Best Dispersed Camping near Plant City, FL
Dispersed camping near Plant City, Florida centers around three main areas accessible by water or vehicle. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides free primitive camping with drive-in and walk-in access approximately 30 miles north of Plant City. Shell Key Preserve and Anclote Key Preserve State Park offer boat-in only camping options on barrier islands along Florida's Gulf Coast, roughly 45-60 miles west of Plant City. These sites represent true primitive camping experiences with minimal to no amenities and pack-in, pack-out requirements.
Access logistics vary significantly between these dispersed camping areas. Upper Hillsborough features pull-through sites suitable for tents and RVs with some fire rings but no water or electric hookups. A portable toilet is available but campers report variable cleanliness. Both Shell Key and Anclote Key preserves require boats, kayaks or paddleboards for access, with campers responsible for bringing all supplies including water. Shell Key requires free permits from Pinellas County and prohibits pets. Anclote Key permits must be reserved online, and camping may close during adverse weather conditions.
The camping experience differs notably between inland and island sites. Upper Hillsborough provides shaded sites under trees with relatively easy vehicle access. Campers note the area remains quiet with few visitors even on weekends. The island preserves offer more remote experiences with pristine beaches and wildlife viewing opportunities. "We basically had the island to ourselves after 4pm. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water," noted one Anclote Key visitor. Shell Key campers must bring portable toilets and practice strict leave-no-trace ethics. "Pack it in and pack it out" applies to all sites, with no trash facilities available at Upper Hillsborough and complete pack-out requirements at the island preserves.
