Tent camping near Seminole, Florida offers several options within a 20-mile radius. The region's subtropical climate means summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping provides more comfortable conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F. Local campgrounds feature varying terrain from riverfront settings to lake-adjacent sites, most requiring advance planning due to limited availability.
What to do
Paddle the Hillsborough River: Hillsborough River State Park provides canoe rentals for exploring the river system. A camper noted, "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens."
Explore walking trails: Terry Tomalin Campground offers newly renovated campsites with extensive trail systems. According to a review, "The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost."
Visit the rapids: Hillsborough River State Park features Florida's rare class 2 rapids. "Several short trails to see the only class 2 rapids in Florida. Pretty wild," reports one visitor.
BMX and RC tracks: Lake Park offers unique recreational opportunities beyond typical camping activities. "This park has a really great walking trail around a lake with exercise stations. I've seen some horses on the trails also. There's a cool BMX and rc car track too!"
What campers like
Private, shaded sites: Lithia Springs Conservation Park provides excellent tree coverage for comfort during hot months. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites are nice and spacious, have really excellent tree coverage. I felt that the spaces in the back loop were a little more secluded and were really nice because they were closer to the water."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the well-maintained facilities at Hillsborough River State Park. "Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night," wrote one camper.
Spacious camping areas: Terry Tomalin Campground receives praise for its layout. "The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren't too close to other campers," states one review, while another notes it's "pretty spacious! It's in an awesome location, too."
Spring swimming access: Several parks offer swimming opportunities, with Lithia Springs Conservation Park providing a natural spring. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," reports a visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most tent camping areas require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Some parks like Lithia Springs operate on a first-come basis.
Hiking distances to primitive sites: For those seeking primitive camping at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, be prepared for the trek. "We stayed at one of the hike-in sites and had a good time. Be prepared for a trek, as the site was a couple miles in."
Insect protection essential: Florida's climate supports significant mosquito populations. A visitor to Hillsborough River State Park warns, "The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June. We practically had to anchor our toddler to the picnic table so he wasn't carried away by them."
Campground restrictions: Some parks have strict rules about alcohol, pets, and smoking. At Terry Tomalin, "You can only tent and you are not allowed to smoke anything, vape anything, drink anything alcoholic."
Seasonal flooding: Trail conditions can vary dramatically with seasonal rains. A camper at Jay B. Starkey notes, "Be prepared for sun exposure, with sunblock and lots of water recommended as you will be hiking under open sky in the Florida heat."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and educational centers: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin."
Group camping options: Some locations specifically cater to youth groups. According to one review, "Dead River Park camping fee. Campsite available to youth groups by reservation only. Minimum of 6 and maximum of 30 campers allowed."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings and evenings provide prime wildlife spotting times at many parks. Lake Park has "a really great walking trail around a lake with exercise stations" where various wildlife can be observed.
Swimming activities: Natural springs provide safe swimming options for families. At Lithia Springs, a visitor mentioned it has a "nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person" that's appropriate for children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most primitive camping areas near Seminole have minimal or no hookups. At Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground, "There is no water, power, or restrooms at the sites."
Tighter spaces at some campgrounds: RVers should note that some parks have limited turning space. At Hillsborough River State Park, "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites."
Good cell service available: For those working remotely, connectivity is possible at many sites. One camper at Hillsborough River State Park reported, "Good Verizon signal to allow for plenty of streaming."
