Primitive camping opportunities near Spring Hill, Florida range from secluded forest sites to riverside locations within a 30-minute drive. The region sits at the transition between Florida's central ridge and coastal lowlands, creating diverse ecosystems across relatively short distances. Spring Hill's camping season extends year-round, though winter (November-March) offers the most comfortable temperatures with lows in the 50s and highs in the 70s.
What to Do
Riverside paddling: At Crooked River Campground, campers can access the Withlacoochee River system directly. "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," notes Tracy L H. The staircase access to the river accommodates small boats and kayaks.
Trail exploration: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park features over 50 miles of multi-use trails. "We come out to Starkey all the time, for the hiking and for the on and off road biking," says Rich S. The park maintains separate trails for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians, with primitive sites scattered throughout the wilderness area.
Mullet fishing: The spring-fed Mud River at Mary's Fish Camp offers unique fishing opportunities without needing a boat. "Mullet fishing is the big draw. The fish swarm the fishing dock/wall so no boat needed to find action. The locals chum the water all day with oatmeal," explains CJ. The fishing wall extends 275 feet along the waterfront.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Serenova Tract Campsites provides well-separated camping areas. "Very private, great views and the neighboring campers were very respectful! Not much in terms of single track for mountain biking, however we had fun exploring the dirt roads in our Forester," reports Brett D. The campground requires reservations through Southwest Florida Water Management District.
Clean facilities: Hillsborough River State Park maintains high cleanliness standards. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places...That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient," writes Gail W. The park offers dedicated dishwashing sinks and laundry facilities uncommon at other area campgrounds.
Old Florida atmosphere: Several campgrounds preserve natural Florida ecosystems. "This site is in the Croom Tract of the Withlacoochee State Forest. Lots of wildlife abounds and it's right along the river with a launch area. Very nice primitive campsites," Tracy L H. shares about Crooked River Campground. Many sites feature natural understory vegetation rather than manicured grounds.
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most camping areas demand advance planning. "Need a reservation, there are just a handful of sites. Each has a fire ring and a table. Locked gate (you need a code they give you in your reservation confirmation)," explains Hootmon H. about Serenova Tract. Winter months fill particularly quickly at established campgrounds.
Limited tent options: While RV camping dominates, primitive tent sites exist with varying amenities. "The tent sites are primitive but there is a bath house," notes Amy about Cody's RV Park. At Mary's Fish Camp, a reviewer cautions: "The camping sites are directly in the sun the entire day until sundown. There is no real parking for the sites."
Weather considerations: Summer brings challenging camping conditions. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. about Hillsborough River State Park. Afternoon thunderstorms commonly flood low-lying areas, particularly from June through September.
Tips for Camping with Families
Look for secluded group sites: Crooked River Campground offers larger camping areas suitable for families. "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids (7-8y/o) spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! 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," shares Danae N.
Seek water access: River and spring proximity provides natural entertainment for children. "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... The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs," continues Danae N.
Consider cabin options: Pasco County - Crews Lake Wilderness Park offers cabins as alternatives to tent camping. The park provides "well maintained trail. There are a lot of other small trails that lead off into the woods," according to Marquee M., making it suitable for family explorations.
Tips from RVers
Check electrical connections: At Mary's Fish Camp, Carlos O. warns about infrastructure issues: "Good place but only bad thing is power connection on boxes they have melted plugs I wouldn't connect to it." Bringing a voltage tester helps identify potentially problematic hookups.
Site selection matters: At Encore Clover Leaf Forest RV Resort, proximity to roads affects noise levels. "Would try to not park close to the main road. Just one row back is a lot quieter," advises Jacob C. Most parks have tighter spacing than shown in promotional materials.
Internet connectivity varies: Cell service can be unreliable in wooded areas. Jacob C. notes, "If you stay long term you can get your own internet service from one of the providers around." Many parks offer WiFi, but signals rarely reach outlying campsites.
