Top Horse Camping near Gulfport, FL
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Best Equestrian Sites Near Gulfport, FL (14)
1.
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
Ruskin, Florida24 Reviews118 Photos266 SavesLMR1
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
$22 / night
2.
Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
Osprey, Florida35 Reviews134 Photos411 SavesThe park features three campgrounds with 90 campsites. Each site is equipped with 50-amp electrical service, water, a fire ring and picnic table. The sites in Palmetto Ridge also have sewer hook-ups. A dump station is located near Old Prairie Campground. Laundry facilities are available to all campers in Old Prairie and Palmetto Ridge campgrounds. All campsites are located within 40 yards of restroom facilities with hot showers.
NOTE: Non-Potable Water
Effective May 11, 2023: Drinking water is temporarily unavailable at Myakka River State Park. Please remember to bring your own water. Bottled water is also available at no cost at the ranger station from 8 a.m. to sunset.
Sites in Old Prairie and Big Flats are dirt-based. The sites in Palmetto Ridge are gravel-based, except for four ADA paved sites adjoining restrooms. Old Prairie and Big Flats do not have vegetation buffers.
The Big Flats Campground is located near the Upper Myakka Lake, Myakka Outpost, a fishing deck and Wi-Fi.
Old Prairie and Palmetto Ridge campgrounds are located near the State Road 72 park entrance, the Myakka River, the campfire circle, a small playground and Myakka Friends Gift Shop. Well-behaved pets are welcome in these three campgrounds, up to four per site.
There are six primitive campgrounds (Mossy Hammock, Bee Island, Honore, Panther Point, Oak Grove and Prairie) located along the hiking trails for backpackers. These rustic settings provide campers with a fire pit and post to hang items. Each campground has three campsites, and a maximum of four people may be on each site. Only Bee Island, Oak Grove and Prairie have water pumps. Water at these sites is not potable; it requires boiling/chemical treatment. Other sites do not have water; you must bring your own. The terrain is primarily prairie, and dehydration is possible even on the coolest days.
Myakka River State Park is one of Florida’s largest parks with 37,000 acres of its own. Home to the officially designated “Wild and Scenic” Myakka River, this state park is the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers who are looking to get closer to the natural, diverse Florida wildlife.
Choose from one of over 80 campsites while Myakka State Park camping and get ready to explore!
Bring your kayak and make your way through a variety of waterways where you can spot american alligators, snook, ospreys, and countless species of birds.
Embark on one of many hiking trails to explore more of the unique environments found within Myakka River State Park. Trek to the highlands to get a look at Florida’s traditional wetlands where marshes, cypress dome trees, and grazing birds will welcome you. Go even deeper to reach the diverse array of grasses, wildflowers, and vines that grow freely in the park’s protected dry prairies. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you! Short shrubs in the dry prairies allow visitors to see for miles in any direction.
You’ll also want to bring the camera atop the Canopy Walkway at Myakka River. Just a short walk from the main road, this suspension bridge provides a panoramic view of the entire park from a unique vantage point above the tree canopy. Every camper can find what they’re looking for at this Florida park.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$26 / night
3.
Alafia River State Park Campground
Lithia, Florida19 Reviews40 Photos194 SavesStanding out from the relatively flat topography of Central Florida is Alafia River State Park, a reclaimed phosphate mine with some of the most radical elevation changes in the state. This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikers, who traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike Association trails.
Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes.
Canoeing and fishing opportunities are available along the South Prong of the Alafia River with some lakes scattered throughout the park.
The park also offers picnic pavilions, a playground, a full-facility campground and a full-service bike shop.
Family campground is suitable for RVers and tent campers. Campers will find water and electrical hookups at each of the 30 campsites. Clean restrooms feature solar-heated showers. There are two large picnic pavilions in the campground.
Equestrian campers have access to 12 sites with equestrian designation and tie-outs for horses. Equestrian campers can access the barn, which is a short walk from the campground. There are 12 stables and 6 paddocks available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Extra parking for trailers can be accessed near the barn area. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes.
For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$22 / night
4.
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
New Port Richey, Florida12 Reviews57 Photos89 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.
Serenova Tract Campsites
Odessa, Florida7 Reviews28 Photos114 SavesEquestrian, group and primitive campsites. Sites have picnic tables, fire rings and/or grills. A free reservation is required and must be displayed on dashboard at campground.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
6.
Starkey Wilderness Preserve — Serenova Tract
New Port Richey, Florida4 Reviews7 Photos31 Saves- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
7.
Hardee Lakes Park
Bowling Green, Florida7 Reviews23 Photos73 SavesHardee Lakes Park is approximately 1200 acres, and has horse trails, hiking trails, handicap-accessible hiking trails, and bike trails. There are 3 restrooms located throughout the park. The restrooms in the camping areas also have showering facilities available. There are also picnic areas, a picnic pavilion, and a playground available. The park includes a boardwalk that winds around the lakes and through the woods, with an observation tower where people can watch wildlife.
The fisheries are controlled by the Florida Game and Fish commission, and fishing is allowed in all the lakes. Hardee Lakes Park contains 4 lakes in total; Lake Hardee is 120 acres, Deer Lake is 110 acres, Lake Firefly is 97 acres, and Gator Lake is 47 acres.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
$25 - $28 / night
8.
Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
Thonotosassa, Florida2 Reviews5 Photos34 Saves- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Picnic Table
9.
Oak Ridge Primitive Campground
Thonotosassa, Florida2 Reviews20 Photos39 SavesEquestrian and primitive camping available. Sites have picnic tables, fire rings and/or grills. A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at campground.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
10.
Washburn Equestrian Area and Primitive Campground
Thonotosassa, Florida1 Review8 Photos28 SavesWashburn Campground is an equestrian and primitive camping available. Sites have picnic tables, fire rings and/or grills. A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at campground.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- RVs
Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds
Recent Equestrian Reviews In Gulfport
118 Reviews of 14 Gulfport Campgrounds
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.
Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
Beautiful "old Florida" park
The campsites are well-shaded and have easy access to walking & biking trails. We've visited Myakka on day trips previously, and just recently camped there for the first time. It's quiet, and there's plenty of wildlife to be seen: Lots of birds, alligators, deer, wild turkeys. Bathrooms with laundry facilities were conveniently located, but we didn't use them. Campsite was clean, level, and easy to back into.
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
Peaceful
Site 2 HC restroom directly next store 50 amp water only Paved Spacious site Partial shade Clean restrooms and showers with HC ones 2 washers and 2 dryers brand new $2.50 EACH Plenty of walking, hiking, and biking Clean cg
Alafia River State Park Campground
Lots of space
Very spacious camp sites with lots of room between sites. Very clean bath house.
Hardee Lakes Park
Peaceful and quiet
We stayed in April of 2023 during the week. I think there might be 10 sites full. Verizon 3 bars
Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
The best campground
We were fortunate enough to get here before the hurricanes destroyed parts of this campground. It is so peaceful and naturally beautiful. Plenty of places to walk and ride bikes to. Our site was shady and a really good size. Bathhouse was always clean. Cannot wait to go back.
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
I wanted to love it but I’m disappointed
I was really excited to stay here. I heard so many great things about this park, but we were incredibly disappointed in our site. The site looks like a bulldozer drove thru here and knocked down all the trees and brush last month and left all the debris around the perimeter to rot. Most other sites do not look like this and I’m including photos of ours and another empty one for contrast. We are here for 4 days during spring break but the site is so ugly we won’t be hanging around camp much. Most of them are beautiful so it’s the luck of the draw, I guess. The check-in was easy and the staff at the gate was super sweet. Camp office has ice and firewood but they close at 5 so plan ahead. Bathhouse is new and really nice. Because I think the rest of the park is so nice I’m still giving 4 stars but make sure to look at site photos and avoid mine, which is 17. The other photos in my review are of site 22 and it’s beautiful.
Edit: I came back to remove a star because I went back in n the website to see if any other sites were available since a ton of spaces around us were empty. I could only see availability for “tomorrow” and I could see that a spot that is available tomorrow and the rest of our time here is also empty today. I called the front gate to ask if we could move because of the condition of our site. The lady was VERY offended and said the debris is from a hurricane 6 months ago. I get it. That’s not the issue. The issue is that had I known the site was this bad, I wouldn’t have booked. That shouldn’t have made her mad. But it sure did. She told me I’d have to go online to make a change to my reservation, which I had already tried to do. After talking it over we decided to leave early so I called back a few minutes before 5. She answered an told me she was helping someone in front of her and she’d come back. She came back after 5 and when I told her I wanted to leave early and the website wouldn’t let me cancel my reservation early she said was closing because it was now after 5 and I’d have to call her tomorrow or I could call the main reservation line. I did. They said only the local camp office can help. We will not be back to this park. We drove from out of state to camp 2 days in basically a trash pile and be told we should be happy about it.
Alafia River State Park Campground
Great State Park for relaxing and mountain biking
Small state park, with really large sites and great facilities. The only thing missing are sewer hookups. 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. We have stayed at most of the state parks in Florida. We liked this one a lot.
Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
Myakka Fun
This is our 2nd time at Myakka River State Park and it doesn't disappoint. We stayed at the PR section with full hookups. Site was spacious and the park even had smiling gators.
Hardee Lakes Park
Scouting our next stay
This was our first time in this park. Absolutely enjoyed it!
Serenova Tract Campsites
Great privacy, peaceful!
Got out late at night on a Friday and pulled into a offshoot. The next day found a very nice campsite spot to set up at. Very private, great views and the neighboring campers were very respectful! Not much in terms of single track for mountain biking, however we had fun exploring the dirt roads in our Forester. Be mindful of going after/during a good rain, it floods pretty easily. Port-a-potty was alittle run down and needed refreshing. Overall, a great little spot to camp!
Hardee Lakes Park
Great campground for relaxing and to rest.
This is a great park. Best campground I have stayed in so far. Very quite and relaxing. Trails around lakes that can be driven to view nature and wildlife.
Serenova Tract Campsites
Hidden Gem
After a simple on-line reservation and finding someone at the Publix, across the road, to show me where the entrance was, I couldn’t believe how nice it was for a free camp spot. I stayed in the primitive side, where there was only 3 sites and I had so much privacy. It was so quiet, I only heard an owl one night, during my 6 night stay. The sites have picnic tables and fire rings. It was perfect!
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
Awesome first camping trip with my son!
3.2 mile hike through mostly open Florida pine forest with the occasional swamp. Perfect time of year to come. Site has great shade and opens up at the fire pit for great star gazing. Only downside is that you are under the flight path for Tampa Intl. so you get the occasional jets above. We had a small spike buck come into our camp at night and he didn’t even flinch at us from 20 yards. Awesome experience for my son. Weather was absolutely perfect. For being generally surrounded by urban areas this place is a win for ease of access. Good cell service with T-Mobile as well. We will definitely be doing this again!
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
Rest and relaxation
Very welcoming staff, clean peaceful campground. Great privacy between sites
Rainbow Village RV Resort - Central Fl
Amazing
We had a quick stop here. It was a great place. Clean, quiet and lots to do. We didn't have much time, but we will visit again.
Serenova Tract Campsites
Wonderful overnight trip
My wife and I decided to take a little overnight camping trip here. The weather was perfect and we had a very relaxing time.
The gate on the drive in stays locked at all times and you get the combination when you make your reservation. Other than a picnic table and fire ring at each site there's not much more so you'll need to bring your own water and pack out your trash.
We will definitely camp here again!
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
Little Manatee River State Park
Nice little park. Campgrounds were lade out well. Showers clean and well kept.
Hardee Lakes Park
Wonderful Place
We stayed here a couple of years ago and loved the piece and quiet! My husband enjoyed riding his fat tire along with our dog. We are hoping to visit again in February!
Alafia River State Park Campground
Camping near the best mountain bike trails in FL
Amazing place to camp if you want to catch a thrill on your bike in FL. You can bring your own bikes but we like to rent the ones there because they are made for that specific terrain (sand,stumps, etc). The biking trails are man crafted meaning HILLS in FL!
All in all a great place for an adventure and camping was quaint. Nothing special, open spaces, clean.
Serenova Tract Campsites
Nice Place
Nice place to spend a couple days. Food shopping right across the street, Publix. Also a couple take out places. Campground itself was clean, quiet, a little road noise, oh well. Otherwise, peaceful. Bring your own water. No electricity. Vault toilet. That wasn't cleaned for a while, it stunk pretty bad. #2, Publix across the street. I'd stay again. 15 minutes from Hudson Beach ⛱. I love the beach. Tarpon Springs, half hour away. Oh yeah, gas is right next door, Racetrack. Everything else 10 minutes away.
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
Quiet Little Campground
This campground is 2 miles from the main road therefore very quiet and peaceful. We saw turtles, rabbit and deer.
Little Manatee River State Park Campground
Our first camping trip together….
We had a great experience. Lots of wildlife around… great neighbors all around..
Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
Florida untouched
We arrived at the gate! After hearing of the wilderness preserve we decided to go ahead and get the permit. You drive about a mile down the road from the main state park entrance to find the wilderness preserve entrance which is code protected. After driving back to the parking area, we realized we had the 600 acres to ourselves. We then hiked to the deep hole. There we saw tons of alligators birds and wildlife! A great piece of raw Florida!
Hardee Lakes Park
Secluded and well maintained
This is reclaimed land from an old phosphate mine.
The mine was closed 20 years ago and the land was reclaimed and turned into a beautified park and campground. The trees have had time to mature. There are four lakes, campsites are located on one of the bigger lakes. Like all parks some site are better than others, none are bad. We had the end site on the lake that was very private. The campground and amenities are extremely well maintained.
Lots of very nice trails around the lakes and surrounding woods. the trial's are wide and hard backed. we were able to ride our electric scoters on them easily. Park is located in a rural area of central Florida. We used is as a halfway stop when traveling form the west coast to the east coast of Florida.
Tip: There are two brothers that sell firewood not to far from the campground.
You can go there your self or they will deliver to you. Camp office can give you their contact info.
Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
Tons of wildlife, forest and prairie sites
This is an eco experience with much diversity in flora and fauna. From gators to wild pigs, they have it all. Be careful as this campground is run by the racoons! Store has cool gear and excellent food. Try the Aligator stew! Also wood available for open fires. Lots of rules but worth the visit.
Starkey Wilderness Preserve — Serenova Tract
Gorgeous Private Spot
I lucked out and stumbled upon this campground late in the afternoon on my way down the west coast.
I did have to reserve a spot online and that provides you with the gate code to access the camping area.
There were a healthy number of sites but all relatively spaced out for privacy.
Also a pit toilet. Just used it for a one night stopover but enjoyed a beautiful sunrise and sunset!
Guide to Gulfport
Camping near Gulfport, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy kayaking and fishing in the nearby waters. At Fort De Soto Campground, one visitor mentioned, "I was able to do some fishing and got a few spotted sea trout." The area is known for its wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the trails at Hillsborough River State Park Campground. A camper shared, "Lots of trails for walking, hiking, and biking," highlighting the park's diverse outdoor options.
- Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and sand at Turtle Beach Campground. One happy camper said, "On the beach with shells, sunsets, waves and all that the beach has to offer."
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Oscar Scherer State Park Campground noted, "The bathrooms were clean and plenty of them throughout the campground."
- Friendly Staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of the staff. At Colt Creek State Park Campground, a camper remarked, "Staff was extra friendly," making the experience more enjoyable.
- Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. A review for Lake Manatee State Park Campground stated, "The sites are large, private, and nicely surrounded by woods."
What you should know
- Bugs in Summer: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at Fort De Soto Campground mentioned, "The bugs were so bad... it was absolutely miserable."
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have extensive amenities. A visitor at Peace River Campground said, "This place is mainly for trucks and ATVs," indicating a more rugged experience.
- Noise Levels: If you're looking for peace and quiet, check the campground's surroundings. A reviewer at Lake Manatee State Park Campground noted, "The racetrack nearby made the location a bit unsettling."
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. Hillsborough River State Park Campground has a pool and trails, making it a great choice for families.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep everyone happy. A camper at St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA mentioned, "The area has a ton of things to do," so you might want to fuel up for all the fun.
- Plan for Outdoor Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks for family fun. A visitor at Myakka River State Park Campground shared, "The campsites are well-shaded and have easy access to walking & biking trails."
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Colt Creek State Park Campground noted, "Spacious and open sites that are very big rig friendly."
- Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground's features. A camper at Lake Manatee State Park Campground mentioned, "It does not have full hookups."
- Be Prepared for Weather: Florida weather can be unpredictable. A visitor at Oscar Scherer State Park Campground advised, "Plan ahead," especially for rain.
Camping around Gulfport, FL, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to check the specific campground details to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Gulfport, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Gulfport, FL is Little Manatee River State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 24 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Gulfport, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 equestrian camping locations near Gulfport, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.