Washburn Equestrian Area and Primitive Campground offers dedicated facilities for riders and their horses across 18 miles of trails. Located within the Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve, this equestrian camping area connects to the Oak Ridge Equestrian Area trail network. The campground maintains non-potable water facilities and an ADA-compliant portable toilet. Access from Morris Bridge Road provides a relatively natural setting while remaining accessible for horse trailers and camping equipment.
What to do
Trail riding through diverse ecosystems: Oak Ridge Primitive Campground provides access to over 16 miles of equestrian and hiking trails throughout the Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve. "We stayed here for 7 days. Nice free area with a gate that is locked to keep those without reservations out. Plenty of room for tent or RV camping. No hookups or dumpsites. There is a pump well for non potable water and a port a potty on site. Miles of trails and plenty of space to explore," notes Annie C.
Mountain biking on varied terrain: Alafia River State Park Campground offers renowned mountain biking trails built on former phosphate mining land. "This park is close to home for me, I come here often for the Mountain Biking and the awesome humans. The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here," says Jennifer T. The park's unique topography creates challenging elevation changes unusual for Florida.
Paddling the waterways: Little Manatee River State Park Campground provides access to gentle river paddling opportunities. "Great little campground, clean with good natural foliage dividers between campsites. Nice walking trails, & a gentle river for an easy paddle," reports Nicole D. Canoe rentals are available on-site for exploring the river.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the natural vegetation separating campsites at Little Manatee River. "Really enjoyed our stay here, good size lot, #10, with electric, water, picnic table and fire ring. Clean dump station. Natural trees providing privacy between lots," shares Patti D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Colt Creek State Park Campground offers excellent wildlife spotting. "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," reports Barbara A. The park's diverse ecosystems support various native Florida species.
Clean facilities: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park maintains well-kept camping areas. "Starkey's Campground has everything you could want or need. Friendly staff, plenty of critters, and beautiful trails to walk," notes Shaun C. The park offers both tent camping and primitive cabins with accessible facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most horse campgrounds near Lamont, Florida require advance reservations. At Serenova Tract Campsites, "Need a reservation, there are just a handful of sites. Each has a fire ring and a table. Locked gate (you need a code they give you in your reservation confirmation) dirt road, easily accessible by motorcycle/car," advises Hootmon H.
Water availability: Non-potable water is common at equestrian facilities, but drinking water is limited. "This campground is very peaceful and clean. It has 1 vault toilet that is decent but never had any TP for the 5 days I stayed so I assume it's not checked regularly. There's non potable water and 2 really nice shelters for picnics or gatherings," reports Abby M. about Serenova Tract.
Weather considerations: Florida's climate affects camping comfort significantly. "Not many sites are shaded at all and because of the quarry and stagnant water the mosquitoes were RIDICULOUS! Probably worst mosquitoes in 30 years of camping," warns AJ G. about Alafia River State Park. Summer months bring intense heat, humidity, and insects.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible facilities: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin. I've camped here with my 4/5 year old boys and our Cub Scout pack," shares Melanie B.
Educational opportunities: Colt Creek State Park provides nature exploration for children. "There are 4 lakes (no swimming) on the property kayak/canoe rentals, nice fishing areas and a dock. Lots of wildlife. Great for biking as well," notes Jeanene A. Rangers often offer programs about local ecosystems.
Proximity to supplies: Some equestrian campgrounds near Lamont offer convenient access to necessities. "There's a Publix just across the street and a gas station not even half a mile down the road. Super easy to get to and short drive down a dirt road," reports Abby M. about Serenova Tract, making forgotten items easily replaceable.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes and layouts: Colt Creek State Park accommodates various RV sizes. "Camp spots are big, flat with gravel parking areas. Power and water on each site for RV camping. Nicer (newer) bathrooms than most FL state parks," notes SanDal B. Level sites minimize setup time for larger rigs.
Hookup options: Little Manatee River provides necessary RV amenities. "This has been our first park Campground and couldn't ask for a better one to start with. The fire ring was clean as well as the RV spot. Rangers were very helpful getting us around and renting the canoes. Very private and spacious spot for Big Rigs as well as the medium size," shares Ronald H.
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly between campgrounds. "We love this place. The long and windy ride in gives you a trip back to some real Florida. The campground is well maintained and has large, level sites. We have stayed in site 1 and 11 and didn't need blocks for either," states Joe R. about Colt Creek State Park.
