Tampa's Temple Terrace area offers cabin options within conservation areas containing cypress swamps and pine flatwoods. Winter temperatures typically range from 50-70°F, making December through February prime cabin camping season. Mosquitoes are particularly active during summer months, especially near stagnant water areas.
What to do
Kayaking opportunities: Hillsborough River State Park features river canoeing along the Hillsborough River. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," notes one visitor. The park also rents kayaks for those without their own equipment.
Mountain biking trails: Alafia River State Park offers extensive mountain biking opportunities on former phosphate mining land. "I was probably the only hiker at this park and there were a ton of mountain bikers. I loved that they had a ton of different trails to choose from, some just hiking or biking, and some mixed ones," reports one visitor. The trails are rated for various skill levels.
Wildlife viewing: Look for deer, tortoises, and over 150 bird species in the wooded areas near Temple Terrace. "This is such an awesome place! I go here every year to see all of the various birds that migrate here," writes a visitor to Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
What campers like
Clean, reliable facilities: Cabin campers appreciate the consistent maintenance of bathrooms and common areas. "The bathrooms are well kept and clean. The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals," shares a visitor to Hillsborough River State Park.
Natural privacy barriers: Many cabins offer vegetation buffers between sites. At Little Manatee River State Park, campers appreciate the "clean campground with good natural foliage dividers between campsites." Another visitor noted, "Natural trees providing privacy between lots."
Convenient location: The Temple Terrace area cabins provide quick access to urban amenities while maintaining a natural setting. "The campground is also not far from some big cities, such as Tampa and St. Pete, which is convenient," according to one Hillsborough River State Park visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal bug considerations: Insect activity varies dramatically by season. "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," warns a Hillsborough River visitor. Another camper at Alafia River State Park noted their site had "probably worst mosquitoes in 30 years of camping."
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for winter stays. According to a visitor at Tampa East RV Resort, "Office management were very nice. We left early due to hurricane Nicole. They gave us a voucher to stay there again or at any Sun Outdoor Resort." Some parks offer rain checks for weather-related cancellations.
Campground personalities: Each location has distinct characteristics. Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers "rustic and semi primitive camping" with "clean restrooms and helpful staff." Little Manatee River State Park provides "a gentle river for an easy paddle" while Alafia River is "basically a large field with a small lake in the middle, and campsites scattered around it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas near cabin sites. At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, "There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin. I've camped here with my 4/5 year old boys and our Cub Scout pack."
Educational opportunities: Look for parks with nature centers. "Nature Trails are amazing," notes one Hillsborough River visitor, while Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers a "Nature education center for children."
Swimming options: Southern Aire RV Resort provides "a large pool and jacuzzi" according to a visitor who adds that "lots of old trees provide abundant shade and a great walking environment." However, note that this resort is "ADULT ONLY, no kids" beyond overnight stays.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Many cabin areas share roads with RV campsites. "The sites are extremely close. I had a very difficult time parking my 37' foot travel trailer. If someone is parked across from you, you basically are stuck," warns a visitor to Winter Quarters Pasco.
Utility quality: Water pressure and electrical service vary between parks. Tampa East RV Resort cabins feature "2 pools" and "our electric box was a bit tricky to plug in since somehow it was almost on the ground." At another location, campers reported intermittent water service.
Site drainage: Florida's sudden rainstorms can affect cabin areas. At Hillsborough River, one visitor observed their "site did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night." Others mention that some parks have poor drainage during heavy rains.
