Fort De Soto Campground is situated on Pinellas Bayway South with 235 sites across three camping loops. Located 7.5 miles from downtown Largo, this park features primitive sites surrounded by mangroves at water's edge. Winter temperatures average 55-70°F while summer brings heat and higher humidity with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Kayaking and wildlife viewing: The waterfront sites at Fort De Soto Campground provide direct access to Tampa Bay waters where campers regularly encounter local marine life. "Great spot for relaxing by the water. Highly recommend. Bring good bug spray lol," notes David B. The park offers kayak rentals and multiple launch points.
Hiking natural Florida terrain: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features over 50 miles of trails through diverse Florida ecosystems. "Starkey's Campground has everything you could want or need. Friendly staff, plenty of critters, and beautiful trails to walk," writes Shaun C. The park includes several miles of paved pathways suitable for all ability levels.
Historic fort exploration: Visitors can tour the historic military fortifications dating to the Spanish-American War era. "Great park with days worth of activities! The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc. made for a great visit," shares Brennan H. The fort areas include educational displays explaining coastal defense systems.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Hillsborough River State Park offers natural vegetation buffers between camping areas. "We've experienced FL's state parks and found them to offer privacy between sites. We weren't disappointed with Hillsborough River State Park," comments Rick G. Most sites feature mature oak canopy providing shade.
Waterfront camping options: Waterfront sites at E.G. Simmons Regional Park provide direct water access. "E.G. Simmons is superb place to enjoy camp for a quiet time or with family and friends. Very spacious and variety camp sites to choose from," notes Rebecca D. Sites include electric and water hookups with views of Tampa Bay.
Yurt camping amenities: Yurt camping near Largo, Florida provides a glamping alternative with permanent canvas structures on raised platforms. "This park just reopened a couple of weeks ago from the hurricanes. They are slowly bringing the sites back up to par, but it is still an awesome place," says Joe R. Yurts typically include electricity, beds, and outdoor cooking areas.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most parks require reservations 6 months in advance, especially for winter months when northern visitors arrive. "Book in advanced, especially if you want to stay more than a night or two," advises Taylor T. Fort De Soto releases 10% of weekend sites each Friday at 7am for last-minute bookings.
Insect considerations: Florida's humid climate supports active insect populations, particularly near water. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. from Hillsborough River. No-see-ums (biting midges) are most active at dawn and dusk.
Primitive camping options: Cypress Creek Preserve offers basic sites requiring self-sufficiency. "Port-John was clean with TP. But who doesn't carry TP with them. The grass needed to be cut, it was up above my ankles. Overall, not bad," reports Curtis D. These sites require gate code access obtained through online reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can spot native Florida species throughout the parks. "Great bike trails. Restrooms are dated but well maintained. Electric and water. 2 dump sites on property," notes David G. about Fort De Soto. Rangers often conduct guided nature walks identifying local plants and animals.
Playground access: Starkey Wilderness Preserve offers family-friendly facilities close to camping areas. "This lovely county park you will find at the end of a 15-minute drive down a back country road. There is so much to see and do here," says a reviewer. The park includes two playgrounds within walking distance of campsites.
Yurt camping for novices: Yurt accommodations near Largo provide an entry-level camping experience for families new to outdoor recreation. "The bathrooms are well kept and clean. The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals," notes Rebecca A. Yurts eliminate tent setup struggles while maintaining the camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Quail Run RV Park offers spacious concrete pads for larger rigs. "Very good service. Nice park. Level concrete pads. Ours was pull through. Gated. Mix of permanent residents and rentals," reports Lucile F. Sites accommodate rigs up to 40 feet with full hookups.
Seasonal availability: Winter months (November-March) see highest demand at area campgrounds. "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north," explains Rick G. Summer camping brings lower rates and greater availability despite higher temperatures.
Leveling requirements: Many natural sites require leveling equipment. "The sites all have full hook up, but we had a premium site and it was on a patch of dirt/grass...I would recommend any of the few concrete sites if you can get one," advises John G. Bring leveling blocks for natural terrain camping areas.
