St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday
The bayou site are excellent. Reasonably level, nice patios, and a bit of a view. The staff are nice and helpful. They seem to have a section for those of us who are not snowbirds.
3 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Tent campsites in the Mulberry, Florida area range from established state park grounds to primitive wilderness sites with varying amenities. Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers designated tent sites with good shade coverage under mature oak trees, while Alderman's Ford Conservation Park provides more secluded primitive tent camping opportunities accessed via hiking trails. Several conservation areas within a 30-minute drive provide both drive-in and hike-in tent options, creating a diverse selection for campers seeking different levels of immersion in Florida's natural environments.
Most tent camping areas near Mulberry feature sandy or dirt surfaces that may become muddy after rain. At Alderman's Ford Conservation Park, tent sites are hike-in only and equipped with hammock posts, picnic tables, and fire pits, though campers must bring their own water as none is available at the sites. Upper Hillsborough Preserve's Alston Tract offers free primitive tent camping with basic amenities like picnic tables under a covered pavilion and fire rings, but requires advance reservations. Lithia Springs Conservation Park provides tent campers with more developed facilities including showers and toilets, though it operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Many sites throughout the region restrict or prohibit alcohol consumption and enforce quiet hours.
The tent camping experience in these areas varies significantly by location. Sites at Alderman's Ford provide a true nature immersion with good separation between campsites and direct access to hiking trails. Tent campers at Upper Hillsborough Preserve enjoy access to 16 miles of trails through pine flatwoods and along the Hillsborough River, making it ideal for wildlife observation. Shaded sites are particularly valuable during Florida's hot months, with Lithia Springs and Hillsborough River State Park offering excellent tree coverage. One camper noted that Alderman's Ford Conservation Park's primitive sites are "a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping" with "super clean campsites and great easy trail out to the site."
"Lots of RV campers, sites that are quite close to each other, and rock-hard ground from being packed down by heavy vehicles day after day."
"3 full service camping loops full of sites - lots of space for RV's and Tents - 2 designated hammock camping spots."
Campground full next weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $24 / night
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
"Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."
from $24 / night
"This location is utterly beautiful! So many different environments can be seen just walking the trials."
"The camp sites are hike in only. I LOVE this. Bring a manageable pack with everything you need. There is no water, power, or restrooms at the sites."
"The trails wind through beautiful natural scenery, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for a relaxing hike."
"These (this) equestrian and primitive campsite(s) have several of your standard picnic tables under a nice large covered pavilion, fire rings and multiple grills."
"Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails. We'll definitely visit again when we're in Florida."
"The island itself is fairly spacious with many tent platforms and elevated boardwalks throughout. For me, the hilight was the small elevated cabin on one end of the island."
from $50 - $75 / night
"We always camp in the primitive sites when we visit. The are large but have minimal shade. There is a picnic table and fire ring at each site and there is a toilet nearby."
"Shade and privacy can be hard to come by unless you pick the right spot."
from $18 - $22 / night
"Other parks and trails are located at the Wilderness Park Off Road Loop Trail System, [Flatwoods Park](https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us"
"No hookups or dumpsites. There is a pump well for non potable water and a port a potty on site. Miles of trails and plenty of space to explore."
"There are 2 campsites available on this tract - Primitive site is accessible by car, back country by foot only."
"Always a nice camp with multiple access hike in points."












The bayou site are excellent. Reasonably level, nice patios, and a bit of a view. The staff are nice and helpful. They seem to have a section for those of us who are not snowbirds.
Site are fairly big and a rate of $20 to stay the night with water and electricity is reasonable. Bathrooms are not very clean. That's why I only gave a 3 star review.
Tim and Leisha were the best! Great campsite close to Disney is what we wanted.. clean and well organized. They make you feel at home and they even invited us to dinner at the pool and provided all the food. I will definitely be going back when I’m in town. They loved our kiddos too!
On my never-ending pursuit of finding the most perfect campground on earth ... I may have just landed it! Fort DeSoto State Park Campground, which rests at the southernmost edge of Pinellas County, reached by crossing a series of causeways from St. Petersburg until the land simply runs out and the Gulf of Mexico (as my friend John Cougar Mellencamp recently point out - not Gulf of ‘Merika) takes over. First impressions are pure Florida magic with palm-lined roads, sweeping water views of translucent aqua blue shimmering in the sun all accompanied by a salty breeze that makes you feel like vacation has officially begun. The campground itself is spread across a low-lying coastal landscape with mangroves, dunes and open skies punctuated by cotton candy clouds, and despite its popularity, this tri-loop campground haven manages to feel relaxed and unhurried if you pick your timing right.
This archipelago is shaped like a boomerang with 3 distinct campground loops – each with its own vibe, layout, amenities and overall character (more on this later) – leaving one with the impression that Fort DeSoto is both incredibly spacious as well as incredibly well-organized, offering a mix of waterfront and interior sites with paved pads, picnic tables, stand-up grills and access to modern bathhouses that are generally clean and well maintained. Many sites offer electric and water hookups, with a dump station available for RV travelers. Navigation through the one-way loops is straightforward, pets are welcome and the overall layout feels intentionally designed to handle high traffic without feeling chaotic. While there’s but just a modest playground on-site, there are much more amenities for the kids on North Beach, but throughout the campground area, the sheer amount of open space, bike paths, beach side access to inlets that will allow you to make the most out of being this close to the Gulf more than compensates for families.
What truly sets Fort DeSoto apart is everything just outside your campsite. Miles of white sand beaches wrap around the park, including North Beach which is frequently ranked among the best beaches in the country (note: not county ... country). Kayaking trails wind through calm mangrove tunnels, fishing piers stretch into Tampa Bay, and biking loops circle the entire park. History lovers can explore the restored fort and military ruins, while birders will find plenty to admire along the shoreline. For supplies, you’re about 15 minutes from Tierra Verde Market, Publix and a Walmart Supercenter on Pinellas Bayway as well as a handful of casual eateries like Billy’s Stone Crab and Sea Hags if cooking feels optional.
Trying to find out which 1 of the 3 loops might be best for you? I’ll try to break this down. First, of all, my brother and I stayed in Area #1, so let me begin there, not only because numerically that’s where we should begin, but also because I’m the most familiar with this loop, which consists of sites numbered #1-85. If you’re looking not just for ocean views with Gulf access – because like me, you’ve brought a kayak / canoe – then Area #1 for this solo reason is why you want to book here. And while it’s true that you likely could access water in Area #2, you’ll have to go the long way around to access the Gulf. Back to Area #1, I found this simple, single loop offering sites excellent in size, with TONS of shade (no need to bring your shelter to blot out the sun, although not a bad idea to have it handy in case of rain) and decent length long ‘driveways’ with which to pull in and set up camp, whether you’re packing tents (like me) or pulling in with your RV or sprinter van. Seriously, the scenery alone here in Area #1(at least sites #1-34) cannot be beaten with direct views of the Gulf, which you can access in less than 20 paces from where you’ve pitched your tent or parked for the night.
Each site is equipped with electric and water and for RVs needing sewage, there’s a spot as you exit prior to arriving at the ranger station that will accommodate you. The restroom and shower facilities in Area#1 are the best that I’ve ever seen in the state of Florida (which is saying something as I’ve camped in more than 100 spots here in the Sunshine state) – and wonder if this is because CG Hosts (versus FL state employees) are charged with keeping the CG clean?! – with very hot water (sometimes TOO hot) and lots of pressure would be an accurate description. Area #2 IMHO is somewhat cramped, very RV populated, with sites that are fairly crowded, yet heavily shaded with amenities that are similar to Area #1, albeit slightly more outdated; however, if you come with pets in tow, this is the ONLY area that will welcome you here at Fort DeSoto CG. Lastly, Area #3 has AMAZING water views, but given the seawall that surrounds this portion of the island, you won’t be able to actually access the water unless you dock your boat somehow to the wall and don’t mind jumping up 4-6 feet down to access your vessel. I found the sites here to be fine, although like Area #2, somewhat crowded, but yet still offering very good shade with restroom and shower facilities to be on par with the rest of the park. The best sites over here would be those from #197– 233 that look northernly towards the Gulf offering nothing short of AMAZING sunsets on the water.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) Waterfront sites in Loop 2 and Loop 3 are the most coveted for sunset views and breezes, but they book fast; (2) Bring bikes as this park is tailor-made for cruising on two wheels with flat, scenic loops in and around the campground area, but the best biking will be had once heading out past the ranger station to explore the larger areas of the island, where East Beach is worth a glide by (especially to watch the kite surfers where wind is at its strongest), but it’s North Beach that will have you stopping for a longer spell; (3) Kayaking through the mangroves on a calm morning is a must, especially for wildlife sightings; however, our absolute favorite moment of the entire trip was crossing the strong currents of shipping lanes to make it all the way to Shell Key, which apart from a few pensioners getting sunburnt in their beach chairs and an errant fishing boat or two, we had the entire island to ourselves … EASTER EGG: I’m a fairly solid kayaker and love oaring and with these strong currents, it IS manageable to cross, but you’ll want to plan on at least 1 hour of non-stop, albeit scenic oaring to make it to Shell Key; (4) Afternoon storms roll through quickly in summer, so plan beach time early and camp dinners later; (5) North Beach on the northernmost edge tends to be quieter and more family-friendly than the busier east-facing beaches near the fort; (6) If you’re visiting during peak season, weekday stays are noticeably calmer than weekends; and (7) When heading to the restroom facilities you will come across what is likely the largest sign I have ever seen in any campground WARNING YOU OF RACCOONS and, trust me, you want to HEED THIS SIGN as these black-eyed bandits are EVERYWHERE and not afraid to come right up to your tent and look in or right up to you sitting next to your campfire while looking for something to eat or steal, so be incredibly careful and PACK UP EVERYTHING whenever it’s not being used EVEN IN DAYLIGHT HOURS.
In sum, I absolutely loved this campground and will now be comparing every single one I visit to Fort DeSoto Campground.
Happy Camping!
Showers and bathrooms are closed
Quiet. Definitely skewed toward equestrian. Sites are well spaced. Outer loop is best. Restroom/showers are very well kept. Not much for kids. Short trails are ok. Cayaking is best option if you're in to that. Relax here, enjoy the peace and have your favorite beverage
Beautiful 😁
Nice little place. Gravel, pull-through sites, clean bathrooms, and friendly staff. Tons to do for the littles!
Zephyrhills colony has new Management. It's like a breath of fresh air.A weight is lifted from our shoulders of constant harassment and being hawked at on a daily basis. The parking pads are beautiful.The construction crew did an excellent job and the yellow stripes on the roads are amazing.We are so thankful for this improvement in our park that we can be proud and happy at once and for all. I thank God for answered prayer personally.Now I can breathe now.I can live amen
Tent camping opportunities near Mulberry, Florida cluster around the Hillsborough River watershed system, with several conservation areas offering varied terrain within 30 miles of town. The region's sandy soil base provides decent drainage at most established sites, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and September. Camping facilities range from primitive hike-in sites to established campgrounds with electric hookups.
River paddling: 1-2 miles from campsites. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, campers can experience the only Class II rapids in Florida. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," notes reviewer Billie S. The park's river access points provide opportunities for paddling through mature cypress canopies.
Hiking trails: 14+ miles of marked paths. Multiple conservation areas feature well-marked trail systems through pine flatwoods and along river corridors. "Nature Trails are amazing," says Jason D. about Hillsborough River State Park trails. For longer treks, the Withlacoochee State Forest offers extensive trail networks through diverse ecosystems.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk optimal. The Island Retreat Florida provides a unique paddling base for wildlife viewing. "This island adventure includes camping and water activities at its finest. Whether you relax and take in the breeze on the island with a book, venture out to Beer Can Island, or paddle in dinner and drinks at the Bar/Restaurant across the river," says Eric E.
Easy river access: 5-minute walk from sites. At Crooked River Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to the Withlacoochee River. "The walk to the river from our site was so worth it. We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass," writes Danae N. The staircase access to the river accommodates small watercraft.
Site privacy: Dense vegetation between spots. Crooked River receives high marks for site separation. "It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore," continues Danae. The vegetation buffer helps maintain a sense of isolation even when the campground is busy.
Reliable facilities: Recently renovated. Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers some of the most consistent amenities. "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," reports Cat A. after a two-week stay.
Seasonal mosquito activity: Intense May-October. Insect pressure varies by location but intensifies during warmer months. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. from Hillsborough River State Park. Most campers recommend a combination of repellent and campfire smoke to manage insects.
Site reservation requirements: Varied by location. Upper Hillsborough Tract requires advance planning. "A free reservation is required for either and must be displayed or available - so make sure you take a copy with you," advises Jeanene A. Lithia Springs, by contrast, operates on first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations.
Flooding concerns: Check conditions before arrival. Several sites experience seasonal flooding after heavy rains. "When you receive permit you will also receive a code to get through locked gate. Camp is just down road. These sites are heavily used during open hunting dates on this property," notes Jeanene A. about Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Swimming options: Monitored areas available. Lithia Springs features a designated swimming area popular with families. "Very well kept up groundskeeper. Meeting mike at the gate to the park so so nice. Only waited for a short time to have a spot and enjoy the park. The spring area so nice," shares Holy O.
Simple starter sites: Short hikes required. Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground provides excellent opportunities for first-time campers. "I stayed with 3 adults and 3 children under the age of 8. We stayed two night in 40 degree weather. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping," writes Katelynn L.
Weekend crowds: Plan for busier periods. Most sites experience significantly higher usage on weekends. "My boyfriend and I just camped here for 4 days. Weekends have a different vibe on the weekdays it's quiet," reports Tianay F. from Crooked River Campground.
Site selection: Limited big-rig options. The best tent camping near Mulberry, Florida often offers limited RV accommodations. Hillsborough River State Park can accommodate larger rigs but with limitations. "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," reports Gail W.
Dump station locations: Plan accordingly. Facilities vary significantly between locations. "There is 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks and a washer and dryer," notes Gail W. about Hillsborough River State Park's facilities.
Road conditions: Variable access quality. Many secondary roads to camping areas can be rough. "The drive is very rough due to teenagers mudding out there," warns Nate D. about accessing Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Mulberry, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Mulberry, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 65 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 33 tent camping locations near Mulberry, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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