Serenova Tract Campsites provides primitive camping with fire rings and picnic tables 40 miles from Dunedin. Sites accommodate both tent and RV camping without hookups. The entrance features a locked gate with access codes given upon reservation. The campground is divided between regular camping and equestrian areas, with the primitive side providing more privacy between sites. A vault toilet serves the area, though campers must bring their own water supplies. Neighboring stores and gas stations make resupplying convenient during longer stays.
What to do
Mountain biking at extensive trails: Alafia River State Park Campground offers some of Florida's best mountain biking trails. "The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here," notes Jennifer T. The park attracts dedicated bikers who appreciate the varied terrain.
Paddling calm waters: Multiple waterways near Dunedin provide kayaking and canoeing opportunities. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, campers can "paddle waters amongst wading birds, turtles, alligators, lilies and cypress swamps," according to local reviews. The park combines water access with extensive trail systems.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk offer prime wildlife spotting times at several preserves. "We saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," reports Barbara A. about her stay at Colt Creek State Park. Trail cameras and binoculars enhance wildlife spotting chances.
Stargazing at remote sites: Campgrounds farther from urban areas provide darker skies. "Little light pollution. Sites are very spacious," mentions AJ G. about Starkey Wilderness Preserve. The best viewing occurs after 10 pm when campground activity quiets down.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the well-spaced sites at Serenova Tract Campsites. "Very private, great views and the neighboring campers were very respectful!" writes Brett D. The campground layout maximizes natural barriers between campsites.
Clean bathroom facilities: Park maintenance receives consistent praise. "Campsite #9 has so far been my most favorite spot here. It's VERY spacious (could easily fit 5 large tents here) and the back of the site has a trail that leads directly to The McNeil Homestead," shares Shaun C. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Abundant wildlife encounters: The natural environment supports diverse wildlife sightings. "Starkey's Campground has everything you could want or need. Friendly staff, plenty of critters, and beautiful trails to walk," according to another review from Shaun C.
Level camping surfaces: RV campers particularly note the well-maintained sites. "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water at each site for RV camping," describes SanDal B. about Colt Creek State Park Campground.
What you should know
Insect preparation critical: Florida humidity supports active mosquito populations, especially near water. "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. Bring strong repellent and consider screened shelters.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance booking. "You must reserve a site with Southwest Florida Water Management by website. It is sometimes closed to hunting," explains Tim L. about Starkey Wilderness Preserve — Serenova Tract.
Water management: Many sites lack potable water sources. "You will need to bring your own water or a filter system, since thanks to COVID the park stopped putting water along the paved trail," shares Rich S. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park. Plan for 1 gallon per person per day minimum.
Variable shade coverage: Sun exposure differs significantly between sites. "If you want to hang anything from the trees you'll have plenty of options," notes Elliott B. about Washburn Primitive Campground, while other areas offer minimal tree coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible outdoor education: Several parks offer nature centers with programs. "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin," shares Melanie B.
Safe hiking options: Family-friendly trails vary in difficulty and length. "We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer. The park has separate primitive tent, car-camping (tent) and cabin campgrounds near the entrance," notes Steve S. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Convenient amenities: Some campgrounds provide unexpected comforts. "Campsite #9 is the only one that has a turning grill on the fire pit, so you won't have to bring any cooking gear," advises Shaun C., highlighting a family-friendly feature.
ADA accessible options: Little Manatee River State Park Campground features wheelchair-friendly facilities. "Colt Creek State Park is one of the newer parks in the Florida State Park System. We had the opportunity to camp at one of the handicap accessible sites recently and found it to be very convenient. Path and pad on site were roomy and fire pit was higher than usual for safety," shares reviewer Jeanene A.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Some horse campgrounds near Dunedin have challenging approach roads. "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," cautions Dan M. about Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve.
Power availability: Most equestrian camping areas lack hookups. "Clean, well kept," notes Donna H. about Alafia River State Park, mentioning the facilities without electrical connections at the horse camping areas.
Site spacing considerations: RV parking dimensions vary between parks. "The sites were spacious and many trees to hammock from, but the best part was the field directly in back of the site that is easily accessible," describes Shaun C., indicating ample room for vehicles and equipment.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste management. "Clean dump station," notes Patti D. about Little Manatee River State Park, one of the few equestrian-friendly areas with proper waste facilities.
Legend
