Suzanna S.
Scout
ScoutHorseshoe Cove RV Resort
Horseshoe Cove
this place is nice they have their own private island can go fishing over there with no license nice Pier to walk across take your dog there and enjoy on the river
Camping near Pinellas Park, FL
197 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Pinellas Park serves as a central hub for diverse camping experiences along Florida's Gulf Coast, with options ranging from waterfront sites to urban RV parks. Fort De Soto Campground, located 15 miles south in St. Petersburg, offers waterfront camping with beach access and natural vegetation between sites. The St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday provides a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals within city limits. Shell Key Preserve, accessible only by boat, offers primitive camping for those seeking a more remote experience. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of amenities from basic to resort-style facilities.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the Pinellas Park area, particularly during winter months when seasonal visitors fill facilities. Fort De Soto Campground typically books six months in advance, with limited sites released weekly for last-minute travelers. Summer brings higher humidity and temperatures, along with increased insect activity, but also improved availability. As one camper noted, "It can get busy in season but the area is designed to accommodate the crowds except for the one lane road to and from." Hurricane season (June through November) may affect camping plans, with some facilities closing during severe weather warnings. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, though coverage may vary at boat-in sites.
Wildlife viewing ranks among the top experiences reported by campers in the Pinellas Park vicinity. At Fort De Soto, campers regularly spot dolphins, stingrays, and manatees from waterfront sites. The dense vegetation at many campgrounds provides natural privacy between sites while supporting diverse bird populations. Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly at dawn and dusk, with one reviewer recommending "mosquito nets and some spray" as essential gear. Bicycle and walking trails connect many campgrounds to beaches and natural areas. Traffic noise affects some campgrounds closer to major roads, while waterfront sites generally offer more peaceful surroundings. Most facilities maintain clean restrooms and showers, though water pressure and privacy vary considerably between locations.
Best Campgrounds near Pinellas Park (197)
1. Fort De Soto Campground
"Great cycling, paddling, walking, exploring, fishing, kiting, or anything you want to do."
"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."
from $38 - $48 / night
Check Availability2. 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."
3. 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 Availability4. E.G. Simmons Regional Park
"Nearly every campsite is right on the water - easy in and out for kayaks, large boat ramp and many picnic pavilions."
"Close to the boatramp. Raccoons can be annoying. Has picnic pavilions and several fishing docks"
from $24 / night
Check Availability5. Encore Vacation Village
"The park is small, parking is crammed, and there’s a lot of older trailers but overall it’s a great location. This is our go to location when we have appointments at Bay Pines VA!"
6. MacDill AFB FamCamp
"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."
"Close to a small beach and marina with a restaurant walking distance. Several dog parks but muddy/dirt. Laundry available for fee. Bath houses clean and large. Good amenities on base."
7. Shell Key Preserve
"One of my favorite places to camp in Florida, hands-down. You can only get to this camping spot by water. Must reserve, no pets & no alcohol."
"Shell Key is one of the larger uninhabited islands off of the west coast of Florida near St. Petersburg."
8. Terry Tomalin Campground
"The location next to Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is what really makes this campground special."
"The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren’t to close to other campers. The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost."
from $30 / night
Check Availability9. 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. Clearwater RV Resort
"Off a very busy road hidden behind a hotel and a restaurant. Very clean and tidy park with RV sites and park models. Huge laundry room and very nice bath houses. Customer service is good."
"Best location for moving around the area. Use Drew not Gulf to Bay to move across the city. Great customer service Suzy and the crew are very helpful. "
Drive Time
- 21 min from Tampa, FL
- 49 min from Lakeland, FL
- 1 hr 13 min from North Port, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Pinellas Park, FL
192 Photos of 197 Pinellas Park Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Pinellas Park, FL
926 Reviews of 197 Pinellas Park Campgrounds
Roc H.ScoutButtonwood Inlet RV Resort
None Responsive Campground
I have been trying for weeks to get someone to answer the phone. Numerous requests for a call back have got me nowhere!!!
Joe F.ScoutTropical Acres RV Park & Storage
Nor the host was extremely unprofessional and disrespectful
The host Nor treated me like trash. He mandates you leave a lock off of your hitch so he can move your Rv around as needed. Mind you I was going to be paying for a reserved spot on the property paying a monthly rate. When I inquired more about their policy to see if they damaged my Rv while moving it would it be covered by them for the repairs of damages. My reservation was then automatically canceled for no reason and Nor only gave me a partial refund for my booking. He is very rude and unprofessional. There are also other reviews in the neighbor app stating damages happened while moving someone's rv and he refused to take accountability or finance the repairs for that customer. Hints the reason I was wanting clarification on the matter. Instead of providing it he decided to cancel my reservation and tried to beat me out of my deposit. Dont bring your RV here for storage it is a huge risk!
Buddy M.ScoutLower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve
Love this place
Good clean site.
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.
RangerFort 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!
Guide to Pinellas Park
Pinellas Park camping options exist within a network of waterways, with many sites located on Tampa Bay, the Intracoastal Waterway, and adjacent channels. The subtropical climate creates year-round camping conditions with temperatures rarely dropping below 50°F in winter. Overnight temperatures from December through February average in the mid-50s, while summer nights typically remain above 75°F.
What to do
**Wildlife photography: At Fort De Soto Campground, visitors encounter diverse wildlife within minutes of arrival. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of Birds!" reports one camper. Another adds, "We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees" when kayaking from shoreline campsites.
Paddling excursions: Shell Key Preserve offers primitive boat-in camping for paddlers seeking remote experiences. "Get your permit online. 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," reports one paddler who accessed the island.
Historic exploration: Beyond beaches, some campgrounds offer cultural attractions. At E.G. Simmons Regional Park, campers can explore preserved coastal history. "Great park with days worth of activities! The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit!" notes a visitor. The park provides water access with opportunities to "kayak down the channel into Tamp Bay what a great view of Tampa, St. Petersburg and the Skyway bridge."
What campers like
Waterfront privacy: Many sites at Shell Key Preserve provide uninterrupted water views and seclusion. "You can only get to this camping spot by water. Must reserve, no pets & no alcohol," explains a frequent visitor. Another camper notes, "The key is right across from South Beach at DeSoto so you're bound to hear some loud music from motor boats during the day, but it clears out and feels super remote by evening."
Urban accessibility: Camping near Pinellas Park FL provides quick access to urban amenities. The St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday offers this convenience with one camper noting it's "Located on the water. Lots to do. Great for kids & pets." Another visitor appreciates the "Good inner city spot. Friendly staff and the grounds are bigger then expected. Full hook ups for RVs and separate tent area."
Diverse wildlife viewing: Animal sightings rank among campers' top experiences. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of Birds!" reports one Fort De Soto visitor. At E.G. Simmons Regional Park, campers regularly report marine life encounters, with one noting "we always see Manatees there and lots of great areas to Kayak or paddle board."
What you should know
Bug protection essential: No-see-ums and mosquitoes present challenges throughout the area. At Caladesi RV Park, "The grounds and the pool are kept up, lots of shade in the park," but this shade can harbor insects. One Fort De Soto camper warns "Very private spots lots of trees, lots of bugs in the summer time," while another emphasizes "Bring good bug spray lol."
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds fill quickly during winter. E.G. Simmons operates first-come, first-served with a 14-day stay limit. Fort De Soto starts booking 6 months ahead but releases some sites weekly, as one camper explains: "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."
Space constraints: Site sizes vary significantly between campgrounds. KOA visitors note "sites are smashed together and no privacy" with "very close together sites." Similarly, Avalon RV Resort campers report "The sites are a little tight but that's normal for most of Florida, specially in a heavy populated are like Clearwater."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety considerations: When camping with children near water, supervision remains critical. At Fort De Soto, families appreciate the "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."
Wildlife education opportunities: Turn animal sightings into learning experiences. At MacDill AFB FamCamp, one family noted, "The white sand beach is steps away and had the most amazing sunsets. I loved everything about our stay including the patriotism of every camper there."
Activity planning: Structured recreation helps during longer stays. St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA offers "a heated pool, mini golf course, shuffle board, dog run. They have the typical bike rentals, four person bikes, that are found at most KOAs." Another visitor mentions, "There is a fishing dock near where we stayed. Lots of catfish."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking at Pinellas Park FL camping areas, request specific sites when possible. At Fort De Soto, experienced RVers recommend waterfront sites: "There are three loops, one for guests with pets. BRING YOUR RABIES VACCINE PAPERS! Many sites are waterfront and are mostly well separated."
Access considerations: Some parks have challenging entrances. At Caladesi RV Park, "Called to check in and Managers had gone home for the day it was 3pm. Referred to a website that did not work." For military members, MacDill AFB FamCamp requires specific entry procedures: "Make sure you arrive at the base through the gate at the end of Dale Mabry, as it's the only gate campers can come thru."
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in Pinellas Park?
What campgrounds are available in Pinellas Park?
While Pinellas Park itself has limited camping options, the surrounding Pinellas County offers several excellent campgrounds. Fort De Soto Campground is a popular choice featuring beautiful beaches, cycling paths, and water activities. For RV travelers, Encore Terra Ceia in nearby Palmetto provides easy access to Tampa, Sarasota, and Gulf beaches. Other nearby options include Clearwater RV Resort and Avalon RV Resort, both offering convenient locations for exploring the area.
How do I make camping reservations in Pinellas County?
How do I make camping reservations in Pinellas County?
Reservations for Pinellas County campgrounds vary by location. For county and state parks like Oscar Scherer State Park Campground, book through the Florida State Parks reservation system up to 11 months in advance. Shell Key Preserve, accessible only by water, requires permits through Pinellas County. Private campgrounds like Bay Bayou RV Resort accept reservations directly through their websites or by phone. During peak season (winter months), book several months ahead, especially for waterfront sites and popular weekends.
What camping is available near Pinellas Park, FL?
What camping is available near Pinellas Park, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Pinellas Park, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 197 campgrounds and RV parks near Pinellas Park, FL and 4 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Pinellas Park, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Pinellas Park, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pinellas Park, FL is Fort De Soto Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 144 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pinellas Park, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pinellas Park, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Pinellas Park, FL.
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