Tent camping near Clermont, Florida offers options within the Green Swamp Management Area and Withlacoochee State Forest, where elevations rarely exceed 200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop to the 40s. Most primitive sites require campers to pack in all water and supplies, with access roads that can become challenging after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Paddle crystal springs: At King's Landing, tent campers can experience Rock Springs. "Once in the water, you want to make sure you head back towards Kelly Park to experience the Emerald Cut, which is the most beautiful part of the river," notes Stuart K. The campground provides easy river access with "a short walk from the primitive campground area."
Hike through swampland: Green Swamp East Tract offers connecting trails between campsites where hikers can spot native wildlife. "We stayed at Trail Ford because on the map it showed being close to a parking area," reports Kelly K., who adds that despite the difficult access, it was "definitely worth the hike!"
Cool off in natural water: Withlacoochee State Forest provides river swimming areas near tent sites. According to Tracy L.H. at Crooked River Campground, "We enjoyed a group paddle down the river for a few hours. We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back."
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Many tent sites offer privacy from neighboring campers. At Crooked River Campground, Danae N. appreciated that "the spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites provides an excellent location for stargazing. Mike G. notes, "This is a good place to come to see the stars! Jumper camp is a primitive area with a picnic table and a fire ring."
River access: Foster Bridge Primitive Site in Green Swamp West offers water nearby. According to Anthony E., it's "always a nice camp with multiple access hike in points" with a "5 minute walk from river if you need drinking water. Make sure to filter and watch for gators."
What you should know
Insects are persistent: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in warmer months. At Foster Bridge Primitive Site Green Swamp West, one camper advises that "insect repellent is a must have!" and notes, "The insects and frogs put on an amazing chorus after a rain."
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water with distinct mineral characteristics. At King's Landing, Luis L. warns: "The water to shower with smells terrible, I recommend you bring your own water to shower with or you can go to Publix (10 mins away) and buy those 86 cent water bottles."
Some sites flood easily: After rain, trails and tent pads can become waterlogged. Meghan C. from Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites recommends, "I would wear waterproof hiking boots and have some gaters handy when you arrive in case you have to walk through some muddy spots or puddles."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with easy water access: Kids enjoy cooling off in rivers during hot days. At Crooked River Campground, one family noted, "The walk to the river from our site was so worth it. We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass."
Look for spacious sites: North Shore Relic Ranch provides tent camping with room to spread out. Scott O. reports, "Great place to camp, my wife and I really enjoyed our time at the Ranch. The hiking near by is great and plenty of trails near by."
Consider camp amenities: Some sites offer more facilities than others. At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, Gloria J. describes it as a "peaceful, clean, natural environment" that's "great place to bring the family!"
Tips from RVers
Park strategically for tent camping: At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, RVer Jake H. notes that tent campers have options: "The windshield placard they give you says dont hang things from the trees, however the parks website says its fine if you're hanging a hammock with 1" thick webbing, and its on a thick tree."
Use evening quiet hours wisely: Many campgrounds become silent after dark. Gail W. mentions that at Hillsborough River State Park Campground, "We definitely heard people talking but as it got dark which happens early this time of year things settle down pretty quickly and never had a problem at night."
Watch for hunting seasons: Several tent camping areas allow hunting during specific seasons. At Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites, Mike G. advises, "One thing to remember is this is a hunting area so pay close attention to the hunting schedule!"
