Camping cabins near Mulberry, Florida provide access to Central Florida's subtropical climate with annual rainfall averaging 51 inches. The terrain around Mulberry features former phosphate mines reclaimed as recreational areas with fishing lakes and trails. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-74°F, making December through March the most comfortable camping season when humidity levels drop significantly.
What to do
Hiking and mountain biking: Alafia River State Park Campground offers trails specifically designed for various skill levels. "I loved that they had a ton of different trails to choose from, some just hiking or biking, and some mixed ones. Really well kept. Saw a few deer," notes Elizabeth G. who visited the park.
Paddling and canoeing: Little Manatee River State Park Campground provides river access for paddlers. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," reports Billie S. The park maintains a gentle waterway ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Shark tooth hunting: Thousand Trails Peace River offers a unique activity for visitors. "The highlight of this park was collecting shark and sting ray teeth along the river. You can get wire mesh baskets in the office to aid in your search," explains Laura H. This activity is particularly popular with families.
Wildlife viewing: Hardee Lakes Park features multiple lakes with wildlife viewing opportunities. "Trails around lakes that can be driven to view nature and wildlife," mentions Dustin. The park's reclaimed mining land creates diverse habitats for Florida wildlife.
What campers like
Natural buffers between sites: Little Manatee River State Park Campground receives praise for its layout. "Great little campground, clean with good natural foliage dividers between campsites. Nice walking trails, & a gentle river for an easy paddle," says Nicole D. This design provides more privacy than many Florida campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Hillsborough River State Park Campground maintains well-kept restrooms. "To start with, the state park employees were fantastic!! 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!" mentions Lorilee S.
Evening atmosphere: Campers appreciate the natural setting at Hillsborough River State Park after dark. "It's nice and dark at night," notes Lorilee S. Jake H. adds, "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy." This natural lighting creates optimal conditions for stargazing.
Water features: Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale offers extensive water amenities. "They've got a great splash pad and playground for the kids, a water slide, and two larger pools for kids and adults," describes Danielle M. These features provide relief during hot Florida days.
What you should know
Insect protection: Mosquitoes are prevalent at many campgrounds near Mulberry. "The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June. We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them," warns Jason D. about Hillsborough River State Park. Jake H. adds, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog."
Flooding concerns: At Thousand Trails Peace River, terrain can be problematic for large RVs. "Peace River is really pretty, very green and has a wooded section, a tropical section, and a flood section. We have seen Class As sink, so if you have a heavy diesel pusher, make sure you find a spot safe for your RV," cautions Laura H.
Noise levels: Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River sits near a highway. "CONS: right next to a highway/large road with TONS of traffic noise," notes Kathy L. This location offers river access but with more ambient noise than state parks.
Limited shade at some sites: Alafia River State Park has exposure issues. "Sites and facilities are nice and clean. Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents. However, sites are not shaded at all," reports AJ G.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for children: Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground offers numerous family activities beyond theme parks. "We really love camping here. The campground is well laid out and the campers really get into the Disney spirit with decorations. The bath houses are immaculate," shares Darcy S.
Playground access: Camp Margaritaville provides multiple play areas. "The store has so much great stuff and there is always entertainment. They even have a big farmers market on Sundays with tons of vendors," notes Amanda W. These amenities keep children occupied between outdoor activities.
Family-friendly spaces: Hardee Lakes Park features accessible sites for families. "We stayed at a non-electric site right on the lake. Fire pit is great and camp hosts even recommended a local small biz that will bring you firewood," says Joshua W.
Educational opportunities: Thousand Trails Peace River offers learning experiences through fossil hunting. "Camping next to the river with our adult kids and the grandkids, good bicycle paths walking trails, canoeing fishing and actually quite in the evenings on the eastern side of the grounds," explains Thomas E.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Hillsborough River State Park presents challenges for larger rigs. "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," mentions Gail W.
Connectivity information: Tampa East RV Resort provides reliable access to urban amenities. "Great place to stay and experience. The neighbors are super helpful and friendly. Very clean and convenient access to all areas of Tampa," reports Suzanne R. This location works well for digital nomads needing reliable connections.
Seasonal timing: Hillsborough River State Park offers different experiences by season. "Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking. Good Verizon signal to allow for plenty of streaming," notes Rick G. Winter months provide more comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Utility reliability: Camp Margaritaville maintains consistent services. "Hosts take you to your spot and help you back in if needed. All the perks- pools, recreation, concrete pads, paved roads. The dog baths and parks are awesome," shares Nell D.
