Primitive camping near Gulfport, Florida requires visitors to prepare for high humidity and seasonal mosquito populations with summer temperatures regularly reaching above 90°F. The area features barrier islands with white sand beaches characterized by coastal grasses and mangroves rather than dense forest cover. These camping destinations typically experience afternoon thunderstorms from June through September, with lightning safety being an important consideration for summer campers.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: Shell Key Preserve offers exceptional bird watching with minimal light pollution for night sky photography. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," reports one Shell Key Preserve visitor.
Fishing excursions: The shallow flats surrounding the barrier islands provide excellent fishing grounds for experienced anglers. "Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE," notes a camper at Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground.
Foraging opportunities: Some barrier islands feature edible plants for knowledgeable foragers. "Tons of edible flora, and fishing of course. Plus, shell key is one of the very few places you are allowed to have a fire on the beach in FL," shares a Shell Key Preserve camper.
What campers like
Complete isolation after day visitors depart: Many island campsites become private retreats in the evening hours. "This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island," writes one Anclote Key camper. Another visitor notes, "Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves."
Star visibility: Without light pollution, these remote camping areas offer exceptional night sky viewing. "Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach," describes an Anclote Key visitor.
Ease of access for kayakers: Some island camping destinations near Gulfport can be reached with minimal paddling effort. "Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there. One of the easiest island paddles out there - just a little over a mile," explains a Shell Key Preserve camper.
What you should know
Weather restrictions: Island camping may be prohibited during adverse conditions. "Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight," explains an Anclote Key camper.
Waste management requirements: All campers must adhere to strict waste disposal protocols. "There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash," notes an Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground visitor.
Food storage considerations: Wildlife may attempt to access food supplies. "Make sure all food is secured (we anchored our boat with provisions on board a bit off shore and swam in to no risk raccoons getting into gear as it was a calm night with clear weather)," advises an Anclote Key camper.
Tips for camping with families
Prepare for limited shade: Most island camping areas have minimal tree coverage. "Nice open area for camping (although there are no specifically cleared sites) so you do need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect your tent," cautions a Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area visitor.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially during summer months. "Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer," warns an Anclote Key camper.
Consider seasonal timing: Some locations offer better camping conditions during specific months. "No skeeters in October," notes an Anclote Key visitor, suggesting fall camping may provide more comfortable conditions for families.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most primitive camping near Gulfport requires boat access, but mainland alternatives exist for RVers. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings," describes a visitor at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area.
Verify reservation status: Some primitive camping areas may appear vacant despite online booking information. "Didn't run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out," reports an Upper Hillsborough camper.
Plan for complete self-sufficiency: Mainland primitive camping areas have minimal facilities. "There is a porta-potty, but I didn't check it out, so I'm not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren't so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising," notes an Upper Hillsborough visitor.
