Primitive camping near Gibsonton, Florida requires proper preparation for summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F with high humidity from June through September. Winter nights drop to the 50s, providing more comfortable camping conditions. Most sites lie at elevations between 5-15 feet above sea level with sandy soil conditions that affect tent staking and site selection.
What to do
Shoreline fishing opportunities: Shell Key Preserve offers abundant fishing along both Gulf and Intercoastal waterway shores. "You can enjoy most water activities as well as what nature has to offer from bird and dolphin watching to fishing and hiking the almost 2 mile long island," notes a camper.
Bird watching excursions: The preserves host numerous bird species with minimal human disturbance. "There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40!" reports a visitor to Anclote Key Preserve State Park.
Shell collecting: Morning low tides provide prime opportunities for collecting unique shells. "This little island is fun if you're a boater wanting to hang out in the water or look for shells," mentions a Shell Key visitor who recommends arriving early before day-visitors.
What campers like
Isolation after day visitors depart: Most boat-access islands transform after 4-5pm. "During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water," notes a kayaker who visited Peace River Banks Backcountry.
Night sky visibility: Limited light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach," writes one camper about the offshore experience.
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently report close encounters with marine wildlife. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," reports an Anclote Key visitor.
What you should know
Mandatory permits: Some locations require advance booking, even for free sites. "Get your permit online. Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there."
Complete waste management: No trash facilities exist at most sites. "You do need to get a free camping permit and this is a leave no trace site which means leave nothing..."
Tide timing: Access to some islands becomes difficult during certain tide conditions. "Depending on the weather and the tides/current, they may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak)."
Self-contained water supplies: No fresh water exists on most islands. "There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies," cautions an Anclote visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers family-friendly water access with gentler currents for swimming. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings."
Educational wildlife opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide best wildlife viewing windows for children. "Tons of edible flora, and fishing of course. Plus, shell key is one of the very few places you are allowed to have a fire on the beach in FL."
Seasonal restrictions: Summer camping includes turtle nesting restrictions. "Campfires not permitted in summer months due to sea turtle nesting."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV dispersed options: Most primitive sites near Gibsonton require boat access, but Upper Hillsborough provides drive-in options. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free."
Self-containment requirements: No hookups or dump stations exist at primitive sites. "There is a porta-potty, but I didn't check it out, so I'm not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though."
Fire ring condition awareness: Fire rings at mainland dispersed sites need attention. "I do wish the fire rings weren't so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace."
