Thonotosassa camping options feature a mix of state, county, and private facilities spread throughout the subtropical landscape. Located in Hillsborough County about 20 miles northeast of Tampa, this area sits at an elevation between 30-50 feet above sea level with distinct wet and dry seasons. Fall through spring brings milder temperatures in the 60-80°F range when camping demand peaks, while summer campers contend with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Fort De Soto Campground offers exceptional wildlife opportunities from waterfront sites. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!" reported one camper who appreciated the diverse ecosystem.
Paddle the rapids: Hillsborough River State Park features Florida's rare class II rapids. "The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do," notes a visitor, highlighting the unique paddling experience just minutes from the campsite.
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve contains miles of off-road trails connecting different recreation areas. "There are 4 lakes (no swimming) on the property kayak/canoe rentals, nice fishing areas and a dock. Lots of wildlife. Great for biking as well," explains a reviewer familiar with the trail system.
What campers like
Spacious, well-maintained sites: Colt Creek State Park offers newer camping facilities with large, level sites. "They did a fantastic job in all area's of their new campground. So much to do and it was so quiet and clean," shares one satisfied camper about this less-crowded alternative.
Shaded campsites: Lithia Springs Conservation Park provides excellent tree coverage to combat Florida heat. "The sites are nice and spacious, have really excellent tree coverage (this is a MUST during Florida 'summers')," explains a camper who appreciated the natural shade.
Clean facilities: Edward Medard Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Beautiful park with a lot of wild life. The campground had bathrooms and showers available at a short walking distance," notes one visitor who found the facilities convenient and well-kept.
What you should know
First-come-first-served availability: Several campgrounds including Edward Medard Park don't take advance reservations. "Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours," explains one reviewer, making weekday arrivals recommended during peak season.
Wildlife considerations: Raccoons and insects require proper food storage and preparation. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns a Hillsborough River State Park camper, while others mention encounters with raccoons at multiple parks.
Water level fluctuations: Low-lying sites can flood during heavy rains. "It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," reported one camper at Fort De Soto, highlighting that site selection matters during rainy seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Fort De Soto Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "There is a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," shares a family camper.
Accessibility options: Colt Creek State Park provides accessible camping sites. "Path and pad on site were roomy and fire pit was higher than usual for safety. These tent sites had water and electric as well. There are 2 of these sites available and both are easily accessed from handicap parking close by," notes a camper who appreciated the accessible design.
Swimming spots: Several parks offer swimming options during hot weather. The spring at Lithia Springs Conservation Park maintains a consistent temperature year-round. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," mentions a camper who found relief from the heat.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Lazydays RV Resort accommodates big rigs but requires careful navigation. "Our site was by the office which was plenty large for our 42'. Our electric box was a bit tricky to plug in since somehow it was almost on the ground. The roads going back to other units were tight and we could have never made it through," advises an RVer about navigating the resort.
Maintenance services: RV repairs are available at select campgrounds. "This is the perfect place to take your RV to be pampered. Their onsite RV services are incredible, they can do just about everything on your RV while set up on the pad," notes a camper at Tampa East RV Resort about the convenient maintenance options.
Hook-up considerations: Water pressure varies between parks. "Water pressure was above 60 psi, so we needed a reducer," shared an RVer at Lazydays, highlighting the importance of bringing pressure regulators when camping near Thonotosassa.
