259 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds for various types of camping can be found in multiple areas near Gibsonton, Florida. Fort De Soto Campground in Saint Petersburg offers tent, RV, and glamping options with waterfront sites approximately 20 miles southwest of Gibsonton. Little Manatee River State Park Campground in Wimauma, just 10 miles east, provides tent, RV, and cabin accommodations with electric hookups and water access. E.G. Simmons Regional Park in Ruskin features tent and RV sites with electric and sewer hookups about 8 miles south of Gibsonton. The area includes both state parks and county-managed recreation areas, with most campgrounds open year-round.
Many sites require advance reservations, especially during winter months when the region experiences an influx of visitors seeking warmer weather. The subtropical climate makes camping possible throughout the year, though summer brings high humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and mosquitoes. Most campgrounds in the area offer electric hookups, drinking water, and sanitary dump stations, with varying levels of shade and site privacy. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though some parks have limited WiFi availability. A camper wrote about Fort De Soto Park: "This campground helped me relieve those worries. The site has plenty of options for both clothes lines and hammocks. We had neighbors on both sides and across and it was still fairly secluded."
Campers report high satisfaction with sites near water bodies, particularly those with views of Tampa Bay or access to the Hillsborough and Little Manatee Rivers. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with visitors frequently mentioning sightings of dolphins, manatees, and various bird species. Several campgrounds feature hiking and biking trails, with paved paths at Fort De Soto Park and nature trails at Little Manatee River State Park. While some sites offer direct water access, others are tucked into more wooded settings with greater privacy. A review noted that at Fort De Soto, "They did a great job at keeping a lot of natural growth to maintain privacy and a true tropical feel. There was plenty of shade, but also plenty of sunshine when you wanted it." Campgrounds closer to urban areas tend to have more amenities but may experience higher traffic and noise levels.
"As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."
"Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."
from $38 - $48 / night
Check Availability"A lot of walking trails for people and horses. A surprise was the amphitheater. Washers and dryers are located outside the bathrooms. Friendly hosts and other campers. Would came again."
"This campsite is right outside of Little Manatee River State Park. I even missed the entrance and went to Little Manatee because I missed the turn."
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Nearly every campsite is right on the water - easy in and out for kayaks, large boat ramp and many picnic pavilions."
"Close to the boatramp. Raccoons can be annoying. Has picnic pavilions and several fishing docks"
from $24 / night
Check Availability"It’s also located right off the highway, so you get all the noise. All day and all night. Now, for canoe and kayak trips, I guess it’s a good spot. There’s a lot of folk that come just for that."
"The place is tucked in and has a great vibe."
from $24 - $109 / night
Check Availability"Then exit 7 to Highway 301 north about 10 miles to the campground. The way in which the state park and campground are set up is easy too."
"This was my first time at a campground in Florida! I was surrounded by beautiful wildlife (alligators, birds, and even a wild boar). The hiking trails were perfect for a beginner or a regular hiker."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"PX and commissary near the security gate. Campground check-in quick and efficient. Pick your site from what's available. $26/night with full hook-ups. Right on the Gulf, beautiful beach."
"Close to a small beach and marina with a restaurant walking distance. Several dog parks but muddy/dirt. Laundry available for fee. Bath houses clean and large. Good amenities on base."
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"Widely known in Florida for the mountain bike trails. Not much else to do in the area, but very nice space to chill out. The night sky is far enough away that you can really take in the stars."
"For Florida this is a great campsite especially for me because it's so close overall a great place for any activity"
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Lithia Springs Conservation Park is a hidden gem for camping in Florida. The campground is clean, well-maintained, and tucked away in a peaceful natural setting."
"Canoe and Kyak launch is easily accessible to enjoy the calm waters of the Alafia River. Restrooms and showers were clean and plentiful around the grounds. We will definitely be back."
"We were less than an hour away from home at Lazydays RV Resort and it felt like we were on the other side of the planet. Got to spend uninterrupted time with my bride and it was awesome."
"Great location just outside Tampa, Fl. Wonderful facilities and friendly staff. nearby RV dealership is largest in America with huge service department and camping/RV store."
from $61 - $83 / night
Check Availability
GuideTook the littles (ages 5 &4) for their first tent camping trip - had a blast once they learned what s’mores were all about! Decent space, warm days and unusually cool nights.
GuideGreat views! Most sites have water-access backyards. Gravel pads are long enough and grassy area behind them goes to waters edge. Room for kiddos to play and adults to wade fish for seatrout on the flats
GuideGreat lil place. Nice private bathrooms, mini splits in these and in tent, comfortable for family of 5. Fun turf play area near main office. Shark tooth sifting, trail hike, but the bank river fishing was tough. Owner/manager was a jack of all trades, very helpful and did it all.
GuideGreat little spot. Seemed to rain every 5 minutes where they had to shut everything down but had good contingency plans. Golf carts galore with some sites a little more rowdy than the next, but plenty of room. Kids loved the pools and crafts, adults loved the tiki bars and live music.
Scoutthis place is nice they have their own private island can go fishing over there with no license nice Pier to walk across take your dog there and enjoy on the river
ScoutI have been trying for weeks to get someone to answer the phone. Numerous requests for a call back have got me nowhere!!!
ScoutThe host Nor treated me like trash. He mandates you leave a lock off of your hitch so he can move your Rv around as needed. Mind you I was going to be paying for a reserved spot on the property paying a monthly rate. When I inquired more about their policy to see if they damaged my Rv while moving it would it be covered by them for the repairs of damages. My reservation was then automatically canceled for no reason and Nor only gave me a partial refund for my booking. He is very rude and unprofessional. There are also other reviews in the neighbor app stating damages happened while moving someone's rv and he refused to take accountability or finance the repairs for that customer. Hints the reason I was wanting clarification on the matter. Instead of providing it he decided to cancel my reservation and tried to beat me out of my deposit. Dont bring your RV here for storage it is a huge risk!
ScoutGood clean site.
LegendWe had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground! The tent sites are spacious and nicely spread out, giving you plenty of room to set up camp without feeling crowded by your neighbors. The campground has a peaceful, natural atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy being outdoors. There are 6 cabins also available with electric– no ac.
One of the things that really impressed us was the bathroom facilities. The restrooms and showers were very clean and well-maintained, which makes a huge difference when you’re tent camping. It was great to be able to enjoy a more primitive camping experience without giving up the convenience of a nice bathroom and shower.
The location next to Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is what really makes this campground special. Campers have access to the preserve’s pedestrian trails, making it easy to spend time exploring nature and then return to your campsite to relax.
Overall, Terry Tomalin Campground is a hidden gem in St. Petersburg and a fantastic place for anyone who enjoys tent camping and being surrounded by nature. We would definitely stay here again!
Notes: Only open on weekends, no pets, strict rules against vaping and alcoholic beverages. This location is very busy in the summertime as there are not many camping options in the area. Large group fire pits (not at each site)
Camping spots near Gibsonton, Florida offer varying terrain from freshwater springs to coastal marshlands across elevations ranging from sea level to 15 feet. The region experiences summer temperatures averaging 90-95°F with high humidity from June through September, which affects campground popularity and reservation requirements. Many parks have dedicated wildlife observation areas where campers regularly report sightings of local species.
Kayak through mangrove canals: At E.G. Simmons Regional Park, you can paddle through mangrove waterways with views of Tampa Bay. "When you kayak down the channel into Tamp Bay what a great view of Tampa, St. Petersburg and the Skyway bridge. Beautiful sunsets from the beach and boat ramp or out in the kayak," notes a camper.
Mountain bike on varied terrain: Alafia River State Park Campground features mountain biking trails suitable for different skill levels, located 10 miles east of Gibsonton. A regular visitor mentions, "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."
Swim in natural springs: For $2 per person, you can swim in the refreshing springs at Lithia Springs Conservation Park, located about 15 miles northeast of Gibsonton. "Very well kept up groundskeeper. Meeting mike at the gate to the park so so nice. Only waited for a short time to have a spot and enjoy the park. The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" shares one visitor.
Waterfront camping: Many campers value sites directly on the water at Fort De Soto Campground for wildlife viewing opportunities. A reviewer noted, "We have an inflatable raft that we took out in the water. We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees." Sites near water typically book several months in advance.
Natural dividers between sites: Campers appreciate the privacy created by vegetation at Little Manatee River State Park Campground. One camper shared, "Really enjoyed our stay here, good size lot, #10, with electric, water, picnic table and fire ring. Clean dump station. Natural trees providing privacy between lots."
Recreational facilities: Parks with multiple activity options receive higher ratings. "Edward Medard is superb place to enjoy camp for a quiet time or with family and friends. Very spacious and variety camp sites to choose from. Clean grounds including bathrooms and staff are the friendliest,kindest people," reports a regular visitor.
Insect considerations: No-see-ums and mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in summer months and near water. A camper at E.G. Simmons notes, "You really cannot stay outside at dusk. Citronella torches, spray, fans, Avon skin so soft...none of these work for the no see-ums."
First-come, first-served options: Several camping areas near Gibsonton don't accept reservations and fill quickly during peak seasons. At Edward Medard Park, a reviewer advises, "Midweek is best time to visit as weekends fill fast (usually by Thursday night)."
Noise levels vary: Campgrounds closer to highways or urban areas have more ambient noise. About Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River, a camper warns, "Right next to a highway/large road with TONS of traffic noise. A fair amount of trash scattered around the campground."
Playground access: Parks with dedicated play areas provide entertainment for children. "There is 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."
Biking trails for kids: Paved paths make for safer cycling with children. At Edward Medard Park, "Paved roads, packed sand and grass sites... Lots of paved roads which was great for biking."
Wildlife education opportunities: Wildlife viewing can become educational experiences. A visitor to Fort De Soto mentioned, "Great park with days worth of activities! The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit! Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!"
Site accessibility: At E.G. Simmons Regional Park, campers recommend specific sites: "We were in site 55 of the East CG which was right on the water where we launched our kayaks to paddle the canals amongst the Mangroves."
Seasonal crowds: Winter brings more competition for sites at all campgrounds near Gibsonton. "The winter season is October-April and the campground gets extremely full, going over capacity from December to February or March."
Hookup specifics: Water pressure can vary between parks. One RVer noted, "Water pressure was above 60 psi, so we needed a reducer." Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service, with some providing 50-amp options for larger rigs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gibsonton, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gibsonton, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 259 campgrounds and RV parks near Gibsonton, FL and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Gibsonton, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gibsonton, FL is Fort De Soto Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 145 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gibsonton, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Gibsonton, FL.
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