Tent camping near Oldsmar, Florida offers access to a mixture of subtropical coastal and inland ecosystems, with elevations generally below 50 feet above sea level. The region experiences high humidity levels from May through October, with afternoon thunderstorms common during summer months. Water table fluctuations significantly impact ground conditions at campsites during the rainy season, often causing pooling even at sites that appear well-drained.
What to Do
Paddle the river systems: At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, visitors can explore Florida's unique waterways. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," notes Billie S. The park offers canoe rentals for exploring the river's gentle current.
View native wildlife: The parks around Oldsmar provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "Tons of wildlife," says Bryan about Hillsborough River State Park. Campers regularly spot wading birds, turtles, small mammals, and occasionally alligators in the early morning hours.
Mountain biking: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features miles of biking trails. "Large, beautiful campground with miles of trails, natural and paved for cycling," mentions Tim L. The park maintains separate trail systems for different skill levels, with trail maps available at the ranger station.
What Campers Like
Proximity to urban attractions: Many campers appreciate how close camping options are to urban amenities. "The campground is also not far from some big cities, such as Tampa and St. Pete, which is convenient," shares Rebecca A. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Hammock camping opportunities: The mature tree canopy at several parks provides excellent hammock camping options. "Nice campsites, clean bathrooms, friendly campers. The windshield placard they say don't hang things from trees, however the parks website says it's fine if you're hanging a hammock with 1" thick webbing," explains Jake H.
Evening firefly displays: Crooked River Campground offers unique nighttime experiences. "At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy," reports a camper. These displays are most common during spring months when temperatures remain moderate.
What You Should Know
Summer insect activity: Mosquitoes are a major consideration during warmer months. "The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June. We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them," warns Jason D. Campers should bring strong repellent and consider camping during cooler months.
Campsite privacy varies significantly: Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers sites with varying levels of seclusion. "I felt that the spaces in the back loop were a little more secluded and were really nice because they were closer to the water," mentions Elliott B. Sites numbered in the high 20s tend to offer more separation from neighbors.
Flooding risks: Low-lying areas can flood quickly during rain events. About Crooked River Campground, one camper noted, "It flooded very quickly during the few thunderstorms we experienced and there was some poison ivy in an easy to run into area."
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Terry Tomalin Campground provides family-friendly water access. "This place was newly renovated for guest to stay. The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren't too close to other campers. The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost," shares Caleb H.
Park educational programs: Several parks offer ranger-led programs specifically for children. "Nature education center for children. Playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers," notes a visitor to Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park. These programs typically run on weekends and require no advance registration.
Campsite selection for kids: Choose sites with adequate play space. "The site was spacious. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," explains Lorilee S. about her stay at Hillsborough River State Park. Sites near bathhouses are recommended for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Power availability: Power options vary widely between campgrounds. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks," reports Gail W. after staying at Hillsborough River State Park.
Seasonal crowds: Crews Lake Wilderness Park experiences significant seasonal variation in visitation. "Love this place so nice and peaceful!" mentions one camper, though many reviewers note weekends during winter months (January-March) can be extremely crowded with seasonal visitors.
Site access limitations: Many campsites have restrictions on vehicle size and RV length. "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites," warns a visitor to Hillsborough River State Park, highlighting the importance of checking site dimensions before booking.
