Tent camping near Bowling Green, Florida features a mix of sandy soil and limestone terrain within the Lake Wales Ridge ecosystem. This region sits at 115-130 feet above sea level, creating subtle elevation changes uncommon in much of Florida. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop into the 40s, making seasonal timing critical for comfortable camping experiences.
What to do
Fossil hunting along Peace River: Oak Hill Campground offers prime fossil hunting opportunities, particularly for shark teeth. "Awesome place to camp without having to Carrier your equipment. When you get to the outpost you put your gear in the trailer and they drive it to the campsite for you. Make sure you get a shovel and sleuth to find some snark teeth. We found over 100 just at the campsite alone," notes camper Deven R.
Kayaking and canoeing: Hillsborough River State Park Campground provides access to class II rapids, a rarity in Florida. "You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do. The campground is also not far from some big cities, such as Tampa and st pete, which is convenient," states Rebecca A. Another camper adds, "The rapids to look at. Plenty of hiking and biking. Rental canoe staff were amazing."
Wildlife observation: Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve offers secluded trails for wildlife watching. "Alafia North Corridor Park is such a peaceful escape. The trails wind through beautiful natural scenery, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for a relaxing hike," according to Zackary C.
What campers like
Natural springs for swimming: Lithia Springs Conservation Park provides a refreshing spring-fed swimming area. "Very well kept up groundskeeper. Meeting mike at the gate to the park so so nice. The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" reports holy O. Another camper noted, "We love State and County parks. This is our favorite county park it is very clean and close to restaurants grocery stores. It has a nice spring to swim in."
Secluded primitive sites: Primitive camping at Alderman's Ford Conservation Park offers escape from crowds. "The camp sites are hike in only. I LOVE this. Bring a manageable pack with everything you need. There is no water, power, or restrooms at the sites. Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit," shares Joe. Another camper confirms, "We camped overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area. Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails."
Firefly viewing opportunities: Highlands Hammock State Park features seasonal firefly displays. "On this trip we were treated to a night time tram ride because the 26 species of fireflies were out for a 2 week period. The area is beautiful and shady, staff very friendly, lots of critters on the trails," explains Larry M.
What you should know
Flooding affects accessibility: During rainy season (June-September), many sites become inaccessible. At Upper Hillsborough Preserve, campers report, "We stayed here for a few nights but our reservations were cut short due to flooding." The preserve trails "may be flooded seasonally" since this area is "dedicated to protect runoff from the Hillsborough River."
Bear activity requires food storage: Proper food storage is essential in this region. "We had a bear visit the garbage bin during the night, so you'll have to pay attention to storing your food during the night," warns Sri G. from Highlands Hammock State Park.
Mosquitoes are severe: Insect protection is non-negotiable, particularly during warmer months. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," cautions Jake H.
Tips for camping with families
Look for hammock-friendly sites: Some campgrounds have dedicated hammock posts. "We stayed with 3 adults and 3 children under the age of 8. We stayed two night in 40 degree weather. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping! Campsite 1, 3 and 4 have hammock poles able to fit 3 hammocks at a time," recommends Katelynn L.
Consider off-peak camping: Myakka River State Park Primitive Sites offers better experiences during weekdays. "The primitive campsites are my favorites, because they're not as crowded as the established campgrounds," shares Deven V. Another camper adds, "Took 5 days to go backpacking in Myakka State Park, which is an awesome park!! The hike there alternated landscapes- prairies, swamps, foresty."
Check water sources beforehand: Water availability varies by site and season. "Bee Island, Oak Grove, and Honore campsites have working pitcher pumps at them. Water from these pumps will need to be filtered or treated. Prairie and Panther Point Camps aren't guaranteed to have water, so you should bring your own," advises a Myakka camper.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing varies significantly: For the best tent camping near Bowling Green, Florida, look for less crowded loops. "We camp here 1 night 2 adults and 4 kids. The place is comfortable and the boathouse are clean. They should implement more distances between the camping sites. It was really crowded," observes Paolo D.
Reservations essential for weekends: Holiday periods fill quickly at popular campgrounds. "Holiday weekends are insane and busy. Get reservations... Enjoy the Tram and Hammock Loop, wow!" advises James L.
Consider weather patterns: Temperatures and precipitation affect comfort levels significantly. "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north. Being a Floridian, we've experienced FL's state parks and found them to offer privacy between sites. Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking," reports Rick G.
