Dispersed camping near Hudson, Florida offers primitive wilderness experiences with minimal facilities. The Gulf Coast terrain features a mix of coastal hammocks, pine flatwoods, and sandy shorelines with elevations rarely exceeding 10 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while winter months average 50-70°F with significantly less rainfall.
What to do
Water exploration: Shell Key Preserve requires paddling about one mile from mainland access points, making it ideal for kayakers and paddleboarders seeking adventure. "Get your permit online. 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," notes camper Dan X.
Wildlife viewing: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers excellent opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife in a quieter inland setting. The area features several trails through pine flatwoods where visitors can observe deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species.
Beachcombing: Morning hours provide optimal shell collecting conditions at Shell Key Preserve, especially after overnight high tides deposit new treasures. "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," states reviewer Alacyn B.
What campers like
Solitude opportunities: Many rustic camping spots near Hudson become remarkably quiet after day visitors depart. At Anclote Key Preserve State Park, campers appreciate the isolation. "During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves," reports Kaitlin B.
Natural camping surfaces: Island preserves feature varied terrain from sand to vegetated areas. "There are no specifically cleared sites so you do need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect your tent," explains Elliott B. about Shell Key.
Night sky viewing: With minimal light pollution, primitive campsites offer exceptional astronomical observations. "It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless," shares Mandy P. about her experience at Anclote Key.
What you should know
Complete self-sufficiency required: For boat-in camping locations, preparation is essential. "You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar," explains Jeanene A., highlighting important access restrictions at Anclote Key.
Weather challenges: Wind conditions significantly impact boat-in camping experiences and can determine feasibility. "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 Anclote Key.
Permit requirements: While some areas require reservations, others operate on different systems. Upper Hillsborough may show as booked online but have availability in person. "Didn't run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out," reports Nina O.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility considerations: For families seeking easier primitive camping experiences, Upper Hillsborough offers drive-in options more suitable than boat-access sites. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings," describes Scott O.
Insect protection: Seasonal mosquito activity requires substantial preparation for family comfort. "Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer," advises Alyssa D. about Anclote Key Preserve.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children particularly enjoy the abundant marine life visible in shallow waters. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," shares another reviewer about their family experience at Shell Key.
Tips from RVers
Site considerations: Most primitive camping near Hudson accommodates smaller RVs with limited amenities. "Didn't find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads," mentions Nina O. about navigation challenges at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area.
Facility limitations: Even at sites that accommodate RVs, services are minimal. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn't check it out, so I'm not sure about the cleanliness," explains reviewer SukiDookie about Upper Hillsborough.
Supply planning: RVers must be entirely self-contained when visiting rustic camping areas near Hudson. Nearby towns provide final resupply opportunities before entering more remote camping locations.
