The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve offers accessible equestrian camping in central Florida's subtropical climate, where average summer temperatures reach 90°F with high humidity. The trail system connects to multiple recreation areas through pine flatwoods and cypress wetlands. Primitive campgrounds remain accessible year-round with variable water levels affecting trail conditions during the summer rainy season.
What to do
Trail riding excursions: Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve features over 16 miles of equestrian trails through diverse Florida ecosystems. "We stayed here for 7 days. Nice free area with a gate that is locked to keep those without reservations out. Plenty of room for tent or RV camping. No hookups or dumpsites. There is a pump well for non potable water and a port a potty on site. Miles of trails and plenty of space to explore," notes Annie C.
Mountain biking opportunities: Alafia River State Park offers technical trails for various skill levels. "This park is close to home for me, I come here often for the Mountain Biking and the awesome humans. The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here. Pup friendly at the campsites as well," shares Jennifer T.
Fishing and wildlife viewing: Access points along creeks and rivers provide opportunities for anglers and wildlife photographers within a 30-minute drive. "This has been our first park Campground and couldn't ask for a better one to start with. Rangers were very helpful getting us around and renting the canoes. The River is really nice for canoeing as well as for fishing and nature views," reports Ronald H. at Little Manatee River State Park.
What campers like
Natural privacy barriers: Most equestrian campgrounds feature natural vegetation creating separation between sites. "Great little campground, clean with good natural foliage dividers between campsites. Nice walking trails, & a gentle river for an easy paddle," writes Nicole D. about Little Manatee River State Park.
Accessible horse facilities: Hardee Lakes Park provides designated equestrian campsites. "We got lucky to get a site here last minute after our state park campground was closed for extended period due to hurricane repairs. We stayed in an 'equestrian' site and most people didn't have horses (neither did we). While much of the park isn't shaded, most sites do seem to have at least some trees providing partial shade," explains Kathy L.
Quiet atmosphere: Primitive equestrian sites often offer more solitude than standard campgrounds. "Hardee Lakes Park is a nice quiet park. Camp sites are nice and clean, with beautiful lake views. Stayed at a non-electric site right on the lake. Fire pit is great and camp hosts even recommended a local small biz that will bring you firewood," notes Joshua W.
What you should know
Water considerations: Non-potable water is available at some equestrian campsites, but treatment is necessary. "You have to bring in your own water or a filter system, since thanks to COVID the park stopped putting water along the paved trail, which you could hike out to in a pinch and use. Now your only sources are stagnant ponds if you need some," advises Rich S. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Reservations required: Most horse campgrounds require advance booking, typically available 90-180 days ahead. "The campground here is huge as you can use it either as a primitive site or an equestrian site. You need to make sure and bring lots of cold water to drink, because the pump isn't portable and I doubt you'll be feeling great after boiling it off," explains Elliott B.
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings increased insects and humidity. "If you're looking for peace and quiet out in nature - as I was - this may not be your jam. Make sure to wear boots as the dew fall causes quite a bit of mud," advises Shaun C.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible nature programs: Colt Creek State Park offers family-friendly activities. "Colt Creek State Park is one of the newer parks in the Florida State Park System. We had the opportunity to camp at one of the handicap accessible sites recently and found it to be very convenient. Path and pad on site were roomy and fire pit was higher than usual for safety. These tent sites had water and electric as well," shares Jeanene A.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide best chances to spot native wildlife near water sources. "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," reports Barbara A.
Playground access: Some facilities include recreational areas for children when not riding. "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. I've camped here with my 4/5 year old boys and our Cub Scout pack," explains Melanie B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Palmetto Ridge Campground accommodates larger vehicles with varying hookup options. "The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic. I would say the vegetation gives semi privacy but they aren't on top of each other so it's not like you're looking right at your neighbor. There is a picnic table & a fire ring. Gravel sites but pretty level. My site was 50 amp," notes Amanda W.
Road conditions: Access roads to horse campgrounds may be unpaved and challenging after rain. "Very Nice just being wood panels. It's a long dirt road to get to the campsite and I didn't think my car would make it through some of the big puddles after rain. Chevy Malibu isn't really known for off-roading," warns Dan M.
Hookup limitations: Most horse-friendly campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. "This is reclaimed land from an old phosphate mine. Like all parks some site are better than others, none are bad. We had the end site on the lake that was very private. The campground and amenities are extremely well maintained," explains Jim W.
