The Leesburg area in central Florida sits at approximately 75 feet above sea level within a region dotted with natural springs and interconnected waterways. Temperatures range from 50°F in winter to over 90°F during summer months, with humidity levels often exceeding 80%. Camping sites typically feature sandy soil that drains quickly after Florida's frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Paddling adventures: At King's Landing, campers can access Rock Spring Run for kayaking adventures. "Once in the water, you want to make sure you head back towards Kelly Park to experience the Emerald Cut, which is the most beautiful part of the river," explains one visitor who notes the option for an 8.5-mile paddle to Wekiva Island with convenient return shuttle service.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Dorr offers excellent freshwater fishing directly from the campground dock. A camper mentioned, "We used the canoes that come with the cabin multiple times as well as trying our luck fishing on the dock." The surrounding lakes contain bass, crappie, and catfish, with peak fishing season running November through April.
Trail exploration: Hillsborough River State Park features multiple well-maintained hiking paths through native Florida ecosystems. "Nature Trails are amazing," shares one reviewer, while another mentions, "Plenty of hiking and biking. Rental canoe staff were amazing. Tons of wildlife." The park's trails range from short 0.5-mile loops to more extensive 3-4 mile routes.
What campers like
Natural privacy: Tent campsites at Crooked River Campground offer exceptional seclusion. "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest," reports one camper who particularly appreciated sites 62-64 for their proximity to the river.
Swimming opportunities: Natural springs provide refreshing swimming spots with consistent 72°F water temperature year-round. A camper at King's Landing notes, "The springs are crystal clear, especially when you're the 1st one out there in the a.m. which is a huge perk of camping here." Early arrival is recommended as day-use areas often reach capacity by mid-morning.
Wildlife viewing: Flying Eagle Preserve offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "Each time not a single soul to be found with the exception of the passing airboats. Site was very spacious and private," reports one visitor. Early morning and dusk provide optimal viewing times for deer, turkeys, and various bird species.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites require advance booking, with some preserves using unique reservation systems. For Flying Eagle Preserve, "You make a free reservation and receive the gate code to get in." Navigation can be challenging as "GPS had a hard time getting there" and "Google will try to have you going through roads that don't go through."
Weather considerations: Summer brings intense heat and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. A camper at Trout Lake Primitive Sites shared, "It rained all night and morning. I knew I couldn't drive out or take the risk. I spent the second night." Consider waterproof equipment and proper vehicle clearance during wet seasons.
Insect protection: Bug protection is essential year-round but particularly from May through October. One Hillsborough River camper noted, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog." Ticks are also common in wooded areas, requiring regular body checks after hiking.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Lake Dorr Cabin provides safe water access with included equipment. "Super cute secluded cabin directly on the lake. You have your own private boat slip, 100ft long dock for fishing & swimming, canoes/paddles/life jackets on site," reports one family. The shallow entry points make this ideal for children learning water skills.
Wildlife education opportunities: Sawgrass Island Preserve offers excellent nature observation for children. "I have seen several whitetail deer, sandhill cranes, lots of other birds, quail, and some turkeys while hiking. I also saw a black bear up a tree in the marsh," mentions one visitor. Morning walks provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities for young nature enthusiasts.
Food storage precautions: Wildlife interactions require proper storage practices. A King's Landing visitor warns, "This entire area is infested with raccoons and black bears, so you want to make sure that all of your food and gear doesn't run off in the middle of the night – and trust me, whatever you don't have inside your tent or car WILL be stolen by the raccoons." Use sealed containers or vehicle storage for all food items.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: North Shore Relic Ranch provides tent camping with limited RV access. "Great place to camp, my wife and I really enjoyed our time at the Ranch," shares one visitor who appreciated the personal touches: "I was able to order wood and it was waiting on arrival." Many of the best tent camping near Leesburg, Florida requires advance planning for larger vehicles.
Backup power solutions: Several campgrounds have limited or no electric hookups. A camper at Hillsborough River notes, "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." Solar power systems work effectively in Florida's abundant sunshine for those without electrical connections.
