Dispersed camping near New Port Richey, Florida concentrates on three primary locations within a 70-mile radius of the city. The region features subtropical climate with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 50°F. During hurricane season (June-November), camping availability may be restricted with little advance notice due to safety concerns.
What to do
Kayaking to camp: Reaching Shell Key Preserve requires paddling just over a mile from the Pinellas Byway area. "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," reports one camper.
Wildlife observation: The barrier islands host numerous bird species and marine life. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," notes a Shell Key visitor. Dolphin watching is particularly productive during early morning hours.
Nighttime stargazing: Limited light pollution on offshore islands creates exceptional astronomical viewing. At Anclote Key Preserve State Park, campers experience "the stars at night were endless" and enjoy "a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach."
What campers like
Island seclusion: Day visitors typically depart by late afternoon, leaving overnight campers with relative solitude. "During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves," notes a camper at Anclote Key.
Beach camping: Setting up directly on sandy shores creates a unique overnight experience. "Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves," explains a visitor to Anclote Key.
Fishing opportunities: The shallow waters surrounding barrier islands provide productive fishing grounds. "You can enjoy most water activities as well as what nature has to offer from bird and dolphin watching to fishing and hiking the almost 2 mile long island," says a Shell Key reviewer.
What you should know
Complete self-sufficiency required: No facilities means bringing everything needed. "You must carry in/out everything as there are no bathroom facilities available and all campers must bring a port-a-potty," advises a Shell Key camper.
Terrain challenges: Finding suitable tent sites can be difficult. "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," explains a Shell Key visitor.
Seasonal restrictions: Summer brings intense insects and heat to island locations. "Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer," warns an Anclote Key camper. Another notes: "No skeeters in October," suggesting fall camping may be more comfortable.
Mainland options limited: For those unable to access boat-in sites, Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers the closest land-based dispersed camping. "State maintained park with dispersed sites including picnic tables and fire rings!" reports a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Portable sanitation solutions: With no facilities on islands, families should bring portable toilet systems. "All campers must bring a port-a-potty," reminds a Shell Key review, making this essential for comfortable family camping.
Weather monitoring: Gulf weather changes rapidly. "Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight," notes an Anclote Key camper. Check marine forecasts 24 hours before departure.
Short overnight trips: For families new to primitive camping, single overnight stays work best. "Excellent weekend trip," suggests a Shell Key visitor regarding the accessibility and experience level required.
Tips from RVers
Upper Hillsborough access: Land-based dispersed camping accommodates smaller RVs with "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings." The site provides an alternative when boat camping isn't feasible.
Supply planning: No water sources exist at dispersed sites. "There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies," explains an Anclote Key visitor, emphasizing complete self-sufficiency for all camping methods.
