Cabin camping accommodations near Clearwater, Florida range from waterfront locations to wooded settings. Located in the Gulf Coast region where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, cabins provide shelter from afternoon thunderstorms common from June through September. Winter months see milder temperatures between 60-75°F during the day, making it the preferred season for outdoor activities near these rentals.
What to do
Water activities at waterfront sites: St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday offers water access for various activities. "Great inner city spot... Has a small shallow marina. Great for Kayaks, canoeing... etc. we did some fishing off the floating pier as well," notes Doug E.
Hiking nearby trails: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features extensive trail systems for day hikes. "The park has separate primitive tent, car-camping (tent) and cabin campgrounds near the entrance of the park along with over 50 miles of biking, hiking, nature as well as equestrian trails to enjoy," reports Steve S.
Wildlife observation: The natural settings around cabin rentals provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 132 for 3 days in mid April... They have beach chairs near the water and a fire pit that they lit every evening near sunset," explains Ray & Terri F. at Hickory Point RV Park.
What campers like
Evening social areas: Many cabins near Clearwater offer common areas for evening gatherings. "They have a heated pool, mini golf course, shuffle board, dog run. There are the typical bike rentals, four person bikes, that are found at most KOAs," says Doug E. about St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday.
Space and privacy: Site selection matters greatly for cabin camping. "Site #9 has so far been my most favorite spot here. It's VERY spacious (could easily fit 5 large tents here) and the back of the site has a trail that leads directly to The McNeil Homestead," shares Shaun C.
Facilities for extended stays: Some cabins are suitable for longer vacations. "This resort opened in mid 2022, and it reflects in the quality of everything. This was a ground up build, so everything is brand new. Sites are perfectly level paver pads with beautiful landscape. Hook ups are perfect, with awesome WiFi," reports deb K. about Key Lime Bay RV Resort.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Cabin locations within parks vary significantly in quality. "Site #14 is practically on top of 13 and 15 giving very little privacy... Though the field behind 14 is super nice, on a Friday night, all I could hear were screaming cars blazing on Starkey blvd," warns Shaun C.
Road noise impacts: Some cabins near Clearwater are affected by traffic sounds. "This park was okay, but we were at the front and the road noise was bad. Lots of sirens and traffic. It was noticeably quieter at the back of the campground," reports Tina from Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA.
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity varies throughout the year. "A beautiful park that is a real taste of old Florida, with a campground that is completely shaded by oak trees. At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy. Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June," shares Jason D.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several cabin locations offer activities specifically for children. "The campground here is very nice! The bathrooms are well kept and clean. The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do," says Rebecca A. about Hillsborough River State Park Campground.
Safety considerations: Some parks have better security features than others. "The windshield placard they give you says dont hang things from the trees, however the parks website says its fine if you're hanging a hammock with 1" thick webbing, and its on a thick tree. I hung my hammock and have had no trouble," shares Jake H.
Off-season advantages: Consider visiting during less busy times for better experience. "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," explains Rick G.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: RVers should note that some cabin areas have tight roads. "Be careful entering the park. Very sharp turns. Many full time residents with older park models," advises Ray P. about Encore Vacation Village.
Hookup quality varies: Electrical and water connections differ between parks. "The utilities were set up poorly and we struffled a bit with septic hookup. Showers were clean, laundry was good, fun pool and smal putt putt course," notes Nicole at St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA.
Navigating large properties: Some cabin resorts near Clearwater are extensive. "Allow me to begin by saying I have never been to a large RV campground… ever! This place is so huge that you won't be surprised if you get lost in this place at least a couple of times before you find your slotted RV destination for the night," warns Stuart K. regarding Sherwood Forest RV Resort.
