Tent camping near Thonotosassa offers access to Florida's unique river systems and conservation areas within the Tampa watershed region. The Hillsborough River flows through much of the camping territory, creating diverse ecosystems from cypress swamps to pine flatwoods. Winter camping season runs November through March with temperatures averaging 55-75°F, while summer months can reach above 90°F with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Kayak the Hillsborough River: Hillsborough River State Park Campground provides convenient kayak rentals and river access. According to Rebecca A., "The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do."
Observe Florida's wildlife: The numerous conservation areas around Thonotosassa host diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, Bryan notes there are "Rapids to look at. Plenty of hiking and biking. Rental canoe staff were amazing. Tons of wildlife."
Explore multi-use trails: The trail systems connect many camping areas. A visitor to Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park shares, "We come out to Starkey all the time, for the hiking and for the on and off road biking... The trails are well marked until you get to the 4 mile mark, then the signage is poor and you need to use maps or a GPS route."
Cool off in natural springs: Several campgrounds provide access to refreshing spring-fed swimming areas. A visitor to Lithia Springs reports, "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded. Bathhouse are clean."
What campers like
Shaded sites during hot months: Many campgrounds provide crucial tree cover that makes summer camping possible. Jake H. at Hillsborough River State Park Campground comments, "Nice campsites, clean bathrooms, friendly campers... Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog."
Affordable primitive options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the free and low-cost options. Annie C. notes about the Upper Hillsborough Preserve - Alston Tract, "We stayed here for a few nights but our reservations were cut short due to flooding. Small enclosed area for tent and RV camping. Shaded pavillion and a few fire rings."
Accessible nature for day trips: Proximity to Tampa makes these camping areas popular for short visits. According to Rick G., "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north. Being a Floridian, we've experienced FL's state parks and found them to offer privacy between sites."
Wildlife encounters: Campers frequently report nighttime wildlife sounds and daytime sightings. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, one visitor notes, "Birders bring your binoculars! Over 150 species call Starkey home either full or part time."
What you should know
Mosquitoes are intense: Florida's wetland environments mean mosquitoes are a constant presence. Jason D. warns about Hillsborough River, "Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. 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."
Flooding affects accessibility: Many primitive sites become difficult to reach after rain. Dan M. shares about Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve, "Very Nice just being wood panels. It's a long dirt road to get to the campsite and I didn't think my car would make it through some of the big puddles after rain."
Reservations systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning while others are first-come, first-served. Cat A. notes about Lithia Springs, "The park rangers constantly ensured our safety and were very friendly and helpful. They made sure to keep us up to date regarding weather and flooding. Oh, and the pricing to stay per week is amazing!"
Bathrooms range from modern to primitive: Facilities vary significantly between sites. Shaun C. explains about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, "The site was spacious and many trees to hammock from, but the best part was the field directly in back of the site that is easily accessible. Bathroom was also directly across from site."
Tips for camping with families
Find sites with playgrounds: Some camping areas offer kid-friendly amenities. At Lithia Springs Conservation Park, Melanis&Rafael note simply, "Campsites were really good!"
Watch for water safety: Many camping areas have water access requiring supervision. Melanie B. shares about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin."
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide a transitional experience. Katelynn L. at Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground explains, "I stayed with 3 adults and 3 children under the age of 8. We stayed two night in 40 degree weather. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping!"
Pick sites away from party areas: Some campgrounds have reputations for weekend noise. According to Shaun C., "IF YOU ARE HOPING FOR PEACE AND QUIET, DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND I went on a Friday night, and the entire campground was PACKED. Very loud, too many tents packed into each site."
Tips from RVers
Check for seasonal closures: Campgrounds may close unexpectedly due to weather or maintenance. Joe R. notes, "This park just reopened a couple of weeks ago from the hurricanes. They are slowly bringing the sites back up to par, but it is still an awesome place."
Consider small rigs only: Many access roads aren't suitable for larger RVs. Gail W. explains, "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places.. and this is a bit peoply. That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station."
Look for pull-through sites: Limited turning space makes pull-through sites valuable. Lorilee S. reports, "To start with, the state park employees were fantastic!! Our site was spacious. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night."
Mid-week visits recommended: Weekday camping typically offers a quieter experience. Elliott B. suggests about Lithia Springs, "Overall, I'd try going back when it wasn't so busy... Maybe the park itself would be better in the 'off' season when it's not so packed."
