. about Hillsborough River State Park. However, Bay Bayou RV Resort offers "immaculate grounds, clean and modern bath houses, three laundry rooms. Very dog friendly with doggy bag stations and dog parks," according to Mary G. from Bay Bayou RV Resort.
Electrical hookup availability: While primitive sites dominate the region, several campgrounds offer electricity. "We have 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks and a washer and dryer," reports Gail W. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Weather preparation: Florida's unpredictable weather affects RV camping comfort. "It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," shares Lorilee S. about her Hillsborough River State Park experience, highlighting the importance of proper site selection and preparation.
