Tent camping near Temple Terrace, Florida offers access to backcountry sites within a 30-minute drive, with options ranging from free primitive camping to developed sites with electrical hookups. Located at an average elevation of only 56 feet above sea level, the low-lying terrain creates seasonal challenges when summer thunderstorms can quickly flood trails and campsites. Most area campgrounds require advanced planning during winter months when temperatures drop to comfortable 50-70°F daytime highs.
What to do
Paddle the Withlacoochee River: Launch from Crooked River Campground where campers can access stairs leading directly to the water. "We enjoyed a group paddle down the river for a few hours. We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back," notes Tracy L H., who found the campground perfect for organizing paddling trips.
Mountain biking: The Upper Hillsborough Preserve trail system includes nearly 16 miles of partially wooded roads marked for multi-use recreation. One camper mentioned, "Many nice views...the property's roads and trails meander through pine flatwoods, consisting of both slash and longleaf pine overstory, palmetto/gallberry understory and hydric hammock and floodplain swamp along the river."
Geocaching: The Alston Tract within Upper Hillsborough Preserve contains dozens of geocache locations scattered throughout the property. According to reviewers, this activity works well when paired with hiking the numbered trail junctions, which makes for easy navigation through the preserve.
Wildlife observation: At Lithia Springs Conservation Park, campsites positioned along the Alafia River provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "The sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" remarked one visitor who enjoyed the natural soundscape at this campground just 15 miles from Temple Terrace.
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Crooked River Campground offers tent campers remarkable privacy between sites. "Every site was surrounded by dense undergrowth which really added more privacy. You are really nestled into the underbrush," notes one camper who appreciated feeling isolated despite being at a developed campground.
Clean facilities: At Hillsborough River State Park, the maintenance level consistently impresses visitors. "To start with, the state park employees were fantastic!! Our site was spacious. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night. Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus!" reports Lorilee S.
Night sky viewing: Many Temple Terrace area campgrounds offer good stargazing opportunities. "It's nice and dark at night," mentions one camper at Hillsborough River State Park, making it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts wanting to escape light pollution while still remaining close to urban areas.
Natural swimming areas: Lithia Springs Conservation Park features a spring-fed swimming area that attracts both campers and day visitors. One reviewer commented, "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," highlighting the affordable access to natural water recreation.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Many trails and sites in the Temple Terrace camping area experience flooding during rainy periods. At Alderman's Ford Conservation Park, a camper noted: "The trails are marked well but not often maintained - so you really get the feel that you are in the middle of nowhere."
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds don't accept advance bookings. At Lithia Springs, "This camp does not allow reservations but had quiet a few empty lots," according to Ryan, who found site availability even without planning ahead.
Noise considerations: Road noise can be an issue at certain campgrounds. One Alderman's Ford visitor mentioned "there is a lot of road noise throughout the entire night. Definitely took away from the nature experience," something to consider when seeking a more immersive wilderness experience.
Wildlife encounters: Alligator sightings are common in water bodies throughout the region. A Lake Park visitor observed, "I've seen gators in several of the ponds," reinforcing the importance of maintaining safe distances from water edges, especially with children or pets.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible nature programs: At Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, families appreciate the educational opportunities. "Nature education center for children. Playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers," notes Tim L., making this an excellent choice for first-time campers with kids.
Kid-friendly water access: Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park offers safe recreational opportunities for families. "We've camped here with my 4/5 year old boys and our Cub Scout pack... The bathrooms are clean and easily accessible," reports Melanie B., who found the facilities suitable for younger campers.
Spacious sites for play: Crooked River Campground provides ample room for children to explore safely. "Our kids were able to run around and be noisy and we weren't worried about annoying our neighbors," explains Danae N., who camped with three children aged 7-8 and appreciated the large, secluded sites.
Wildlife education opportunities: Multiple campgrounds feature short nature trails designed for families. A camper at Crooked River mentioned, "The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs, they all agree that this was their favorite part," highlighting the hands-on nature experiences available.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Lithia Springs Conservation Park, RVers should target specific locations. "I felt that the spaces in the back loop were a little more secluded and were really nice because they were closer to the water. They all have fire rings, tables and power," advises one experienced camper.
Water and electric reliability: Hillsborough River State Park provides consistent hookups even during adverse weather. "There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks and a washer and dryer," reports Gail W., who found the park comfortable despite typically preferring boondocking.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Winter months bring significantly higher RV occupancy rates. "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north... Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking. Good Verizon signal to allow for plenty of streaming," noted Rick G. at Hillsborough River State Park.
Generator restrictions: Most Temple Terrace area campgrounds have noise regulations or complete generator bans. At Lake Park, silent hours are strictly enforced during the evenings, making this location better suited to RVers with solar or battery power when staying at the primitive sites.
