Primitive camping opportunities exist within a 20-mile radius of Dade City, Florida, providing access to the region's diverse wetland and upland ecosystems. Tent campsites near Dade City range from established campgrounds with amenities to remote backcountry sites accessible via hiking trails. Several locations offer camping year-round, though summer conditions include high temperatures and increased insect activity.
What to do
Hiking trail exploration: The Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest offers extensive hiking opportunities with three stacked loops designated as A, B, and C. "We love backpacking and to get to this site you will hike some beautiful trails!" notes a camper at Croom B Loop Primitive Site. The trailhead is located on Croom Road adjacent to Tucker Hill fire tower.
River paddling: Access points along the Withlacoochee River system allow for kayaking and canoeing adventures. At Crooked River Campground, campers appreciate the river proximity: "It's right along the river with a launch area. We enjoyed a group paddle down the river for a few hours. We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back."
Wildlife observation: The preserves surrounding Dade City host diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Tons of wildlife" mentions a camper about Hillsborough River State Park. During evening hours, natural soundscapes become prominent, as one visitor to Foster Bridge notes, "The insects and frogs put on an amazing chorus after a rain."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Many campsites offer natural privacy barriers. A visitor to Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract reports, "We camped overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area. Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails."
Seasonal experiences: Winter camping provides more comfortable temperatures and fewer insects. A visitor to Hillsborough River State Park commented, "Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking. Good Verizon signal to allow for plenty of streaming."
Multiple water access points: Many tent campsites near Dade City offer proximity to water features. At Foster Bridge Primitive Site Green Swamp West, a camper notes, "5 minute walk from river if you need drinking water. Make sure to filter and watch for gators."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most primitive sites require advance reservations, even when free. For Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, "Reservations can be made for camping up to 90 days in advance either online or at the park." At Upper Hillsborough Preserve, campers receive specific access information: "When you receive permit you will also receive a code to get through locked gate."
Camping infrastructure: Facilities vary significantly between sites. At Crooked River Campground, "Each campground has its primitive camp charm all come with a picnic table, parking spot, a wooden pole you can hang your garbage, and a water spout near by."
Seasonal considerations: Summer camping presents distinct challenges. At Hillsborough River State Park, one camper warns, "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." Conversely, another camper highlights winter benefits: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: Choose sites with sufficient space for children to explore safely. A family camping at Crooked River noted, "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids (7-8y/o) spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore."
Water activities: Natural water features provide entertainment for children. The same family continued, "The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs, they all agree that this was their favorite part."
Playground access: Some developed campgrounds include recreational facilities. At Pasco County - Crews Lake Wilderness Park, families appreciate "well maintained trail" with "several short trails that lead off into the woods," making it suitable for family exploration.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Dade City have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Hillsborough River State Park, an RVer observed, "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites."
Self-contained options: RVers planning to use primitive sites should prepare for minimal amenities. One visitor noted, "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station."
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites present challenges for non-specialized vehicles. At Crooked River, a visitor mentions, "There is an old but packed dirt road to the sites." Some locations require advanced planning for vehicle access, especially after rain events.
