Tent camping near Lee, Florida offers backcountry experiences on both developed and primitive sites within conservation areas. The region's predominantly sandy soil drains quickly after summer storms but creates dusty conditions in winter when humidity levels drop. Many primitive campsites feature fire rings with adjustable grill grates, though several conservation areas require campers to obtain permits and display them throughout their stay.
What to do
Paddle the Withlacoochee River: Access the river system from Crooked River Campground where a staircase leads directly to the water. "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," notes Tracy L H.
Explore extensive trail systems: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails for day excursions. "We come out to Starkey all the time, for the hiking and for the on and off road biking. We came out here with a group and did some backcountry camping," shares Rich S., who mentions that "the trails are well marked until you get to the 4 mile mark, then the signage is poor and you need to use maps or a GPS route."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide optimal viewing at Lake Park, where walking trails circle the main lake. "This park has a really great walking trail around a lake with exercise stations. I've seen some horses on the trails also," reports Robin M.
Water recreation: Swimming in natural springs offers relief from summer heat. "We enjoyed a two night stay at site 28...The spring fed swimming area is clean and well kept," notes Ryan from Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: Oak canopies at Upper Hillsborough Preserve protect campsites from intense summer sun. "We camped overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area. Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails," reports The Longs.
Privacy between sites: At Crooked River Campground, vegetation creates natural separation. "It seemed like every site was surrounded by dense undergrowth which really added more privacy. You are really nestled into the underbrush," notes Elliott B., who adds that the campground has "tent only primitive campsites with the standard uncovered picnic table and fire ring with a grate and/or a grill."
Site spaciousness: Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers generous camping areas. "The sites are nice and spacious, have really excellent tree coverage," reports Elliott B., who further notes that "the spaces in the back loop were a little more secluded and were really nice because they were closer to the water."
Clean facilities: Despite primitive settings, some campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. "Nice campsites, clean bathrooms, friendly campers," reports Jake H. from Hillsborough River State Park, where hammock camping is permitted "if you're hanging a hammock with 1" thick webbing, and its on a thick tree."
What you should know
Limited water availability: Recent changes have affected water access at several wilderness parks. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, "thanks to COVID the park stopped putting water along the paved trail, which you could hike out to in a pinch and use. Now your only sources are stagnant ponds if you need some," warns Rich S.
Primitive site access: Many sites require preparation for hiking in gear. "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," notes Jeremiah F. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Weekend crowds: Weekday visits provide quieter experiences. "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north. Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking," shares Rick G. from Hillsborough River State Park.
Fire regulations: Some areas have strict fire management policies. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient," reports Gail W., highlighting that camping areas near Tampa tend to have more visitors but good amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Alderman's Ford Conservation Park offers approachable water features for children. "I stayed with 3 adults and 3 children under the age of 8. We stayed two nights in 40 degree weather. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping!" writes Katelynn L., who adds that "the rangers made sure there was plenty of fire wood in the wooden hut."
Spacious sites for play: Certain campgrounds offer room for children to explore safely. "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids (7-8y/o) spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! The spacious, private campsites were a plus," shares Danae N. from Crooked River Campground. "It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore."
Nature education opportunities: Several parks maintain educational facilities. "Large, beautiful campground with miles of trails, natural and paved for cycling. Nature education center for children," explains Tim L. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience traffic noise despite natural settings. Katelynn L. notes about Alderman's Ford Conservation Park, "Only downfall is that there is a lot of road noise throughout the entire night. Definitely took away from the 'nature' experience."
Tips from RVers
Site drainage issues: Hillsborough River State Park Campground experiences varied water management during storms. "Our site was spacious. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," reports Lorilee S., who also notes that "the bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus!"
Site selection strategy: Different loops offer varying experiences within the same campground. "We weren't disappointed with Hillsboro River State Park. Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking," says Rick G., who appreciates that there was a "good Verizon signal to allow for plenty of streaming."
Dump station access: Some locations provide partial hookups with dump stations. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded. Bathhouse are clean. Has dumpstations," shares Nate D. about Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
Power options: Several campgrounds offer electric connections despite primitive settings. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks and a washer and dryer," reports Gail W.
