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ScoutButtonwood Inlet RV Resort
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Camping near Ona, FL
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Central Florida's Hardee County region surrounding Ona features several established campgrounds with diverse accommodation options. Peace River RV and Camping Resort in Wauchula offers tent, RV, cabin, and glamping options with full hookups and river access. Hardee Lakes Park in Bowling Green provides tent, RV, and cabin camping around reclaimed phosphate mine lakes. Peace River Campground in Arcadia supports tent camping, RVs, glamping, and yurts with riverside sites. The area's campgrounds typically feature water access, with Peace River Banks Backcountry offering primitive boat-in camping for those seeking a more remote experience.
Camping in this region operates year-round, though summer brings hot, humid conditions and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Many campgrounds maintain full operations during winter months when temperatures are mild and rainfall is minimal. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for developed sites with hookups during the winter season when snowbirds migrate to Florida. Most established campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, with several offering full sewer connections for extended stays. Flooding can affect riverside camping areas during heavy rain periods. One visitor noted, "The park is quiet at night even though it's close to Highway 27. Our AT&T hotspot was strong as well as our T-Mobile telephone."
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Ona area, with several campgrounds situated along Peace River and various lakes. Campers frequently mention wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly alligators, wading birds, and turtles. Hardee Lakes Park receives consistently positive reviews for its secluded setting and well-maintained facilities. As one camper described it: "This is reclaimed land from an old phosphate mine. The mine was closed 20 years ago and the land was reclaimed and turned into a beautified park and campground. The trees have had time to mature." Pioneer Park and Peace River campgrounds offer convenient access to local attractions while maintaining a natural setting. Most developed campgrounds in the region provide showers, restrooms, and picnic facilities, though amenities vary significantly between primitive and fully-developed sites.
Best Campgrounds near Ona (230)
1. Thousand Trails Peace River
"A nice campground in south-central Florida. Campsites are close together but enough room to park trailer and tow vehicle. Most sites have some shade trees. Beware of low grassy areas after a rain."
"Camping next to the river with our adult kids and the grandkids, good bicycle paths walking trails, canoeing fishing and actually quite in the evenings on the eastern side of the grounds, everything is"
2. Hardee Lakes Park
"There are four lakes, campsites are located on one of the bigger lakes. Like all parks some site are better than others, none are bad. We had the end site on the lake that was very private."
"I was excited to discover all these primitive wites with water are right on the lake."
from $25 - $28 / night
Check Availability3. Peace River Campground
"This campground was easy to get to and has lots to do near by. There is the town of Arcadia nearby with local history and restaurants if you feel like a hot meal on a rainy night."
"ThisThis is a great Campground just outside of Arcadia Florida. It has ATV trails and fossilized shark tooth hunting. it has a Wilderness Area as well as developed the campground area."
from $16 - $80 / night
Check Availability4. Highlands Hammock State Park Campground
"There is a picnic table and fire ring at each site and there is a toilet nearby. For showers you have to drive to the regular campground and use theirs. You can purchase firewood in the park as well."
"There are many short loop trails that take you through many ecosystems, giant trees at sizes few have seen before, lots of wildlife to."
from $18 - $22 / night
Check Availability5. Pioneer Park
"I was staying across the Street at 1000 trails, and I thought I would come over here and look at the old locomotive and the log cabin, etc."
"This location is at one of the most unpredictable water level spots along the Peace River - this is not the wide deep Peace River you will find further south, but it is a very popular location for the"
from $15 - $23 / night
Check Availability6. Brownville Park
"Amazing park, clean, and easy access to the river for fossil hunting. Great family camping adventure. This is a great hidden gem!"
"So close to the river!"
7. Lake Manatee State Park Campground
"Was bordered by the camp road and the bike/walking path so often noisy with no sense of privacy. Bad mosquitoes, but to be expected."
"If you’re looking for a place to camp on the west coast of Florida that is quiet and has campsites that give you privacy, Lake Manatee State Park is a great choice."
from $22 / night
Check Availability8. Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park
"Hidden cabins, hiking, off-road biking, boating, wildlife...so much beauty and activities to enjoy in this park! The cabins are off the main path, tucked away and private."
"One of the largest state parks in Florida. This great Park has full and partial hook ups for all styles of camping to include hammock camping."
from $26 / night
Check Availability9. Little Charlie Creek RV Park
"Very close to Walmart! I even had a package delivered here!"
10. Alafia River State Park Campground
"Widely known in Florida for the mountain bike trails. Not much else to do in the area, but very nice space to chill out. The night sky is far enough away that you can really take in the stars."
"For Florida this is a great campsite especially for me because it's so close overall a great place for any activity"
from $22 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 36 min from Sebring, FL
- 51 min from Lakeland, FL
- 53 min from Punta Gorda, FL
- 55 min from North Port, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Ona, FL
147 Photos of 230 Ona Campgrounds
Jeanene A.
Pioneer Park
Andrea D.
Thousand Trails Peace River
Paul M.
Hardee Lakes Park
B M.
Brownville Park
RootsMg
Cross Creek Country Club & RV Resort
Jeanene A.
Oak Hill Campground - Peace River
Kasey K.
Peace River Campground
Ari A.
Highlands Hammock State Park Campground
Jeanene A.
Crowley Museum and Nature Center Group Camp
Jennifer T.
Alafia River State Park Campground
Kathie E.
Lake Manatee State Park Campground
Deven V.
Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park
Recent Reviews near Ona, FL
780 Reviews of 230 Ona Campgrounds
Joe F.ScoutTropical Acres RV Park & Storage
Nor the host was extremely unprofessional and disrespectful
The host Nor treated me like trash. He mandates you leave a lock off of your hitch so he can move your Rv around as needed. Mind you I was going to be paying for a reserved spot on the property paying a monthly rate. When I inquired more about their policy to see if they damaged my Rv while moving it would it be covered by them for the repairs of damages. My reservation was then automatically canceled for no reason and Nor only gave me a partial refund for my booking. He is very rude and unprofessional. There are also other reviews in the neighbor app stating damages happened while moving someone's rv and he refused to take accountability or finance the repairs for that customer. Hints the reason I was wanting clarification on the matter. Instead of providing it he decided to cancel my reservation and tried to beat me out of my deposit. Dont bring your RV here for storage it is a huge risk!
Buddy M.ScoutLower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
Love this place
Good clean site.
Jeanene A.
LegendTerry Tomalin Campground
We had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground
We had a wonderful experience at the 4-year-old Terry Tomalin Campground! The tent sites are spacious and nicely spread out, giving you plenty of room to set up camp without feeling crowded by your neighbors. The campground has a peaceful, natural atmosphere that makes it easy to relax and enjoy being outdoors. There are 6 cabins also available with electric– no ac.
One of the things that really impressed us was the bathroom facilities. The restrooms and showers were very clean and well-maintained, which makes a huge difference when you’re tent camping. It was great to be able to enjoy a more primitive camping experience without giving up the convenience of a nice bathroom and shower.
The location next to Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is what really makes this campground special. Campers have access to the preserve’s pedestrian trails, making it easy to spend time exploring nature and then return to your campsite to relax.
Overall, Terry Tomalin Campground is a hidden gem in St. Petersburg and a fantastic place for anyone who enjoys tent camping and being surrounded by nature. We would definitely stay here again!
Notes: Only open on weekends, no pets, strict rules against vaping and alcoholic beverages. This location is very busy in the summertime as there are not many camping options in the area. Large group fire pits (not at each site)
Mark T.ScoutResort at Canopy Oaks
Dissapointing
Booked about a week ahead, at that time tgere were 147 sites available. It shows you what is available to pick from. I picked one in the low 400's...I think it was 405, because one on each side was empty. Fast forward to the day before I get an email about virtual check in. However it states I am in the mid 100's....so I call and inquire. At the time of the call there were 109 sites vacant. The girl proceeds to tell me if you dont pay a$50 lock fee. They can move me at their discretion. So I got moved....additionally, got here an hour early and had to pay$25 early check in. 109 empty spots and the pool is like a carnival cruise pool....SLAMMED! Only 2 small comfort stations. No shade to be found. We are here now, and this may well get updated for a vetter rating...or worse, who knows. But it seems like a resort that will nickel and dime you to death. And moving someone who booked, and paid in full is some shady shit...
Celeste A.
TravelerLake Manatee State Park Campground
Campground Stay
The bathrooms are rather hot at any time of the day, but they are clean. One of the showers doesn’t work but there is no sign posted. 30 sites for 1 bathroom/ bathhouse so showering at night may take longer than usual. The campground isn’t too shady, but the Day Use Rec Area is nice and has a small play ground. However, if you’re looking to cool off in the lake, think again. It’s very warm water and there is a caution sign about green blue algae being possibly present in the waters. Lots of squirrels and ants
- Celeste A.Traveler
Oscar Scherer State Park Campground
Campground Review
Some bathrooms are better than others, but they are useable and spacious nonetheless. The spaces are large and most have some shade. The water hookup is a bit far so you definitely need about 30ft+ for some. They have a lake, playgrounds, and easy trails. I’ve seen lots of wildlife here too!
- Bill L.Traveler
MacDill AFB FamCamp
Reputation as the #1 FamCamp in the MWR system
Active duty, retirees, disabled vets and some others are eligible. PX and commissary near the security gate. Campground check-in quick and efficient. Pick your site from what's available. $26/night with full hook-ups. Right on the Gulf, beautiful beach. Beach bar cafe adjacent to campground.
- RRhonda B.Traveler
Wilderness Shores Ranch & RV/Tent Campground
Old Florida meets Animal Safari
If you’re looking for an authentic “Old Florida” experience surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, this campground is truly something special. My husband and I brought our two grandchildren and daughter-in-law here for a family camping trip, and it exceeded every expectation we had.
The property is absolutely stunning — over 500 acres of peaceful scenery filled with lakes, wildlife, and beautiful open spaces. We spent time exploring on a four-wheeler and were amazed by everything we saw, from alligators and countless birds to longhorn steers, goats, and ducks roaming the grounds. It felt like stepping into a hidden slice of natural Florida paradise.
One of our favorite areas was the shaded grove of majestic oak trees with oversized swings where the children played and “hung out”. It created such a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere that made the entire trip feel magical.
The campground itself was extremely well maintained. The restrooms and showers were plentiful, spotless, and clearly cared for with attention to detail. It’s also exciting to see how much love and vision is being poured into the property. During our stay, they appeared to be expanding with what looks like a beautiful waterfront wedding venue complete with a gazebo and bridge — absolutely picturesque.
This was one of the most memorable family trips we’ve had in a long time. The combination of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, wildlife, and thoughtful amenities made for an unforgettable experience. We are already looking forward to returning.
Guide to Ona
Camping near Ona, Florida spans Hardee County and offers varied experiences from primitive riverside sites to full-hookup RV resorts. The area sits at relatively low elevation with numerous water bodies including the Peace River watershed and reclaimed phosphate mine lakes that now support wildlife. Campers find different terrain depending on location, with some areas featuring sandy soils and others having oak hammocks that provide shade during Florida's hot months.
What to do
Fossil hunting along Peace River: Peace River Campground provides access to popular fossil hunting spots where visitors can search for prehistoric artifacts. One camper reported, "I found a ton of shark teeth," while others make it a family activity with sifting equipment available at camp stores.
Wildlife viewing at lakes: Hardee Lakes Park features multiple lakes connected by trails. A visitor noted, "Trail system is great from dirt paths to boardwalks to cut straight through the woods," making it ideal for spotting local birds, deer, and aquatic wildlife.
Historical exploration: Pioneer Park in Zolfo Springs offers access to the Cracker Trail Museum and Wildlife Refuge. As one reviewer explains, "There are many buildings that can be rented for special events. For Pioneer Park building rentals, please call 863-473-5076. The phone number for the Museum is 863-473-5076."
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Thousand Trails Peace River earns praise for its natural setting. A camper described it as "Very Clean, Quiet and Very Helpful and Friendly Staff," highlighting the tranquility despite being relatively close to Highway 17.
Water activities: Peace River Campground offers multiple water-based recreation options. "Plenty of places to find a spot on the river to camp in the wilderness. Bring your rafts and canoes to float down the river or just hang out on the beach in your lawn chair and watch the fun!" one visitor shared.
Mature landscape: Reclaimed land at Hardee Lakes Park impresses visitors with its established ecosystem. A camper observed, "Lots of very nice trails around the lakes and surrounding woods. The trail's are wide and hard backed. We were able to ride our electric scoters on them easily."
What you should know
Site assignment systems: Some campgrounds use lottery systems for premium spots. At Peace River RV and Camping Resort, a camper explained, "They do a lottery no matter what time you arrive, first it was at noon, then moved to 1, then to 2. So everyone that arrived after you has the same chance to get a coveted full hook up site."
Water quality varies: Brownville Park and other locations may have sulfur-rich water. "The water is ripe with sulfur so it smells like eggs but no biggie," noted one visitor who otherwise enjoyed the camping experience.
Wildlife precautions: Alligators are common throughout the area, particularly in spring and summer. A camper at Peace River Campground warned, "If you haven't done your research the Peace River is full of alligators in the spring/summer time. They didn't bother us but they also didn't seem too afraid of us either."
Tips for camping with families
Recreational options: Highlands Hammock State Park Campground offers organized activities for families. "They also have lots of ranger-led activities like soup night, covered dish dinners, camper coffee, etc etc," one visitor mentioned.
Swimming considerations: Lake Manatee State Park offers swimming but requires vigilance. A visitor noted, "The pool was nice but had ALOT of frogs that didn't make it... I was told there was a turtle found once so look before you enter, they do clean it very often though!"
Educational opportunities: Peace River region has rich fossil hunting opportunities for children. A camper described, "The highlight of this park was collecting shark and sting ray teeth along the river. You can get wire mesh baskets in the office to aid in your search."
Tips from RVers
Flooding awareness: Peace River Banks Backcountry and riverside sites require monitoring water levels. "The Peace River runs north to south. Excellent backcountry camping between Zolpho Springs and Gardner. More camping down to Arcadia," explains one reviewer who recommends checking conditions before arrival.
Site selection strategy: For larger RVs at Peace River RV Resort, site choice matters. "We have seen Class As sink, so if you have a heavy diesel pusher, make sure you find a spot safe for your RV," advised one experienced camper, emphasizing the importance of checking ground conditions.
Voltage fluctuations: Some campgrounds experience electrical issues during peak usage. One camper at Peace River noted, "Watch the electricity during high usage the voltage drop, ours droped to 108v for a couple hours, i choose to run the gen during that time other then that no problems at all great faculty."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ona, FL?
What camping is available near Ona, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ona, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 230 campgrounds and RV parks near Ona, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Ona, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Ona, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ona, FL is Thousand Trails Peace River with a 4.1-star rating from 24 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ona, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ona, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Ona, FL.
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