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Best Dispersed Camping near Tampa, FL

9 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Tampa, Florida primarily focuses on boat-in island preserves and primitive areas maintained by the state park system and water management authorities. Anclote Key Preserve State Park and Shell Key Preserve offer remote island camping experiences accessible only by water, while Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides drive-in and walk-in options for primitive camping. These areas permit camping with minimal amenities, preserving the natural landscape and requiring campers to practice leave-no-trace principles.

Access to the most popular dispersed sites requires watercraft. Both Shell Key and Anclote Key Preserve are accessible only by boat, kayak, or paddleboard with a journey of 1-3 miles depending on launch location. Upper Hillsborough features pull-through sites accessible by vehicle with some tent spots available. Most areas lack drinking water, restrooms, and waste disposal facilities. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. Camping permits are required for Shell Key and Anclote Key, though they are typically free or low-cost. Fire restrictions vary by location and season, with bans sometimes in effect during sea turtle nesting periods.

The Tampa region's dispersed camping areas feature unique coastal and inland environments with distinct characteristics. The island preserves provide isolated beach camping with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly for bird watchers who can spot over 40 species at Anclote Key. Upper Hillsborough offers shaded sites under large trees in a quiet inland setting. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, the island preserves become especially tranquil after day visitors depart: "By about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water." At Upper Hillsborough, campers note the area is "nice and quiet" with "nicely maintained" grounds, though they recommend bringing everything needed as amenities are minimal.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Tampa, Florida (4)

    1. Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Holiday, FL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 638-4447

    "Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access!"

    "There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse."

    2. Shell Key Preserve

    7 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 453-6900

    "specifically cleared sites) so you do need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect"

    "Shell Key is one of the larger uninhabited islands off of the west coast of Florida near St. Petersburg."

    3. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    3 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 796-7211

    "Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!"

    "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town."

    4. St. Pete rest area (north)

    Be the first to review!
    Tierra Verde, FL
    27 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Tampa, FL

23 Photos of 4 Tampa Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tampa, FL

9 Reviews of 4 Tampa Campgrounds

  • Alyssa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Only accessible by water!

    Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access! Depending on the weather and the tides/current, the may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak). Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer.

    Must make reservation online for camping permit.

  • SukiDookie ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Very quiet and peaceful

    We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn’t check it out, so I’m not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren’t so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2019

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Best Primitive Island Camping for Bird Lovers

    Anclote Key Review There is only 1 way to get to Anclote Key and that is by boat. Whether you take the few hours and kayak the 3 miles over from Tarpon or motor in from one of the many docks in the area that is the only way you can get here.

    “Ferry services do not drop visitors off for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar.” 

    This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island. 

    There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse. Once you arrive take time to explore each area- Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40! The 1887 lighthouse stands as a historical reminder on the southern end of the island. Occasionally tours can be made available by contacting the onsite ranger. 

    Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE. Fire up the grill but make sure you leave no charcoal or burned wood pieces on the beach! EVERYTHING- and they mean everything you bring on the island must be taken off with you! There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash.. 

    Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach. There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. Make sure all food is secured (we anchored our boat with provisions on board a bit off shore and swam in to no risk raccoons getting into gear as it was a calm night with clear weather). Usually it is quite windy so plan ahead.

    A Florida Saltwater Fishing license is required to fish. 

    Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight.

  • Kaitlin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 25, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Primitive camping on a "private" island

    We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak. During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 11, 2024

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Primitive, easy pull through sites

    Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town.

  • Dan X.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 5, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    An island to yourself!

    As others have noted, boat access only, primitive put-your-tent-wherever type camping. BYO everything, and please bring it all back.

    No skeeters in October.

  • mandy P.
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Serene and Natural

    Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves. Camping is definitely pack in pack out. It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless

  • Nina O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Nice and quite

    Didn‘t find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn’t run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out.

Guide to Tampa

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tampa, Florida, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the usual amenities. These spots offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the great outdoors.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Tampa

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Tampa, Florida

Unique Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

What off-grid camping options are available around Tampa?

For true off-grid experiences near Tampa, Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground offers primitive island camping with no facilities. Accessible only by boat or kayak (approximately 3 miles from shore), you must bring all supplies including water, food, and waste disposal equipment. There are no designated sites - simply choose your spot on the beach. The island offers stunning sunset views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Weather and tides can affect camping availability, so check conditions before departing. Bug spray is essential, especially during mosquito season. By late afternoon, day visitors typically leave, providing peaceful evenings for overnight campers.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tampa, Florida?

Free dispersed camping near Tampa is available at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area, which offers primitive camping at no cost. The area features nicely maintained grounds with porta-potties, fire rings, and both tent sites and pull-through spots for RVs. It's typically uncrowded, especially during summer months. You'll need to bring everything you need, including water, as amenities are minimal. This is a true dispersed camping experience where you can enjoy Florida's natural environment without fees or reservations. Be prepared for basic conditions and practice Leave No Trace principles during your stay.

Are there free beach camping opportunities near Tampa?

Shell Key Preserve offers free beach camping on one of Florida's larger uninhabited islands near St. Petersburg. While camping is free, you must obtain a no-cost permit from Pinellas County before your trip. The preserve is accessible only by water, requiring kayak, paddleboard, or boat transportation from locations like Fort DeSoto (approximately one mile paddle). The island features beautiful sandy beaches where you can set up camp. As a natural preserve, it's 100% primitive with no facilities - bring everything you need and pack everything out. Campfires are not permitted. Expect to see diverse wildlife including rays, turtles, and various bird species.

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