Lorilee S.
Legend
LegendLake Louisa State Park Campground
Pretty campground
Very pretty and clean campground. Bathhouse was clean as well. Loved riding our bikes and walking the trails.
Camping near Mulberry, FL
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Camping options near Mulberry, Florida range from established state parks to privately-owned RV resorts within a short drive of the city. Hillsborough River State Park Campground and Alafia River State Park, both approximately 15-20 miles from Mulberry, offer a mix of tent, RV, and cabin camping in natural Florida settings. Several waterfront camping areas can be found along the Alafia River and nearby reservoirs, with Edward Medard Park providing drive-in access for both tents and RVs. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins in Auburndale offers more developed camping with full hookup options and resort amenities about 10 miles northwest of Mulberry.
Most campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though Florida's hot, humid summers and potential for afternoon thunderstorms make fall through spring the most comfortable camping seasons. Reservations are typically required at state parks and private resorts, especially during winter months when seasonal visitors increase demand. One camper noted, "Midweek is best time to visit as weekends fill fast (usually by Thursday night)" at Edward Medard Park. Many campgrounds offer full hookups for RVs, while primitive camping options are limited to specific areas like Alderman's Ford Conservation Park, which features hike-in tent sites along the river. Raccoons are common throughout the region, and campers should secure food properly.
Waterfront campsites consistently receive positive reviews from visitors to the Mulberry area. The combination of water access, wildlife viewing, and shaded sites makes Edward Medard Park a popular destination. A recent review described it as "a beautiful well kept facility near suburbia" that offers "kayaking and fishing on the lake." At Wilderness Shores Ranch, campers appreciate the natural setting with water views from most sites. Several visitors mentioned the clean bathroom facilities at established campgrounds like Edward Medard Park. For tent campers seeking a more primitive experience, Alderman's Ford Conservation Park provides a more secluded option with hammock posts at several sites, though some reviewers mention road noise can occasionally detract from the nature experience.
Best Campgrounds near Mulberry (320)
1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground
"Then exit 7 to Highway 301 north about 10 miles to the campground. The way in which the state park and campground are set up is easy too."
"This was my first time at a campground in Florida! I was surrounded by beautiful wildlife (alligators, birds, and even a wild boar). The hiking trails were perfect for a beginner or a regular hiker."
from $24 / night
Check Availability2. Alafia River State Park Campground
"Widely known in Florida for the mountain bike trails. Not much else to do in the area, but very nice space to chill out. The night sky is far enough away that you can really take in the stars."
"For Florida this is a great campsite especially for me because it's so close overall a great place for any activity"
from $22 / night
Check Availability3. Edward Medard Park
"Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours. Camp sites are bit close to one another but overall amazing experience."
"Very pretty and wooded for Florida. Great to bike around and see everything. Neat to see gators. Will definitely go back."
from $24 / night
Check Availability4. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale
"What it lacks in shade it makes up for with 2 nice pools, one geared toward kids with a fountain and very fun twisty slide, music, TV’s etc & the other is on the lake by a tow-ski place that’s fun"
"Very close to a long biking trail & there’s a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff."
from $67 - $302 / night
Check Availability5. Lithia Springs Conservation Park
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
from $24 / night
Check Availability6. Sun n Fun Campground
"Located just south of Lakeland this park offers multiple amenities for group gatherings including a large firepit and stage area."
"Large dispersed camping area with good views of the airshow, included access to the ground display area, and great facilities considering how large the event is."
7. Lithia Springs
"Lithia Springs Conservation Park is a hidden gem for camping in Florida. The campground is clean, well-maintained, and tucked away in a peaceful natural setting."
"Canoe and Kyak launch is easily accessible to enjoy the calm waters of the Alafia River. Restrooms and showers were clean and plentiful around the grounds. We will definitely be back."
8. Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground
"Super clean campsites and great easy trail out to the site. Very safe area. The rangers made sure there was plenty of fire wood in the wooden hut."
"This location is utterly beautiful! So many different environments can be seen just walking the trials."
9. Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground
"If you’re looking for an authentic “Old Florida” experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this campground is truly something special."
"Hike along the water on trails, off road biking, and up close viewing of the beautiful ranch animals ( steer and goats )."
from $40 - $75 / night
Check Availability10. Colt Creek State Park Campground
"Okay, so I didn’t do a ton of research, but I have driven around here before so I decided to get one of the primitive sites and do a little gear testing. 5+ per person/night -Bundles of firewood available"
"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."
from $24 / night
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Drive Time
- 19 min from Lakeland, FL
- 35 min from Tampa, FL
- 1 hr 1 min from Sebring, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Mulberry, FL
318 Photos of 320 Mulberry Campgrounds
Joe
Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground
Amanda .
Edward Medard Park
Jorge A. M.
No longer in business
Nestor A.
Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground
Bryan
Alafia River State Park Campground
Randal B.
Lithia Springs
Lawrence W.
Lakeside Getaway
The Longs ..
Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract
Paul M.
Hardee Lakes Park
Rachel G.
Hillsborough River State Park Campground
Jeanene A.
Upper Hillsborough Tract
Nate D.
Oak Ridge Primitive Campground
Recent Reviews near Mulberry, FL
1432 Reviews of 320 Mulberry Campgrounds
Stuart K.LegendShell Key Preserve
A Deserted Island Escape Worth the Effort
Arriving at Shell Key feels like stepping off the grid, and that sense of removal is exactly what makes it so special. Accessible only by kayak, paddleboard, boat or ferry from nearby Fort DeSoto State Park, this barrier island preserve greets you with white powder sugary sand, shallow turquoise water and a quiet, calm stillness that is best described as reverent. I camped here with my older brother Matt, who fled-20 degree Chicago winter weather with his expert camera gear in tow in order to spend a week here with me. From the moment we beached our kayaks, it was clear this was going to be something special.
Shell Key is as primitive as coastal camping gets, with no facilities, no freshwater and absolutely no developed campsites, just open stretches of sand where you carefully choose a high, wind-protected spot above the tide line. Camping is limited and regulated to protect the preserve and the experience is intentionally minimalist, which keeps crowds at bay and the island feeling truly wild. You pack in everything, pack out everything and rely on common sense, weather awareness as well as respect for nesting zones for turtles and waterfowl clearly marked along the beach.
What makes Shell Key extraordinary is its birdlife. Matt spent hours crouched low with his telescopic lens while I played spotter and together we photographed an incredible range of species, including brown pelicans, great blue herons, snowy egrets, roseate spoonbills, reddish egrets, ospreys, black skimmers, willets, least terns, royal terns, but the prize? Black-masked parrots that call this isle home. Dolphins cruised just offshore while rays ghosted through the shallows and every turn of the shoreline revealed another pocket of life, including the oversized snow white pelicans that seem to guard this oasis. The paddle over from Fort DeSoto was not what I would call calm, with a series of rollicking waves between the stretch where North Beach ended and Shell Key began, although the entire journey was scenic, with views back toward the Skyway Bridge and plenty of chances to stop, float, and soak it all in.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) Plan your paddle with tides and wind in mind, as the crossing is straightforward in calm conditions but can feel much longer with chop – and don’t forget that you’ll have to cross some designated shipping lanes, where the currents are strong; (2) Bring a lightweight kayak cart or be prepared for soft sand landings when fully loaded; (3) Set camp well above the high tide line and away from posted bird nesting areas; (4) Dawn and dusk are prime times for bird photography when the light is nothing short of spectacular; (5) As a survivalist, everywhere I camp, I prepare to fish or hunt for my meal, so here, you’ll have decent fishing, but the gem on Shell Key is the abundance of crabs, both large and small - so bring a spear or fishnet if you hope to catch any; and (6) There are ABSOLUTELY no amenities on Shell Key (not even a trash can), so stock up at Fort DeSoto before launching, including water, sun protection, and extra batteries for cameras and headlamps.
Happy Camping!
Dajah B.
TravelerFind Out Farms
Beautiful and peaceful
It's very peaceful. Chickens roam free and we were able to see cows and get farm fresh eggs. 50 AMP and water connections, I saw reviews about the road being bumpy but we didn't have that experience. Everything was smooth. 10/10.
Celeste A.TravelerLake Manatee State Park Campground
Campground Stay
The bathrooms are rather hot at any time of the day, but they are clean. One of the showers doesn’t work but there is no sign posted. 30 sites for 1 bathroom/ bathhouse so showering at night may take longer than usual. The campground isn’t too shady, but the Day Use Rec Area is nice and has a small play ground. However, if you’re looking to cool off in the lake, think again. It’s very warm water and there is a caution sign about green blue algae being possibly present in the waters. Lots of squirrels and ants
- LLaura H.
GuideFort De Soto Campground
Crowded but worth it
Day 1 we had electrical issues. Thanks to park rangers we were relocated and our vacation resumed. Great beach!
- Dylan M.
ScoutCamp Nebraska RV Park
Camp Nebraska Tampa FL 33612
The park itself is very nice not much amenities besides bathroom and shower building and the nearby area is not that good , its relatively safe but its just a lot of homeless nearby an its just not a nice area at all to walk around during the day or night its a shame. But the park itself keeps you very protected from that ive never had a issue for over 7 months being here
- Bill L.Traveler
MacDill AFB FamCamp
Reputation as the #1 FamCamp in the MWR system
Active duty, retirees, disabled vets and some others are eligible. PX and commissary near the security gate. Campground check-in quick and efficient. Pick your site from what's available. $26/night with full hook-ups. Right on the Gulf, beautiful beach. Beach bar cafe adjacent to campground.
- AAntwan Á.Traveler
Fort De Soto Campground
Beach Vibes
Great sites, clean bathrooms and showers. Easy access to the beach.
Stayed next to the playground and it was a great time for the kids.
- RRhonda B.Traveler
Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground
Old Florida meets Animal Safari
If you’re looking for an authentic “Old Florida” experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this campground is truly something special. My husband and I brought our two grandchildren and daughter-in-law here for a family camping trip, and it exceeded every expectation we had.
The property is absolutely stunning — over 500 acres of peaceful scenery filled with lakes, wildlife, and beautiful open spaces. We spent time exploring on a four-wheeler and were amazed by everything we saw, from alligators and countless birds to longhorn steers, goats, and ducks roaming the grounds. It felt like stepping into a hidden slice of natural Florida paradise.
One of our favorite areas was the shaded grove of majestic oak trees with oversized swings where the children played and “hung out”. It created such a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere that made the entire trip feel magical.
The campground itself was extremely well maintained. The restrooms and showers were plentiful, spotless, and clearly cared for with attention to detail. It’s also exciting to see how much love and vision is being poured into the property. During our stay, they appeared to be expanding with what looks like a beautiful waterfront wedding venue complete with a gazebo and bridge — absolutely picturesque.
This was one of the most memorable family trips we’ve had in a long time. The combination of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, wildlife, and thoughtful amenities made for an unforgettable experience. We are already looking forward to returning.
Guide to Mulberry
Mulberry, Florida offers camping options within a modest elevation range of 100-130 feet above sea level. The area features a subtropical climate with marked wet and dry seasons that influence camping conditions. Sites near Mulberry typically remain cool from November through April with temperatures in the 60-70°F range, making winter and spring the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Explore class II rapids: The rapids at Hillsborough River State Park Campground are the only class II rapids in Florida. "Pretty wild," notes one camper, while another mentions the "great river canoeing." Hiking trails through preserved Florida ecosystems offer additional exploration options.
Mountain biking opportunities: Alafia River State Park Campground provides extensive mountain biking trails with varying difficulty levels. One visitor explains, "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." The park maintains trails specifically designed for technical mountain biking.
Observe wildlife: Wildlife viewing is excellent at several campgrounds near Mulberry. One camper at Alafia River State Park noted "Saw a few deer," while another visitor to Hillsborough River mentioned, "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy." Early morning and evening offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Natural swimming areas: Lithia Springs Conservation Park features spring-fed swimming areas that maintain a consistent 72°F year-round. One visitor observed, "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded." Another notes the "spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!"
Hammock camping: For those who prefer sleeping suspended, Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground provides dedicated hammock accommodations. One camper reports, "Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit," while another noted, "campsite 1, 3 and 4 have hammock poles able to fit 3 hammocks at a time."
Clean bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds near Mulberry maintain good bathroom facilities. At Hillsborough River State Park, a camper noted, "Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus!" Similarly, at Lithia Springs Conservation Park, a visitor mentioned, "The restrooms back here were way nicer and cleaner than the main park bathhouse."
What you should know
First-come, first-served availability: Several campgrounds near Mulberry operate on a first-come basis rather than reservation systems. At Edward Medard Park, one camper explains, "Check in is a breeze. Make sure to have your registration." Another notes that while the park can get busy, it's "a beautiful well kept facility" once you secure a site.
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes can be significant during certain seasons. At Hillsborough River State Park, a visitor warned, "The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June. We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them." Another camper noted, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog."
Wildlife management: Secure food storage is essential at many campgrounds. At Edward Medard Park, one camper advised, "I wouldn't recommend leaving food out because they'll take everything," referring to the raccoon population. Other parks have similar wildlife concerns, particularly during warmer months.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly primitive camping: Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground offers opportunities for families new to camping. One visitor described it as "Great privately owned campsite for those wanting to get away from crowds and overly-popular sites. This campsite also has cattle and goats and the owner allows you to pet the goats (great for little kids)."
Family-oriented water features: Camp Margaritaville RV Resort provides water features specifically designed for children. A camper described it as having "a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults." Another noted, "Kids played for four hours straight and went back for more after dinner!"
Ranger-led activities: Several parks offer educational programming. A visitor to Edward Medard Park mentioned the "plenty of wild life" and opportunities for children to learn about Florida ecosystems, while Hillsborough River State Park offers nature programs during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Cell signal considerations: For those needing to stay connected, some campgrounds offer better service than others. At Hillsborough River State Park, one RVer noted, "Good Verizon signal to allow for plenty of streaming," which is important for those working remotely or needing connectivity.
Boondocking preferences: For RVers who prefer more natural settings, several options exist. One camper at Hillsborough River State Park shared, "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water."
Site size variations: Many campgrounds have a mix of site sizes. At Hillsborough River, a camper observed, "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites," while others noted some loops have more spacious sites. Researching specific site dimensions before arrival is recommended for larger rigs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mulberry, FL?
What camping is available near Mulberry, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mulberry, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 320 campgrounds and RV parks near Mulberry, FL and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mulberry, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Mulberry, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mulberry, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 64 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mulberry, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mulberry, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Mulberry, FL.
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