Tent campsites near Ruskin, Florida range from primitive walk-in sites to accessible drive-in locations throughout Hillsborough County. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms that can impact trail conditions from May through September. Winter camping offers more comfortable conditions with temperatures between 50-75°F and significantly reduced humidity.
What to do
Swimming in freshwater springs: At Lithia Springs Conservation Park, campers can enjoy the natural spring for a small fee. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," reports one camper. The spring maintains a constant 72°F temperature year-round.
Paddling the Hillsborough River: Located 30 miles from Ruskin, Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers canoe rentals for exploring the river. "The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do," notes one visitor. The rental office opens at 9 AM daily.
Biking on paved and off-road trails: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features over 50 miles of trails suitable for various biking styles. According to visitors, "We come out to Starkey all the time, for the hiking and for the on and off road biking." The paved trail section measures 6.7 miles and connects to a larger regional trail system.
What campers like
Shaded sites with good spacing: Tent campers appreciate the tree cover at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park. One camper describes, "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers." Site #9 is particularly popular as "VERY spacious (could easily fit 5 large tents here) and the back of the site has a trail that leads directly to The McNeil Homestead."
Truly secluded primitive camping: At Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground, campers enjoy total seclusion. "I had a great time, the whole park to myself for the night," reports one visitor. Sites come equipped with "hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit. There was also a trash can."
Proximity to urban amenities: While offering natural settings, many tent sites remain close to conveniences. Lithia Springs Conservation Park provides camping "centrally located to be able to scout around" with "grocery stores within 2 miles which was great because the wife ran out of wine."
What you should know
Reservation systems vary by park: Many tent campsites cannot be reserved online. At Lithia Springs, "This camp does not allow reservations but had quiet a few empty lots." Some parks only accept youth groups, with Lake Rogers Park noting "This site no longer permits camping from my experience. I did camp there one night and nobody said anything but upon camping the second night I was told it's no longer a public campground."
Pack water for primitive sites: While established campgrounds offer potable water, backcountry sites often lack this amenity. One camper at Jay B. Starkey advises, "Bring water with you. Don't risk it! They have water stations, but do not count on these being full at all times."
Crowds affect experience: Many parks become busy during weekends and holidays. As one visitor noted about Starkey Wilderness Park, "IF YOU ARE HOPING FOR PEACE AND QUIET, DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND. I went on a Friday night, and the entire campground was PACKED. Very loud, too many tents packed into each site."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and educational facilities: Terry Tomalin Campground offers family-friendly camping with "The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren't too close to other campers." Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features "many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin. I've camped here with my 4/5 year old boys and our Cub Scout pack."
Short hiking options: For families with young children, consider the shorter trail options. Lake Rogers Park offers "3 trails (upper, mid, and lower) make it nice to walk thru different terrains," providing options based on children's stamina levels.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning hours provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities. Parks near water features offer alligator viewing from safe distances along boardwalks and observation platforms, particularly during cooler morning hours when animals are most active.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: At Island Retreat Florida, access requires careful planning. "This island adventure includes camping and water activities at it's 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."
Weather preparation: Florida's sudden storms require preparation. Lithia Springs campers report rangers "made sure to keep us up to date regarding changes in weather and flooding." Sites in low-lying areas may experience standing water after heavy rains.
Accessibility considerations: Many primitive camping areas require walking gear in from parking areas. RVers at Hillsborough River State Park note it is "very comfortable" with "30 amp as well as 50 amp water" and "a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers."
