Best Campgrounds near Temple Terrace, FL

Camping areas around Temple Terrace, Florida include established campgrounds and recreation facilities within a 30-mile radius of the city. The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve features multiple camping options including Oak Ridge Primitive Campground and Dead River Park, while Hillsborough River State Park offers developed sites with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Several private RV resorts such as Lazydays RV Resort and Happy Traveler RV Resort provide additional options for travelers seeking full hookups and resort-style amenities within close proximity to Tampa.

Florida's subtropical climate makes camping possible year-round, though summer months bring high humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and mosquitoes. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during winter when seasonal visitors increase demand. "The campground here is huge as you can use it either as a primitive site or an equestrian site. Although it's nice and open you actually have a ton of tree coverage," noted one visitor about Oak Ridge Primitive Campground. Water management is a significant consideration in this region, with several sites located within water management districts that may experience seasonal flooding during Florida's rainy season from June through September.

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews throughout the area, with Fort De Soto Campground and Hillsborough River State Park offering popular water-adjacent sites. Several campers highlight wildlife viewing opportunities, with one review mentioning "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat." Most developed campgrounds provide standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms, while primitive sites offer more secluded experiences. The extensive trail systems connecting many of these camping areas make them attractive for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Proximity to urban amenities while maintaining natural settings appears to be a significant advantage for camping in this region, with multiple reviews noting the convenience of being able to enjoy wilderness experiences without venturing far from city services.

Best Camping Sites Near Temple Terrace, Florida (287)

    1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 987-6771

    $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."

    2. Lazydays RV Resort

    14 Reviews
    Lee, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 246-4777

    "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."

    3. Fort De Soto Campground

    140 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 582-2100

    $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."

    4. Lithia Springs Conservation Park

    12 Reviews
    Durant, FL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 744-5572

    $24 / night

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    5. Happy Traveler RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Temple Terrace, FL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 986-3094

    "Lots of shaded spots, 3 laundry facilities around the park (2 w/bathhouses). Large fenced in swimming pool, clubhouse with pool table, games, movies, kitchen, activities almost daily."

    6. Edward Medard Park

    10 Reviews
    Durant, FL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 757-3802

    $24 / night

    "Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours. Camp sites are bit close to one another but overall amazing experience."

    "Very pretty and wooded for Florida. Great to bike around and see everything. Neat to see gators. Will definitely go back."

    7. Lake Park

    5 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 264-3806

    "I live in an adjacent neighborhood (2 years) and walk this park daily with my doggos. I’ve biked all the trails and been here from sunrise to sunset."

    "This park has a really great walking trail around a lake with exercise stations. I’ve seen some horses on the trails also. There’s a cool BMX and rc car track too!"

    8. Cypress Creek Preserve

    4 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    7 miles
    Website

    "There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse."

    9. Southern Aire RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 986-1596

    "Lots of old trees provide abundant shade and a great walking environment. Please Note: this park is ADULT ONLY, no kids."

    10. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve

    3 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    7 miles
    Website

    "Other parks and trails are located at the Wilderness Park Off Road Loop Trail System, [Flatwoods Park](https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us"

    "Chevy Malibu isn't really known for off-roading lol"

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Recent Reviews near Temple Terrace, FL

1079 Reviews of 287 Temple Terrace Campgrounds


  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve

    Alafia North of Baseball Parking

    “Alafia North Corridor Park is such a peaceful escape. The trails wind through beautiful natural scenery, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for a relaxing hike. It’s a great place to slow down, take in the fresh air, and enjoy the simple beauty of nature. Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a longer hike, this park offers a calming outdoor experience.”

  • ZThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Lithia Springs

    Lithia Springs Park

    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. Sites are spacious with plenty of shade, and the amenities like restrooms and picnic areas are kept in great shape. The best part is being just a short walk from the beautiful natural spring, perfect for swimming and cooling off. It’s a great spot for families or anyone looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. I’ll definitely be coming back!

  • Dan M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve

    Very Nice but ....

    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 lol

  • Carlos T.
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Encore Silver Dollar

    Mobile home park, with rv sites.

    We stay there four times over a couple of years.  We have not see much of the park because we only arrive at night, plug in for ac, and in the morning we leave.

  • Rodd S.
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    Cabin stay

    Solo outing to clear my mind. Just me and the pup. Cabins were at 50% occupancy as it was mid-week. Quiet neighbors except the group behind me who was gone by 9pm. Many trails. Only one outlet, bring a powerstrip.

  • Amanda W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale

    So fun! Huge sites!!

    Margaritaville is so clean & spacious!! The store has so much great stuff and there is always entertainment. They even have a big farmers market on Sundays with tons of vendors. There are two big pools (the back one is quiet) with bars, yummy drinks and good food. They are pet friendly & have dog poo stations along the roads. Very close to a long biking trail & there’s a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Belle Parc RV Resort

    Belle parc is a very relaxing campground

    So check in was easy and the ladies at the front office where amazing and very hospitable. We were shown to our campsite by a very nice gentleman. He even helped us back in and hook up. As for the stay it’s been very relaxing and quiet. The shower houses are awesome. We backed up to one of the lakeside areas where the fishing was excellent. We were Also located next to a pool and it was very clean with limited activity from other guest. Would definitely recommend to stay again.

  • SukiDookie ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Very quiet and peaceful

    We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn’t check it out, so I’m not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren’t so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!


Guide to Temple Terrace

Temple Terrace camping sites sit within west-central Florida's subtropical zone at approximately 40 feet above sea level. The area receives about 51 inches of annual rainfall, with highest precipitation occurring from June through September. Camping options range from developed state park facilities to private RV resorts within 30 minutes of downtown Tampa.

What to do

Hiking and biking trails: The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve offers over 60 miles of forest trails. "There are plenty of secret trails, a dog beach, historic walks, boat ramps, kayak access, and much more," notes a visitor to Fort De Soto Campground.

Water activities: The Hillsborough River provides canoeing and kayaking opportunities. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," mentions a camper at Hillsborough River State Park.

Wildlife viewing: Multiple preserves offer chances to see Florida's native species. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!" reports a camper at Fort De Soto Park.

What campers like

Tree coverage: Many campgrounds provide shade from Florida's intense sun. "Most campsites are very shaded. Bathhouse are clean. Has dumpstations," writes a visitor to Lithia Springs Conservation Park.

Swimming options: Natural springs offer refreshing alternatives to pools. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person," notes another Lithia Springs camper.

Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses rank high on camper priorities. "Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night," reports a Hillsborough River State Park visitor.

What you should know

Reservation challenges: Many parks book quickly, especially in winter months. "Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," advises a visitor to Fort De Soto.

Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense, particularly in warmer months. "The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June. We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them," warns a camper at Hillsborough River State Park.

Flood potential: Sites at Edward Medard Park may experience seasonal high water. "The park has been closed this year due to a sinkhole but due to reopen soon," reported one visitor.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several parks feature play equipment for children. "There's a cool BMX and rc car track too!" mentions a visitor to Lake Park.

Rental options: Some parks offer equipment rentals. "You can rent Surrey's and golf carts to cruise the park which is a nice plus, although they are overpriced," notes a Hillsborough River State Park camper.

Youth group sites: Some parks cater specifically to organized youth camping. "Camping is only available to youth groups by reservation only. Minimum of 6 and maximum of 30 campers allowed. Groups must have their own insurance," according to Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve information.

Tips from RVers

Full hookup options: For those wanting amenities, private resorts offer comprehensive services. "Paved roads and pads, concrete patio, FHU 50A throughout. Sites are close together but have nice grass in the park," writes a camper at Lazydays RV Resort.

Site dimensions: Some parks have space limitations for larger rigs. "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites," reports a Hillsborough River State Park visitor.

Security considerations: Gated access provides peace of mind at some camping sites near Temple Terrace, Florida. "Nice free area with a gate that is locked to keep those without reservations out. Pretty far from the main road so you don't hear a lot of traffic," notes a camper at the Oak Ridge Equestrian Area within Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Temple Terrace, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Temple Terrace, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 287 campgrounds and RV parks near Temple Terrace, FL and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Temple Terrace, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Temple Terrace, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Temple Terrace, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Temple Terrace, FL.