Tent camping options within driving distance of Largo, Florida provide outdoor escapes from urban life while keeping campers close to amenities. The region features freshwater springs, oak hammocks, and river corridors interspersed among suburban corridors. Several parks have reopened following hurricane damage in recent years, with most campgrounds reestablishing trails and facilities. Seasonal variations significantly impact camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Paddle the Hillsborough River: Hillsborough River State Park offers kayak rentals for exploring Florida's only designated class II rapids. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," notes camper Billie S. The park is about 30 miles from Largo.
Try multiple trail systems: With over 60 miles of forest paths, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features separate trails for different users. "Large, beautiful campground with miles of trails, natural and paved for cycling. Nature education center for children," writes camper Tim L. The park restricts alcohol consumption.
Explore historical sites: Several parks contain remnants of old Florida homesteads. Shaun C. mentions, "Campsite #9 has a trail that leads directly to The McNeil Homestead. If you're looking for a bit of a spook, I highly suggest walking this at night time."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lithia Springs Conservation Park receives high marks for site separation. "Site 28 is set deep from the road and can accommodate a large rig. Completely secluded from neighbors. Very quiet at night," reports Ryan. The park operates on a first-come basis rather than reservations.
Swimming in natural springs: Several parks feature natural swimming areas with constant 72-degree water temperatures. "Very well kept up groundskeeper. The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" shares camper Holy O. Most springs charge a small day-use fee separate from camping fees.
Modern restrooms at primitive sites: Despite being walk-in tent sites, Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground maintains clean facilities. "There is a restroom facility about a 1/2 mile down the trail," notes Joe. Another camper adds, "Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit."
What you should know
Site access limitations: Many primitive sites require planning for gear transport. At Jay B. Starkey, Jeremiah F. advises, "Be prepared for a trek, as the site was a couple miles in. The trail was nice and paved though, suitable for bicycling in."
Water availability concerns: Even parks with water sources may have unreliable supplies. "They have water stations, but do not count on these being full at all times. Bring water with you. Don't risk it!" cautions one camper at Starkey Wilderness Park.
Campground restrictions vary: Terry Tomalin Campground maintains stricter rules than other area parks. "Please be aware that this is a very restrictive campground. You can only tent and you are not allowed to smoke anything, vape anything, drink anything alcoholic," warns Kevin W.
Road noise at some parks: While appearing remote, some camping areas experience traffic noise. At Alderman's Ford, a camper notes, "Only downfall is that there is a lot of road noise throughout the entire night. Definitely took away from the nature experience."
Tips for camping with families
Start with walk-in sites: For first-time tent campers with children, Alderman's Ford provides an ideal introduction. "I stayed with 3 adults and 3 children under the age of 8. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping! Super clean campsites and great easy trail out to the site," writes Katelynn L.
Utilize educational centers: Crews Lake Wilderness Park offers family-friendly programming. "Awesome park with well maintained trail. There are a lot of other small trails that lead off into the woods," notes Marquee M.
Consider seasonal timing: Camping during summer months brings additional challenges with children. Jason D. observes at Hillsborough River State Park: "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy. Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June."
Tips from RVers
Boondocking considerations: For self-contained RVers looking for the best tent camping near Largo, Florida without hookups, Gail W. advises: "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places. That said, Hillsborough River State Park was very comfortable. Everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water, there's a dump station, clean bathrooms, nice showers, even dedicated dishwashing sinks."
Nearby resupply options: Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers convenience for longer stays. "Grocery stores within 2 miles which was great because the wife ran out of wine," notes Ryan. Many campgrounds now provide limited camp store basics, but major shopping requires planning.
Recovery from hurricanes: Recent weather events have affected some regional campgrounds. "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," reports Joe R. about Hillsborough River State Park.
