Best Campgrounds near Palm Harbor, FL

Camping near Palm Harbor, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy kayaking and fishing in the nearby waters. At Fort De Soto Campground, one visitor mentioned, "I was able to do some fishing and got a few spotted sea trout." The area is known for its wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

• Biking and Hiking: Trails are abundant in the region. A reviewer at Hillsborough River State Park Campground noted, "Lots of trails for walking, hiking, and biking," which makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Beach Access: If you love the beach, Turtle Beach Campground is just steps away from the sand. One camper shared, "This place is an awesome place to visit. Tons of things to do."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate clean restrooms and showers. A visitor at Colt Creek State Park Campground said, "Restroom clean and showers, laundry $1.50 each." Cleanliness is a big plus for many.
• Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Alafia River State Park Campground mentioned, "Very spacious camp sites with lots of room between sites," which is great for privacy.
• Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. One reviewer at Lake Manatee State Park Campground noted, "Park rangers were great," highlighting the welcoming atmosphere.

What you should know

• Bugs and Wildlife: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Fort De Soto Campground warned, "The bugs were so bad... it was absolutely miserable." Bringing bug spray is a must.
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Colt Creek State Park Campground, may not have extensive amenities. A visitor mentioned, "No market," so plan ahead for supplies.
• Noise from Nearby Roads: Some campgrounds are close to busy roads or racetracks. A reviewer at Lake Manatee State Park Campground noted, "The racetrack nearby made the location a bit unsettling," so be aware of potential noise.

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA has a "KampK9," a fenced dog park area, which is great for families with pets.
• Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground mentioned, "There are a huge pool... and you can rent kayaks or canoes," which can keep the kids entertained.
• Pack Snacks and Meals: Having food on hand can save time and money. A visitor at Lake Manatee State Park Campground noted, "Pine firewood available for $5 a bundle," so you can cook up some meals around the campfire.

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A reviewer at Hillsborough River State Park Campground mentioned, "The roads in the campground are a little narrow," which can be tricky for larger rigs.
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A camper at Crystal Isles RV Resort mentioned, "FHU, gravel site," which is important for RVers.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA noted, "There are a lot of full-time RVers here," so plan your trip accordingly.

Camping around Palm Harbor, FL, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!