Primitive camping near Mulberry, Florida offers alternatives to developed campsites across central Florida's wetland-rich terrain. These locations typically have minimal facilities and require more self-sufficiency from visitors. Summer temperatures average 90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while winter months provide milder camping conditions with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides access to freshwater fishing spots where visitors can catch local species. According to one camper, "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved. Golden Coral buffet in town."
Paddling expeditions: Peace River Banks Backcountry offers excellent canoeing and kayaking routes through natural Florida wilderness. "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," notes one experienced visitor.
Wildlife observation: Look for native Florida wildlife throughout these natural areas, particularly during morning and evening hours. Primitive sites often provide better opportunities to view undisturbed habitats. Bring binoculars and reference guides to identify local bird species, reptiles, and mammals.
What campers like
Island camping: Shell Key Preserve provides a true island camping experience accessible only by water. A regular visitor shared, "Shell Key is one of the larger uninhabited islands off of the west coast of Florida near St. Petersburg. It is managed by the county, and all campers wishing to stay must get a (free) camping permit from Pinellas county."
Solitude: Many primitive sites offer more seclusion than developed campgrounds. One Upper Hillsborough camper noted, "Didn't find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn't run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out."
Beach access: Some locations provide opportunities to camp near water with beach access. A Shell Key visitor explained, "You can find some sandy spots tucked into the vegetation every so often along the 'beach', but you won't fit a large tent in these areas. Overall, a little difficult to 'camp' here and is only accessible via boat, canoe, kayak."
What you should know
Water access requirements: Some primitive sites are only accessible by water transportation. As one Shell Key camper advised, "Get your permit online. Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there. One of the easiest island paddles out there - just a little over a mile."
Supply needs: Plan to bring all necessary supplies including drinking water, food, and waste disposal equipment. "You do need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect your tent," warns one Shell Key visitor.
Reservation discrepancies: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area sometimes has availability despite showing as full online. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn't check it out, so I'm not sure about the cleanliness," reports one summer camper.
Tips for camping with families
Pack appropriate gear: Ensure you have adequate sun protection and insect repellent for all family members. Shell Key visitors recommend "We paddled from Ft Desoto (one on kayak, other on paddleboard) with all of our gear roped on. Once you get to the island, is is 100% primitive as it's a preserve."
Distance considerations: Some primitive sites require significant paddling or hiking to access. Consider children's abilities when planning. For paddling to Shell Key, one camper notes it's "just a little over a mile. Pick a spot on the beach and you're good to go."
Educational opportunities: Shell Key Preserve offers educational encounters with coastal ecosystems. "Tons of edible flora, and fishing of course. Plus, shell key is one of the very few places you are allowed to have a fire on the beach in FL," explains a regular visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most primitive camping areas near Mulberry have limited RV access. Upper Hillsborough offers "Easy pull through for RV" sites according to one visitor, making it one of the few primitive options suitable for recreational vehicles.
Amenity planning: RVers should prepare for no-hookup camping at primitive sites. "The lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!" notes one Upper Hillsborough camper.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat may make primitive camping challenging in RVs without air conditioning. Consider visiting during cooler months for more comfortable conditions.
