Tent campsites near Brooksville, Florida scatter throughout the Withlacoochee State Forest's diverse ecosystem that ranges from pine flatwoods to river bottomlands. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winters offer milder camping conditions with nighttime temperatures sometimes dropping into the 40s. Fall through spring typically provides the most comfortable conditions for primitive camping in this Central Florida wilderness area.
What to do
River paddling: The Withlacoochee River system offers multiple paddling opportunities accessible from Crooked River Campground. One visitor described their experience: "We enjoyed a group paddle down the river for a few hours. We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back. And have a lunch at the campsite afterwards."
Trail hiking: The Croom Hiking Trail system provides over 24 miles of hiking through three stacked loops in the Withlacoochee Forest. At Tucker Hill Forestry Primitive Sites, "You can hike all day and walk the 1/2 mile to car to get camping gear so you don't have to carry a heavy pack all day. Primitive site is located just off the A loop and you can get in some wonderful hiking here!"
Night exploration: For campers interested in nocturnal wildlife viewing, multiple campsites offer good opportunities. According to one visitor at Crooked River Campground: "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy." Bring flashlights with red filters to preserve night vision while observing wildlife.
What campers like
Site privacy: Many tent campers appreciate the natural barriers between sites at Colonel Robins Group Area. One camper noted: "Absolutely beautiful, clean, well shaded, natural campsites. Prices start at $5 per person per night. There is limited parking available near sites. Many fire pits with grills, picnic tables with lantern hangers, night security lighting."
Water access: Swimming and cooling off opportunities during hot months rank high among camper preferences. At Hillsborough River State Park, visitors can access the river: "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."
Wildlife encounters: The forest areas around Brooksville camping areas host diverse wildlife. According to one Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park camper: "Bring your bikes, hiking shoes, horses, or telescopes. Birders bring your binoculars! Over 150 species call Starkey home either full or part time." Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Water access differs significantly between camping areas. At Croom B Loop Primitive Site, "in summer water can easily be cached in advance. You can hear some road traffic but it usually dies down early. Make sure to hang food/trash for safety at night."
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes and ticks present challenges, particularly in warmer months. One camper at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park advised: "Be prepared for sun exposure, with sunblock and lots of water recommended as you will be hiking under open sky in the Florida heat."
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. For primitive sites at Withlacoochee State Forest: "All groups using the Withlacoochee State Forest are required to obtain a Special Use Permit from the Visitor Center. Permits are no charge, Day use area has parking fee - Permit access # is (352) 797-4100."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible options: For families with younger children, select sites with nearby facilities. One family at Flying Eagle Preserve shared: "You make a free reservation and receive the gate code to get in. We had a wonderful time and ran into very few people. Pretty much the only thing we heard were airboats."
Weekend considerations: Weekends bring different experiences than weekdays at most Brooksville area campgrounds. A camper with children noted: "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids (7-8y/o) spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore."
Kid-friendly activities: Pack games and nature exploration tools for children. One Jay B. Starkey visitor with young campers recommended: "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: RV access remains limited at most primitive tent sites near Brooksville. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, one RVer noted: "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places.. and this is a bit peoply. That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water."
Site selection: Select sites that can accommodate your specific vehicle requirements. According to campers: "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites." Look for park maps and campsite photos online before booking to ensure your vehicle fits the available space.
Weather preparedness: Florida weather impacts RV camping significantly. One camper advised: "It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night." Bring leveling blocks and ground covers for potential wet conditions during summer storms.
