Tampa camping options extend beyond beach and forest settings to include riverfront sites, bayou retreats, and conservation areas. The region contains Florida's only class 2 rapids at Hillsborough River State Park, where visitors can experience a rare glimpse of Florida's geological features. Camping near Tampa combines subtropical climate conditions with diverse ecosystems, creating distinct camping experiences throughout the year.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on-site: Lithia Springs Conservation Park offers multiple water recreation options where you can launch directly from camp. "The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" says Holy O. about Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
Explore Tampa Bay by water: Launch from E.G. Simmons Regional Park for views of the Tampa skyline. "When you kayak down the channel into Tampa Bay what a great view of Tampa, St. Petersburg and the Skyway bridge. Beautiful sunsets from the beach and boat ramp or out in the kayak," notes B M. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Wildlife viewing year-round: Many parks offer opportunities to spot native Florida species. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of tons of Birds!" reports Brennan H. about Fort De Soto Campground. Early morning and dusk provide optimal viewing times at most Tampa area parks.
Cycling on extensive trails: The Pinellas Trail connects directly to some camping areas. "Plenty of paved roads which was great for biking," mentions Bran P. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park. Several campgrounds rent bikes on-site for day use.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Many Tampa area campsites offer direct water access. "We had site 28 (mostly because it was one of the only ones available and best of the litter). We had neighbors on both sides and across (this places always sells out) and it was still fairly secluded," reports Joe R. about Fort De Soto Campground.
Spring-fed swimming: Natural springs offer clear, cool water year-round. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded. Bathhouse are clean. Has dumpstations," writes Nate D. about Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
Security and maintenance: Campgrounds near Tampa maintain high standards. "The park rangers constantly ensured our safety and were very friendly and helpful. They made sure to keep us up to date regarding changes in weather and flooding," shares Cat A. about Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
Military facilities: Active and retired military personnel have access to premium waterfront camping. "I absolutely loved the MacDill FamCamp. It's right by the beach and marina. There's a small dog beach and two dog parks," notes Richard about MacDill AFB FamCamp.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular sites book months in advance. "They do start booking 6 months out and open up 10% of the sites for the weekend each friday at 7am if you want to try and get lucky," advises Joe R. about Fort De Soto Campground.
Insect considerations: Bugs can be intense, especially during summer months. "The mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. about Hillsborough River State Park Campground. Bug spray with DEET is essential year-round.
Seasonal population shifts: Winter months bring increased competition for sites. "The winter season is October-April and the campground gets extremely full, going over capacity from December to February or March," explains William C. about MacDill AFB FamCamp.
Wildlife safety protocols: Alligators inhabit many water bodies. "I've seen gators in several of them," reports James A. about Lake Park. Never feed wildlife and maintain a safe distance from all animals.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many parks offer dedicated recreation areas. "There is a playground with good swings and also a sturdy playground that offered plenty of opportunity for my four year old to blow off some steam. The ground is all recycled rubber, which I love as a parent," shares Joe R. about Fort De Soto Campground.
Site selection for privacy: Choose sites carefully for family comfort. "The sites are nice and spacious, have really excellent tree coverage (this is a MUST during Florida 'summers'). 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," recommends Elliott B. about Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer wildlife viewing platforms and nature programs. "Great park with days worth of activities! The historic fort, scenic beaches, trails for hiking or biking, etc made for a great visit!" notes Brennan H. about Fort De Soto Campground.
Weather preparation: Sudden rain storms occur frequently. "It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," mentions Lorilee S. about Hillsborough River State Park Campground, highlighting the importance of site drainage.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and positioning: Large rigs require strategic site selection. "Sites sit 90 degrees to the narrow street, so backing can be tricky, especially with all the vehicles parked along the road perpendicular to the pad entrance. Site 244 was a good choice as the entrance road/Everglades runs straight into the site," advises MickandKarla W. about Lazydays RV Resort.
Utility placement awareness: Water and electric hookup locations vary by campground. "Water and electric were located in the middle of the pad. The sewer was at the end of the pad, and we needed right at 20 feet of hose," notes MickandKarla W. about Lazydays RV Resort.
Urban convenience considerations: Many Tampa area campgrounds provide easy access to services. "Well maintained. Good amenities. Very clean. Lots of full timers. Older crowd," reports Steve D. about Lazydays RV Resort.
Water pressure management: Come prepared with regulators. "Water pressure was above 60 psi, so we needed a reducer," cautions MickandKarla W. about Lazydays RV Resort. Most Tampa area campgrounds maintain higher-than-average water pressure.
