Best Tent Camping near Elkton, FL
Looking for tent camping near Elkton? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Elkton, including sites, reviews, and tips. Search nearby tent campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Tent Sites Near Elkton, FL (21)
1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground
Thonotosassa, Florida63 Reviews•275 Photos•340 SavesJust minutes from downtown Tampa, this Hillsborough River State Park Camping offers a refuge from city life with its seven miles of nature trails and ample places to cool off in the water.
Except for occasional reenactments, the cannon and guns are now silent at Fort Foster. No longer do Seminole Indians have to fight to keep a foothold in Florida, and soldiers no longer guard a strategic river crossing. The reconstructed fort and its surroundings are now part of Hillsborough River State Park.
Besides a living history lesson, visitors can kayak or canoe class II river rapids, rare in Florida, hike seven miles of nature trails and swim in an ADA accessible swimming pool.
Tucked away, only a short distance from the bustling city of Tampa, camping is a popular activity at Hillsborough River State Park.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$24 / night
2. Lithia Springs Conservation Park
Durant, Florida12 Reviews•51 Photos•189 SavesWell-known for its natural spring which flows year-round, cool, clean water into the Alafia River, the Lithia Springs Park was originally purchased by Gardinier, Inc., a mining company that soon became Mosaic Phosphate, Inc. When the company leased the park to Hillsborough County as a recreational area in 1957, the 160-acre site slowly became a popular camping spot.
After setting up camp, hikers can explore the woodsy trails and its diverse plant communities, river cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks. But it is the natural spring that serves as the park’s major attraction, which---courtesy of the water’s 72 degree temperature---provides an excellent swimming experience all year long. In addition to swimming, visitors can fish and play volleyball. There is also a bath house for the parents to rest and chat, while their kids can play at the park’s playground.
The park’s 44 camping sites---which is also suitable for RVs---include water/shower and electrical services. The campers also have access to picnic shelters and tables, restrooms, and barbecue grills. There are no reservations for these sites; everything is done on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Park rules to know:
-Picnic shelters are not rented for the months April - September. -All shelters, tables and grills and parking spaces are first come first serve -Due to the high demand of the swimming area and current conditions maximum capacity is -No rain checks / refunds
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
$24 / night
4. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
New Port Richey, Florida12 Reviews•57 Photos•94 SavesSeparate primitive camping areas available for individual and equestrian camping. Backcountry camping available. Campsites for cars and primitive cabins available. Groups can reserve tent site or cabins up to 90 days in advance. Reservation and fee are required and can be made up to 30 days in advance.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
5. Island Retreat Florida
Gibsonton, Florida1 Review•44 Photos•97 SavesEver wonder what it would be like to stay on a deserted island? This is truly an adventure you will never forget. Once you land in paradise you will wander thru the looping trail system to find your campsite. There are (4) campsite with elevated tent platforms tucked back in the trees. Now that you are settled in, time to gather wood and build a fire in one of the (2) 8 foot wide, 2 ton concrete fire pits.
Awake a dawn with a nice kayak/canoe trip on a secluded water trail thru mangrove islands and stop for lunch at River's Edge Bar & Grill across the river from the island. Having too much fun, take a nap in hammock and rock to breeze and sounds of river.
This is an island is accessible via water only so there is some preparation to get here and stay here. Kayaks, Canoes and a shuttle are available if you don't have your own transportation. Please contact prior to booking to ensure you understand the packages, for example, if you want to rent the whole island for yourself and need transportation for your group. We offer tailored quote for package based on your needs.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Picnic Table
$50 - $75 / night
6. Teri Tomlinson Campground
Gulfport, Florida3 Reviews•2 Photos•29 SavesThe preserve has recently undergone improvements to enhances visitors' experiences, including the new Terry Tomalin Campground, St. Pete's first public primitive family campground; Hammock Hall, a multipurpose building to provde rental space and programming opportunites; and a trail expansion. The 12-site campground's name honors the late Terry Tomalin, a former Tampa Bay Times outdoors writer who supported the preserve through several service projects. The campground is open to both individuals and groups.
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
$30 / night
7. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
Thonotosassa, Florida2 Reviews•5 Photos•34 Saves- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
8. Cypress Creek Preserve
Lutz, Florida3 Reviews•13 Photos•41 SavesA free camping reservation is required and must be displayed.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
- Trash
9. Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract
Zephyrhills, Florida5 Reviews•29 Photos•82 SavesA free camping reservation is required and must be displayed.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
10. Lake Rogers Park
Odessa, Florida1 Review•5 Photos•35 SavesLocated in northwestern Hillsborough County, Lake Rogers Park is the “newest” of the County’s regional parks when it opened in 2000. Owned by the City of St. Petersburg, this 272-acre park was developed as a joint venture between the City and Hillsborough County.
First time visitors will notice that the park has two public entrances along North Mobley Road, with kiosks and parking lots, while an entrance for staff access and maintenance is along Gunn Highway. Fishermen and kayakers can enjoy the two fresh water lakes that enhance the beauty of the park, including Lake Rogers, which is the one of the largest Lakes in the County and the only one that is completely under public ownership by the City.
After strolling and biking through trails flanked by pine flatwoods and oak hammocks, Campers can take advantage of the park amenities, such as picnic shelters and tables, portable restrooms, and barbecue grills.
- Tents
- Toilets
Recent Tent Reviews in Elkton
803 Reviews of 21 Elkton Campgrounds
David S.
Guide
Oscar Scherer State Park Campground
Nice state park
Nice park. Lots of trails. Convenient location right off of highway 41, but sites are far enough in that it's quiet. Beaches are close. Restaurants are close. Power and water, but no sewer connections at sites. There is a dump station and dumpsters near the entrance of the camping area.
- IIris G.
Scout
Thousand Trails Peace River
Great Peaceful Campground
Very Clean Quiet and Very Helpful and Friendly Staff
- ssean R.
Traveler
Upper Hillsborough Tract
Pass on this if you want a peaceful experience
Excited to spend a few nights in some peace and quiet and was pleasantly surprised how close to Tampa this was. All to be extremely disappointed in the fact site is literally 50 feet from an active train track with trains sounding the horn all night long. Besides the road noise felt like we were next to a freeway. Not peaceful at all. 
- KKen K.Scout
Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
Palmetto Ridge Campground is Great
Great campground for any type of camping. All sites at Palmetto Ridge are full hookup and many sites are pull through. ATT WiFi is fast enough to stream YouTube and YouTube TV via my Apple TV box tethered to my iPhone.
The Longs ..Guide
Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract
Beautiful, Clean, Quiet
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. We'll definitely visit again when we're in Florida.
Laura B.Scout
Fort De Soto Campground
BUGSsssssss
This was the first time we had camped at Fort De Soto and I was so excited because we planned it for my 61st birthday. However, the bugs were so bad. We set up camp with our tent and all our gear, the bugs became so bad we took it all down and went home.I love the fact that my two dogs could come, but the bugs are a no go. It was absolutely miserable. Other than that it’s a beautiful area so maybe we will try again in the winter. I live north of here in Pasco County and frequently bring my dogs down to the dog beach, which is absolutely beautiful. A shame the campground is so infested.
KytkaScout
St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
Natural Spot Hidden in the City
I recently had a wonderful experience at the St. Petersburg/Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, and I’m excited to share my positive review! I’ve hosted friends in their Deluxe Cabins before, and they were thoroughly impressed. The cabins were equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay—fresh linens, a full kitchen, and even a private patio with a grill and fire ring. And they had a great view of the lush mangrove lined Long Bayou.
They loved the blend of cozy and convenient, making their getaway truly enjoyable. At the end of the road driving out of this campground is a great restaurant called Doe Doe's that makes a delicious homestyle breakfast if you don't want to cook it yourself.
Wanting to be close to them I opted for one of the small tent sites at the end of the park where I car camped in my Subaru Outback. It was a peaceful and charming spot, perfect for a relaxing camping experience - and away from more of the centrally located activities that people camping with children enjoy.
Overall, the amenities were top-notch, including the heated outdoor pool, bike and kayak rentals, and clean and large facilities. They have something called KampK9 which is a fenced in dog park area. Less than a mile away is Bay Pines Park which is nice to jog or ride your bike through and there is also a super Walmart nearby so you can stock up for your drive to the next campground. You also have easy access to the Gulf Coast's stunning beaches and the scenic Pinellas Trail.
Driving on the main road, and seeing the somewhat industrial area you pass through on your way down the small side street to this campground, you wouldn't expect much - but this KOA has been there for decades and is one of the nicest family campgrounds in the middle of a city I have experienced.
Joe R.
Legend
Colt Creek State Park Campground
Natural gem
We stayed in site 26, which was tucked back and fairly private. We planned on trail riding, but rain changed the plans. We didn’t get to explore much, but will be back. Nice long drive down to the sites. Electric and water were both great, and dump stations easy. Staff was extra friendly.
- CCat A.Traveler
Lithia Springs Conservation Park
2 Weeks Stay 🤗
The park is fantastic! The park rangers constantly ensured our safety and were very friendly and helpful. They made sure to keep us up to date regarding changes in weather and flooding. Oh, and the pricing to stay per week is amazing! It's a must-visit!
MO R.GuideFort De Soto Campground
Morning SUP
I stay for 5day during the last week of July 2024. It was beautiful, I stayed at site 34 in had water view and access. So I was able to wake up early and walk 10step and I was on my SUP. Plenty of wild life & I was able to do some fishing and got a few spotted sea trout. Staff at the front desk, store and grounds were friendly and attentive. My site had water and electric and walking distance to a clean restroom.
Jennifer H.Legend
Turtle Beach Campground
Can’t beat the price and location
This is an all around winner. On the beach with shells, sunsets, waves and all that the beach has to offer. PLUS nice wide sites - wider than I was expecting. We’ve got a drivers side slide and gave it plenty of room plus the picnic area. Love the foliage dividing sites. Nice laundry, great bathrooms, tons of rinsing and washing opportunities. The cherry on top - the bathroom/showers has an AC!! Everyone hates to get sticky after a shower and the AC took that muggy edge right off in August! Unexpected awesomeness.
- JJoe S.Scout
Cypress Campground & RV Park
Wonderful Campground
The park was clean, convenient and the staff was super friendly. Great amenities and a beautiful pool! Our site was shady, mostly level, gravel with just enough space for our toad(F150). We will definitely be staying here again when passing by.
- TThomas D.Scout
Camper's Holiday
Do not stay!!!!
Horrible management, the president is a joke I will never stay again. The majority of the people that live in the park are nice but there are also a lot of nasty people, just horribly mean and very nosy. Terrible place!! Wish I could put 0 stars
- Rodd S.Scout
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
One night stay
Stayed in spot #8, not as much shade as I had hoped for, would've been better in 10-14. Sites are plenty large and relatively well spaced out. There was a large anthill between the spot and where you park which made packing in and out an adventure (very active colony). Otherwise, the site was level and devoid of rocks & roots. A good night's sleep despite the racoon who pilfered my SunChips during the night.
Joy K.Traveler
Hillsborough River State Park Campground
Absolutely beautiful park
We were down for a funeral so we, unfortunately, didn’t spend any time in the park or campground. The park is absolutely gorgeous and we can’t wait to return in November for a week long stay. The roads in the campground are a little narrow so maneuvering a larger rig might take some time backing into sites but there were plenty of big rigs there so it is doable. The sites have picnic tables and a fire ring. As far as we could tell, all sites are sandy so I’m sure it would be a little messy after a rain with possible flooding. Our site was perfectly level with no side to side adjustments needed. Our loop was very shaded with gorgeous trees. The rangers were amazing and patrolled the campground on a regular basis. There is a huge pool but it was closed for renovations, opening sometime this summer. There is a small cafe with ice cream and you can rent kayaks or canoes to take a trip down a wonderfully, peaceful river. It was so clear that we could see fish swimming around. No swimming is allowed in the river because of gators but experienced paddle boarders would love the easy paddle. Lots of trails to hike as well.
Definitely a great place to stay right outside the Tampa area. Recommend highly.
- Annette S.Guide
Camp Venice Retreat
Nice campground
The location was lovely, and the camp host was wonderfully accommodating. However, considering the $80 nightly fee for waterside parking, I anticipated that the septic would be included. The heated pool was a pleasant amenity. While the bathrooms were clean, they would benefit from a remodel, and it was disappointing to find no handicap-accessible showers available.
- sskylar T.Guide
Avalon RV Resort
Good for a short stay
Sites were small, Service was friendly, Okay amenities- small pool, dog ‘park’ was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities.
- LLyndaScout
Linger Lodge RV Park & Restaurant
We will be back!
We came back to this gem and met with friends from Florida, we had our RVs next to each other and it was so much fun. We had a great time. Big thanks to the Linger Lodge RV Team, you do an excellent job! Everything is so clean and everybody is so friendly! We stayed at Linger Lodge RV Park for the first time and will definitely be back! We enjoyed every minute. The place was very clean, we loved the pool. The management was very accommodating and helpful. It was very nice to chat with him, he helped us find our lot and accommodate our trailer. We came late and he checked on us several times to make sure that we had everything we needed. We stayed on a River Site#37. Just be aware you are next to the River, there will be mosquitos at night. The gym is small but clean and has everything we needed. Staff was Amazing and check out the Restaurant!
- NNick G.Scout
Linger Lodge RV Park & Restaurant
What a treasure!
Wonderful Park, everything is very clean. We had a wonderful time. Did some great Art crafts in the afternoon and the chili, the manager made for the guests, on January 1st by the fire pit was absolutely delicious. The pool and Spa are spectacular. You are close to everything but you still feel like being far away. Everybody is very accommodating. Great Management, great Team! We will be back soon!
David G.Traveler
Peace River Campground
Not a typical campground
If you are a traditional camper stay away. This place is mainly for trucks and ATV’s. There is sugar sand everywhere and my car got stuck. After they helped me get out I left.
Ray & Terri F.Legend
Hickory Point RV Park
Nice, quiet, well maintained, friendly, wooded CG on the water
We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 132 for 3 days in mid April. The CG is very clean, well maintained, but relatively expensive. The CG is a mixture of long-term and transient folks. The roads are paved, but the sites are sandy, shelly gravel. The staff is friendly and very helpful. They have beach chairs near the water and a fire pit that they lit every evening near sunset. In addition to the Bark Park area, there is a nice wooded area where you can walk your dog as well.
AT&T coverage was pretty good, with 3-4 bars of 5G service and speeds up to 11 MB/s. The CG has a lot of trees, but the sites in the front of the park are pretty open. We had no line-of-site to the DISH satellites, but did have an open view north, so Starlink usable, but the CG had WiFi and we were right across from the antenna, so we didn’t use Starlink. The CG WiFi achieved speeds up to 8 MB/s.
- BBecky M.Traveler
Teri Tomlinson Campground
Really Nice Campground
Friendly people running the campground and it’s pretty spacious! It’s in an awesome location, too - we had other plans but made last-minute plans to stay here for a night and they were pretty empty on a Friday night. Nice facilities, but restrictive like another review says - we didn’t have our dog this time around but they don’t allow dogs so it may be hard for us to come back. We didn’t try the trails but everything else we saw was well-kept. We liked it!
- Wendy P.Scout
Oak Springs RV Resort
Pretty Park, Awful Management
Nice park, great residents. We had a park model for two seasons. December 2023, we'd been there about a month, our boxer dog caught parvo in the park. As soon as I realized she was sick, I let the park know. We were immediately kicked out. I had already been quarantining her, but they made me leave. It was Christmas time and my husband was in the hospital, they didn't care. It was so unnecessary and cruel. I wouldn't let my worst enemy stay there.
- Wendy P.Scout
Oak Springs RV Resort
Beautiful old campground
The ground are lovely and people are wonderful but the office management just ruins the experience. One of the ladies is a gossip who pics favorites and is openly mean to those she doesn't like. The atmosphere is oppressive. We were 6/6 residents for two seasons, we had to move somewhere else. I wouldn't advise anyone to purchase or stay for any length of time.
Eleanor the Airstream R.
Ranger
MacDill AFB FamCamp
Utilitarian
No surprise on a military base but felt like a campground equivalent of base housing. Tight spots with full hook ups. Lots of snow birds, so getting in was a challenge. We had to show up without a reservation and take advantage of first come, first serve spots.
Full hook up (electric/water/sewer) and cable. No wifi (so weak it didn't work) and cell coverage almost non-existent (AT&T).
Close to a small beach and marina with a restaurant walking distance. Several dog parks but muddy/dirt. Laundry available for fee. Bath houses clean and large.
Good amenities on base. Gym not too far and massive.
Make sure you arrive at the base through the gate at the end of Dale Mabry, as it's the only gate campers can come thru. And be sure to go to the far right lane, even if it's got a red X showing the lane is closed. They will open the wider lane for you. You don't want to know why I know that or how close our Airstream was to the guard shacks if you don't go in the far lane!
Lauren W.LegendColt Creek State Park Campground
Peaceful
Small spacious park. Restroom clean and showers, laundry $1.50 each. Firewood available to purchase. Lots of walking, biking, and hiking. Beautpark. Great camp hosts and ranger.
Amy P.Traveler
Lake Manatee State Park Campground
Great Weekend Spot
We were lucky to grab a weekend spot thanks to a snowbird cancellation. Park rangers were great. Pine firewood available for $5 a bundle. (Not the greatest campfire fuel, but it works.) not heavily wooded as others have stated, but nicely private between most sites. Bathhouses were always clean in the AM and early PM. Options for basic, sand-based hikes. Great views from the lake and I am sure fishing is wonderful, though we did not try. I will say that the racetrack nearby made the location a bit unsettling, but we were thankful that the drivers were only doing quarter mile runs. Cars ran from 8am to 11pm, it seems.
Overall, we would stay on the outside of loop 2 for less than 4 nights of we came again.
Guide to Elkton
Tent camping near Elkton, Florida offers a variety of beautiful locations where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors. With well-reviewed campgrounds nearby, you'll find plenty of amenities and activities to enhance your camping experience.
Tips for tent camping near Elkton
- For a peaceful retreat, consider staying at Lithia Springs Conservation Park, where you can enjoy secluded sites and friendly park rangers who ensure your safety.
- If you're looking for a campground with clean facilities and ample shade, Hillsborough River State Park Campground is a great choice, featuring level sites and picnic tables.
- Be prepared for a bit of a walk to the bathrooms at Cypress Creek Preserve, but the primitive camping experience and natural beauty make it worthwhile.
Tent campers should check out Hillsborough River State Park Campground
- This campground offers a range of accommodations, including tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars at Hillsborough River State Park Campground.
- Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the clear waters of the river, where you can spot fish swimming around while paddling through the serene landscape at Hillsborough River State Park Campground.
- With numerous hiking trails nearby, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the natural surroundings and enjoy the local wildlife at Hillsborough River State Park Campground.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- Experience the thrill of hiking and biking on the extensive trails at Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve, one of the largest contiguous recreation areas in Hillsborough County.
- For a unique camping experience, check out Island Retreat Florida, where you can enjoy water activities and relax on the island while soaking in the natural beauty.
- Fishing, picnicking, and exploring the scenic landscapes are just a few of the activities available at Lithia Springs Conservation Park, making it a fantastic spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Elkton, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Elkton, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 63 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Elkton, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 21 tent camping locations near Elkton, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.