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 Thonotosassa, FL
318 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Camping opportunities around Thonotosassa, Florida span from established campgrounds to primitive sites within a network of conservation areas and state parks. The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve offers primitive camping at Oak Ridge and Washburn campgrounds, while Hillsborough River State Park provides developed sites with full hookups, cabins, and tent camping. Southern Aire RV Resort and Happy Traveler RV Park offer additional options for RVers seeking amenities closer to Tampa, with both locations also featuring cabin accommodations for those without camping equipment.
The subtropical climate makes camping possible year-round, though summer brings intense heat, humidity, and mosquitoes. "We were all alone, and if you camp in the summer you probably will be too as it gets hot, really hot and humid. You need to make sure and bring lots of cold water to drink," noted one camper about the Washburn Primitive Campground. Many campgrounds in the area require reservations, particularly during winter months when seasonal visitors increase demand. The Southwest Florida Water Management District manages several primitive camping areas that require free permits obtained in advance. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting trail conditions and campsite accessibility, especially in low-lying areas near the Hillsborough River and associated conservation lands.
Campers consistently highlight the natural surroundings and wildlife viewing opportunities as standout features. The region's mix of oak hammocks, pine flatwoods, and cypress swamps creates diverse habitats supporting abundant wildlife. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds and other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," shared one visitor about nearby Shell Key Preserve. Developed campgrounds like Hillsborough River State Park receive high ratings for clean facilities and recreational opportunities, while primitive sites appeal to those seeking solitude. The proximity to Tampa (approximately 20 miles) makes these campgrounds convenient for weekend getaways while still offering natural experiences. Equestrian camping is available at several locations, with dedicated trails and facilities for those traveling with horses.
Best Campgrounds near Thonotosassa (318)
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. Lazydays RV Resort
"We were less than an hour away from home at Lazydays RV Resort and it felt like we were on the other side of the planet. Got to spend uninterrupted time with my bride and it was awesome."
"Great location just outside Tampa, Fl. Wonderful facilities and friendly staff. nearby RV dealership is largest in America with huge service department and camping/RV store."
from $61 - $83 / 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. 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 Availability5. 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
Check Availability6. Happy Traveler RV Resort
"Lots of shaded spots, 3 laundry facilities around the park (2 w/bathhouses). Large fenced in swimming pool, clubhouse with pool table, games, movies, kitchen, activities almost daily."
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. Cypress Creek Preserve
"There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse."
"There are pot holes as you drive in that are kinda steep however nothing too serious. The spots are spacious and all other campers were respectful of noise volume and kept spots clean."
9. Fort De Soto Campground
"As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."
"Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."
from $38 - $48 / night
Check Availability10. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
"Other parks and trails are located at the Wilderness Park Off Road Loop Trail System, [Flatwoods Park](https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us"
"Chevy Malibu isn't really known for off-roading lol"
Drive Time
- 16 min from Tampa, FL
- 28 min from Lakeland, FL
- 1 hr 2 min from Homosassa Springs, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Thonotosassa, FL
295 Photos of 318 Thonotosassa Campgrounds
Lawrence W.
Lakeside Getaway
Nate D.
Oak Ridge Primitive Campground
Rachel G.
Hillsborough River State Park Campground
Elliott B.
Cypress Creek Preserve
Amanda .
Edward Medard Park
The Longs ..
Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract
Randal B.
Lithia Springs
Derick B.
Encore Winter Quarters Pasco
Eric E.
Island Retreat Florida
Jorge A. M.
No longer in business
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Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground
Scott O.
Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
Recent Reviews near Thonotosassa, FL
1181 Reviews of 318 Thonotosassa 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.
- ccraig D.Scout
Seven Sisters Campground
Stumpy
Nice campground but with only one bathroom and one shower for men. So you may have to wait in line
- 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.
Guide to Thonotosassa
Thonotosassa camping options feature a mix of state, county, and private facilities spread throughout the subtropical landscape. Located in Hillsborough County about 20 miles northeast of Tampa, this area sits at an elevation between 30-50 feet above sea level with distinct wet and dry seasons. Fall through spring brings milder temperatures in the 60-80°F range when camping demand peaks, while summer campers contend with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Fort De Soto Campground offers exceptional wildlife opportunities from waterfront sites. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!" reported one camper who appreciated the diverse ecosystem.
Paddle the rapids: Hillsborough River State Park features Florida's rare class II rapids. "The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do," notes a visitor, highlighting the unique paddling experience just minutes from the campsite.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve contains miles of off-road trails connecting different recreation areas. "There are 4 lakes (no swimming) on the property kayak/canoe rentals, nice fishing areas and a dock. Lots of wildlife. Great for biking as well," explains a reviewer familiar with the trail system.
What campers like
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Colt Creek State Park offers newer camping facilities with large, level sites. "They did a fantastic job in all area's of their new campground. So much to do and it was so quiet and clean," shares one satisfied camper about this less-crowded alternative.
Shaded campsites: Lithia Springs Conservation Park provides excellent tree coverage to combat Florida heat. "The sites are nice and spacious, have really excellent tree coverage (this is a MUST during Florida 'summers')," explains a camper who appreciated the natural shade.
Clean facilities: Edward Medard Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Beautiful park with a lot of wild life. The campground had bathrooms and showers available at a short walking distance," notes one visitor who found the facilities convenient and well-kept.
What you should know
First-come-first-served availability: Several campgrounds including Edward Medard Park don't take advance reservations. "Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours," explains one reviewer, making weekday arrivals recommended during peak season.
Wildlife considerations: Raccoons and insects require proper food storage and preparation. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns a Hillsborough River State Park camper, while others mention encounters with raccoons at multiple parks.
Water level fluctuations: Low-lying sites can flood during heavy rains. "It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," reported one camper at Fort De Soto, highlighting that site selection matters during rainy seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Fort De Soto Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "There is a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," shares a family camper.
Accessibility options: Colt Creek State Park provides accessible camping sites. "Path and pad on site were roomy and fire pit was higher than usual for safety. These tent sites had water and electric as well. There are 2 of these sites available and both are easily accessed from handicap parking close by," notes a camper who appreciated the accessible design.
Swimming spots: Several parks offer swimming options during hot weather. The spring at Lithia Springs Conservation Park maintains a consistent temperature year-round. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," mentions a camper who found relief from the heat.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Lazydays RV Resort accommodates big rigs but requires careful navigation. "Our site was by the office which was plenty large for our 42'. Our electric box was a bit tricky to plug in since somehow it was almost on the ground. The roads going back to other units were tight and we could have never made it through," advises an RVer about navigating the resort.
Maintenance services: RV repairs are available at select campgrounds. "This is the perfect place to take your RV to be pampered. Their onsite RV services are incredible, they can do just about everything on your RV while set up on the pad," notes a camper at Tampa East RV Resort about the convenient maintenance options.
Hook-up considerations: Water pressure varies between parks. "Water pressure was above 60 psi, so we needed a reducer," shared an RVer at Lazydays, highlighting the importance of bringing pressure regulators when camping near Thonotosassa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find RV pump-out stations in Thonotosassa, FL?
Where can I find RV pump-out stations in Thonotosassa, FL?
RV pump-out stations can be found at several locations near Thonotosassa. Lazydays RV Resort in neighboring Seffner offers full-service dump stations for guests and sometimes allows non-guests to use facilities for a fee. Tampa East RV Resort also maintains pump-out facilities as part of their amenities package. Additionally, some public campgrounds in the area provide dump stations, though availability and fees vary by location. It's recommended to call ahead to confirm current operating status and any associated costs.
Where are the best campgrounds in Thonotosassa, Florida?
Where are the best campgrounds in Thonotosassa, Florida?
The Thonotosassa area offers several excellent camping options. Hillsborough River State Park Campground is a standout choice with full amenities, including water hookups and sites that accommodate larger RVs. For a more primitive experience, Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve offers one of the largest contiguous recreation areas in the county with diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Both locations provide easy access to natural Florida landscapes while remaining conveniently close to Tampa's urban amenities.
Are there RV rentals available in Thonotosassa, Florida?
Are there RV rentals available in Thonotosassa, Florida?
Yes, RV rentals are available in and around the Thonotosassa area. 21 Palms RV Resort is conveniently located near I-4 and sometimes offers rental units on-site. For a wider selection, Happy Traveler RV Resort partners with local rental companies to facilitate RV rentals for visitors. Many guests also utilize peer-to-peer RV rental services that deliver directly to campgrounds in the area. For the best rates and availability, booking well in advance is recommended, especially during Florida's peak winter season.
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