Tent camping options near Plant City, Florida range from standard sites with bathhouses to remote backcountry locations requiring longer hikes. The area sits within Florida's subtropical climate zone, with year-round temperatures conducive to camping except during summer thunderstorm season when flooding can affect riverside sites. Most campgrounds in this region lie at elevations under 150 feet, providing access to the Hillsborough River watershed and several conservation areas.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on the Withlacoochee River: Several campsites provide direct river access for paddling adventures. At Crooked River Campground, "We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back. And have a lunch at the campsite afterwards. Perfect area for this," according to one visitor who enjoyed the river access.
Swimming in natural springs: Cool off in crystal-clear spring water at Lithia Springs Conservation Park, where campers can access the spring for a small fee. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," notes one camper who found relief from Florida's heat.
Biking through forest trails: The extensive trail systems throughout the region's conservation areas provide ample cycling opportunities. At Lake Park, visitors report "miles of trails, paved and non" with "lots of little loops in the woods," making it ideal for day excursions from tent campsites near Plant City.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing times. The Foster Bridge site in Green Swamp West provides immersive nature experiences, with one camper noting, "The insects and frogs put on an amazing chorus after a rain." Watch for alligators near water sources and bring binoculars for bird watching.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Many tent camping locations near Plant City offer secluded spots with natural barriers. At Crooked River Campground, "every site was surrounded by dense undergrowth which really added more privacy." Another camper appreciated that their "kids were able to run around and be noisy and we weren't worried about annoying our neighbors."
Clean facilities: Despite being in remote locations, several campgrounds maintain quality facilities. At Hillsborough River State Park, "the bathrooms are well kept and clean," and campers appreciate that "they offer recycling, which is a great plus!"
River access for cooling off: Florida's heat makes water access a prized amenity. One family camping at Crooked River noted, "The walk to the river from our site was so worth it. We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass."
Proximity to urban conveniences: Unlike more remote camping areas, tent campsites near Plant City provide wilderness experiences without complete isolation. Lithia Springs campers value that it's "centrally located to be able to scout around" and "close to restaurants grocery stores," with one mentioning, "Grocery stores within 2 miles which was great because the wife ran out of wine."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding affects trails: During Florida's rainy season (typically May through October), many campsites experience water issues. At Lake Park, trails can become "sometimes flooded out, but just be prepared during rainy season." Similarly, the Green Swamp West area requires careful planning as "trails can get pretty wet in the rainy season."
Insect preparation is essential: Mosquitoes and ticks are abundant, particularly during warmer months. One camper at Hillsborough River State Park warned, "The mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog." At Foster Bridge Primitive Site, a visitor emphasized that "insect repellent is a must have!" with particular attention to "an abundance of ticks to be found in the brush."
Limited water sources at primitive sites: Many backcountry locations require carrying in all drinking water. At Upper Hillsborough Preserve, campers note only "a port o let on site and sparse picnic tables" with no potable water facilities. Plan accordingly for water needs, especially during warmer months.
Reservation requirements vary: While some sites operate on a first-come basis, others require advance planning. A camper at Upper Hillsborough Preserve explains, "A free reservation is required for either and must be displayed or available - so make sure you take a copy with you."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with water access: Children particularly enjoy swimming opportunities during hot weather. At Lithia Springs Conservation Park, "the spring fed swimming area is clean and well kept," making it ideal for families looking to cool off.
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise disruptions. For those seeking quiet family experiences, avoid sites near busy roads or train tracks. One camper at Upper Hillsborough Tract was "extremely disappointed in the fact site is literally 50 feet from an active train track with trains sounding the horn all night long."
Look for spacious sites: Families need room to spread out. Crooked River Campground offers generous tent sites that one camper described as "huge and secluded!" adding, "It was spacious and did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night."
Bring multiple cooling options: Florida heat requires preparation. Beyond water activities, pack portable fans, cooling towels, and shade structures. A family at Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground noted, "We stayed two night in 40 degree weather. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping!"
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most primitive sites near Plant City don't accommodate larger RVs. Lithia Springs campers with RVs appreciate that "sites are nice and spacious" but note the limited hookups. Upper Hillsborough Preserve's Alston Tract allows RVs but requires self-sufficiency, with one camper noting they "use a quiet run generator and bring in 50 gallons of fresh water for weekend stays."
Road conditions can be challenging: Access roads to primitive sites are often unpaved and poorly maintained. An RVer at Alston Tract warned that "the drive is very rough due to teenagers mudding out there," while others mention seasonal flooding making some roads impassable.
Boondocking preparation: For those bringing RVs to more primitive sites, extensive preparation is necessary. At Hillsborough River State Park, one boondocker mentioned, "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places.. and this is a bit peoply. That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient."
