Cabin camping near Holiday, Florida offers a range of accommodation options within proximity to natural attractions and urban conveniences. Located in west-central Florida along the Gulf Coast, the area experiences a subtropical climate with humid summers reaching the high 90s and mild winters rarely dropping below 40°F. Most cabin facilities operate year-round, with peak season running November through April when temperatures remain comfortably in the 70-80°F range.
What to do
Hiking wilderness trails: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers over 50 miles of trails through diverse Florida ecosystems. "Starkey is an amazing spot... plenty of hiking and biking. Rapids to look at. Rental canoe staff were amazing. Tons of wildlife," notes one visitor to Hillsborough River State Park Campground.
Kayaking on waterways: Launch directly from your cabin area into local waterways. At Hickory Point RV Park, campers appreciate the easy water access: "We had a waterfront site, great campground. Has boat launch, waterfront community area, volleyball, small beach, dock, etc. Short drive from downtown Tarpon Springs and several beaches."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. "We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer... over 50 miles of biking, hiking, nature as well as equestrian trails to enjoy," reports a visitor about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many cabin properties maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. At Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA, one camper noted: "Undoubtedly the cleanest showers I've ever seen!" Another mentioned: "Bathhouse very clean and nicely done. Doggie playground nice... very nicely landscaped and clean."
Community gathering areas: Cabin properties often feature communal spaces for socializing. "Pool was good and the area around pool with tv and chairs nice gathering spot. Big area for dogs it seemed," shared a visitor to Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA.
Access to water recreation: Proximity to water remains a major draw for cabin campers. At St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, "Water access to the gulf for fishing crabbing claming kayaking etc. The pinellas county trail runs along side KOA and they rent bikes and fun little tricycles to ride the trail or use in campground."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during winter months. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, "Reservations can be made for camping up to 90 days in advance either online or at the park."
Site proximity concerns: Cabin accommodations often have limited privacy between units. "Sites are smashed together and no privacy. Some sites back up to the mangroves which is nice but that's about it," reported a visitor to St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday.
Seasonal price fluctuations: Cabin rates vary significantly by season, with winter months commanding premium prices. At Dunedin RV Resort, "the price varies from $75-$129 depending if you want a site for RV or a cabin."
Noise considerations: Some properties experience traffic or road noise. "This park was okay, but we were at the front and the road noise was bad. Lots of sirens and traffic. It was noticeably quieter at the back of the campground," noted a Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family amenities: Choose cabins with nearby playgrounds and recreational facilities. At Encore Holiday Travel Park, families appreciate being "located minutes from Tarpon Springs, about 30 minutes to Tampa Bay downtown."
Check cabin layouts: Confirm sleeping arrangements before booking. "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," reports a Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park visitor.
Plan for insects: Prepare for mosquitoes, especially in summer months. One camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground warned: "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."
Tips from RVers
Check site conditions: Some cabin areas have specific ground surfaces that can affect comfort. "If you can imagine the mess in your rig on our premium dirt patch (mud) when it rains..." cautioned a visitor to Sherwood Forest RV Resort.
Look for upgraded cabins: Newer properties offer enhanced amenities. At Key Lime Bay RV Resort, "This resort opened in mid 2022, and it reflects in the quality of everything. This was a ground up build, so everything is brand new. Sites are perfectly level paver pads with beautiful landscape."
Verify Wi-Fi availability: Internet access varies between properties. Key Lime Bay RV Resort offers "hook ups are perfect, with awesome WiFi," while other locations may have limited or no connectivity.
