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Camping near Palm Harbor, FL
222 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Palm Harbor, Florida's camping landscape includes established campgrounds and RV resorts within a short distance of beaches and water access. Caladesi RV Park and Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA provide full-hookup sites for RVs with amenities like swimming pools and showers, while also accommodating tent campers at select locations. Most camping options concentrate along coastal areas, with Fort De Soto Campground and Anclote Key Preserve State Park offering boat-in camping opportunities approximately 20-30 minutes from Palm Harbor.
Several campgrounds in the area feature paved or gravel sites with water and electric hookups, though prices tend to be higher than state averages. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially during winter months when seasonal residents ("snowbirds") fill many parks to capacity. The region experiences hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through September, while winter provides milder temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Many parks maintain strict pet policies and quiet hours. According to one visitor, "The location is awesome, Clearwater right down the road, best pizza ever nearby. Grocery store and everything you need is right there."
Campers report high satisfaction with the proximity to beaches, bicycle trails, and urban amenities. The Pinellas Trail, accessible from multiple campgrounds, provides miles of paved path for walking and cycling. RV parks like Bay Bayou RV Resort and Hickory Point RV Park cater primarily to older visitors, with many operating as 55+ communities during peak season. Sites generally provide limited privacy between neighbors, with most parks featuring compact spacing. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, many campers appreciate the clean facilities despite the close quarters: "The grounds and the pool are kept up, lots of shade in the park, friendly neighbors, convenient area to live in, Pinellas hiking trail, good schools, etc." Water-based activities remain the primary draw, with most visitors using campgrounds as a base for exploring nearby beaches rather than for the camping experience itself.
Best Campgrounds near Palm Harbor (222)
1. Caladesi RV Park
"Decent size spot with stone drive and cement patio. Bathrooms and showers are kept clean. Nice laundry facilities with area to play cards if you wanted. Pool area is nice with shade spots."
"I stayed two weeks here with my dog and loved the location— great bike access to nearby trails and easy drives to Honeymoon Island."
from $45 - $75 / night
Check Availability2. Fort De Soto Campground
"As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."
"Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."
from $38 - $48 / night
Check Availability3. Clearwater / Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday
"We camped at Clearwater/ Lake Tarpon KOA Holiday in a Fifth Wheel."
from $45 - $120 / night
Check Availability4. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday
"Petersburg/Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, and I’m excited to share my positive review! I’ve hosted friends in their Deluxe Cabins before, and they were thoroughly impressed."
"It has all of the amenities you would ever want and is so close to Florida beaches. Pool, hot tub, store, workout room, fishing and kayaking and lots more to do right in the park."
5. Hickory Point RV Park
"It’s Florida so it’s a tight fit in every spot. The staff we’ve met so far have been very friendly and helpful. It’s close to a lot of fun places to go and great beaches to see."
"They have beach chairs near the water and a fire pit that they lit every evening near sunset. In addition to the Bark Park area, there is a nice wooded area where you can walk your dog as well. "
6. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
"Great get away in west-central Florida as a day trip or long weekend stay.
We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer.""3.2 mile hike through mostly open Florida pine forest with the occasional swamp. Perfect time of year to come. Site has great shade and opens up at the fire pit for great star gazing."
7. Caladesi Island State Park Campground
"One of the last undeveloped barrier islands in Florida. It's around 650 acres with tons of boardwalks and hiking."
"Next to honeymoon island state park and just south of anclote Boat camping ONLY — tents/Rvs are not permitted.
First come/first serve boat slips, pet friendly (yay for dogs)"
from $24 / night
Check Availability8. Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
"Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves. Camping is definitely pack in pack out."
"Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island."
9. Bay Bayou RV Resort
"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. Staff has been super friendly too."
10. Encore Holiday Travel Park
"Florida has a homeless population - that's sad, but if you want them to hide because they ruin your illusion that everyone lives your privileged life - you're the problem."
Drive Time
- 32 min from Tampa, FL
- 1 hr 3 min from Homosassa Springs, FL
- 1 hr 3 min from Lakeland, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Palm Harbor, FL
240 Photos of 222 Palm Harbor Campgrounds
Amanda B.
Caladesi RV Park
Dan X.
Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
Jeanene A.
Lake Rogers Park
Shaun C.
Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
Lawrence Robert T.
St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday
Adam W.
St Pete Get a Way Spot
Derick B.
Encore Winter Quarters Pasco
Steve S.
Serenova Tract Campsites
Elliott B.
Cypress Creek Preserve
Becky M.
Terry Tomalin Campground
Tom&Jennifer D.
MacDill AFB FamCamp
Eric E.
Island Retreat Florida
Recent Reviews near Palm Harbor, FL
920 Reviews of 222 Palm Harbor Campgrounds
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)
Stuart K.LegendShell Key Preserve
A Deserted Island Escape Worth the Effort
Arriving at Shell Key feels like stepping off the grid, and that sense of removal is exactly what makes it so special. Accessible only by kayak, paddleboard, boat or ferry from nearby Fort DeSoto State Park, this barrier island preserve greets you with white powder sugary sand, shallow turquoise water and a quiet, calm stillness that is best described as reverent. I camped here with my older brother Matt, who fled-20 degree Chicago winter weather with his expert camera gear in tow in order to spend a week here with me. From the moment we beached our kayaks, it was clear this was going to be something special.
Shell Key is as primitive as coastal camping gets, with no facilities, no freshwater and absolutely no developed campsites, just open stretches of sand where you carefully choose a high, wind-protected spot above the tide line. Camping is limited and regulated to protect the preserve and the experience is intentionally minimalist, which keeps crowds at bay and the island feeling truly wild. You pack in everything, pack out everything and rely on common sense, weather awareness as well as respect for nesting zones for turtles and waterfowl clearly marked along the beach.
What makes Shell Key extraordinary is its birdlife. Matt spent hours crouched low with his telescopic lens while I played spotter and together we photographed an incredible range of species, including brown pelicans, great blue herons, snowy egrets, roseate spoonbills, reddish egrets, ospreys, black skimmers, willets, least terns, royal terns, but the prize? Black-masked parrots that call this isle home. Dolphins cruised just offshore while rays ghosted through the shallows and every turn of the shoreline revealed another pocket of life, including the oversized snow white pelicans that seem to guard this oasis. The paddle over from Fort DeSoto was not what I would call calm, with a series of rollicking waves between the stretch where North Beach ended and Shell Key began, although the entire journey was scenic, with views back toward the Skyway Bridge and plenty of chances to stop, float, and soak it all in.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a handful: (1) Plan your paddle with tides and wind in mind, as the crossing is straightforward in calm conditions but can feel much longer with chop – and don’t forget that you’ll have to cross some designated shipping lanes, where the currents are strong; (2) Bring a lightweight kayak cart or be prepared for soft sand landings when fully loaded; (3) Set camp well above the high tide line and away from posted bird nesting areas; (4) Dawn and dusk are prime times for bird photography when the light is nothing short of spectacular; (5) As a survivalist, everywhere I camp, I prepare to fish or hunt for my meal, so here, you’ll have decent fishing, but the gem on Shell Key is the abundance of crabs, both large and small - so bring a spear or fishnet if you hope to catch any; and (6) There are ABSOLUTELY no amenities on Shell Key (not even a trash can), so stock up at Fort DeSoto before launching, including water, sun protection, and extra batteries for cameras and headlamps.
Happy Camping!
Dajah B.
TravelerFind Out Farms
Beautiful and peaceful
It's very peaceful. Chickens roam free and we were able to see cows and get farm fresh eggs. 50 AMP and water connections, I saw reviews about the road being bumpy but we didn't have that experience. Everything was smooth. 10/10.
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
- LLaura H.
GuideFort De Soto Campground
Crowded but worth it
Day 1 we had electrical issues. Thanks to park rangers we were relocated and our vacation resumed. Great beach!
- Dylan M.Scout
Camp Nebraska RV Park
Camp Nebraska Tampa FL 33612
The park itself is very nice not much amenities besides bathroom and shower building and the nearby area is not that good , its relatively safe but its just a lot of homeless nearby an its just not a nice area at all to walk around during the day or night its a shame. But the park itself keeps you very protected from that ive never had a issue for over 7 months being here
- 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.
- ccraig D.Scout
Seven Sisters Campground
Stumpy
Nice campground but with only one bathroom and one shower for men. So you may have to wait in line
Guide to Palm Harbor
Palm Harbor camping options extend beyond the nearby established RV parks, with several boat-in camping opportunities and wilderness parks available within 30 miles. The area sits in a subtropical climate zone with average temperatures ranging from 70-90°F during summer camping season and cooler 50-65°F winter nights. Rainfall averages 52 inches annually with the driest camping months from October through May, making these months ideal for overnight stays near the water.
What to do
Kayaking through mangroves: Access the extensive mangrove tunnels from Anclote Key Preserve State Park, located about 25 minutes north of Palm Harbor. This primitive island camping experience requires bringing all supplies by boat. "We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak. During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves," explains Kaitlin B.
Nature hiking and wildlife observation: The wilderness preserves near Palm Harbor offer extensive trail systems for spotting local wildlife. "We spent the day hiking the numerous off-road trails and enjoying some of the amenities the park has to offer. The park has separate primitive tent, car-camping (tent) and cabin campgrounds near the entrance of the park along with over 50 miles of biking, hiking, nature as well as equestrian trails to enjoy," says Steve S. about his experience at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Beach exploration and swimming: The beaches near Palm Harbor campgrounds attract many visitors for their accessibility and water quality. The Fort De Soto Campground offers direct beach access. "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!" reports Brennan H.
What campers like
Water views from campsites: Many visitors specifically seek out waterfront sites for the views and water access. At Hickory Point RV Park, campers appreciate the direct water access. "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," shares Elgin S.
Shaded camping areas: The natural canopy at many campgrounds near Palm Harbor provides relief from the Florida sun. At the more primitive sites like those at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, the tree coverage creates comfortable camping conditions. "Primitive 1 is a heavily shaded and flat site with plenty of room and privacy. There is a picnic bench and a carved out tree for sitting, as well as a fire pit," notes Rich S.
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic settings, many campers praise the maintenance at area campgrounds. "Bathhouse very clean and nicely done. Doggie playground nice. They are still updating many of the sites but it is very nicely landscaped and clean. Workers very friendly and helpful. Pool was excellent," says Nancy I. about her stay at Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Many Palm Harbor area campgrounds fill quickly, particularly waterfront sites. Fort De Soto Campground operates a specific reservation system: "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," advises Joe R.
Site privacy considerations: Campsite spacing varies significantly between parks. "Site #14 is practically on top of 13 and 15 giving very little privacy," warns Shaun C. about his experience at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, while adding, "IF YOU ARE HOPING FOR PEACE AND QUIET, DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND."
Weather preparation: Florida's weather patterns affect camping comfort substantially. Prepare for heat, humidity, and insects. "If you are looking for a bit of a spook, I highly suggest walking this at night time," says Shaun C. about trails at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, while another camper at Anclote Key advises: "Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated family areas: Some campgrounds near Palm Harbor have specific family-friendly zones with amenities for children. "The playground is amazing with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," notes Joe R. about St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs specifically designed for younger campers. "Nature education center for children. Playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers. Large group bon fire pits and cabins for rent," mentions Tim L. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Water safety considerations: With so many water-adjacent sites, family campers should prepare accordingly. "We have an inflatable raft that we took out in the water. We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees," shares Joe R. about Fort De Soto, highlighting both the opportunities and need for supervision near water.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many campgrounds near Palm Harbor have limitations on RV size. "30ft max, full hookups. The park is in a bad part of town," warns Zachary J. about Encore Holiday Travel Park, providing important sizing information for potential visitors.
Age demographics: Many RV parks in the area cater to older crowds. "Packed in like sardines tho and there is a rules list a mile long and people WILL complain. But I did have a pretty good stay. Prices are fairly high," notes Steve D. about his experience at Bay Bayou RV Resort.
Site surface variations: RV sites in the Palm Harbor area can have different ground surfaces that affect leveling and comfort. "The roads are paved, but the sites are sandy, shelly gravel," reports Ray & Terri F. about Hickory Point RV Park, providing practical details for RV setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a KOA campground in Palm Harbor?
Is there a KOA campground in Palm Harbor?
Yes, Clearwater-Lake Tarpon KOA is located near Palm Harbor. This KOA offers drive-in access with reservable sites, water hookups, restroom facilities, and is big-rig friendly. It provides a convenient base for exploring the Palm Harbor and Clearwater area while enjoying typical KOA amenities and services. The location offers easy access to local attractions while maintaining the family-friendly camping experience KOAs are known for.
What are the best campgrounds in Palm Harbor, FL?
What are the best campgrounds in Palm Harbor, FL?
While Palm Harbor itself has limited camping options, several excellent campgrounds are within easy driving distance. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is a top choice offering tent sites, cabins, and numerous hiking trails for a great weekend getaway. For a more primitive experience, Oak Ridge Primitive Campground provides well-maintained facilities in a natural setting. Both offer a peaceful retreat from city life while being close enough to Palm Harbor for convenience.
What beach camping options are available near Palm Harbor?
What beach camping options are available near Palm Harbor?
For beach camping near Palm Harbor, Shell Key Preserve is a standout option accessible only by water. This pristine area offers incredible wildlife viewing with sightings of stingrays, turtles, and numerous bird species. Reservations are required, and note that pets and alcohol are prohibited. Fort De Soto Campground is another excellent choice, providing waterfront camping with convenient beach access. For a boat-in experience, consider Caladesi Island State Park for its unspoiled beaches and natural setting.
Are there any RV parks in Palm Harbor with full hookups?
Are there any RV parks in Palm Harbor with full hookups?
Cedars Lake MH & RV Park in nearby Old Homosassa offers full hookups in a charming setting. Sites are situated around a small pond under large oak canopies with friendly full-time residents and helpful on-site management. Another option is Encore Terra Ceia in Palmetto, which is pet-friendly and provides easy access to Tampa, Sarasota, and Gulf beaches. For those willing to travel a short distance, Hickory Point RV Park near Tarpon Springs also offers full-service sites with all the amenities RV campers need.
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