Tent camping near Nalcrest, Florida offers diverse ecosystems within central Florida's subtropical climate zone, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity. The area's relatively flat terrain sits at elevations between 100-150 feet above sea level, creating drainage challenges during Florida's rainy season from June through September. Campsites range from primitive backcountry locations to established facilities with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.
What to do
Hiking trails exploration: At Highlands Hammock State Park Campground, campers can access multiple hiking trails through diverse Florida ecosystems. "This campground is not only midway through Florida but it offers so much to do! From hiking to boating, fishing to a great restaurant onsite this is a great campground," notes Meredith C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings at Upper Hillsborough Preserve provide excellent bird watching. "We camped overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area. Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails," reports The Longs.
Spring swimming: For a refreshing break from tent camping, Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers a natural spring for swimming. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded. Bathhouse are clean," writes Nate D.
Seasonal firefly viewing: During specific weeks in spring, nighttime tram rides at Highlands Hammock showcase firefly displays. "On this trip we were treated to a night time tram ride because the 26 species of fireflies were out for a 2 week period," shares Larry M.
What campers like
Secluded camping experiences: Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground offers walk-in only tent sites. "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! Super clean campsites and great easy trail out to the site," reports Katelynn L.
Free camping options: Some preserves near Nalcrest offer no-cost tent camping with basic amenities. "FREE camping, I love. Nice and quiet, I use a quiet run generator and bring in 50 gallons of fresh water for weekend stays," shares a camper about Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Shade coverage at select sites: Florida's intense summer heat makes tree canopy valuable for tent campers. "Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit," notes Joe about Alderman's Ford. At Lithia Springs Conservation Park, "The sites are nice and spacious, have really excellent tree coverage," according to Elliott B.
Access to water features: Several campgrounds provide riverside or lakeside tent camping opportunities. "The sites in the back loop were a little more secluded and were really nice because they were closer to the water," explains a Lithia Springs camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements vary: While some sites require advance booking, others operate first-come, first-served. At Hal Scott Preserve County Park, "Two of the sites require a hike in and are first come first serve. One is about two miles from the parking lot and the other is about 1/2 mile further," explains Billy A.
Weather preparedness essential: Florida's rapid weather changes affect tent camping conditions. "The second site, about 2 miles in, has a storm shelter nearby for those sudden afternoon thunderstorms," notes Jamie C. about Hal Scott Preserve.
Water management challenges: Seasonal flooding affects trail and campsite access. "Expect some areas of water covered trails, ankle deep, especially in the summer months," warns a Hal Scott reviewer.
Noise considerations: Road proximity impacts some otherwise secluded sites. "Only downfall is that there is a lot of road noise throughout the entire night. Definitely took away from the 'nature' experience," mentions a camper at Alderman's Ford.
Variable site monitoring: Verification of reservations isn't consistent across all locations. "We hiked out to the Backcountry site only to find someone there. We made a reservation days in advance, so this person was not supposed to be there," reports Selena H. about Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Tips for camping with families
Choose parks with interactive programs: Highlands Hammock State Park offers family-friendly ranger activities. "They also have lots of ranger-led activities like soup night, covered dish dinners, camper coffee, etc etc," notes Bran P.
Consider distance to facilities: When tent camping with children, proximity to restrooms matters. "There is a restroom facility about a 1/2 mile down the trail," notes a camper about Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. "We had a bear visit the garbage bin during the night, so you'll have to pay attention to storing your food during the night," warns Sri G. about Highlands Hammock.
Pack for weather variables: Florida's climate requires planning for both heat and sudden storms. "Sites are neatly cleared with mature oak trees that provide a canopy for shade," notes Jamie C. about Hal Scott Preserve.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Many Florida campgrounds have close quarters between sites. "The campgrounds were nice but all campsites were too close to each other," notes Sri G. about Highlands Hammock. Another camper adds, "We were there Christmas of 2020. Fantastic hiking trails. We would stay there again."
Road accessibility challenges: Access roads to primitive camping areas may present difficulties. "The drive is very rough due to teenagers mudding out there," warns a visitor to Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Off-season advantages: Lower occupancy during non-peak times improves the camping experience. "Holiday weekends are insane and busy. Get reservations... Enjoy the Tram and Hammock Loop, wow!" advises James L.
Combined tent/RV areas: Some campgrounds near Nalcrest mix tent and RV campers. "It was our first trip in our new RV but have been tent camping there before," shares a Highlands Hammock visitor, highlighting the park's versatility for different camping styles.
