Best Campgrounds near Highland City, FL
Campgrounds near Highland City, Florida range from established state parks to private RV resorts, with several options within a 30-mile radius. The area includes Saddle Creek Park and Campground in nearby Lakeland, offering tent and RV sites with electric hookups and water access. Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Auburndale provides cabin accommodations alongside RV sites, while Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers a more natural setting with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals. 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 sites 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.
