Best Tent Camping near Land O' Lakes, FL

Public lands surrounding Land O' Lakes, Florida offer diverse tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to primitive backcountry sites. Hillsborough River State Park, located 15 miles east of Land O' Lakes, provides tent campsites with varying levels of amenities, while Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey offers both drive-in and hike-in tent camping opportunities. The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve features walk-in tent sites at Oak Ridge and Washburn primitive campgrounds, where free camping is available with required reservations. Crooked River Campground in Withlacoochee State Forest provides tent-only camping with sites nestled among dense undergrowth for added privacy.

Many primitive tent camping areas near Land O' Lakes feature sandy or dirt surfaces that can become problematic during Florida's rainy season. Summer flooding is common, particularly at Hillsborough River State Park where riverside sites may hold 4-6 inches of water. Campers should bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes are abundant, especially during warmer months. Most tent-only sites include fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Portable toilets are standard at primitive sites, while established campgrounds offer flush toilets and showers. Free camping locations like Upper Hillsborough Preserve's Alston Tract provide non-potable water pumps, requiring visitors to bring their own drinking water or filtration systems.

Fall through spring offers the most comfortable tent camping experience in the region. One camper at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park noted, "Be prepared for a trek, as the site was a couple miles in. Be prepared for sun exposure, with sunblock and lots of water recommended as you will be hiking under open sky in the Florida heat." At Crooked River Campground, a visitor observed that "most of the sites are secluded with dense forest in between each site," providing privacy not found at more developed campgrounds. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with birds and small mammals frequently spotted. Backcountry tent campers should be prepared to hang food and trash at night to deter wildlife, particularly in the Green Swamp areas where primitive tent sites are more remote.

Best Tent Sites Near Land O' Lakes, Florida (34)

    1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 987-6771

    $24 / night

    "I typically avoid tent camping here in the summer months– early summer the trails are heavy with mosquitoes and summer rains bring a large amount of flooding."

    "Lots of RV campers, sites that are quite close to each other, and rock-hard ground from being packed down by heavy vehicles day after day."

    2. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    12 Reviews
    New Port Richey, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 834-3247

    "Part of the Starkey Wilderness Preservethis location is full of multi use trails, has primitive cabin rentals (no electric"

    "We stayed at one of the hike-in sites and had a good time. Be prepared for a trek, as the site was a couple miles in. The trail was nice and paved though, suitable for bicycling in."

    3. Lake Park

    5 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 264-3806

    "I live in an adjacent neighborhood (2 years) and walk this park daily with my doggos. I’ve biked all the trails and been here from sunrise to sunset."

    "This is a great park with trails, restrooms, boating, a fun playground, nice picnic areas, volleyball, BMX, and more."

    4. Lake Rogers Park

    3 Reviews
    Odessa, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 264-3917

    "This centrally located primitive camping spot is centrally located near the Odessa area near Tampa."

    "Lake Rodgers trail and campsites are beautiful and well kept up. The 3 trails( upper, mid, and lower) make it nice to walk thru different terrains."

    5. Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    38 Reviews
    Nobleton, FL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    "Crooked River Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Hernando County), and a short 5-mile drive from I-75."

    "Tent camping only, with a picnic table, fire ring and water faucet. You have a bath house you can get to by walking and it has hot water in the fall and winter months."

    6. Pasco County - Crews Lake Wilderness Park

    3 Reviews
    Spring Hill, FL
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 861-3038

    "Awesome park with well maintained trail. There are a lot of other small trails that lead off into the woods. If you wander, bring a compass and throw some az. Fun times"

    "Love this place so many trails"

    7. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve

    2 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    12 miles
    Website

    "Other parks and trails are located at the Wilderness Park Off Road Loop Trail System, [Flatwoods Park](https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us"

    "No hookups or dumpsites. There is a pump well for non potable water and a port a potty on site. Miles of trails and plenty of space to explore."

    8. Loner Trail Tent Camp

    1 Review
    Land O' Lakes, FL
    3 miles

    9. Lithia Springs Conservation Park

    12 Reviews
    Durant, FL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 744-5572

    $24 / night

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    10. Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract

    5 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    20 miles
    Website

    "These (this) equestrian and primitive campsite(s) have several of your standard picnic tables under a nice large covered pavilion, fire rings and multiple grills."

    "Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails. We'll definitely visit again when we're in Florida."

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Showing results 1-10 of 34 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Land O' Lakes, FL

877 Reviews of 34 Land O' Lakes Campgrounds



Guide to Land O' Lakes

Tent camping near Land O' Lakes, Florida, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors. With numerous campgrounds featuring unique amenities and activities, there's something for everyone.

Tips for Tent Camping Near Land O' Lakes

  • Hillsborough River State Park Campground provides well-shaded sites with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for a comfortable camping experience.
  • Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features spacious sites with good privacy, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract offers free camping with picnic tables and fire pits, allowing for a budget-friendly outdoor adventure.

Local Attractions for Campers

  • Cypress Creek Preserve is a hidden gem with hiking trails and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for exploring Florida's natural beauty.
  • Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve boasts miles of trails and the chance to paddle along the Hillsborough River, providing a unique outdoor experience.
  • Lake Park features a variety of recreational activities, including trails for biking and walking, making it a great spot for family outings.

Activities to Enjoy While Camping

  • Pasco County - Crews Lake Wilderness Park offers numerous trails for hiking and biking, along with fishing opportunities in the nearby lake.
  • Lake Rogers Park is ideal for group camping, featuring a canoe launch and a nature trail that circles the lake for a scenic adventure.
  • Island Retreat Florida provides a unique camping experience with access to kayaking and water activities, perfect for those looking to combine camping with aquatic fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Land O' Lakes, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Land O' Lakes, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Land O' Lakes, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 34 tent camping locations near Land O' Lakes, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.