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.
$38 - $48 / night
"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."
$24 / night
"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"
$22 / night
"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."
$24 - $109 / night
"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."
$24 / night
"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."
"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."
"The tent area is large and almost 100% shaded , The white sand beach is steps away and had the most amazing sunsets ."
$24 / night
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
$22 / night
"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"
"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."
"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."
TravelerThere appears to be new management in the campground. Procedures are completely different and much better than previous visits. It is cleaner and more organized. It is now possible to get a reservation for the full hookup section. The river and woods trails are in great shape. Hopefully they will get the mini golf course turf replaced, it is currently painted concrete and not much fun to play on.
ScoutRelaxing campsite, most sites have water access or view. The raccoons are a little too comfortable they will make their selves at home and borrow anything that you leave open.
TravelerWelcoming staff upon arrival. Park is very clean and well taken care of. Met some great neighbors and enjoyed the quietness. The park is constantly monitored by staff giving you a sense of comfort. Beautiful spring to enjoy a warm day as the water temp is a consistent 72°. 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.
ScoutLarge, level sites. Can accommodate any size RV. Very active community. 2 activity centers, pool, pickleball, horseshoes, billiards, bingo, entertainment and much more. Clean bathrooms and showers.
GuideStayed here for about a week. They have a heated pool, laundry room, billarads, shuffle board and a meeting room. Like all RV parks. Be discerning of some of the people. But some people were very kind.
Guidethis place has great potential, however, they are in a remodeling phase at the moment location, location, location is its best feature, very kind owner who tried his best to post our state last January
GuideI think the best thing is the size of this place, there usually is always a spot to get in on. There is a nice Little River running through the very edge of the park, but it's difficult to get a spot there. Also, the laundry facility is top notch and the pool is very pleasant, they also have racquetball and some nice short trails to walk on.
GuideI was staying across the Street at 1000 trails, and I thought I would come over here and look at the old locomotive and the log cabin, etc. But as I walked through the park towards the Peace River, I saw hundreds of buzzards, which made this amazing place to visit. I also noticed that there is a sanctuary for animals here as well, and for only 5 bucks you can go and see a nice variety of birds and mammals. Overall, this is definitely a great place to go it's very, very large and it also hosts tent camping as well.
GuideLindsay in the office is great. She will go out of her way to help with anything she can. Sites are hit or miss. Some are spacious; some are cramped. It's in the city if that's your thing.
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 255 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 140 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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