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Best Tent Camping near St. Petersburg, FL

650 Reviews

Tent camping options dot the coastline and wooded preserves surrounding St. Petersburg, Florida, with a mix of established campgrounds and primitive backcountry sites. Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers tent-friendly spaces with easy access to water features, while sites like Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground provide more secluded walk-in tent experiences. For primitive tent camping farther from urban areas, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park maintains hike-in sites surrounded by Florida's natural landscape.

Many tent campsites in the region feature sandy or packed dirt surfaces, often with partial to full shade from oak and pine trees. Primitive tent sites at Alderman's Ford require a hike of approximately half a mile to reach, while sites at Jay B. Starkey can be several miles from parking areas. A visitor commented that "the camp sites are hike in only. I LOVE this. Bring a manageable pack with everything you need." Most primitive areas have fire rings and picnic tables, but limited or no drinking water, making filtration systems or carrying water essential. During summer months, mosquitoes can be intense, particularly at riverside camping areas, so proper insect protection is necessary.

Tent campers seeking solitude should consider the primitive hike-in sites, which offer more seclusion than drive-in campgrounds. The walk-in tent sites at Alderman's Ford provide a more immersive natural experience with hammock posts at several sites and proximity to water features. Areas like Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve become particularly appealing during fall and winter months when humidity levels drop and wildlife viewing improves. As noted in feedback on The Dyrt, "The trails are marked well but not often maintained - so you really get the feel that you are in the middle of nowhere." Many tent sites throughout the region provide access to multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation, with several campgrounds situated near water features that attract diverse bird species and occasionally alligators.

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Best Tent Sites Near St. Petersburg, Florida (17)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near St. Petersburg, FL

35 Photos of 17 St. Petersburg Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near St. Petersburg, FL

650 Reviews of 17 St. Petersburg 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.

  • Kytka The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2024

    St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday

    Natural Spot Hidden in the City

    I recently had a wonderful experience at the St. Petersburg/Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, and I’m excited to share my positive review! I’ve hosted friends in their Deluxe Cabins before, and they were thoroughly impressed. The cabins were equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay—fresh linens, a full kitchen, and even a private patio with a grill and fire ring. And they had a great view of the lush mangrove lined Long Bayou.

    They loved the blend of cozy and convenient, making their getaway truly enjoyable. At the end of the road driving out of this campground is a great restaurant called Doe Doe's that makes a delicious homestyle breakfast if you don't want to cook it yourself.

    Wanting to be close to them I opted for one of the small tent sites at the end of the park where I car camped in my Subaru Outback. It was a peaceful and charming spot, perfect for a relaxing camping experience - and away from more of the centrally located activities that people camping with children enjoy. 

    Overall, the amenities were top-notch, including the heated outdoor pool, bike and kayak rentals, and clean and large facilities. They have something called KampK9 which is a fenced in dog park area. Less than a mile away is Bay Pines Park which is nice to jog or ride your bike through and there is also a super Walmart nearby so you can stock up for your drive to the next campground. You also have easy access to the Gulf Coast's stunning beaches and the scenic Pinellas Trail.

    Driving on the main road, and seeing the somewhat industrial area you pass through on your way down the small side street to this campground, you wouldn't expect much - but this KOA has been there for decades and is one of the nicest family campgrounds in the middle of a city I have experienced.

  • 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.

Guide to St. Petersburg

Tent camping near St. Petersburg ranges from developed sites to secluded wilderness areas within a 50-mile radius. During winter months (November-February), temperatures average 55-75°F with lower humidity, creating ideal camping conditions. Summer camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.

What to do

Paddling opportunities: At Terry Tomalin Campground, visitors can explore surrounding waterways. "The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost," notes camper Caleb H. The park provides direct water access for kayaking and canoeing.

Rapids viewing: Hillsborough River State Park Campground features the only class 2 rapids in Florida. A recent visitor, Joe R., commented, "Several short trails to see the only class 2 rapids in Florida. Pretty wild." The rapids area is accessible via a 1.5-mile loop trail from the main camping area.

Swimming in springs: Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers spring swimming for $2 per person. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," according to reviewer Nate D. The spring maintains a constant 72°F year-round, providing refreshing swimming opportunities even during hot summer months.

What campers like

Night sky viewing: Campers appreciate dark skies at certain campgrounds. "It's nice and dark at night," noted Lorilee S. about Hillsborough River State Park. Sites further from urban centers offer better stargazing opportunities.

Island camping: For a unique experience, Island Retreat Florida provides boat-access camping. "This island adventure includes camping and water activities at its finest. Whether you relax and take in the breeze on the island with a book, venture out to Beer Can Island, or paddle in dinner and drinks at the Bar/Restaurant across the river," reports Eric E.

Hammock-friendly sites: Several parks accommodate hammock camping. Jake H. at Hillsborough River State Park advises, "The parks website says its fine if you're hanging a hammock with 1" thick webbing, and its on a thick tree." Alderman's Ford specifically features hammock posts at several sites.

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Most parks require advance booking, especially during peak season (December-April). Terry Tomalin Campground visitor Becky M. found "they were pretty empty on a Friday night," but this varies seasonally.

Usage restrictions: Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground requires hikers to carry all supplies. Joe notes, "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."

Park regulations: Some parks have specific prohibitions. Kevin W. warns about Terry Tomalin: "Please be aware that this is a very restrictive campground. You can only tent and you are not allowed to smoke anything, vape anything, drink anything alcoholic."

Mosquito preparation: Bug protection is essential, especially during warmer months. Jason D. describes Hillsborough River State Park: "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."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers family-friendly facilities. "There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin," reports Melanie B.

Educational opportunities: Several parks feature nature centers. Tim L. mentions Jay B. Starkey has a "Nature education center for children," making it suitable for educational family outings.

Short hikes: For families with young children, choose campgrounds with abbreviated trail options. Rebecca A. notes Hillsborough River State Park is "very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do."

Seasonal timing: Visit during fall or spring to avoid extreme weather. Reviewer Bryan shared that at Hillsborough River there were "Tons of wildlife," which are more active during cooler months.

Tips from RVers

Site spacing: RV campers should note that some parks have limited space between sites. Billie S. observed at Hillsborough River State Park, "Small tight spaces in the campground. Most with no coverage between sites."

Amenities checklist: Gail W., an RVer at Hillsborough River, explains: "There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water, there's a dump station, clean bathrooms, nice showers, even dedicated dishwashing sinks and a washer and dryer."

Grocery access: Many campsites are within short driving distance of supplies. Ryan at Lithia Springs Conservation Park noted, "Grocery stores within 2 miles which was great because the wife ran out of wine."

Frequently Asked Questions

Is free camping available in St. Petersburg, FL?

Yes, free camping is available near St. Petersburg, FL. Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract offers free camping with a reservation through the Southwest Florida Water Management District. This preserve provides primitive camping opportunities for those seeking a budget-friendly option. Additionally, the Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve has multiple recreation areas within its boundaries that may offer free or low-cost camping options. These sites typically have basic amenities and require advance reservations. Be prepared for primitive conditions and bring everything you need, including water.

Where can I find tent camping sites in St. Petersburg, Florida?

Around St. Petersburg, you'll find several excellent tent camping options. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers both front-country (car camping) and backcountry (hike-in only) tent sites within a beautiful wilderness preserve with multi-use trails. For a more remote experience, Primitive Sites — Myakka River State Park provides tent camping about a 5-mile hike from the entrance, perfect for stargazing and adventure seekers. Closer to the city, Terry Tomalin Campground offers reservable tent sites with basic amenities. Most sites require reservations, especially during peak winter and spring seasons.

What amenities are available at tent camping sites in St. Petersburg?

Amenities at tent camping sites near St. Petersburg vary widely by location. Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers more developed facilities with water access, though sites can be close together. For primitive camping, Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground provides hike-in only sites equipped with hammock posts, picnic tables, and occasionally firewood, but no water, power, or restrooms at the sites (restrooms are located about a half-mile down the trail). Most primitive sites in the area feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails, while developed campgrounds typically add restrooms, potable water, and shower facilities.

Can I get tent delivery services in St. Petersburg for camping?

While traditional tent delivery services aren't widely documented for St. Petersburg area campgrounds, some local outfitters may offer equipment rental with setup options for popular camping destinations. For convenience camping at Rye Wilderness Park Campground or Lake Park, check with outdoor retailers in St. Petersburg that may provide tent rental and delivery. National services like Arrive Outdoors also ship camping equipment to your destination. For the best experience, contact the specific campground you're interested in and ask if they partner with any local outfitters for tent setup services or can recommend equipment rental companies in the area.

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