Tent camping options near Inverness, Florida concentrate around the Withlacoochee River system and associated conservation areas. The region sits at elevations between 40-75 feet above sea level with subtropical conditions featuring hot, humid summers and mild winters. Campgrounds throughout the area typically experience temperatures between 50-92°F depending on season, with highest rainfall occurring between June and September.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Crooked River Campground offers access to the Withlacoochee River system with designated launch areas. One camper noted that "we enjoyed a group paddle down the river for a few hours. We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back."
Hiking trail networks: Multiple trail systems connect through the Withlacoochee State Forest, including at Tucker Hill Forestry Primitive Sites where hikers can access the A, B and C loop trails. A reviewer explains: "You can hike all day and walk the 1/2 mile to car to get camping gear so you don't have to carry a heavy pack all day. A Loop is 7.39 miles, B Loop is 8.97 miles, C Loop is 8.09 miles."
Wildlife viewing: The region's wetland environments support diverse wildlife watching opportunities. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, campers report unique after-dark experiences: "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground where "the float into Gum Slough is right there at the edge of the campground, simply an awesome trip."
Site privacy: Secluded camping spots are valued throughout the area. A reviewer at Crooked River Campground shared: "It seemed like every site was surrounded by dense undergrowth which really added more privacy. You can see from my campground and another random site I took a photo of that you are really nestled into the underbrush."
Basic amenities: Even at primitive sites, campers appreciate the simple facilities provided. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, one camper noted the "clean bathrooms, nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks and a washer and dryer."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds require advance reservations through specific agencies. For Flying Eagle Preserve, "you make a free reservation and receive the gate code to get in."
Site access challenges: Navigation can be difficult at certain locations. One Flying Eagle Preserve visitor warned "Waze, google, and Apple Maps are all wrong" and provided specific directions: "go to the Circle K... use google maps walking directions to get to Flying Eagle Preserve. Essentially just head east down Eden Dr across the bike path and keep going straight."
Recent campground changes: Several areas have undergone modifications. At Potts Preserve, a camper explained the new setup: "The large open pasture/meadow is no longer a vehicle area, same with the 5 sites within that area. There is a designated area to leave vehicles, and the sites on the river are walk in only."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts vary by time of year. A visitor at Tucker Hill noted "Ticks can be bad - make sure you bring repellent" and explained "this site not far from road so in summer water can easily be cached in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Some locations offer excellent opportunities for children. At Potts Preserve, a visitor shared: "We really enjoyed our stay at this site. It was nice and quiet."
Spacious campsites: Families need room to spread out. At Colonel Robins Group Area, one camper noted "Absolutely beautiful, clean, well shaded, natural campsites" with "many fire pits with grills, picnic tables with lantern hangers, night security lighting."
Insect protection: Bug preparation is essential across the region. A camper at Hillsborough River cautioned: "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
Limited RV access: Many of the best tent camping areas near Inverness, Florida have restrictions for larger vehicles. A reviewer at Crooked River Campground mentioned these are "tent only primitive campsites with the standard uncovered picnic table and fire ring with a grate and/or a grill."
Noise considerations: RVers should be aware of sound issues that vary by location. A Flying Eagle Preserve camper reported: "the only noise pollution is from air boats on the nearby swamp river, but this dies down at maybe 10 or 11 pm ET and mostly only on weekend nights."
Off-grid preparation: Limited hookups are available across primitive sites. At Potts Preserve, a visitor recommended: "cart would be useful" for transporting gear since "you can't drive up to the river view campsites."
