Best Campgrounds near Riverview, FL
Campgrounds near Riverview, Florida range from state parks to county-managed recreation areas, with most offering a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Little Manatee River State Park and Alafia River State Park provide established camping within 20 miles of Riverview, featuring electric hookups, water access, and picnic facilities. Several campgrounds in the area feature waterfront locations along rivers and lakes, with Hillsborough River State Park offering additional amenities like a camp store and firewood sales. The region includes both primitive sites and fully developed campgrounds with 30/50-amp service.
Camping in the Riverview area operates year-round, though Florida's summer heat and humidity create challenging conditions from June through September. Most campgrounds require reservations, with popular waterfront sites booking up to six months in advance. E.G. Simmons Regional Park and Fort De Soto Campground provide boat-in access options alongside traditional drive-in sites. Travelers should note that alcohol policies vary significantly between parks, with some strictly prohibiting it while others permit responsible consumption. Cell service remains reliable throughout most developed campgrounds, though coverage may diminish in more remote areas. One camper noted, "This park has wonderful beauty, a real Jurassic Park feel but is very near Sarasota with all the beaches, museums, restaurants and activities literally less than 1/2 hour away."
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Riverview area, with many sites positioned along the Hillsborough River, Little Manatee River, and Tampa Bay. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with visitors frequently reporting dolphin, manatee, and alligator sightings. Campers report high satisfaction with the natural surroundings despite the proximity to urban areas. A visitor to Fort De Soto mentioned, "We were greeted by dolphins, sting rays and manatees." The mixed-use campgrounds typically provide amenities like showers, restrooms, and sanitary dump stations for RVs, though primitive sites with fewer facilities are available for those seeking a more rustic experience. Several campgrounds feature paved biking trails, fishing docks, and boat launches, making them suitable for multi-activity outdoor recreation.
