Best Tent Camping near Tampa, FL

Tampa's tent camping options range from developed sites to natural settings. Tampa City Park Campground has spacious tent sites near basic amenities, with level ground that makes setup quick and straightforward. Tampa Area State Park tent sites sit among trees and vegetation, giving campers more privacy while still being close to clean restrooms. In the nearby National Forest, tent campers will find designated pads with shade and parking spots that aren't far from where you'll pitch your tent. Tampa Recreation Area has thoughtful tent-specific features like lantern hooks, plus flat terrain that's good for sleeping comfortably. At Tampa County Park Campground, you can choose between sunny or shaded tent sites depending on what you prefer. You'll likely see local wildlife including deer and various birds while camping in these areas. Remember to keep your food secure so animals aren't attracted to your campsite. Following proper food storage is key to staying safe while camping here. It's smart to book your tent site ahead of time, particularly during busy camping seasons, so you know you'll have a spot when you arrive.

Best Tent Sites Near Tampa, Florida (23)

    1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 987-6771

    $24 / night

    "Fantastic Campground not far from Tampa. This could be a good park to stay at if you want to do Busch Gardens which is just 16 miles away."

    "I typically avoid tent camping here in the summer months– early summer the trails are heavy with mosquitoes and summer rains bring a large amount of flooding."

    2. Lithia Springs Conservation Park

    12 Reviews
    Durant, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 744-5572

    $24 / night

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    "Stayed over mother's day weekend at Lithia Springs."

    3. Lake Park

    5 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 264-3806

    "I live in an adjacent neighborhood (2 years) and walk this park daily with my doggos. I’ve biked all the trails and been here from sunrise to sunset."

    "This is a great park with trails, restrooms, boating, a fun playground, nice picnic areas, volleyball, BMX, and more."

    4. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

    12 Reviews
    New Port Richey, FL
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 834-3247

    "Part of the Starkey Wilderness Preservethis location is full of multi use trails, has primitive cabin rentals (no electric"

    "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."

    5. Island Retreat Florida

    1 Review
    Gibsonton, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 523-6834

    $50 - $75 / night

    6. Lake Rogers Park

    2 Reviews
    Odessa, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 264-3917

    "This centrally located primitive camping spot is centrally located near the Odessa area near Tampa."

    "Lake Rodgers trail and campsites are beautiful and well kept up. The 3 trails( upper, mid, and lower) make it nice to walk thru different terrains."

    7. Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve

    2 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    13 miles
    Website

    "Other parks and trails are located at the Wilderness Park Off Road Loop Trail System, [Flatwoods Park](https://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us"

    "No hookups or dumpsites. There is a pump well for non potable water and a port a potty on site. Miles of trails and plenty of space to explore."

    8. Alderman's Ford Conservation Park Primitive Campground

    4 Reviews
    Lithia, FL
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 757-3801

    "This location is utterly beautiful! So many different environments can be seen just walking the trials."

    "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."

    9. Terry Tomalin Campground

    3 Reviews
    Gulfport, FL
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 893-7441

    $30 / night

    "The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren’t to close to other campers. The trails are amazing but be careful or you might get lost."

    "It’s in an awesome location, too - we had other plans but made last-minute plans to stay here for a night and they were pretty empty on a Friday night."

    10. Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract

    5 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    24 miles
    Website

    "These (this) equestrian and primitive campsite(s) have several of your standard picnic tables under a nice large covered pavilion, fire rings and multiple grills."

    "Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails. We'll definitely visit again when we're in Florida."

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Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Tampa, FL

726 Reviews of 23 Tampa Campgrounds



Guide to Tampa

Tent camping near Tampa, Florida offers a variety of beautiful settings and amenities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the city. With options ranging from serene parks to adventurous wilderness areas, there's something for everyone.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Some prices for tent camping range from $12 to $25

  • Camping at Lake Park is affordable at $12 per night, making it a budget-friendly option for groups.
  • The Cypress Creek Preserve offers free primitive camping, ideal for those looking to save while enjoying nature.
  • For a unique experience, Island Retreat Florida provides a boat-in camping option, with prices around $25 for a memorable island getaway.

Local activities for outdoor enthusiasts

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Tampa, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 64 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near Tampa, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.