Primitive camping near Dover, Florida provides access to both inland and coastal environments within central Florida's subtropical climate zone. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters where overnight temperatures rarely drop below 40°F. Dispersed camping options range from freshwater preserves to barrier islands, with most requiring campers to be self-sufficient.
What to do
Explore historical landmarks: The 1887 lighthouse on the southern end of Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground offers occasional tours when coordinated with the onsite ranger. "Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE," suggests one visitor.
Wildlife observation: The barrier islands serve as important habitat for numerous bird species. "There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40," notes a camper about Anclote Key Preserve.
Paddling: Shell Key Preserve offers accessible paddling routes for beginners. "Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there. One of the easiest island paddles out there - just a little over a mile," explains one kayaker.
Shell collecting: The namesake Shell Key offers abundant opportunities for collecting. "This little island is fun if you're a boater wanting to hang out in the water or look for shells," reports a visitor, adding that you can "see the entire island no matter where you are standing."
What campers like
Solitude after sunset: While some islands are busy during daylight hours, evenings bring tranquility. "This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island," writes one camper about their experience. Another visitor to Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground adds, "Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach."
Affordability: Many camping areas maintain low or no fees. A Shell Key visitor notes, "The greatest thing about camping here is that it's super cheap, secluded, and so beautiful. Sunsets are to die for. Tons of edible flora, and fishing of course."
Water clarity: The Gulf of Mexico offers exceptional visibility in calm conditions. "We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island... Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water," reports one visitor.
Ease of access: Despite requiring watercraft, some sites are reasonably accessible. "Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves," mentions a camper at Anclote Key.
What you should know
Transportation requirements: Island camping requires watercraft access. "There is only 1 way to get to Anclote Key and that is by boat. Whether you take the few hours and kayak the 3 miles over from Tarpon or motor in from one of the many docks in the area that is the only way you can get here," explains a visitor.
Weather considerations: Conditions can change rapidly, affecting travel safety. "Depending on the weather and the tides/current, they may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak)," warns a camper about Shell Key Preserve.
Leave no trace requirements: All preserves enforce strict pack-in, pack-out policies. "EVERYTHING- and they mean everything you bring on the island must be taken off with you! There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash," emphasizes an Anclote Key camper.
Busy daytime periods: While nights offer solitude, daytime may bring crowds. "It is pretty popular so if you aren't into crowds or making new friends, you may want to stay at home or around your boat floating with family & friends or reading a good book," suggests a Shell Key visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Ground preparation: Island terrain can be challenging for tent setup. "There are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect your tent," advises a camper at Shell Key Preserve.
Food storage: Wildlife can become problematic without proper precautions. One experienced camper recommends: "Make sure all food is secured (we anchored our boat with provisions on board a bit off shore and swam in to no risk raccoons getting into gear as it was a calm night with clear weather)."
Site selection: Finding suitable camping spaces requires scouting. "You can find some sandy spots tucked into the vegetation every so often along the beach, but you won't fit a large tent in these areas," notes a Shell Key visitor.
Seasonal planning: Visiting during non-summer months improves comfort. "No skeeters in October," reports one Anclote camper, contrasting with summer conditions when "mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers options for larger vehicles. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved," reports one visitor.
Limited facilities: RV campers should prepare for minimal amenities. "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," notes a summer camper.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite primitive conditions, the solitude appeals to many RVers. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free," reports a visitor to Upper Hillsborough.
Local amenities: While campgrounds lack services, some nearby towns offer conveniences. "Golden Coral buffet in town," notes one RV camper about facilities accessible from Upper Hillsborough.
