Fort De Soto Campground offers a range of camping options within 30 miles of Indian Rocks Beach, Florida. The park spans 1,136 acres across five interconnected islands and features both waterfront and inland campsites. Visitors can access multiple trails, beaches, and water recreation areas without leaving the park property. The campground maintains separate loops for different camping needs, with one designated specifically for campers with pets.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Fort De Soto Park provides extensive trail systems for outdoor enthusiasts. "Great bike trails. Restrooms are dated but well maintained. Electric and water. 2 dump sites on property," notes David G. about Fort De Soto Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse coastal wildlife. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!" shares Brennan H. at Fort De Soto. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, visitors often spot native Florida species: "Saw a good bit of wildlife: deer and wild boar."
Historical exploration: Several parks offer historical elements to explore. "There are three loops one for guests with pets. BRING YOUR RABIES VACCINE PAPERS! Many sites are waterfront and are mostly well separated," explains David G. about Fort De Soto, which includes a historic fort with military significance.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers prefer waterfront spots that offer both views and recreation. "Cant go wrong with a waterfront stay. Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," advises Taylor T. about Fort De Soto Campground.
Spacious campsites: Parks in this region often provide generous site dimensions. At E.G. Simmons Regional Park, "The sites are very large and there is water and electric hook-ups and a dump station nearby," according to Christy C.
Water recreation access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. "Right on Tampa Bay. Public swim area and picnic area. Lots of paved roads which was great for biking. Several Osprey nests and other birds to watch on the water," reports Bran P. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Florida's coastal environment means insects are common. "Very private spots lots of trees. Lots of bugs in the summer time," warns Ralph B. about Fort De Soto. At E.G. Simmons, Christy C. cautions, "you really cannot stay outside at dusk. Citronella Torches, spray, fans, Avon skin so soft...none of these work for the no-see-ums."
Reservation timing: Securing glamping options close to Indian Rocks Beach, Florida requires advance planning. At Hillsborough River State Park, a camper notes "They look for any reason possible to close it, and it seems to be closed almost all the time," regarding pool facilities.
Weather considerations: The climate affects camping conditions year-round. "Nice and dark at night. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," reports Lorilee S. at Hillsborough River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, Melanie B. shares: "There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin. I've camped here with my 4/5 year old boys and our Cub Scout pack."
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with nature education components. "Starkey is an amazing spot...the site was spacious and many trees to hammock from, but the best part was the field directly in back of the site that is easily accessible," recommends Shaun C. at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Bathroom facilities: Clean, accessible facilities matter for family camping. "The bath house is pretty central and literally across the road from our site. We had expected a much further walk based on the map, but it was just a 1 minute walk," notes Joe R. about Fort De Soto.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: RV campers should research site dimensions before booking. At Horseshoe Cove RV Resort, Don reports: "The pull thru sites which are a little tight and can be challenging to park on in big rigs. Roads are narrow with lots of turns. If you have a big rig with a toad I suggest dropping the toad by the office."
Hookup options: Different parks offer varying levels of utility connections. "Each site has 30A and water, two separate campgrounds each with a dump station and bath house. First come (no reservations) with 14 day stay limit," explains Bran P. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Extended stay amenities: For longer visits near Indian Rocks Beach glamping sites, some RV parks offer extra amenities. "Park is very well kept, beautiful gym, pool, hot tub, and private island on backside to fish. Laundry facilities and bathrooms are fine too. Dryers dry a full load of towels in one cycle," shares Lexi U. at Horseshoe Cove RV Resort.
