Best Tent Camping near Longboat Key, FL

Looking for the best Longboat Key tent camping? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Longboat Key, including sites, reviews, and tips. Search nearby tent campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Tent Sites Near Longboat Key, FL (9)

    Camper-submitted photo from Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Teri Tomlinson Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Teri Tomlinson Campground

    2. Teri Tomlinson Campground

    3 Reviews
    2 Photos
    24 Saves
    Gulfport, Florida

    The preserve has recently undergone improvements to enhances visitors' experiences, including the new Terry Tomalin Campground, St. Pete's first public primitive family campground; Hammock Hall, a multipurpose building to provde rental space and programming opportunites; and a trail expansion. The 12-site campground's name honors the late Terry Tomalin, a former Tampa Bay Times outdoors writer who supported the preserve through several service projects. The campground is open to both individuals and groups.

    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lithia Springs Conservation Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lithia Springs Conservation Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lithia Springs Conservation Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lithia Springs Conservation Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lithia Springs Conservation Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Lithia Springs Conservation Park

    3. Lithia Springs Conservation Park

    12 Reviews
    51 Photos
    188 Saves
    Durant, Florida

    Well-known for its natural spring which flows year-round, cool, clean water into the Alafia River, the Lithia Springs Park was originally purchased by Gardinier, Inc., a mining company that soon became Mosaic Phosphate, Inc. When the company leased the park to Hillsborough County as a recreational area in 1957, the 160-acre site slowly became a popular camping spot.

    After setting up camp, hikers can explore the woodsy trails and its diverse plant communities, river cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks. But it is the natural spring that serves as the park’s major attraction, which---courtesy of the water’s 72 degree temperature---provides an excellent swimming experience all year long. In addition to swimming, visitors can fish and play volleyball. There is also a bath house for the parents to rest and chat, while their kids can play at the park’s playground.

    The park’s 44 camping sites---which is also suitable for RVs---include water/shower and electrical services. The campers also have access to picnic shelters and tables, restrooms, and barbecue grills. There are no reservations for these sites; everything is done on a first-come, first-serve basis.

    Park rules to know:

    -Picnic shelters are not rented for the months April - September. -All shelters, tables and grills and parking spaces are first come first serve -Due to the high demand of the swimming area and current conditions maximum capacity is -No rain checks / refunds

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp
    Camper-submitted photo from Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp

    4. Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp

    1 Review
    18 Photos
    5 Saves
    Myakka City, Florida

    We offer guided group camping experiences occasionally that are amazing wilderness experiences! Group reservations are required as this is not a public campground. Indian Field Primitive Camping Area Guided camping available through Not a Clue Adventures. Primitive camping is a wonderful way to observe wildlife at dawn and dusk. Reservations required. Tent/ hammock camping only. We will continue to make improvements in the future. Planned are “gear poles” and fire rings for each site, Community Chickee and more! Boy Scout and Girl Scout group camping permitted with proper reservations To make a camping reservation please call Jeanene Arrington with Not a Clue Adventures 813-789-0904

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    $5 - $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Island Retreat Florida
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Retreat Florida
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Retreat Florida
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Retreat Florida
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Retreat Florida
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Retreat Florida

    5. Island Retreat Florida

    1 Review
    44 Photos
    95 Saves
    Gibsonton, Florida

    Ever wonder what it would be like to stay on a deserted island? This is truly an adventure you will never forget. Once you land in paradise you will wander thru the looping trail system to find your campsite. There are (4) campsite with elevated tent platforms tucked back in the trees. Now that you are settled in, time to gather wood and build a fire in one of the (2) 8 foot wide, 2 ton concrete fire pits.

    Awake a dawn with a nice kayak/canoe trip on a secluded water trail thru mangrove islands and stop for lunch at River's Edge Bar & Grill across the river from the island. Having too much fun, take a nap in hammock and rock to breeze and sounds of river.

    This is an island is accessible via water only so there is some preparation to get here and stay here. Kayaks, Canoes and a shuttle are available if you don't have your own transportation. Please contact prior to booking to ensure you understand the packages, for example, if you want to rent the whole island for yourself and need transportation for your group. We offer tailored quote for package based on your needs.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Picnic Table

    $50 - $75 / night

    • No image available

      6. Rye Wilderness Park Campground

      Be the first to review!
      8 Saves
      Parrish, Florida

      Experience a slice of old Florida at the Rye Preserve. You don't have to travel far, the Rye Preserve is closer than you think. Rye Preserve is a 145 acre property located just northwest of the Lake Manatee Dam. The preserve features nature trails, horseback trails, picnic areas, a playground and a canoe/kayak launch. The preserve's trail system leads visitors through four distinctive ecosystems, including sand pine scrub, xeric oak scrub, oak hammocks and the river community. A variety of interesting creatures can be seen in these areas including the rare gopher tortoise and Florida scrub-jay.

      https://cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com/UserFiles/Servers/Server_7588306/File/Departments/Parks%20&%20Natural%20Resources/Parks%20Preserves%20&%20Beachers/Rye/RyeBrochure2015.pdf

      Birding, Camping, Canoeing, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Kayaking, Natural Wildlife Viewing, Playground, Swimming, Tubing

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • ADA Access
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Equestrian

      $20 - $25 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from The Bohemian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from The Bohemian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from The Bohemian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from The Bohemian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from The Bohemian Hideaway
      Camper-submitted photo from The Bohemian Hideaway

      7. The Bohemian Hideaway

      1 Review
      24 Photos
      4 Saves
      Murdock, Florida

      ⛺️🚌 welcome to the Bohemian Hideaway, private Glampground .In addition to primitive camp spots , We also have a converted shuttle bus for 2 you can rent or fully decorated GlamPing tents.

      We also have extra rentals

      🛶 kayaks $65 ea or $100 for 2

      🎥 outdoor movie -$65

      🖤2000 watt generator-$75

      🔥 propane heater -$45

      ❣️ Date night package-$55

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Cabins

      $45 - $165 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Hill Campground - Peace River
      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Hill Campground - Peace River
      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Hill Campground - Peace River
      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Hill Campground - Peace River
      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Hill Campground - Peace River
      Camper-submitted photo from Oak Hill Campground - Peace River
      • No image available

        9. Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve

        Be the first to review!
        30 Saves
        Lithia, Florida

        Primitive Camping. Camping is FREE at this location Reservations must be received at least 14 days prior to your desired camping date A staff member will get back with you in 1 to 2 business days to let you know if your chosen camping dates are available, and finalize your reservation There are three campsites available - Download the ARC camping map: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/library/hillsborough/media-center/documents/conservation-and-regional-parks/maps/alafia-river-corridor-north-camping-map.pdf Primitive site A is only accessible by hiking 2.4 miles with your equipment and supplies from the trailhead located on County Road 39 Primitive sites B and C are accessible by car from the Keysville Road entrance. You must obtain a gate code before entering. You cannot access the hiking trails from sites B and C- they are only accessible from the trailhead located on County Road 39 The Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve (ARCNP), is a 4,070 acre preserve located in eastern Hillsborough County. It encompasses lands along the Alafia River east of the Bell Shoals Bridge, extending upstream along the North Prong into Polk County, and along the South Prong to Jameson Road. The preserve contains many different habitat types and also includes areas that were formerly mined for phosphate. The site is home to some listed species including gopher tortoises, eastern indigo snake, American alligator as well as many others.

        • Reservable
        • Tents

      Recent Tent Reviews in Longboat Key

      528 Reviews of 9 Longboat Key Campgrounds


      • KThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
        Nov. 4, 2024

        Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park

        Palmetto Ridge Campground is Great

        Great campground for any type of camping. All sites at Palmetto Ridge are full hookup and many sites are pull through. ATT WiFi is fast enough to stream YouTube and YouTube TV via my Apple TV box tethered to my iPhone.

      • Laura B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
        Aug. 28, 2024

        Fort De Soto Campground

        BUGSsssssss

        This was the first time we had camped at Fort De Soto and I was so excited because we planned it for my 61st birthday. However, the bugs were so bad. We set up camp with our tent and all our gear, the bugs became so bad we took it all down and went home.I love the fact that my two dogs could come, but the bugs are a no go. It was absolutely miserable. Other than that it’s a beautiful area so maybe we will try again in the winter. I live north of here in Pasco County and frequently bring my dogs down to the dog beach, which is absolutely beautiful. A shame the campground is so infested.

      • Kytka The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA
        Aug. 27, 2024

        St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA

        Natural Spot Hidden in the City

        I recently had a wonderful experience at the St. Petersburg/Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, and I’m excited to share my positive review! I’ve hosted friends in their Deluxe Cabins before, and they were thoroughly impressed. The cabins were equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay—fresh linens, a full kitchen, and even a private patio with a grill and fire ring. And they had a great view of the lush mangrove lined Long Bayou.

        They loved the blend of cozy and convenient, making their getaway truly enjoyable. At the end of the road driving out of this campground is a great restaurant called Doe Doe's that makes a delicious homestyle breakfast if you don't want to cook it yourself.

        Wanting to be close to them I opted for one of the small tent sites at the end of the park where I car camped in my Subaru Outback. It was a peaceful and charming spot, perfect for a relaxing camping experience - and away from more of the centrally located activities that people camping with children enjoy. 

        Overall, the amenities were top-notch, including the heated outdoor pool, bike and kayak rentals, and clean and large facilities. They have something called KampK9 which is a fenced in dog park area. Less than a mile away is Bay Pines Park which is nice to jog or ride your bike through and there is also a super Walmart nearby so you can stock up for your drive to the next campground. You also have easy access to the Gulf Coast's stunning beaches and the scenic Pinellas Trail.

        Driving on the main road, and seeing the somewhat industrial area you pass through on your way down the small side street to this campground, you wouldn't expect much - but this KOA has been there for decades and is one of the nicest family campgrounds in the middle of a city I have experienced.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Lithia Springs Conservation Park
        Aug. 11, 2024

        Lithia Springs Conservation Park

        2 Weeks Stay 🤗

        The park is fantastic! The park rangers constantly ensured our safety and were very friendly and helpful. They made sure to keep us up to date regarding changes in weather and flooding. Oh, and the pricing to stay per week is amazing! It's a must-visit!

      • MO R.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
        Aug. 3, 2024

        Fort De Soto Campground

        Morning SUP

        I stay for 5day during the last week of July 2024. It was beautiful, I stayed at site 34 in had water view and access. So I was able to wake up early and walk 10step and I was on my SUP. Plenty of wild life & I was able to do some fishing and got a few spotted sea trout. Staff at the front desk, store and grounds were friendly and attentive. My site had water and electric and walking distance to a clean restroom.

      • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Beach Campground
        Aug. 2, 2024

        Turtle Beach Campground

        Can’t beat the price and location

        This is an all around winner. On the beach with shells, sunsets, waves and all that the beach has to offer. PLUS nice wide sites - wider than I was expecting. We’ve got a drivers side slide and gave it plenty of room plus the picnic area. Love the foliage dividing sites. Nice laundry, great bathrooms, tons of rinsing and washing opportunities. The cherry on top - the bathroom/showers has an AC!! Everyone hates to get sticky after a shower and the AC took that muggy edge right off in August! Unexpected awesomeness.

      • Josh M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Flying A Primitive Campsite - Myakka State Park
        May. 14, 2024

        Flying A Primitive Campsite - Myakka State Park

        Quiet but littered.

        Tucked away between Englewood and North Port, this primitive site is only eight dollars to stay at. Not too bad, but the campsite looked like it wasn't maintained at all. There was a big dilapidated bin of random trash that looked like it had been there for quite some time (site 3), a ton of cigarette butts, melted plastic pieces everywhere, etc. We even found an... adult toy about ten feet outside of the area of our site.

        That being said, it was quiet, and you couldn't beat the scenery and nature once we cleaned up the area a bit. The sites are spread apart enough that it doesn't feel like your neighbor is on top of you, which was a huge plus.

        Out of all the sites, 3 had the most privacy and had great views of the forest. If we decide to go again, we will definitely stay at this site. The other sites seemed a little bare and less private.

        For the price, you can't complain too much. Just make sure to lock the gate behind you because by the many many signs posted, they're threatening to shut the sites down permanently if you don't.

      • Annette S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Venice Retreat
        May. 12, 2024

        Camp Venice Retreat

        Nice campground

        The location was lovely, and the camp host was wonderfully accommodating. However, considering the $80 nightly fee for waterside parking, I anticipated that the septic would be included. The heated pool was a pleasant amenity. While the bathrooms were clean, they would benefit from a remodel, and it was disappointing to find no handicap-accessible showers available.

      • sThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Avalon RV Resort
        May. 4, 2024

        Avalon RV Resort

        Good for a short stay

        Sites were small, Service was friendly, Okay amenities- small pool, dog ‘park’ was a tiny walking area. Expensive considering location and amenities.

      • L
        Camper-submitted photo from Linger Lodge RV Park & Restaurant
        May. 1, 2024

        Linger Lodge RV Park & Restaurant

        We will be back!

        We came back to this gem and met with friends from Florida, we had our RVs next to each other and it was so much fun. We had a great time. Big thanks to the Linger Lodge RV Team, you do an excellent job! Everything is so clean and everybody is so friendly!  We stayed at Linger Lodge RV Park for the first time and will definitely be back! We enjoyed every minute. The place was very clean, we loved the pool. The management was very accommodating and helpful. It was very nice to chat with him, he helped us find our lot and accommodate our trailer. We came late and he checked on us several times to make sure that we had everything we needed. We stayed on a River Site#37. Just be aware you are next to the River, there will be mosquitos at night. The gym is small but clean and has everything we needed. Staff was Amazing and check out the Restaurant!

      • N
        Camper-submitted photo from Linger Lodge RV Park & Restaurant
        May. 1, 2024

        Linger Lodge RV Park & Restaurant

        What a treasure!

        Wonderful Park, everything is very clean. We had a wonderful time. Did some great Art crafts in the afternoon and the chili, the manager made for the guests, on January 1st by the fire pit was absolutely delicious. The pool and Spa are spectacular. You are close to everything but you still feel like being far away. Everybody is very accommodating. Great Management, great Team! We will be back soon!

      • David G.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Peace River Campground
        Apr. 20, 2024

        Peace River Campground

        Not a typical campground

        If you are a traditional camper stay away. This place is mainly for trucks and ATV’s. There is sugar sand everywhere and my car got stuck. After they helped me get out I left.

      • B
        Camper-submitted photo from Teri Tomlinson Campground
        Apr. 20, 2024

        Teri Tomlinson Campground

        Really Nice Campground

        Friendly people running the campground and it’s pretty spacious! It’s in an awesome location, too - we had other plans but made last-minute plans to stay here for a night and they were pretty empty on a Friday night. Nice facilities, but restrictive like another review says - we didn’t have our dog this time around but they don’t allow dogs so it may be hard for us to come back. We didn’t try the trails but everything else we saw was well-kept. We liked it!

      • Eleanor the Airstream R.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from MacDill AFB FamCamp
        Apr. 4, 2024

        MacDill AFB FamCamp

        Utilitarian

        No surprise on a military base but felt like a campground equivalent of base housing. Tight spots with full hook ups. Lots of snow birds, so getting in was a challenge. We had to show up without a reservation and take advantage of first come, first serve spots.

        Full hook up (electric/water/sewer) and cable. No wifi (so weak it didn't work) and cell coverage almost non-existent (AT&T).

        Close to a small beach and marina with a restaurant walking distance. Several dog parks but muddy/dirt. Laundry available for fee. Bath houses clean and large.

        Good amenities on base. Gym not too far and massive.

        Make sure you arrive at the base through the gate at the end of Dale Mabry, as it's the only gate campers can come thru. And be sure to go to the far right lane, even if it's got a red X showing the lane is closed. They will open the wider lane for you. You don't want to know why I know that or how close our Airstream was to the guard shacks if you don't go in the far lane!

      • Amy P.
        Camper-submitted photo from Lake Manatee State Park Campground
        Mar. 13, 2024

        Lake Manatee State Park Campground

        Great Weekend Spot

        We were lucky to grab a weekend spot thanks to a snowbird cancellation. Park rangers were great. Pine firewood available for $5 a bundle. (Not the greatest campfire fuel, but it works.) not heavily wooded as others have stated, but nicely private between most sites. Bathhouses were always clean in the AM and early PM. Options for basic, sand-based hikes. Great views from the lake and I am sure fishing is wonderful, though we did not try. I will say that the racetrack nearby made the location a bit unsettling, but we were thankful that the drivers were only doing quarter mile runs. Cars ran from 8am to 11pm, it seems.

        Overall, we would stay on the outside of loop 2 for less than 4 nights of we came again.

      • Brian and Janet S.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
        Mar. 11, 2024

        E.G. Simmons Regional Park

        Water access and dog friendly!

        Amazing water access and dog friendly! The staff and rangers are kind and helpful. During our stay, there was E. coli in water which means water activities and fishing were restricted. Lots of raccoons and no see-ums. Bring citronella candles. Overall, beautiful park and friendly people. Would definitely return.

      • EThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
        Feb. 25, 2024

        Fort De Soto Campground

        Amazing park for the adventurer

        Fort De Soto county park is a fantastic park for the nature adventurer. With a huge variety of activities available it’s perfect for the whole family.

        Dog friendly it has a huge dog beach and separate dog run.

        Bike and kayak rentals are available as well as additional fee ferries to Shell and Edmont islands.

        The campground area is huge with a separate area for those campers with dogs and kid friendly.

        The restrooms are clean with hot water and have washer/dryer available for $1.75 per load.

        Most campsites have electric and good water hookups. A pump out station is available near the entrance. 

        The camp store and park gift shop are fully stocked with any thing you could need.

        One negative is the loop I stayed on the loop road itself is full of potholes and really need to be dragged.

      • Lexi W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
        Feb. 8, 2024

        Fort De Soto Campground

        The Perfect Natural Beach

        I love coming here when I am in St. Pete! They have a dog beach too! It’s wonderful to have a natural beach without all the noise and crowds. Make sure to bring shoes because there are a lot of sticker burrs!

      • J
        Camper-submitted photo from The Bohemian Hideaway
        Feb. 8, 2024

        The Bohemian Hideaway

        Awesome spot

        We had a great time at this private camp spot in their GlamPing tent . We fished all day right from our site and took advantage of the extra rentals they had , kayaks and outdoor movie. Will def be back again to stay in the converted bus!

      • K D.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from E.G. Simmons Regional Park
        Dec. 17, 2023

        E.G. Simmons Regional Park

        Excellent stay

        I was in town for a clinic and didn't want to stay downtown in a hotel. I found this little gym. Traffic to the city was a pain, and parking was iffy at best. However the campsite was nice and quiet. There is a sushi place down the road I highly recommend. The reviews of the Raccoons are no joke and saw one the size of a bear cub but harmless for sure. The bathroom and shower were what you expected from a park. Everything was clean. I doubt I will ever be back that way. However, if I am, I won't hesitate to stay there again.

      • Steven A.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Peace River Estates
        Nov. 28, 2023

        Peace River Estates

        Great accommodations at a reasonable rate

        The park w!s able to accommodate us on the 30ft tow along last minute. The space is clean, and neighborly. They have a pool, showers, laundry, library and gameroom area complete with billiards. I felt the showers could be hotter, but showered last and everyone else disagreed(traveliing with 3 others) so maybe it was just me or running out. Lol Overall the place has been a great stay so far.

      • SThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
        Nov. 23, 2023

        Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park

        Beautiful "old Florida" park

        The campsites are well-shaded and have easy access to walking & biking trails. We've visited Myakka on day trips previously, and just recently camped there for the first time. It's quiet, and there's plenty of wildlife to be seen: Lots of birds, alligators, deer, wild turkeys. Bathrooms with laundry facilities were conveniently located, but we didn't use them. Campsite was clean, level, and easy to back into.

      • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
        Camper-submitted photo from Camping For Pawsibilities
        Nov. 22, 2023

        Camping For Pawsibilities

        Help A Future Animal Rescue!

        Jake from the Dyrt here!  Camping for Pawsibilities is future animal rescue that opened up for campers to help make it a reality.  Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!

      • J
        Camper-submitted photo from Fort De Soto Campground
        Oct. 27, 2023

        Fort De Soto Campground

        Ft Desoto, FL

        Great place to camp! Keep your boat in the water right behind you site! Kayaks and bicycles for sent at the campground store. Very clean restrooms and showers. Top notch campground in every aspect!

      • L
        Camper-submitted photo from Turtle Beach Campground
        Oct. 27, 2023

        Turtle Beach Campground

        Incrivel

        Pé na areia. Muito bonito, uma unica rua charmosa e com tudo o que voce precisa. Queria ficar mais de uma noite, mas nao tinha mais vaga.



      Frequently Asked Questions

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

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Longboat Key, FL is Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find tent camping near Longboat Key, FL?

        TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Longboat Key, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.