293 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds near Highland City, Florida range from state parks to private RV resorts, with several options within a 30-mile radius. Camping near Highland City spans tent sites and RV hookups at Saddle Creek Park and Campground in nearby Lakeland, cabin accommodations and RV sites at Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Auburndale, and tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals at Hillsborough River State Park Campground. Most campgrounds in the region feature water access, with many situated near lakes or along the Withlacoochee River system.
Central Florida's subtropical climate affects camping conditions year-round, with summer months (June through September) bringing high humidity, temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winter months offer milder temperatures between 50-75°F, making December through March the peak camping season when reservations are strongly recommended. Many campgrounds in the Highland City area remain open year-round, though seasonal flooding can affect site availability, particularly at Saddle Creek Park. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums are prevalent near water, especially during warmer months. As one camper noted, "We were a short walk to the water which kept camp cool during the day but pretty buggy at night. We used repellent but were still eaten alive by mosquitoes."
Campers consistently rate water proximity as a key feature when selecting campsites in the Highland City region. Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities, with Lake Tohopekaliga and the Withlacoochee River system being popular destinations. Sites with shade are highly valued due to Florida's intense sun, particularly during summer months. The terrain throughout the region is relatively flat, making most campgrounds accessible for all camping styles. Highway noise can be an issue at some locations, particularly those near Interstate 75. A reviewer of one nearby campground mentioned, "The biggest drawback about this location is its proximity to I-75. You're really close and you can (and will) hear the traffic noise all night long." Wildlife sightings are common, with campers reporting encounters with armadillos, turtles, ospreys, and occasionally alligators near water bodies.
"What it lacks in shade it makes up for with 2 nice pools, one geared toward kids with a fountain and very fun twisty slide, music, TV’s etc & the other is on the lake by a tow-ski place that’s fun"
"Very close to a long biking trail & there’s a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff."
from $67 - $302 / night
Check Availability"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 Availability"If you’re looking for an authentic “Old Florida” experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this campground is truly something special."
"Hike along the water on trails, off road biking, and up close viewing of the beautiful ranch animals ( steer and goats )."
from $40 - $75 / night
Check Availability"Thrift and bait shop nearby."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability"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 Availability"Big park so lots of walking if you don’t have the cart (or you can bring your own and/or bikes). Our grandsons loved the golf cart!"
"The best campground in Florida ! Fun beautiful and lots to do even without going to the parks Wildlife is abundant Bunnies deer turkey"
from $56 - $201 / night
Check Availability"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 Availability"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."
"For Florida this is a great campsite especially for me because it's so close overall a great place for any activity"
from $22 / night
Check Availability"Located just south of Lakeland this park offers multiple amenities for group gatherings including a large firepit and stage area."
"Large dispersed camping area with good views of the airshow, included access to the ground display area, and great facilities considering how large the event is."
TravelerIt'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.
TravelerThe 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
ScoutThe 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
TravelerActive 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.
TravelerIf you’re looking for an authentic “Old Florida” experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this campground is truly something special. My husband and I brought our two grandchildren and daughter-in-law here for a family camping trip, and it exceeded every expectation we had.
The property is absolutely stunning — over 500 acres of peaceful scenery filled with lakes, wildlife, and beautiful open spaces. We spent time exploring on a four-wheeler and were amazed by everything we saw, from alligators and countless birds to longhorn steers, goats, and ducks roaming the grounds. It felt like stepping into a hidden slice of natural Florida paradise.
One of our favorite areas was the shaded grove of majestic oak trees with oversized swings where the children played and “hung out”. It created such a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere that made the entire trip feel magical.
The campground itself was extremely well maintained. The restrooms and showers were plentiful, spotless, and clearly cared for with attention to detail. It’s also exciting to see how much love and vision is being poured into the property. During our stay, they appeared to be expanding with what looks like a beautiful waterfront wedding venue complete with a gazebo and bridge — absolutely picturesque.
This was one of the most memorable family trips we’ve had in a long time. The combination of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, wildlife, and thoughtful amenities made for an unforgettable experience. We are already looking forward to returning.
RangerMy friends and I stayed here on May 26th and 27th, and the campground was pretty empty, which is honestly a shame because it’s such a beautiful place. It feels like you’re right in the middle of an untouched natural oasis. The campsites are separated by large plants, which gives you a really private and cozy feeling. The bathrooms and showers were clean and well maintained. The host was also very kind and helpful. I’d definitely recommend staying here.
GuideAmazing park, clean, and easy access to the river for fossil hunting. Great family camping adventure. This is a great hidden gem!
GuideWe are repeat guests at Tropical Palms. The park as a whole is very well kept and pretty. Some of the sites are very uneven but the staff is understanding and moves you to a new site.
This park has an amazing pool and gym! They also have great activities all year around. It is a very active park. The pickleball courts are very well maintained.
GuideI heard one too many bad reviews from this park and was apprehensive. However our first stay was amazing! The front office staff was so kind and helpful. We have sincec stayed with them several times and we have more bookings on the calendar. We are Thousand Trails members so this is a great location. You are allowed to receive mail to your site. You are also about 15 minutes from Disney and 20 minutes from Universal.
This park has a pool and small gym, also has a small library for guest use.
Campgrounds near Highland City, Florida vary from state park locations to RV resorts with diverse amenities. The region sits at a relatively flat elevation of 115-130 feet above sea level, with the Green Swamp to the north and the Lake Wales Ridge to the east. Most camping spots remain accessible year-round, though extreme weather events can cause temporary closures during hurricane season from June through November.
Water sports at Camp Margaritaville: Located in Auburndale, campers can enjoy water activities at two pools including a splash pad area. "We love this Margaritaville location! The staff is always friendly, they've got a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults," writes Danielle M. of Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale.
Mountain biking trails: The trails at Alafia River State Park offer technical challenges for all skill levels. "This park is close to home for me, I come here often for the Mountain Biking and the awesome humans. The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here," says Jennifer T.
Wildlife viewing: Colt Creek State Park provides opportunities to observe Florida wildlife in their natural habitat. "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," notes Barbara A. of Colt Creek State Park Campground.
Accessibility to attractions: Many campers appreciate the proximity to Florida's theme parks. "We had a BLAST at this camping retreat 3 miles from Legoland! The owners/employees were very nice and accommodating," shares Rachel C. about Cypress Campground & RV Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers rank highly with campers in the area. "The bathrooms are well kept and clean. The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do," writes Rebecca A. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Spacious sites: Campers value the room to spread out at certain campgrounds. "The sites are awesome and very clean. They each come with a turf pad which the pup loved," Phil notes about Camp Margaritaville. Another camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground mentions, "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water an each site for RV camping."
Mosquito preparation: Bug protection is essential, particularly in warmer months. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Seasonal activities: Winter months bring special programming at many campgrounds. "Winter season activities, movies, game night. Near restaurants and Legoland, not far from Disney or either coast," mentions MaryAnn D. about her stay at Cypress Campground.
Fire restrictions: Policies vary significantly between campgrounds. "No Camp fires, No boats, at $20 a day $140 a week is too expensive to camp," notes Scott T. about Saddle Creek Park. Meanwhile, Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground allows fires with designated areas.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. "The pool, arcade, sing along and trading post: the pool is a nice size pool with a small water slide. There is a splash area in the back for small kids," describes Samantha O. about Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Wildlife education: Many parks offer opportunities for children to learn about local ecosystems. "The long and windy ride in gives you a trip back to some real Florida. The campground is well maintained and has large, level sites," explains Joe R. about Colt Creek State Park.
Pool crowding awareness: During peak seasons, shared facilities can become congested. "The only negative was that the pool area seemed a little small for the number of people there. Very crowded," reports Shannon S. about Camp Margaritaville during spring break.
Site selection: Choose sites based on your priorities for shade, accessibility, and noise levels. "We were in 392, which is right behind the dog run and the amenities area. We don't own a dog and we were awakened by a few dog barks and a lot of owners playing with their dogs," shares Corey C. about their stay at Camp Margaritaville.
Laundry facilities: Several campgrounds offer laundry options with varying quality. "Bathrooms, laundry facilities are plentiful and very clean. Have to pay for wifi," reports Deb K. about Cypress Campground.
WiFi quality: Internet connectivity varies significantly between locations. "Awesome place. Great for kids and pets. Wifi was amazing. Staff was super friendly. Huge lots with tons of stuff to do," notes Erik P. about their experience at Camp Margaritaville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Highland City, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Highland City, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 293 campgrounds and RV parks near Highland City, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Highland City, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Highland City, FL is Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale with a 4.5-star rating from 22 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Highland City, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Highland City, FL.
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