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.
