The Ruskin area camping options extend beyond the beach experiences to include freshwater lakes, mangrove-lined waterways, and reclaimed phosphate mines. Located at sea level with subtropical wetlands, campsites range from heavily wooded riverfront settings to open lakeside areas. Seasonal wildlife viewing varies throughout the year with manatees most commonly spotted during cooler months.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River provides direct kayak and canoe access to the river. "We enjoyed our 3 hour kayak trip and then they very kindly found us a spot to stay for the night. We honestly didn't want to leave," shares Jolie H.
Wildlife observation: Alafia River State Park Campground offers excellent bird watching on former phosphate mining land. "I go here every year to see all of the various birds that migrate here, as well as to enjoy alittle bit of mountain biking," notes Jill R.
Mountain biking: The trail system at Alafia River State Park features routes for various skill levels. "The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here," according to Jennifer T., who visits frequently.
Fishing opportunities: E.G. Simmons Regional Park provides shoreline and dock fishing. "During the day, go out and fish, kayak, grill or hang at the beach. Lots of things to do here and great waterfront sites available on first come first serve basis," advises Christy C.
What campers like
Equestrian facilities: Little Manatee River State Park Campground welcomes horse owners with dedicated facilities. "Very nice facilities. Miles of horseback trails to ride. Very nice horse stalls to put horses in overnight. Perfect place for equine vacation!" explains Donna H.
Military base camping: MacDill AFB FamCamp offers a secure environment with beach access. "It's right by the beach and marina. There's a small dog beach and two dog parks. Laundry facilities are centrally located," reports Richard in his review.
Waterfront camping: At E.G. Simmons Regional Park, many sites have direct water access. "The sites are very large and there is water and electric hook-ups and a dump station nearby," notes Christy C., adding that the waterfront sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Trail access: Little Manatee River State Park offers multiple hiking trails. "This park offers lots of beautiful nature trails, kayaking, biking & bird watching," states Barbara A. in her review.
What you should know
Insect considerations: No-see-ums can be problematic at certain campgrounds, particularly at dusk. "You really cannot stay outside at dusk. Citronella torches, spray, fans, Avon skin so soft...none of these work for the no-see-ums," warns Christy C. about E.G. Simmons.
Site privacy variations: Fort De Soto Campground has well-spaced sites with natural barriers. "Our site was nice and deep, with a weird little island in the middle. This actually made us divide the tent area up into two sides, which worked out well," explains Joe R.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River, "you hear the nearby road" and it's "right next to a highway/large road with TONS of traffic noise," according to Miranda V. and Kathy L., respectively.
Site spacing: Campgrounds vary significantly in site density. Tampa South RV Resort has limited space between units. "We looked like Austin Powers trying to get into our pull through site...Had to have neighbors to left and right and across the street move cars and patio furniture just so we could squeeze by," notes Janice M.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive activities: St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday offers family-friendly amenities. "They even had a movie night at the pool," shares Joy H., who tent camped there for 11 days.
Water activities: Fort De Soto provides multiple water access options. "The site has plenty of options for both clothes lines and hammocks. We opted to put the 'kitchen' towards the back of the site with the water view...We have an inflatable raft that we took out in the water. We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees," reports Joe R.
Playground facilities: E.G. Simmons Regional Park includes play areas for children. "There is a playground for children," notes Judy B., mentioning this alongside the small beach area available at the park.
Non-water activities: Some parks offer land-based recreation beyond swimming. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA includes "a small putt putt course" according to Nicole, providing an alternative activity for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Winter Quarters Manatee, site quality varies significantly. "I have a small lot with a mobile home, literally about 8 feet along side of me," reports Millie D., while noting that "there are some nice sites, and all are full hookups."
Utilities placement: Watch for hookup locations when setting up. At St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA, "The utilities were set up poorly and we struffled a bit with septic hookup," mentions Nicole.
Reservation timing: Secure sites well in advance for winter stays. "Winter Quarters Manatee is a beautiful resort with a lot of activities and amenities (which include 2 heated pools and a spa)," notes Jean M., though she adds the campground is near I-75 with ongoing construction.
Long-term vs short-term: Some parks cater more to extended stays than overnight visits. The St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA "was super crowded with most people staying long term...It was so busy and active it was somewhat stressful," according to Angela M.
