Dispersed camping near Lithia, Florida centers around water-based environments with most sites requiring boat access. The flat terrain features coastal preserves and inland riverside locations, with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures average 50-70°F while summer brings intense heat and humidity with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through September.
What to do
Fossil hunting along Peace River: Peace River Banks Backcountry offers prime opportunities for prehistoric artifact seekers. "Excellent backcountry camping between Zolpho Springs and Gardner. More camping down to Arcadia. Canoeing and kayaking are preferred mode of transportation but I've seen others use Jon boats and airboats," notes one visitor.
Island exploration: Shell Key Preserve spans nearly 2 miles in length with diverse ecosystems. "Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas," advises a camper.
Lighthouse viewing: Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground features a historic lighthouse from 1887 on the southern end of the island. "The 1887 lighthouse stands as a historical reminder on the southern end of the island. Occasionally tours can be made available by contacting the onsite ranger," reports a visitor.
What campers like
Nighttime solitude: Evening hours bring remarkable peace to island locations. "During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water," notes a camper at Anclote Key.
Wildlife encounters: Shell Key Preserve offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," shares one visitor, while another notes there are "over 40" bird species counted in the area.
Stargazing conditions: Clear skies create optimal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. "It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless," reports a camper at Anclote Key.
What you should know
Access restrictions: Water transportation is mandatory for most sites. For Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground, "Ferry services do not drop visitors off for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight."
Self-sufficiency requirements: No services exist on most sites. "There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. Make sure all food is secured," advises a camper who "anchored our boat with provisions on board a bit off shore and swam in to no risk raccoons getting into gear."
Permit requirements: Advance registration is essential. For Shell Key, "you do have to get the permit," though it's free, and similarly, at Anclote Key, "Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight."
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparedness: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area can get extremely hot in summer. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free," shares a visitor who found solitude during hotter months.
Proximity considerations: For families with young children, Shell Key offers one of the shortest water crossings. "Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there. One of the easiest island paddles out there - just a little over a mile."
Educational opportunities: Peace River provides rich learning experiences about Florida ecosystems. The region offers what one camper calls "Old Florida Wilderness Camping" with opportunities to observe native flora and fauna in their natural environment.
Tips from RVers
Accessible alternatives: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area accommodates RVs with "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved. Golden Coral buffet in town."
Site selection strategy: At Upper Hillsborough, site availability may differ from online indications. "Didn't find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn't run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out," reports one camper who found unexpected solitude.
Waste management awareness: Facilities vary significantly by location. At Upper Hillsborough, one camper noted "the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!"
