Camping near New Port Richey sits along Florida's Gulf Coast at elevations averaging just 20 feet above sea level. The region experiences subtropical weather with year-round temperatures ranging from 50°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Most campgrounds in the area offer shaded sites to combat the intense Florida heat, particularly important for pet owners during summer months when ground temperatures can exceed 100°F.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Fort De Soto Campground offers access to a historic fort with interesting architecture and informative displays. "Great park with days worth of activities! The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit! Tons of wildlife - we saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!" notes reviewer Brennan H.
Waterfront activities: Hickory Point RV Park provides direct access to the Anclote River with boat launches. "We had a waterfront site, great campground. Spendy but worth it. Has boat launch, waterfront community area, volleyball, small beach, dock, etc. Short drive from downtown Tarpon Springs and several beaches," writes Elgin S.
Hiking natural terrain: Serenova Tract Campsites features extensive hiking trails through native Florida landscapes. "Lots and lots of hiking options in this huge area," reports Hootmon H., while Brett D. adds, "Very private, great views and the neighboring campers were very respectful! Not much in terms of single track for mountain biking, however we had fun exploring the dirt roads in our Forester."
What campers like
Quiet waterfront spaces: Campers appreciate the secluded waterfront spots at Fort De Soto. "We had expected a much further walk based on the map, but it was just a 1 minute walk. We had neighbors on both sides and across (this place always sells out) and it was still fairly secluded," writes Joe R.
Well-maintained facilities: Bay Bayou RV Resort receives praise for its cleanliness. "The park is super clean, the landscaping is well maintained. There's a place to fish, a place to chill on the dock and not fish, trees are everywhere and lots of random wildlife roaming around," notes Mike W.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities at multiple pet-friendly camping locations. At Hillsborough River State Park, "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy," writes Jason D., while another camper at Bay Bayou mentions "lots of random wildlife roaming around."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near New Port Richey require advance booking. For Hillsborough River State Park, one reviewer suggests "Note that they do start booking 6 months out and open up 10% of the sites for the weekend each friday at 7am if you want to try and get lucky."
Seasonal insect challenges: Summer months bring heavy mosquito activity at most locations. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. about Hillsborough River State Park, while Jason D. adds, "Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June."
Flooding concerns: Rain can affect campsite conditions. At Serenova Tract, Brett D. warns, "Be mindful of going after/during a good rain, it floods pretty easily," a consideration for pet owners who need dry ground for their animals.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Caladesi RV Park offers family-friendly features close to attractions. "The pool is clean and clear and that works for me. Also, the manager is always around greeting people and doing things around the park so the grounds are nice and tidy," shares Ron D., while another reviewer notes "The Pinellas bike trail is also located right behind the park and easy to get on."
Consider site spacing: Family groups need adequate space between sites. Diana M. at Caladesi reports, "The sites are spaced out far from each other which was great! I have travelled to a lot of parks That have sites right on top of one another."
Plan for heat protection: The Florida sun can be intense for children and pets. Fort De Soto offers good shade coverage: "There was plenty of shade, but also plenty of sunshine when you wanted it. They did a great job at keeping a lot of natural growth to maintain privacy and a true tropical feel."
Tips from RVers
Choose sites strategically: At Encore Holiday Travel Park, location within the park matters. Zachary J. advises, "30ft max. Full hookups. The park is in a bad part of town," and adds, "Located right on U.S. 19 so don't expect quiet," important for RVers with noise-sensitive pets.
Site surface considerations: Different parks have varying pad types. Bay Bayou RV Resort sites have concrete pads, while Kevin at Caladesi RV Park notes, "Decent size spot with stone drive and cement patio."
Check hookup locations: RVers should verify utility placement before setting up. Kurtess R. at Barrington Hills had an issue: "When we arrived our spot was next to a mobile permanent home and we couldn't find our hook ups. The mobile home owners were trying to say there was none... The workers came and the neighbor had cover up the spot in the grass for the sewer."
