The Tampa Bay area combines coastal settings with inland forest preserves, creating varied camping environments around Palm Harbor. Winter temperatures average 60-75°F while summer brings 80-95°F with afternoon thunderstorms common between June and September. Waterfront campsites at several parks offer direct Gulf of Mexico or Tampa Bay water access, with primitive options available inland.
What to do
Kayaking with wildlife: Fort De Soto Campground offers exceptional paddling opportunities with diverse marine wildlife encounters. "We have stayed here many times... we always see Manatees there and lots of great areas to Kayak or paddle board. They rent kayaks here. When you kayak down the channel into Tampa Bay what a great view of Tampa, St. Petersburg and the Skyway bridge," says B.M.
Hiking on varied terrain: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features over 50 miles of trails for all skill levels. "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," notes Steve S. The park includes both paved and natural surface trails.
History exploration: Visit the historic fort at Fort De Soto Campground for a glimpse into Florida's coastal defense past. "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
Private waterfront sites: Many campers praise the waterfront spots at E.G. Simmons Regional Park. "We were in site 55 of the East CG which was right on the water where we launched our kayaks to paddle the canals amongst the Mangroves," shares Bran P. These sites provide direct water access for kayaking and fishing.
Spacious camping areas: Crews Lake Wilderness Park offers well-spaced sites for those seeking more room. "Love this place so nice and peaceful!" notes a reviewer, while another mentions, "Love this place so many trails." The park's layout gives campers more personal space than many Florida campgrounds.
Hammock-friendly sites: Hillsborough River State Park accommodates hammock camping with appropriate trees. "Nice campsites, clean bathrooms, friendly campers. The windshield placard they say don't hang things from the trees, however the parks website says it's fine if you're hanging a hammock with 1" thick webbing, and it's on a thick tree," explains Jake H.
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Bug protection is necessary at most parks in this region. At E.G. Simmons, one camper warns, "You really cannot stay outside at dusk. Citronella torches, spray, fans, Avon skin so soft...none of these work for the no-see-ums." Another adds, "Bring good bug spray lol."
Reservation requirements vary: Hillsborough River State Park requires advance planning, while E.G. Simmons operates first-come, first-served with a 14-day stay limit. For Fort De Soto, "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."
Gate hours and access codes: Check operating hours as some parks close gates early. For Cypress Creek Preserve, "First of all, locked gate. You have to make a free reservation to get the combination." At other parks, gates may close at sunset, affecting late arrivals or evening returns.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several parks provide playground facilities for children. At Fort De Soto, "There is a playground 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."
Educational opportunities: Terry Tomalin Campground offers learning experiences through nature programs. "This place was newly renovated for guests 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," advises Caleb H.
Yurt camping options: For families seeking a glamping experience near Palm Harbor, Florida, yurt accommodations provide comfort without full setup requirements. "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north. Being a Floridian, we've experienced FL's state parks and found them to offer privacy between sites," mentions Rick G. about Hillsborough River State Park, which offers yurt options.
Tips from RVers
Site surface considerations: Cypress Creek Preserve offers free primitive camping but with basic amenities. "We are in a 24' class C and found a nice private area that was surprisingly level. Trailers are accommodated at the equestrian campground. I suggest you arrive before dark as the road is a bit rough and narrow, with no light," advises Sue G.
Hookup availability: Most county and state parks offer water and electric but limited sewer connections. At Fort De Soto, one camper notes, "Electric and water. 2 dump sites on property. Good cell coverage with wifi at the office." This matches the pattern at most area campgrounds.
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. One camper at Cypress Creek shares, "There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse." Check maximum vehicle lengths before booking, especially for Class A motorhomes.
