Equestrian camping near Durant, Florida offers access to an extensive network of multiuse trails through pine flatwoods and river corridors. The area sits at elevations between 40-75 feet above sea level with a subtropical climate that averages 54 inches of rainfall annually. Campgrounds in this region often feature dedicated horse facilities with stalls and paddocks alongside traditional camping amenities.
What to do
Mountain biking on technical trails: Alafia River State Park provides some of Florida's most challenging mountain bike terrain with multiple difficulty levels. "This park is close to home for me, I come here often for the Mountain Biking and the awesome humans. The facilities are clean and the MTB trails are constantly changing so we are never bored here," shares Jennifer T.
Kayaking and canoeing: Little Manatee River State Park offers peaceful paddling routes suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers. "The River is really nice for canoeing as well as for fishing and nature views," according to Ronald H., who appreciated the water access at this Little Manatee River State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The preserves around Durant support diverse wildlife populations. "We saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," reports Barbara A., describing her experience at Colt Creek State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, level sites: Many campgrounds offer generously sized camping pads. "Sites were decent size. Good for RVs and tents," notes AJ G. about Alafia River State Park. Similarly, at Hardee Lakes Park, campers appreciate the layout: "Camp sites are nice and clean, with beautiful lake views."
Trail connectivity: The network of trails connecting various parks receives consistent praise. "Trail system is great from dirt paths to boardwalks to cut straight through the woods," says Joshua W. about Hardee Lakes Park.
Clean facilities: Despite primitive options, many campgrounds maintain good standards. One camper at Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract noted it was "Beautiful, Clean, Quiet. We camped overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Some trails and camping areas experience high water during rainy seasons. "Parts of these trails can be filled with water (large puddles)," warns a reviewer about trails in the area. Another camper mentioned, "We stayed here for a few nights but our reservations were cut short due to flooding."
Mosquito pressure: The wetland environments support healthy insect populations. "However, sites are not shaded at all and because of the quarry and stagnant water the mosquitoes were RIDICULOUS! Probably worst mosquitoes in 30 years of camping," cautions AJ G.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping areas require advance booking. At Washburn Equestrian Area and Primitive Campground, you need permits that "must be displayed or available at campground."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly hiking options: Colt Creek State Park offers accessible trails for children. "There is a paved trail as well as wide dirt trails to explore," notes a reviewer, making it suitable for families with small children or strollers.
Educational wildlife opportunities: Little Manatee River provides excellent nature observation spots. "Extremely helpful rangers who warned that some of the trails were still not cleared from Hurricane Irma. Even with the down trees, it was a wonderful hike filled with Black Swallowtail butterflies," shares Elizabeth G.
Safety considerations: Oak Ridge Primitive Campground offers a gated camping experience. "Nice quiet clean close to Publix and gas station, trails are not really maintained but great for horses. Camping is ok I guess," mentions April L. about Oak Ridge Primitive Campground.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Some equestrian sites have rough entry roads. "The drive is very rough due to teenagers mudding out there," warns Nate D. about Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary across campgrounds. One camper at Colt Creek mentioned "Power and water an each site for RV camping. Nicer (newer) bathrooms than most FL state parks."
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature reasonably level sites. At Colt Creek State Park, "We have stayed in site 1 and 11 and didn't need blocks for either," shares Joe R., noting the convenience for RV setup.
