Dispersed camping near Holiday, Florida requires water transportation for several of the best sites. The subtropical climate means summer camping brings intense heat and mosquitoes, while winter provides more comfortable conditions with temperatures averaging 60-70°F. Island camping options lack facilities but offer natural beaches and wildlife viewing opportunities, while inland options provide more shade and limited amenities.
What to do
Explore marine wildlife: At Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground, visitors can observe diverse shorebird populations. "There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40!" notes Jeanene A.
Paddle between islands: Kayaking between the various keys provides an excellent way to experience the area. "Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there. One of the easiest island paddles out there - just a little over a mile," explains Dan X. about accessing Shell Key Preserve.
Historical lighthouse tours: Contact the onsite ranger at Anclote Key for possible lighthouse tours. "The 1887 lighthouse stands as a historical reminder on the southern end of the island. Occasionally tours can be made available by contacting the onsite ranger," reports Jeanene A.
What campers like
Isolation after daylight hours: Once day visitors leave, the islands become remarkably peaceful. "During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water," shares Kaitlin B. about her experience at Anclote Key.
Dual water access: Shell Key Preserve offers both Gulf and Intercoastal waterway access. "On the west coast of the island is the blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico, while only footsteps away is the lush waters of the Intercoastal waterway," explains Steve S. This provides options for swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Abundant edible flora: Local plants provide foraging opportunities for experienced campers. "Tons of edible flora, and fishing of course. Plus, shell key is one of the very few places you are allowed to have a fire on the beach in FL," notes Alacyn B.
What you should know
No facilities means complete preparation: Island camping requires bringing all necessities. "We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak," explains Kaitlin B.
Weather impacts access: Conditions can change rapidly in the Gulf. "Depending on the weather and the tides/current, they may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak)," warns Alyssa D. about Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area.
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity varies dramatically by season. "No skeeters in October," notes Dan X. about fall camping at Anclote Key, while summer visitors report intense insect activity.
Permit requirements: Obtain permits before planning your trip. "Get your permit online," advises Dan X. about Shell Key, where free permits from Pinellas County are mandatory.
Tips for camping with families
Choose camping areas based on swimming conditions: Shell Key offers calmer waters suitable for children. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," reports Alyssa D., highlighting the accessible wildlife viewing opportunities.
Consider shorter stays for first-time island camping: The lack of facilities can challenge families new to primitive camping. "Nice open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings," notes Scott O. about Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area, which may be more suitable for families new to dispersed camping.
Bring portable toilet facilities: Shell Key specifically requires campers to bring portable toilets. "All campers wishing to stay must get a (free) camping permit from Pinellas county. The key itself can only be accessed by water and you must carry in/out everything as there are no bathroom facilities available and all campers must bring a port-a-potty," explains Steve S.
Tips from RVers
Inland options provide easier access: RVers will find Upper Hillsborough offers the most suitable dispersed camping. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV," notes Scott O. This area provides the only land-accessible dispersed camping option near Holiday.
Low occupancy during summer months: The heat keeps many campers away during summer. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free," reports SukiDookie about Upper Hillsborough, indicating good availability for RVs even without reservations.
Limited amenities require self-sufficiency: Bring all necessary supplies. "The lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!" advises SukiDookie about the pack-it-out policy at Upper Hillsborough.
