Primitive campsites near Temple Terrace, Florida offer varied terrain from river floodplains to oak hammocks, with seasonal considerations for water levels. The Hillsborough River flows through several preserves in this region, creating water-based camping opportunities and trails that can become flooded during summer rainy months. Fall through spring typically provides the most comfortable camping conditions with less mosquito activity and moderate temperatures.
What to do
Paddling river rapids: Hillsborough River State Park provides unique kayaking opportunities. "We kayaked in the river, which is really neat to do," notes Rebecca A., adding that the park offers convenient kayak rentals for exploring these waterways.
Wildlife viewing after storms: Weather events create prime wildlife spotting opportunities. "This park just reopened a couple of weeks ago from the hurricanes. They are slowly bringing the sites back up to par, but it is still an awesome place," reports Joe R., who visited specifically to "see the only class 2 rapids in Florida."
Stargazing at night: E.G. Simmons Regional Park offers exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "It's nice and dark at night," mentions Lorilee S., who appreciated the darkness for stargazing opportunities despite occasional weather challenges.
Multi-county hiking: Upper Hillsborough Preserve trails cross county boundaries, creating unique jurisdictional hiking experiences. "On a short hike, one can travel through three different counties," notes a ranger, making this a distinctive regional hiking experience for visitors seeking unusual geographic milestones.
What campers like
Proximity to urban amenities: Fort De Soto Campground combines wilderness with access to city conveniences. "You should go in and register BEFORE you go to the beach, even if before check in time. By paying for your site, they provide you a beach pass for two vehicles, which saves $5 each on parking," advises Joe R., highlighting the practical benefits of camping here.
Wildlife diversity: Many campers report abundant wildlife encounters. "We saw raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds," shares Brennan H., who enjoyed the variety of creatures visible from waterfront sites.
Spacious secluded tent areas: Withlacoochee River Park offers tent sites with natural privacy barriers. "I like the regular tent sites, not much of a walk in but secluded," Bruce D. notes, appreciating the balance of convenience and seclusion.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost sites. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places," explains Gail W., noting that free dispersed camping provides alternatives to more developed fee-based areas.
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Bug protection is essential, particularly for no-see-ums. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns Jake H. from his experience hammock camping at Hillsborough River State Park.
Flooding possibilities: Cypress Creek Preserve and surrounding areas can experience seasonal flooding. "We hiked through calf-deep water but I like overcoming obstacles—the trails here are really good despite occasional flooding," shares one visitor about the terrain challenges.
Limited bathroom facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal facilities. "Restrooms are very sparse, however. Only one in the entire camping area, with only one stall in the men's, two in the women's and one shower each," cautions Rich S., who camped at Withlacoochee River Park.
Reservation requirements: "A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at campground," notes a ranger about certain wilderness preserves, emphasizing the need to check requirements before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin," shares Melanie B., who camped there with young children.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences for children. "Nature education center for children. Playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers," notes Tim L., highlighting the educational components available.
Safety considerations: Waterfront camping requires vigilance with children. "Our site was nice and deep, with a weird little island (former tree/stump) in the middle. This actually made us divide the tent area up into two sides, which worked out well," describes Joe R., explaining how site features can be used to create kid-friendly zones.
Weather preparedness: "This site also gets direct sunlight after about 9am (based on mid October), so plan accordingly. It gets toasty," advises a camper, suggesting families bring additional shade structures during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Quail Run RV Park offers level concrete sites. "Very good service. Nice park. Level concrete pads. Ours was pull through. Gated," shares Lucile F., noting the quality of the parking surfaces.
Dump station protocols: "The dump area was clean + had water hoses to clean your sewage hose out," notes a visitor to Withlacoochee River Park, highlighting the well-maintained waste disposal facilities.
Power options: "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places.. and this is a bit peoply. That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water," explains Gail W., describing the electrical hookup options.
Weather considerations: "If you are hoping for peace and quiet, do not go on a weekend," advises Shaun C., suggesting RVers consider mid-week stays for a less crowded experience, particularly during peak seasons.
