Equestrian camping near Lithia, Florida provides access to over 20,000 acres of preserved land within a 30-mile radius. The region features predominantly flat terrain with elevation changes of less than 100 feet throughout most trails. Average winter temperatures range from 50-70°F, making December through March the prime camping season when mosquito activity decreases significantly.
What to do
Mountain biking on established trails: At Alafia River State Park Campground, riders can access multiple difficulty levels. "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," notes Jennifer T.
Fishing from riverside locations: Little Manatee River State Park Campground offers accessible fishing spots. "Tampa is not too far away, but the park is kind of removed," explains Mary H. The river provides habitat for bass, bluegill, and catfish throughout the year.
Wildlife observation: Trails throughout these parks support diverse animal sightings. Elizabeth G. recalls her Alafia River experience: "I loved that they had a ton of different trails to choose from, some just hiking or biking, and some mixed ones. Really well kept. Saw a few deer."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hardee Lakes Park offers spacious camping areas. "Camp sites are nice and clean, with beautiful lake views. Stayed at a non-electric site right on the lake," shares Joshua W., noting the quality of separation between camping areas.
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Clean facilities and nice camp sites," reports Douglas H. about his experience at Alafia River State Park Campground.
Trail accessibility: Colt Creek State Park Campground features varied trail options for different abilities. "There is a paved trail as well as wide dirt trails to explore. This is a great place to visit," notes Jeanene A. The trails connect directly to camping areas for convenient access.
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Summer months bring increased mosquito presence. "Sites and facilities are nice and clean. Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents. However, sites are not shaded at all and because of the quarry and stagnant water the mosquitoes were RIDICULOUS! Probably worst mosquitoes in 30 years of camping," warns AJ G. about Alafia River State Park.
Reservation requirements: All equestrian camping requires advance booking. At Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract, "A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at campground." The equestrian sites fill quickly during winter season.
Limited shade at some locations: Several campgrounds feature open sites with minimal tree cover. "While much of the park isn't shaded (in fact there is waayyyyy too much lawn/grass in all the communal areas - would be much better if they planted trees and let forest grow back), most sites do seem to have at least some trees providing partial shade," observes Kathy L. about Hardee Lakes Park.
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty ratings: Families should check trail ratings before venturing out. Colt Creek State Park offers "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water an each site for RV camping. Nicer (newer) bathrooms than most FL state parks," according to SanDal B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning activities for optimal wildlife sightings. Barbara A. reports from Little Manatee River: "This park offers lots of beautiful nature trails, kayaking, biking & bird watching."
Cabin alternatives: Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park provides cabin options for families wanting more shelter. "We stayed at the Palmetto Ridge campground which were gravel and had the full hook ups. The old prairie and big flats were regular ground surface electric/water (no sewer)," notes Travyl Couple.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Most campgrounds have relatively flat sites requiring minimal leveling. "We have stayed in site 1 and 11 and didn't need blocks for either," shares Joe R. about Colt Creek State Park Campground.
Water access: Equestrian sites typically provide non-potable water for horses. At Hardee Lakes Park, primitive sites include water access: "I was excited to discover all these primitive sites with water are right on the lake," explains Mack Daddy Van L.
Dump station locations: RVers should note available sanitary facilities. Patti D. notes about Little Manatee River State Park: "Really enjoyed our stay here, good size lot, #10, with electric, water, picnic table and fire ring. Clean dump station."
