Top Free Dispersed Camping near Longboat Key, FL

Looking for dispersed camping near Longboat Key? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Florida camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Longboat Key, FL (2)

    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve
    Camper-submitted photo from Shell Key Preserve

    1.

    Shell Key Preserve

    7 Reviews
    47 Photos
    180 Saves
    Tierra Verde, Florida

    Overnight Camping the South Public Use Area Only Primitive camping is allowed only on the South Public Use area of Shell Key.

    Camping Permits Camping Permits are required for any overnight activity on Shell Key. Permits can be obtained for free from the county.

    Leave No Trace We are required to remove absolutely all trace of our camp – including food, refuse and anything that came with us on our boat.

    Campfires You must remove all trace of your campfire before you leave. This means removing (not burying) all the charred wood from the fire. Remember that you are not at a permanent campsite. You are in a nature preserve and are required to leave no trace at all.

    Portable Toilets Required The county requires all campers to bring a portable toilet for overnight activities. A simple DIY toilet can be made with a 5 gallon bucket, a trash bag and some sand. Place the trash bag in the bucket as a liner, put in a scoop of sand and use the toilet. When done, put another scoop of sand on top. Some people even bring some scented cat litter to use instead of sand.

    No Pets or Alcohol It doesn’t seem fair to leave the member of the family that would perhaps get the most joy out of island wilderness camping. However, pets are completely banned from the entire preserve including all of the aquatic boundaries. Read more about the pet ban. Alcohol is also forbidden within the preserve boundaries.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Longboat Key

1 Reviews of 2 Longboat Key Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Peace River Banks Backcountry
    February 12, 2021

    Peace River Banks Backcountry

    Old Florida Wilderness Camping

    The Peace River runs north to south. 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. Camping permitted on West Bank. No designated sites.



Guide to Longboat Key

Camping near Longboat Key, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful beaches, wildlife, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different needs.

What to do

  • Kayaking and Fishing: Many campers enjoy kayaking and fishing in the nearby waters. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, one visitor mentioned, "I was able to do some fishing and got a few spotted sea trout." This park is perfect for those who love water activities.
  • Wildlife Watching: Nature lovers will appreciate the wildlife. A reviewer at Myakka River State Park said, "There's plenty of wildlife to be seen: Lots of birds, alligators, deer, wild turkeys." This park is a great spot for birdwatching and spotting other animals.
  • Beach Access: If you want to be close to the beach, check out Turtle Beach Campground. A camper shared, "On the beach with shells, sunsets, waves and all that the beach has to offer." It's a fantastic place to enjoy the sun and surf.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Oscar Scherer State Park Campground noted, "The bathrooms were clean and plenty of them throughout the campground."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Fort De Soto Campground mentioned, "Staff at the front desk, store and grounds were friendly and attentive."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space between sites. A reviewer at Little Manatee River State Park Campground said, "Great privacy between sites."

What you should know

  • Bugs in the Summer: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at Fort De Soto Campground warned, "The bugs were so bad... it was absolutely miserable."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have extensive amenities. A visitor at Lake Manatee State Park Campground mentioned, "It does not have full hookups," so plan accordingly.
  • Noise Levels: If you're looking for peace and quiet, be aware of nearby noise. A camper at Peace River Campground noted, "You also get quite a lot of noise from the divided highway which runs adjacent to the site."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, one reviewer said, "There are lots of trails to hike as well."
  • Plan for Clean Facilities: Make sure to pick campgrounds known for cleanliness. A camper at Lake Manatee State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathhouses were always clean in the AM and early PM."
  • Pack Outdoor Games: Bring along games for family fun. A visitor at St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA suggested enjoying the "heated outdoor pool, bike and kayak rentals."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hillsborough River State Park Campground noted, "The roads in the campground are a little narrow so maneuvering a larger rig might take some time."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Myakka River State Park mentioned, "Our site was shady and a really good size."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Florida weather can be unpredictable. A visitor at Cayo Costa State Park Campground advised, "If you camp here take precautions and know that rats will chew through any bag that contains food."

Camping near Longboat Key, Florida, has something for everyone, from beach lovers to wildlife enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Longboat Key, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Longboat Key, FL is Shell Key Preserve with a 4.6-star rating from 7 reviews.