Most RV sites near Gibsonton, Florida sit in a flat coastal landscape with an average elevation of less than 10 feet above sea level. The subtropical climate brings humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through September, while winter months remain mild with daytime temperatures typically in the 70s. Several parks in the area allow RVers to fish directly from waterfront sites that access Tampa Bay tributaries.
What to do
Little Manatee River access: Several campgrounds near Gibsonton provide direct access to this waterway for kayaking or fishing. At Hidden River RV Resort, the riverfront area offers premium sites for water enthusiasts. "We stayed Dec '21 to March '22. This campground has 2 new camping areas with concrete pads and fire rings... the best area, in my opinion, is the lower area by the river and pool," explains one visitor.
Visit Anna Maria Island: Multiple campgrounds serve as convenient bases for beach trips to this nearby barrier island. From Winter Quarters Manatee, campers can reach the beaches within 15-20 minutes. As one camper notes, "I am really grateful for the location. Not too terrible a distance from Anna Marie Island, or Tampa! There is so much to do locally."
Pool activities: Swimming pools remain operational year-round at most Gibsonton-area RV parks. "The facilities were clean and we have a view of the pond with ducks," mentions a visitor to Encore Terra Ceia. Another camper adds, "This place is 20 minutes away from several beaches and the TB Rays stadium, the Trop."
What campers like
Security features: Several parks employ dedicated security personnel, particularly valuable for solo travelers or families. "The office manager along with the maintenance manager has been nothing but fantastic since day one. After spending a few months here it seems to be a safe friendly environment," explains a camper at River Vista RV Park, which offers concrete slabs and full hookups.
Community atmosphere: Long-term residents create a welcoming environment at some parks. "We have lived over 3 months here and always enjoyed it. The people are friendly including the staff. The pool and jacuzzi are nice and if you like to fish, there are nice bass in the ponds," notes a visitor to Winter Quarters Pasco.
Convenient shopping access: Gibsonton-area RV parks typically offer proximity to major retailers. "Very convenient location and close to Walmart and Costco. We will definitely be back!" reports a visitor to Winter Quarters Manatee. Another camper adds, "Walmart and food a stone throw away. Beaches about 15 minutes away."
What you should know
Site size variations: Some newer parks offer larger sites while older facilities may present challenges for big rigs. At Tampa South RV Resort, "Staff was super nice and very helpful but they have way too many campers stuffed in here. We looked like Austin Powers trying to get into our pull through site... Had to have neighbors to left and right and across the street move cars and patio furniture just so we could squeeze by."
Water quality concerns: Several campers mention bringing bottled water to certain parks. "Pricey for such an older park, small sites, narrow in park road, small pool and right NEXT to I75.....noisy all the time. Alot of tiny homes with elderly full-timers. Walmart and food a stone throw away. Beaches about 15 minutes away. Don't drink the water here," warns one camper about Winter Quarters Manatee.
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality varies significantly between parks. "We did not have any luck getting wifi, but we have a Verizon Hotspot, and only one bar," reports a visitor to Pleasant Lake RV Resort. At Lazydays, however, reliable connectivity supports remote workers and travelers needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Pool selection: Choose parks with heated pools for winter visits when Gulf waters may be too cool for swimming. "Winter Quarters Manatee is a beautiful resort with a lot of activities and amenities (which include 2 heated pools and a spa)," notes one visitor.
Bug protection: Waterfront sites often require extra insect preparation. At Encore Vacation Village, "This is a mosquito heaven!!! Being bug spray or candles! You will see a large amount of bugs in your area…. They used to spray. But now they don't… with a pond down the street there is No end in site for air borne bug issues."
Security considerations: Some parks lack gated access, which concerns parents. "First impression, the front desk worker was very informative and quite kind. However, there is no security gate. As a momma with young kiddos, that does make me nervous," explains a Winter Quarters Manatee visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Request sites away from highways to minimize traffic noise. "Wonderful facilities and friendly staff. nearby RV dealership is largest in America with huge service department and camping/RV store," reports a Lazydays camper, though others note highway noise can be significant.
Arrival planning: Avoid midday arrivals during winter months when check-in lines can be lengthy. "This is my first time camping in my RV anywhere. I should have suspected that an RV resort in FL in the winter would be full of retirees, but I didn't expect the number of mobile homes permanently here," explains one Winter Quarters Manatee visitor.
Hookup positioning: Some parks have unusual utility layouts requiring extended hoses or cables. "The electrical (30 amp and 50 amp) was farther back than the water, which wasn't a huge deal but might be inconvenient for some," notes a Winter Quarters Manatee camper.
