Best Glamping near Lithia, FL

Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers glamping accommodations amid shaded oak trees that create a classic Florida outdoor experience. The park features safari tents, yurts, and glamping cabins with electricity and running water, allowing visitors to enjoy nature without sacrificing comfort. Located just outside Tampa, these elevated camping options provide an accessible wilderness retreat with modern amenities. The glamping sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and proximity to clean restroom facilities, creating a balanced outdoor experience. Many sites feature water views and access points for kayaking and canoeing. One recent visitor noted, "The campground here is very nice with well-kept and clean bathrooms, plus kayak rentals to explore the river, which is really neat."

The glamping options near Lithia provide easy access to numerous outdoor activities within the surrounding parks. Hiking trails wind through natural Florida landscapes, offering glimpses of local wildlife and native plants. Water enthusiasts can rent kayaks or canoes to explore the Hillsborough River, where the state's only Class II rapids create a unique paddling experience. Lake Louisa State Park, about an hour's drive away, offers additional glamping in yurts with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and mini-refrigerators for an elevated outdoor experience. According to a camper, "The nature trails are amazing, and at night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy." Most glamping accommodations remain open year-round, though Florida's summer months bring higher humidity and more insects, making spring and fall ideal for glamping visits.

Best Glamping Sites Near Lithia, Florida (26)

    1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 987-6771

    $24 / night

    "The park was so lush and green it felt like a jungle safari. There are so many alligators just hanging around near the water so watch out while hiking!"

    "During busy season you can really be packed in but the primitive camping site is another option - hike out and camp away from the crowds!"

    2. Fort De Soto Campground

    140 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 582-2100

    $38 - $48 / night

    "Some campsites on the water have a small water view and a way to walk a kayak to the water directly. Most water front campsites are blocked by mangroves so look at the photos online when booking."

    "This is our go to place for a close to home weekend when we are lucky enough to get a reservation. If you are a visiting from Miami or out of state you won’t be disappointed if you can get in. "

    3. E.G. Simmons Regional Park

    20 Reviews
    Ruskin, FL
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 671-7655

    $24 / night

    "Has shower houses and clean bathrooms Not full hookups but has a dumpstation in the west campground. Busy on holidays No alcohol allowed Firepits. Close to the boatramp. Raccoons can be annoying."

    "Nearly every campsite is right on the water - easy in and out for kayaks, large boat ramp and many picnic pavilions."

    4. Thousand Trails Peace River

    22 Reviews
    Ona, FL
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "This was our second Thousand Trails stay. Unlike The Oaks at Point South you have to find your own spot. It's a little unnerving. Fortunately, we had a few to choose from as soon as we arrived."

    "Huge sites, fire pits, kayaking and trails and nature galore!!"

    5. Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract

    5 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    23 miles
    Website

    "Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails. We'll definitely visit again when we're in Florida."

    "These (this) equestrian and primitive campsite(s) have several of your standard picnic tables under a nice large covered pavilion, fire rings and multiple grills."

    6. Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park

    38 Reviews
    Osprey, FL
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (941) 361-6511

    $26 / night

    "Excellent for wildlife viewing in the surprisingly beautiful prairie and tropical Florida area. You can rent bikes or kayaks nearby and make sure to take a tour on the famous fan boats."

    "You can spends days hiking the trails and paddling the river and lakes. The wildlife is everywhere! What would you like to see? Deer, wild hogs, alligators, birds of all kinds?"

    7. Cypress Creek Preserve

    4 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    24 miles
    Website

    "There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse."

    8. Lake Louisa State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    Clermont, FL
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 394-3969

    $24 - $120 / night

    "Lake Louisa is located on the edge of the Orlando metropolitan region. Close to Disney but accessible to other area attractions and communities, if that's what you are lookimg to do."

    "Lake Louisa is located in Clermont Florida and is only 20 miles from Disney in Orlando. It is a newer park and the facilities were really nice."

    9. Withlacoochee River Park

    12 Reviews
    Dade City, FL
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 567-0264

    "I would have rated a 5+ except that there is only 1 small bathhouse in campground. There are other bathrooms on property though."

    "I like the regular tent sites, not much of a walk in but secluded. The park includes restrooms and showers and seem to be taken care of."

    10. Quail Run RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Land O' Lakes, FL
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 973-0999

    "We stayed at Quail Run for a weekend in October as it was close to my son’s lacrosse practice location... we were pleasantly surprised with the very nice site with full hook ups and cable."

    "Only one pet per spot allowed and don’t allow over 35 pounds unless receive permission."

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Glamping Reviews near Lithia, FL

438 Reviews of 26 Lithia Campgrounds


  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 25, 2022

    Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    Great Hiking

    This was one of our favorite campgrounds. The park was so lush and green it felt like a jungle safari. There are so many alligators just hanging around near the water so watch out while hiking! There are so many great hiking trails and places to explore in this park.

    Laundry on site at the bath houses, as well as free hot showers. I didn't like the shower set up as much, because the area for your clothes and stuff and whatnot is in a communal space with other shower-ers.

    Campground hosts sell firewood and ice.

    We were here in January and the weather was perfect, not too humid, and it wasn't too buggy.

  • Kathie E.
    Apr. 3, 2022

    Lake Louisa State Park Campground

    Beautiful Lake Louisa

    Lake Louisa is located on the edge of the Orlando metropolitan region. Close to Disney but accessible to other area attractions and communities, if that's what you are lookimg to do.

    We needed a break from life so we went to chill and hang out in the park. What a beautiful park it is. Miles of trails, a small beach, 3 lakes for fishing and kayaking, and 2 fishing piers. They also have equestrian facilities for horseback riding. Including a stable where you can sign up to join a ride.

    The park's campground is compact with 2 very clean bathhouse, a small camp store, and 60 sites. The sites are nicely setup with lots of privacy. There are a few sites with both 50 amp electric and sewer service. One issue, especially in the summer, is the lack of shade so make sure you bring your own shade structures and a fan. In addition to traditional sites, the park has glamping tents, eco tents, primitive tent sites, equestrian sites, cabins, and a youth group area.

    The park is really beautiful. The riolling hills, pine forests, and pretty lakes. The wild flowers are also very pretty.

    We've been to many of Florida's state parks and this is among our new favorites. Just love it! Enjoy!

  • Meghan O.
    Jul. 4, 2018

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Busy Campground With Nice Ammenities

    close to the breweries in art district of St Pete Florida, Fort Desoto Campground has everything you could want for a long weekend or quick getaway. There's a general store if you want to stock up on snacks, fishing tackle, pool floats, or ice cream, or just catch a little air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The General Store also has a nice balcony overlooking the water and some oyster beds.

    The campsites are suitable for car camping, hammock camping, tent camping, or RVs. Be sure to bring your rain gear and rain flies, as Florida thunderstorms are brief but no joke. You can rent bicycles down closer to the actual Old Fort where there's also a huge fishing pier and plenty of old military installations to explore. However don't rely on using the bikes to get back to the campground as there's no drop-off on the other side.

    It can be a bit of a long walk from the campground itself to the Old Fort, which shouldn't be a problem unless you didn't pack the right clothes or shoes. If, like me, you find yourself a little under-prepared, there is Lyft and Uber in the area and in a pinch you can use that to get back and forth between the campground and the fort.

    Our neighbors at the next campsite over we're, unfortunately, a bit of a party crowd, which made for a loud night and very little sleep. That said the restrooms were nice and easy to reach and all of the amenities or what you would expect at a bigger busy or campground.

  • Ashleigh C.
    Jul. 4, 2017

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Most private campsites near the ocean

    Fort Desoto campsites are nice because there are trees or brush separating all the campsites creating privacy. Some campsites on the water have a small water view and a way to walk a kayak to the water directly. Most water front campsites are blocked by mangroves so look at the photos online when booking. In the fall or winter you must book at least 3 months in advance. There is a separate dog friendly campsite that allows 2 dogs per campsite. There are less raccoons in the dog site camping. Keep all food locked up or in your car. The raccoons are very smart and can undo many ties. The only thing I don't like about the campsite is that they close the bathrooms in the morning to clean them at 9am. Seems like they should until wait until check out time at 11am before closing them down.

    All campsites have a picnic table, charcoal grill, most sites have running water and electricity. Some have a lantern holder too. Fire pits are available for rent as you cannot dig a hole for a fire pit. You can also rent bikes or kayaks as well. There is an off lesh dog beach nearby that is great too. My dogs love to swim there and then the fenced in dog park has a wash station for dogs, you just aren't allowed to use soap.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2016

    Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    Gold Medal Camping at it's finest

    One of the most awarded State Parks! This park has everything! 3 full service camping loops full of sites - lots of space for RV's and Tents - 2 designated hammock camping spots. During busy season you can really be packed in but the primitive camping site is another option - hike out and camp away from the crowds! Pools and Cantina are very popular in the summer with the locals so be prepared! Canoe rentals to tour the river, fishing spots along the shore. Canoes and bicycles are available for rent at the Pool Side Café. The café also provides food, beverages, picnic/camping supplies and souvenirs. Pool lounge chairs for rent. Park visitors can stay connected with FREE Wi-Fi service within an approximate 150 foot range of the pool area (weather and signal permitting). Golf carts are available daily.

    Hiking trails are wonderful but if rainy season some could be closed to flooding. Take bug protection during warm months! Spend some time enjoying the wildlife along the trails. There is also a 2 mile paved loop bicyclers enjoy shared with cars so drive carefully. You can hike to the neighboring Dead River Park for even more of an adventure! Picnic area is wonderful - nice large pavilions and grills. They do have a air conditioned building with kitchen great for weddings and special events.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2023

    Sherwood Forest RV Resort

    Megalopolis RV Circus

    Allow me to begin by saying I have never been to a large RV campground… ever! This place is so huge that you won’t be surprised if you get lost in this place at least a couple of times before you find your slotted RV destination for the night. Also, I was amazed by how close to the concrete jungle you are at this place, but once you turn on the winding little lane that will bring you to this megalopolis RV circus – fitting given your proximity to all of themed amusement parks! – after crossing through the entry gates, you immediately lose sight of all the traffic, noise and business as you are swallowed up by the lush verdant trees of pines, palms and Ancient oaks. 

    As for the campground itself, you’ll enter off the very busy 192 and head south on Scott Boulevard, where you’ll pass 3 intersecting lanes before arriving to Sherwood Forest RV Resort. There will be plenty of signage, so you shouldn’t get lost arriving here – it's another story once inside this massive compound. To navigate yourself to the proper location you have been assigned of the 514 potential overnight possibilities that exist, you’ll first want to stop off at the administration building, where they should give you a map – and if they don’t, be sure to ask for you, because you’re going to need it! Basically, this entire place is back-to-back RV’s parked at a diagonal with very little to no privacy whatsoever and given that Sherwood Forest is so heavily populated, you are going to encounter both a decent amount of traffic (the golf cart kind) and noise. And while I would normally encourage folks to get as close to the pool area as possible, I found this main congregating place to be quite jam packed and noisy. 

    Amenities: Clubhouse / lounge, mini-golf, basketball, dog park, RV storage, restroom / shower facilities, horseshoe pit, WiFi (at a cost away from the main building), shuffleboard, darts, fitness center, in-ground heated swimming pool, nearby Tiki bar, LP gas refill station, laundr-O-mat, ballroom, mail room, library, banquet hall, catch-and-release lake fishing, marketplace store, playground, game room, billiards, whirlpool / spa / hot tub, picnic tables, pavilion areas, fire pits, BBQ grill, designated trash receptacles, trash compactor, cable TV / satellite and back-in / pull-through sites with full hook-ups (30/ 50 amp electric, water and sewage). In addition to all of the amenities, there’s also a ton of activities, including live music concerts, potluck dinners, BBQ cookouts, dance lessons, ice cream socials, craft-making classes, outdoor chess, mini-golf tournaments, church services, aerobic dancing, exercise classes, line dancing (yeehaw!), board game nights, Bingo, card playing as well as formal holiday dinners around Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) The best sites, in general, are all of the ones that are completely on the perimeter of Sherwood Forest RV Resort, specifically sites #1– 137 (you will note that there are a handful of cottages and cabins for rent in these slots as well); (2) When you get done staring down the inside of your cooler or mini-fridge and are looking for a place to sit down and eat for a change, then there are no shortage of food joints to have a look at, including: Krispy Kreme (my personal favorite), Cracker Barrel (my personal least favorite restaurant in the universe), Longhorn Steakhouse, Ichiban Buffet, Martin’s BBQ, Olive Garden and 192 Crab & Lobster Juicy Seafood & Bar;(3) If by chance you have forgotten anything, avoid paying double or triple the price at the on-site market by going to either Walmart or Publix, which are both about a mile and half away; and (4) If you would actually like to enjoy a bit of the outdoors while staying at this RV amusement park, go for a day trip to Lake Tohopekaliga, which has some pretty amazing bass fishing as well as a few choice places to drop your boat into, like Twin Oaks or Cherokee Point Conservation Areas (and if you don’t have your own kayak, canoe or boat, contact Wild Willys Airboat Tours and they’ll show you around). 

    Happy Camping!

  • Perry J.
    May. 30, 2020

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Best County Park in the USA

    Quite possible the best county park in the USA. This park is incredibly well run and has so much to do. This is our go to place for a close to home weekend when we are lucky enough to get a reservation. If you are a visiting from Miami or out of state you won’t be disappointed if you can get in. 

    What makes this park special for us is that many of the camping sites are coveted waterfront sites. The campground portion of the park is divided into three parts, one camping area that is pet friendly, one no pets and one predominantly for tents and pop ups with smaller sites. 

    Another bonus of Fort DeSoto in addition to the old fort is the fishing peer, great beach, cycling path and absolutely enormous parking lots so unlike many Florida locations, especially in season, parking is never really an issue. 

    Fort De Soto County Park is a very special place. We are lucky to have it so close to us.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 7, 2025

    Peace River Oaks

    Fantastic

    This place is brand new and very clean. The owners/operators are extremely friendly and helpful. The have glamping tents that are very cool. This isn’t the ordinary crunched in resort camping. All of the sites are spacious with large cement pads. The overall feel is laid back and quiet. There are many activities and games if you choose to participate.

  • Holma D.
    Apr. 19, 2021

    Lake Louisa State Park Campground

    on that note...

    so many great things to say about this place, "glamping" tents are awesome, cabins, primitive and rv/tent areas, all the activities, minutes from Walmart and other stuff... some of the camp are great, some.... worse. rangers here can be a little overzealous or a bit douchy but most were super friendly and great. wish i could stay longer but, that's living.


Guide to Lithia

Lithia, Florida sits on the Alafia River floodplain, with an elevation of just 40 feet above sea level, creating diverse wetland ecosystems ideal for wildlife viewing. The area experiences a humid subtropical climate with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be particularly aggressive during summer months, especially near water features at dawn and dusk.

What to do

Paddling the Hillsborough River rapids: The river features Florida's only Class II rapids, accessible from Hillsborough River State Park. "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. Everything is kept up, and several short trails to see The only class 2 rapids in Florida. Pretty wild," notes Joe R.

Fossil hunting along Peace River: Visit Thousand Trails Peace River for unique fossil hunting opportunities. "We came here as tent campers. It was a last minute location switch. It was almost exclusively RVs when we were there. That's usually not our thing but we were pleasantly surprised with our site, the friendly people and the river access. We ended up enjoying a party at the pool and the bathrooms were nice," shares Andrea D., who adds "I found a ton of shark teeth."

Astronomy viewing after dark: Upper Hillsborough Preserve offers excellent stargazing opportunities due to minimal light pollution. "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.

Exploring mangrove waterways: Fort De Soto Campground offers paddling opportunities through mangrove tunnels. "Ft Desoto is hands-down the go-to spot in my local area. The beaches are gorgeous, there are plenty of secret trails, a dog beach, general store, historic walks, boat ramps, kayak access, and much more!" says Alyssa D.

What campers like

Large, private sites: E.G. Simmons Regional Park provides waterfront camping with spacious areas. "Nearly every campsite is right on the water - easy in and out for kayaks, large boat ramp and many picnic pavilions. Great trails for bike riding and wonderful for saltwater fishing among the mangroves," explains Jeanene A.

Diverse wildlife viewing: Myakka River State Park offers excellent animal sightings. "We arrived at the gate! After hearing of the wilderness preserve we decided to go ahead and get the permit. You drive about a mile down the road from the main state park entrance to find the wilderness preserve entrance which is code protected. After driving back to the parking area, we realized we had the 600 acres to ourselves. We then hiked to the deep hole. There we saw tons of alligators birds and wildlife!" reports Christina L.

Quiet wilderness settings: Withlacoochee River Park provides peaceful glamping near Lithia. "I was really impressed with how nice this campground was. Quiet, spacious sites, and really nice trail system. There were only a few people there on a weekday. Definitely climb the tower for a great view. Close to great kayaking on the Withlacoochee River," writes Jennifer L.

Rolling hills landscape: Lake Louisa State Park offers unusual Florida topography. "The pine point pack in primitive site is in a really nice wooded area. It's less than half a mile from the parking area, and a stream flows close by where you can filter water. The park is very pretty and unique in Central Florida in that it has lots of rolling hills," Billy A. notes.

What you should know

Seasonal insect concerns: Biting insects can be severe during warmer months. "Hot, hot, hot. And not in a good way. Not a lot of shade. Lots of no-see-ums so bring a bug repellent and apply religiously, or else," warns Nate D. about E.G. Simmons Park.

Alligator safety precautions: Multiple parks report gator sightings near camping areas. "Went to drain the tanks yesterday morning and a large sounding gator started to growl territorially at me. So heads up with your pets please," cautions Jenelle J. at Myakka River State Park.

Flooding potential: Upper Hillsborough Preserve and other lowland areas may flood during rainy seasons. "We stayed here for a few nights but our reservations were cut short due to flooding. Small enclosed area for tent and RV camping. Shaded pavilion and a few fire rings," reports Annie C.

Limited facilities at primitive sites: Some glamping sites near Lithia have minimal amenities. "There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse. We are in a 24' class C and found a nice private area that was surprisingly level," writes Sue G. about Cypress Creek Preserve.

Tips for camping with families

Beach access options: Fort De Soto offers family-friendly swimming areas. "This campground is a County Park in Pinellas County. Well maintained with some of the best beaches in the US. There are three loops one for guests with pets. BRING YOUR RABIES VACCINE PAPERS! Many sites are waterfront and are mostly well separated. Great bike trails," advises David G.

Playgrounds and activities: E.G. Simmons provides multiple family amenities. "There's some great day use areas, nice park," notes B M., adding "We have stayed here many times the last time we had site # 65 on the water with water and electric hook up & there is a dump station onsite. This is a nice campground with a beach, little island you can wade to we always see Manatees there."

Safety considerations: With wildlife abundant, take proper precautions. "Being close to the water you will have insects and raccoons so be prepared for a great time by being prepared for these pests," warns Jeanene A.

Cabin alternatives for less experienced campers: Withlacoochee River Park offers cabins for families new to glamping. "This park has RV sites, regular tent sites, cabins and primitive camping. I like the regular tent sites, not much of a walk in but secluded. The park includes restrooms and showers and seem to be taken care of," explains Bruce D.

Tips from RVers

Leveling challenges: Some parks have uneven terrain. "Our site was spacious. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night. Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night," shares Lorilee S. about Hillsborough River State Park.

Electrical considerations: Monitor power during peak usage times. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... and this is a bit peoply. That said it 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 and a washer and dryer," reports Gail W.

Site selection strategy: At Quail Run RV Park, concrete pads offer stability. "We stayed at Quail Run for a weekend in October as it was close to my son's lacrosse practice location... we were pleasantly surprised with the very nice site with full hook ups and cable. The park is secluded and away from highway noise," notes John G.

Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging. "There are paved roads but others are not. It had just rained a lot due to Hurricane Eta and there are huge potholes. So go slow!!!!" advises Sherry P. about Peace River.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular glamping campsite near Lithia, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Lithia, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.

What is the best site to find glamping camping near Lithia, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 26 glamping camping locations near Lithia, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.