Tent campsites near Palmetto, Florida offer diverse primitive camping options on both small water bodies and larger conservation areas. Most sites cluster along rivers like the Alafia and Hillsborough, providing opportunities for water activities during Florida's consistently warm climate. Several locations require advance permits or have specific camping restrictions unique to Florida's delicate ecosystem.
What to do
Paddling adventures: At Island Retreat Florida, campers access tent sites by boat only. "This island adventure includes camping and water activities at its finest. Whether you relax and take in the breeze on the island with a book, venture out to Beer Can Island, or paddle in dinner and drinks at the Bar/Restaurant across the river, you are guaranteed to have a nice time," notes Eric E.
Archery practice: Lake Park provides dedicated archery facilities for tent campers. "This park has a really great walking trail around a lake with exercise stations. I've seen some horses on the trails also. There's a cool BMX and rc car track too!" explains Robin M.
Wildlife viewing: The Alafia River Corridor Nature Preserve offers peaceful settings for spotting local species. "The trails wind through beautiful natural scenery, and the quiet surroundings make it perfect for a relaxing hike. It's a great place to slow down, take in the fresh air, and enjoy the simple beauty of nature," says Zackary C.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Tent camping areas at Hillsborough River State Park Campground maintain well-kept bathrooms. "To start with, the state park employees were fantastic!! Our site was spacious. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night. Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus!" reports Lorilee S.
Firefly sightings: Specific tent camping spots offer unique nighttime displays. "A beautiful park that is a real taste of old Florida, with a campground that is completely shaded by oak trees. At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy," shares Jason D.
Water recreation: Many tent camping spots provide water-based activities. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens. Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites," says Billie S.
What you should know
Camping restrictions: Terry Tomalin Campground has specific rules for tent campers. "Please be aware that this is a very restrictive campground. You can only tent and you are not allowed to smoke anything, vape anything, drink anything alcoholic. If you do any of those things you won't want to be here," Kevin W. advises.
Site selection matters: When booking tent sites, location within campgrounds varies significantly. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places... and this is a bit peoply. That said it was very comfortable, everything was clean and super convenient," notes Gail W.
Weather preparedness: Florida's climate affects camping experiences year-round. "Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. 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," Jason D. warns.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Simple tent sites work well for first-time family campers. "I stayed with 3 adults and 3 children under the age of 8. We stayed two nights in 40-degree weather. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping! Super clean campsites and great easy trail out to the site," reports Katelynn L. about Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground.
Educational experiences: Several parks offer learning opportunities for children. "On the property you will enjoy goats, cracker horses, cracker cattle, pigs and other farm animals. Along with camping you can arrange a living history tour at an additional fee," explains Jeanene A. about group camping options.
Hammock camping: Some sites specifically accommodate hammock setups. "Nice campsites, clean bathrooms, friendly campers. The windshield placard they give you says 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," says Jake H.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing concerns: Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers tent sites that work for some smaller RVs. "We enjoyed a two night stay at site 28. This site is set deep from the road and can accommodate a large rig. Completely secluded from neighbors. Very quiet at night. 24hr access," Ryan notes.
Grocery proximity: RVers and tent campers appreciate nearby supplies. "Grocery stores within 2 miles which was great because the wife ran out of wine," Ryan mentions, highlighting the practical advantage of camping near civilization while still enjoying natural surroundings.
Off-peak timing: Avoid crowds by strategic scheduling at popular tent camping spots. "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs. The sites are nice and spacious, have really excellent tree coverage. 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. Overall, I'd try going back when it wasn't so busy," recommends Elliott B.
