Best Campgrounds near Temple Terrace, FL

Camping areas around Temple Terrace, Florida include established campgrounds and recreation facilities within a 30-mile radius of the city. The Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve features multiple camping options including Oak Ridge Primitive Campground and Dead River Park, while Hillsborough River State Park offers developed sites with tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. Several private RV resorts such as Lazydays RV Resort and Happy Traveler RV Resort provide additional options for travelers seeking full hookups and resort-style amenities within close proximity to Tampa.

Florida's subtropical climate makes camping possible year-round, though summer months bring high humidity, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and mosquitoes. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during winter when seasonal visitors increase demand. "The campground here is huge as you can use it either as a primitive site or an equestrian site. Although it's nice and open you actually have a ton of tree coverage," noted one visitor about Oak Ridge Primitive Campground. Water management is a significant consideration in this region, with several sites located within water management districts that may experience seasonal flooding during Florida's rainy season from June through September.

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews throughout the area, with Fort De Soto Campground and Hillsborough River State Park offering popular water-adjacent sites. Several campers highlight wildlife viewing opportunities, with one review mentioning "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat." Most developed campgrounds provide standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms, while primitive sites offer more secluded experiences. The extensive trail systems connecting many of these camping areas make them attractive for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Proximity to urban amenities while maintaining natural settings appears to be a significant advantage for camping in this region, with multiple reviews noting the convenience of being able to enjoy wilderness experiences without venturing far from city services.

Best Camping Sites Near Temple Terrace, Florida (287)

    1. Hillsborough River State Park Campground

    65 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 987-6771

    $24 / night

    "Then exit 7 to Highway 301 north about 10 miles to the campground. The way in which the state park and campground are set up is easy too."

    "This was my first time at a campground in Florida! I was surrounded by beautiful wildlife (alligators, birds, and even a wild boar). The hiking trails were perfect for a beginner or a regular hiker."

    2. Lazydays RV Resort

    14 Reviews
    Lee, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 246-4777

    "We were less than an hour away from home at Lazydays RV Resort and it felt like we were on the other side of the planet. Got to spend uninterrupted time with my bride and it was awesome."

    "Great location just outside Tampa, Fl. Wonderful facilities and friendly staff. nearby RV dealership is largest in America with huge service department and camping/RV store."

    3. Fort De Soto Campground

    140 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 582-2100

    $38 - $48 / night

    "As an camper with northern roots, I have found it hard to camp in Florida. This campground helped me relieve those worries. 

    I will start by saying that this campground is south of St."

    "Nice walking/bicycle path around the edge. Bike paths also throughout the park. Sites 1-8 or so have direct beach access, but swimming is not allowed. Mangroves surround the rest of the peninsula."

    4. Lithia Springs Conservation Park

    12 Reviews
    Durant, FL
    14 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."

    5. Happy Traveler RV Resort

    3 Reviews
    Temple Terrace, FL
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 986-3094

    "Lots of shaded spots, 3 laundry facilities around the park (2 w/bathhouses). Large fenced in swimming pool, clubhouse with pool table, games, movies, kitchen, activities almost daily."

    6. Edward Medard Park

    10 Reviews
    Durant, FL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 757-3802

    $24 / night

    "Camping is first come first serve but gives you access to the park after hours. Camp sites are bit close to one another but overall amazing experience."

    "Very pretty and wooded for Florida. Great to bike around and see everything. Neat to see gators. Will definitely go back."

    7. Lake Park

    5 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    10 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 park has a really great walking trail around a lake with exercise stations. I’ve seen some horses on the trails also. There’s a cool BMX and rc car track too!"

    8. Cypress Creek Preserve

    4 Reviews
    Lutz, FL
    7 miles
    Website

    "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."

    9. Southern Aire RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Thonotosassa, FL
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 986-1596

    "Lots of old trees provide abundant shade and a great walking environment. Please Note: this park is ADULT ONLY, no kids."

    10. MacDill AFB FamCamp

    9 Reviews
    Gibsonton, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (813) 840-6919

    "Close to a small beach and marina with a restaurant walking distance. Several dog parks but muddy/dirt. Laundry available for fee. Bath houses clean and large.

    Good amenities on base."

    "The tent area is large and almost 100% shaded , The white sand beach is steps away and had the most amazing sunsets ."

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Recent Reviews near Temple Terrace, FL

1073 Reviews of 287 Temple Terrace Campgrounds


  • Amanda W.
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Camp Margaritaville RV Resort and Cabana Cabins Auburndale

    So fun! Huge sites!!

    Margaritaville is so clean & spacious!! The store has so much great stuff and there is always entertainment. They even have a big farmers market on Sundays with tons of vendors. There are two big pools (the back one is quiet) with bars, yummy drinks and good food. They are pet friendly & have dog poo stations along the roads. Very close to a long biking trail & there’s a gas station near the entrance. Beautifully landscaped & friendly staff.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Belle Parc RV Resort

    Belle parc is a very relaxing campground

    So check in was easy and the ladies at the front office where amazing and very hospitable. We were shown to our campsite by a very nice gentleman. He even helped us back in and hook up. As for the stay it’s been very relaxing and quiet. The shower houses are awesome. We backed up to one of the lakeside areas where the fishing was excellent. We were Also located next to a pool and it was very clean with limited activity from other guest. Would definitely recommend to stay again.

  • 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!

  • N
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Sundance Lakes RV Resort

    They don't care about their residents!

    I lived in this park full-time for 2½ years when Hurricane Helene submerged it under 3½ feet of water. The damage left the park without power for months, forcing us to move out and causing tremendous expenses. During that time, the park made no effort to assist or support the residents in any way. 

    When I applied for FEMA assistance, I was told I needed a simple letter from the park confirming the extended power outage. They refused to provide it, even though it would have cost them nothing and could have helped residents like me recover some of our losses. 

    Instead of showing compassion or accountability, they chose to do nothing. The staff at this park are unprofessional, unhelpful, and unwilling to take responsibility. It was a deeply disappointing experience, and I would never recommend living here.

  • Julia Marie H.
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Encore Vacation Village

    Mosquitoes beware

    This is a mosquito heaven!!! Being bug spray or candles! You will see a large amount of bugs in your area…. They used to spray. But now they don’t… with a pond down the street there is No end in site for air borne bug issues.

  • Jackie S.
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Gulfbreeze RV Park

    Great little cozy park

    Everyone here treats you like family here

  • C
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Bay Bayou RV Resort

    Excellent clean campground

    Excellent clean campground with great service.


Guide to Temple Terrace

Camping near Temple Terrace, Florida, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From beautiful parks to family-friendly amenities, there’s something for everyone in this area.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy the peaceful waters at Hillsborough River State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "You can rent kayaks or canoes to take a trip down a wonderfully peaceful river."
  • Wildlife Watching: At Myakka River State Park, you can spot alligators, deer, and a variety of birds. A visitor shared, "It's quiet, and there's plenty of wildlife to be seen: Lots of birds, alligators, deer, wild turkeys."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds, like Lake Louisa State Park Campground, are near great fishing spots. One reviewer noted, "Great views from the lake and I am sure fishing is wonderful."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground said, "Restrooms were clean and staff were very helpful."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. At Fort De Soto Campground, one camper mentioned, "Staff at the front desk, store and grounds were friendly and attentive."
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Campgrounds like Oscar Scherer State Park Campground allow pets, making it easier for families to bring their furry friends along. A reviewer stated, "The location of this campground is right in the middle of at least 4 different beaches."

What you should know:

  • Bugs in Summer: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at Fort De Soto Campground warned, "The bugs were so bad... it was absolutely miserable."
  • Limited Amenities at Some Parks: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. A visitor at Lake Manatee State Park Campground noted, "It does not have full hookups."
  • Noise from Nearby Roads: Some campgrounds are close to busy roads or racetracks. A camper at Lake Manatee State Park Campground mentioned, "The racetrack nearby made the location a bit unsettling."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids, like Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. One family shared, "There are so many sites and yes there are people around but there’s serious vegetation between all the sites that you have plenty of privacy."
  • Plan for Outdoor Activities: Bring bikes or kayaks to enjoy the outdoors. A camper at Hillsborough River State Park Campground said, "Lots of trails for walking, hiking, and biking."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make family outings easier. A visitor at Lake Louisa State Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are very clean and upgraded!"

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Colt Creek State Park Campground noted, "Spacious and open sites that are very big rig friendly."
  • Use Dump Stations: Many campgrounds have easy access to dump stations. A camper at Fort De Soto Campground appreciated, "A pump out station is available near the entrance."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Oscar Scherer State Park Campground mentioned, "The store has cool gear and excellent food."

Camping around Temple Terrace, FL, offers a mix of nature, family fun, and relaxation. Whether you’re in an RV or tent, there’s a spot for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Temple Terrace, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, Temple Terrace, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 287 campgrounds and RV parks near Temple Terrace, FL and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Temple Terrace, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Temple Terrace, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 65 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Temple Terrace, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Temple Terrace, FL.