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Best Tent Camping near Gulfport, FL

645 Reviews

Tent camping options near Gulfport, Florida include several established parks and natural areas within a short drive. Terry Tomalin Campground offers spacious tent sites in a natural setting with well-maintained facilities and trail access. Island Retreat Florida provides a more adventurous boat-in tent camping experience for those seeking greater seclusion on the water. Lake Rogers Park and Lake Park round out the tent camping opportunities in the region, though some locations have specific restrictions or are limited to organized groups.

Most tent sites in the Gulfport area feature standard amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, though regulations vary significantly between locations. Terry Tomalin prohibits alcohol, smoking, and vaping on its premises, making it more restrictive than other area campgrounds. Primitive sites at Alderman's Ford Conservation Park require visitors to pack in their own water, as drinking water is not available on-site. Several locations offer boat-in access only, including Island Retreat Florida, while others like Lake Rogers Park provide walk-in tent sites with basic facilities. Toilets are available at most locations, though shower access is limited to certain campgrounds.

The tent camping experience varies considerably across the region's parks. Terry Tomalin provides nicely spaced sites that offer privacy from neighboring campers, with access to hiking trails through natural Florida landscapes. A recent review noted, "The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren't too close to other campers." Island Retreat Florida offers a more adventurous experience with boat-in access only, providing greater seclusion for tent campers seeking waterfront sites. Lake Park features multiple tent camping areas with fire pits and small gazebos for shelter, though parts of the park may close during rainy seasons due to flooding. According to one visitor, "There are a few large clearings set for tent camping, with fire pits and some small built gazebos for shelter."

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Best Tent Sites Near Gulfport, Florida (16)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Gulfport, FL

33 Photos of 16 Gulfport Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Gulfport, FL

645 Reviews of 16 Gulfport Campgrounds

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2017

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    Anything but stark...

    Part of the Starkey Wilderness Preservethis location is full of multi use trails, has primitive cabin rentals (no electric) and tent camping available. Front country (car camping) and back country camping (hike in only). There are specific equestrian camping sites as well.

    Cabins are pretty close to each other. All sites need to be reserved.Tent, cabin, shelter and pavilion reservations: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, (727) 834-3247. Picnic tables and fire pits are provided. Pavilions are also available to rent and they take reservations for large groups as well.

    We chose car camping for our visit to check the place out. A favorite for hiking and biking. This place has gotten busier as development has been growing steadily over the years. Many of the trails are without shade and the recent fire season hit the back part of the tract pretty hard (Spring 2017) but you would not see any signs of this unless you hiked out the furthest trails from entrance.

    Bring your bikes, hiking shoes, horses, or telescopes. Birders bring your binoculars! Over 150 species call Starkey home either full or part time. There is something here for everyone.

    As always in Florida bring bug spray, sunblock, hat, and please leave no trace!

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2017

    Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    A favorite for the locals

    This location is utterly beautiful! So many different environments can be seen just walking the trials. The 4 primitive campsites we found were along the river and we did not see bathrooms or picnic tables or fire rings. The trails are marked well but not often maintained - so you really get the feel that you are in the middle of nowhere. No traffic was heard at night and I would not camp out there alone on a weekend due to the "local party crowd". This is a hike in and hike out site. We only stayed 1 night. No amenities. Lots of birds and wildlife in the late day and early morning. Parking is a small fenced in area before turn in road - no security/lighting appx 1.5 miles from camping area that we found

    I would have given this location a 5 except for the large amount of trash we found on trails (that we carried out) and the obvious disregard for rules of no swimming and no alcohol.

  • J
    Jul. 18, 2021

    Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    Great Place!

    The camp sites are hike in only. I LOVE this. Bring a manageable pack with everything you need. There is no water, power, or restrooms at the sites. There is a restroom facility about a 1/2 mile down the trail. There was firewood for use when I went. Sites were equipped with hammock posts, picnic table, and a fire pit. There was also a trash can. I had a great time, the whole park to myself for the night. Strongly recommend if you enjoy primitive camping.

  • Cosmo L.
    May. 31, 2019

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Nice once you get in.

    Reservations months in advance required. Nice dog beach. No alcohol allowed so keep it inside along with music. No hookups.

  • L O.
    Sep. 6, 2020

    Fort De Soto Campground

    Breathtaking beaches, get the low, tent-site numbers.

    Stayed two nights here. Arrived in the afternoon and found site number (38) easily. The tent sites on the outer side of the loops are bedded in sand, and the ones on the inner side are bedded in crushed shells and are nearer the restrooms and facilities. The back side of number 38 leads to a grassy area lined by trees on the far side that block the sunset. Recommend site 30 or below so that the back side of your site leads to the water and beautiful sunsets. Be prepared to deal with mosquitoes and raccoons. On the first night, a raccoon approached the table without regard and tried to open the portable trash can! They're active and large, and can be seen at night throughout the campground raiding the trash bins. Went on a bike ride the following day, and upon returning saw that a raccoon had opened the Coleman 52-gallon cooler, taken out the carton of eggs, cracked all six eggs, and eaten each egg yolk, leaving the whites and the shells strewn about the picnic table and ground nearby. Thankful that it had not touched the Ferrero Rocher chocolates. Resolved to put the cooler inside the car when absent henceforth. There is a campground store near the entrance with everything from ice to wood to tuna, milk, fishing supplies... it's a mini-market. There is a souvenir shop and food shop near the fort part. Didn't go to the fort or museum. Had a delicious fish and chips meal at the food shop. The bike paths are wide along the main vehicular roads. The highlight of the site is the North Beach. It's ample and clean. White sands. Shallow shores. Pleasant, perfect.

  • Sue G.
    Dec. 30, 2024

    Cypress Creek Preserve

    Free camping

    There aren't many free spots in this area of Florida. Of course, they provide nothing other than a spot to camp with fire ring and old table, and an outhouse. We are in a 24' class C and found a nice private area that was surprisingly level. Trailers are accommodated at the equestrian campground. I suggest you arrive before dark as the road is a bit rough and narrow, with no light.

  • Jeremiah F.
    May. 29, 2019

    Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    Good primitive sites

    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. The trail was nice and paved though, suitable for bicycling in. Be prepared for sun exposure, with sunblock and lots of water recommended as you will be hiking under open sky in the Florida heat. You will also need to bring firewood in with you. No bathrooms where we were, so have some camping toilet paper and a shovel for human waste disposal. They have water stations, but do not count on these being full at all times. Bring water with you. Don’t risk it! Have fun!

  • Colin R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 4, 2023

    St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday

    Great time and very clear facilities.

    We tent camped here for two nights. I really enjoyed our stay and the staff were very friendly and helpful.

    We stayed one of the premium tent sites, but unfortunately there is a very bright street light on all night right next to premium camping. The primitive campsites with no hookups are in a much more secluded area and not affected by lighting at night.

    Other than that, everything else was great.

  • Steve S.
    Aug. 2, 2016

    Serenova Tract Campsites

    Quiet, primitive camping

    During our journeys we came across this small, out of the way park that was quite a delight!

    Serenova tract is part of the larger Jay B. Starkey wilderness park and can be accessed off of Route 52 in Land O' Lakes, Fl. The park offers free camping with a reservation which needs to be made with the Southwest Florida Wildlife Management District. The campsites are primitive, but each site has a picnic table and fire ring which doubles as a grill - you must provide your own firewood. Potable water is not available, so bring your own plus, directly across Route 52 is a Publix shopping center where you can get your water, groceries and ice!. The campsites are very well maintained, shaded by oak trees and separated enough to allow everyone to enjoy their peace while not disturbing their neighbors.

    Hiking, biking, horseback riding and fishing are the staples of the park, including approx. 20 miles of trails along with a spring fed lake accessible after about a 2 1/2 mile hike. There is even a hand pump well and cast-iron bathtub used as a watering trough for the horses!

    For the history buffs, the remains of a decaying chimney near the lake has long been rumored to be the remains of a hideout used by Al Capone.

Guide to Gulfport

Gulfport, Florida, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful retreat in nature.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic trails at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Florida's pine forests.
  • Experience the thrill of canoeing and fishing at Lithia Springs Conservation Park, which features a spring-fed swimming area and well-maintained picnic spots.
  • Take a short drive to Cypress Creek Preserve for a tranquil camping experience surrounded by wildlife and the opportunity for long hikes.

Explore local attractions for tent campers

  • Visit the beautiful Island Retreat Florida, where you can enjoy a unique camping experience accessible only by boat, perfect for those seeking adventure on the water.
  • Discover the natural springs and lush landscapes at Teri Tomlinson Campground, which offers a peaceful setting for relaxation and outdoor activities.
  • Experience the charm of Lake Rogers Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Amenities that enhance your camping experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Gulfport, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Gulfport, FL is Terry Tomalin Campground with a 4-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Gulfport, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 16 tent camping locations near Gulfport, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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