Looking for the best campgrounds near Thonotosassa, FL? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Thonotosassa, FL. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Just minutes from downtown Tampa, this Hillsborough River State Park Camping offers a refuge from city life with its seven miles of nature trails and ample places to cool off in the water.
Except for occasional reenactments, the cannon and guns are now silent at Fort Foster. No longer do Seminole Indians have to fight to keep a foothold in Florida, and soldiers no longer guard a strategic river crossing. The reconstructed fort and its surroundings are now part of Hillsborough River State Park.
Besides a living history lesson, visitors can kayak or canoe class II river rapids, rare in Florida, hike seven miles of nature trails and swim in an ADA accessible swimming pool.
Tucked away, only a short distance from the bustling city of Tampa, camping is a popular activity at Hillsborough River State Park.
$24 / night
Located off the St. Petersburg coast, near the mouth of Florida’s Tampa Bay, the tiny islands that make up Fort De Soto County Park have a long and storied history. More than 1,000 years ago, the islands were home to the Tocobaga peoples, who sustained themselves on local plants and seafood. In the 1500s, Spanish conquistadors began exploring Florida’s barrier islands and mainland, among them, Hernando de Soto. From the Civil War in the 1860s until the conclusion of World War II in the 1940s, the islands were used as military emplacements, first as a Union blockade, then as coastal defensive batteries. The islands finally became a state park in 1963 as an effort to preserve their long history, and provide a recreation area for locals and visitors. The park was designated America’s Top Beach in 2009, and sees more than 2.7 million annual visitors.
Fort DeSoto County Park reservations offer 238 sites for tent and RV campers. It is located on the St. Christopher and St. Jean Keys, approximately 10 miles southwest of St. Petersburg. The campground is mostly wooded, and divided up into three areas: Area 1 for tents, vans, and small campers, and Areas 2 and 3 for larger RVs. All sites are equipped with electrical and water hookups, picnic tables and cooking grills. Comfort stations with restrooms, showers and laundry facilities are located in each area; a dump station is located near Area 2. The campground also features a small store, dayroom, two playgrounds, and Wifi service; bike and kayak rentals are available. Dogs are permitted in Area 2 and the designated dog park only. Alcoholic beverages and gas-powered generators are not permitted in the park. Reservations are recommended, and can be made up to six months in advance; seven months for locals. Campsite rates are $36–$42/night.
There are plenty of activities to enjoy on a visit to Fort DeSoto County Park, including visiting Fort DeSoto. Located on the southernmost point of Mullet Key, the historic military emplacement is open to the public for self-guided tours. Explore officers’ quarters, the bakery, the hospital and various other facilities. Look out across the Gulf of Mexico for the lighthouse, constructed in 1858, on neighboring Egmont Key. The park also features more than 7 miles of sparkling, white sand beaches, including East Beach and North Beach, for sunning and swimming. These can be reached via a paved, multi-use path from the campground. There are also boat launches, a fishing pier and a snack bar. As part of the Pinellas National Wildlife Refuge, bird watchers can scan for some of the more than 300 species of resident and migratory birds, including waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, woodpeckers, and raptors.
A 236-site family camping area with facilities including picnic tables, grills, water, electricity, washers, dryers, sanitary disposal stations, modern restrooms, showers, play areas, and a campground store. Special camp sites for camping with pets.
$38 - $48 / night
Colt Creek State Park
$24 / night
Standing out from the relatively flat topography of Central Florida is Alafia River State Park, a reclaimed phosphate mine with some of the most radical elevation changes in the state. This makes it a hot spot for mountain bikers, who traverse the scenic and challenging International Mountain Bike Association trails.
Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes.
Canoeing and fishing opportunities are available along the South Prong of the Alafia River with some lakes scattered throughout the park.
The park also offers picnic pavilions, a playground, a full-facility campground and a full-service bike shop.
Family campground is suitable for RVers and tent campers. Campers will find water and electrical hookups at each of the 30 campsites. Clean restrooms feature solar-heated showers. There are two large picnic pavilions in the campground.
Equestrian campers have access to 12 sites with equestrian designation and tie-outs for horses. Equestrian campers can access the barn, which is a short walk from the campground. There are 12 stables and 6 paddocks available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Extra parking for trailers can be accessed near the barn area. Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes.
For reservations, visit the Florida State Parks reservations website or call 800-326-3521 or TDD 888-433-0287.
$22 / night
LMR1
$22 / night
Well-known for its natural spring which flows year-round, cool, clean water into the Alafia River, the Lithia Springs Park was originally purchased by Gardinier, Inc., a mining company that soon became Mosaic Phosphate, Inc. When the company leased the park to Hillsborough County as a recreational area in 1957, the 160-acre site slowly became a popular camping spot.
After setting up camp, hikers can explore the woodsy trails and its diverse plant communities, river cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks. But it is the natural spring that serves as the park’s major attraction, which---courtesy of the water’s 72 degree temperature---provides an excellent swimming experience all year long. In addition to swimming, visitors can fish and play volleyball. There is also a bath house for the parents to rest and chat, while their kids can play at the park’s playground.
The park’s 44 camping sites---which is also suitable for RVs---include water/shower and electrical services. The campers also have access to picnic shelters and tables, restrooms, and barbecue grills. There are no reservations for these sites; everything is done on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Park rules to know:
-Picnic shelters are not rented for the months April - September. -All shelters, tables and grills and parking spaces are first come first serve -Due to the high demand of the swimming area and current conditions maximum capacity is -No rain checks / refunds
$24 / night
$24 / night
Edward Medard Park has 42 first-come, first-served campsites that accommodate both RV and tent camping. All campsites have a picnic table, electricity, a fire ring, and water. Public restrooms with showers and an RV dump station are also available.
$24 / night
Welcome to St. Petersburg Madeira Beach KOA Holiday!
Take a look around St. Petersburg KOA with our virtual tour.
Camp minutes from the Gulf Coast's sugar white beaches, bordered by the lush mangrove-lined bayou and Pinellas Trail. Offering spacious Deluxe Patio RV sites, secluded back-in RV sites and full hookup, 50amp, pull through sites. No RV? No problem! Leave the packing to us and stay in one of our Deluxe Cabins. Deluxe Cabins allow you to enjoy all the amenities of home with private bath, patio with a grill, fresh linens and many with a fully stocked kitchen.
Participate in the campground's endless activities all year round! Summer campers love our outdoor movies, themed weekends and fishing right from the dock. Active snowbirds stay busy during the winter months with a wide array of classes, including water aerobics, yoga, quilting and painting.
Campground amenities include: TWO hot tubs(our newest edition is a private area just for adults!), a crystal clear outdoor pool, sandy volleyball court, pet-friendly play area, shuffleboard and more. Rent a kayak and paddle the peaceful Long Bayou inland waterway; alive with herons, egrets, dolphins and other wildlife. If you are looking for some healthy fun, jog, walk, or bike the popular 38-mile Pinellas County Fitness Trail. Come and visit us in paradise!
Guide
This campground is a County Park in Pinellas County. Well maintained with some of the best beaches in the US. There are three loops one for guests with pets. BRING YOUR RABIES VACCINE PAPERS!
Many sites are waterfront and are mostly well separated. Great bike trails. Restrooms are dated but well maintained. Electric amd water. 2 dump sites on property.
Good cell coverage with wifi at the office.
Scout
People- 5 Stars Wildlife Viewing- 5 Stars Moise- Negative 10. On the weekends, the airport noise is painfully deafening and hurts your ear drums even with ear pods. Wish it could be better, but with the headaches and pain in my ears and lack of sleep here make it a no go ever!
Guide
Nice level spots. Lots to around the state park.
Scout
Beautiful location with plenty of things to do. A natural Spring, with a large playground area and nice bathroom/shower facilities
Guide
This place is brand new and very clean. The owners/operators are extremely friendly and helpful. The have glamping tents that are very cool. This isn’t the ordinary crunched in resort camping. All of the sites are spacious with large cement pads. The overall feel is laid back and quiet. There are many activities and games if you choose to participate.
Scout
My boyfriend and I just camped here for 4 days. Weekends have a different vibe on the weekdays it’s quiet. Each campground has its primitive camp charm all come with a picnic table, parking spot, a wooden pole you can hang your garbage, and a water spout near by. Overall we had a great time it’s clean, there’s mosquitoes but that is Florida camping bring bug spray and keep the fire going helps. We’ll definitely be going back one day!
GuideI couldn’t make a reservation on the website so I strolled in hoping to reserve a site at the front desk. The lady was very helpful and got me a great site. Had a lovely stay, enjoyed the sunset and a few twinkling stars. Hopefully will be back in the future.
ScoutElectric and water went out several times during the month the laundry machines were locked a good portion of the time I would not recommend this establishment. They won’t answer your phone calls nor emails when it comes to giving you your deposit back.
Scout
Sawmill Campground is not what it claims to be. The so-called "trails" are frequented by older men engaging in inappropriate activities in plain view, which is both disturbing and unhygienic. This kind of behavior fosters an environment that can promote the transmission of STDs, posing health risks to anyone who visits.
The overall quality of the patrons is less than appealing, and if you have any issues with management, don't expect professionalism. They will go to great lengths to deny problems and shift blame rather than address valid concerns.
Between the unsafe environment and the lack of accountability, this place is the definition of negligence. I strongly advise avoiding Sawmill Campground for your own safety and peace of mind.
Guide
Older Florida park on the Withlacoochee State Forest. The campground had 20 very large sand and grass sites in tall pines. Each site has water only. The campground is very quiet and offered both T-Mobile and Verizon cell service. Facilities are clean, albeit old. The campground is convenient to fishing, hiking, and bike and equestrian trails.
Traveler
Cabin 5 stars- Immaculately clean with comfortable furniture, bright spacious living room, t.v. in living room and bedroom, bathroom and bedroom a little tight but adequate, tub/shower combo, loft area easily accessible with stairs, no porch-but paved driveway, picnic table and grill, linens provided but towels and pillows were on the thin side *Campground 5 stars- Family friendly atmosphere, clean, quiet, sunny, well maintained landscaping *Amenities 5 stars- Clean and spacious rec center with lots of scheduled activities for adults and children-Bingo, hot food/snacks available for purchase Outdoor amenities (pool, putt-putt, shuffle board, pickle ball, playground, etc.) looked nice but we didn’t utilize them on this visit *Staff 5 stars- Efficient and very responsive
Scout
Heated pool, firepit, cornhole, bocci ball on site. Pickleball courts, golf tee off and bark park being installed. Newly updated clubhouse and rates are better than any others I have seen. Hoping I can score an annual site!!
Scout
Winter Quarters Manatee is a beautiful resort with a lot of activities and amenities (which include 2 heated pools and a spa). The staff have been great and the clubhouse is beautiful. Very close to beaches, Anna Marie Island, Sarasota, and Tampa. The only downside is that you are close to I75, and there is construction currently underway.
Legend
River Junction, Withlacoochee SF, Webster, FL. 1/2025:
(72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)
NO PETS.
Overall Rating: 4 for site privacy and river access. Bathrooms are not clean during our stay which is following a full weekend.
Price 2024: $10 for seniors
Security: Gate w code
Usage during visit: Light during the week. Full over the weekend
Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: thick shrubs
Site Spacing: Good
Pad surface: Sand
Reservations: Yes
Campground Noise: Quiet
Outside Road Noise: none
Through Traffic in campground: None
Electric Hookup: no
Sewer Hookup: no
Dump Station: yes
Potable Water Available: At site
Generators: I did not see any restrictions posted.
Bathroom: Flush toilets. Not very clean upon arriving just following a full weekend. .
Showers: yes. Not very clean.
Pull Throughs: I didn’t notice any restrictions posted
Cell Service (Verizon):
Setting: Oak Forest with low growing shrubbery
Recent Weather: Polar vortex is bringing the temps down to highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s.
Solar: Some sites better than others.
Insects: None.
Host: Yes
Rig Size: Backing can be tight
Sites: Some sites back up to river with view and access from picnic area .
Scout
I stayed with 3 adults and 3 children under the age of 8. We stayed two night in 40 degree weather. This is a great place for families wanting to start out primitive camping!
Super clean campsites and great easy trail out to the site. Very safe area. The rangers made sure there was plenty of fire wood in the wooden hut. There are trash cans at every site and campsite 1, 3 and 4 have hammock poles able to fit 3 hammocks at a time. The bathroom is a short hike with a water spout.
Only downfall is that there is a lot of road noise throughout the entire night. Definitely took away from the “nature” experience.
Such a great time! Highly recommend.
Traveler
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. We are in a 24' class C and found a nice private area that was surprisingly level. Trailers are accommodated at the equestrian campground. I suggest you arrive before dark as the road is a bit rough and narrow, with no light.
Scout
Very Clean Quiet and Very Helpful and Friendly Staff
Traveler
Excited to spend a few nights in some peace and quiet and was pleasantly surprised how close to Tampa this was. All to be extremely disappointed in the fact site is literally 50 feet from an active train track with trains sounding the horn all night long. Besides the road noise felt like we were next to a freeway. Not peaceful at all. 
Scout
Horrible for tent camping. Didn't own an RV. I'm just traveling through, and I went off of what information was listed. This place is pathetic. Not as advertised. Trash is not taken out regularly. One table on the ground, and it's not a picnic camping table. Tent campers have no showers or restroom. Freeway is very close and noisy. Campground is not really for campers. I'd stay away. This place is appearing fraudulent. Owner does not run this property accordingly. Seems like just a place to store RVs. Not for camping in tents or RVs. Stay away. There's much better camping across the state, regulated and maintained.
Guide
We camped overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area. 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.
Traveler
I just called them and none are walk-in. All has to be reserved.
And you are not allowed pets.
Scout
It’s a clean park with easy access to boat rentals (kayaks, canoes) and a boat launch if you have your own. Publix and Walmart are ~10 minutes away if you need anything. I came in September after a heavy rain and it was pretty buggy. Bring mosquito repellent. There are a number of long term campers with poorly kept RVs, but everyone is friendly.
Scout
If I could give neg I would! The place is nothing but a bunch of trees, red ants, chickens and roosters! It’s surrounded by slaughter houses and one they found human bones. The husband was outside at night shooting the rats!!!! The owner was nasty to other guests while I was there! She acted crazy chasing and screaming a guest who was driving in the grass because there was no lighting. It’s like a junk yard. If you wanted a nice peaceful place to stay, this is not it! The roosters at 3 am and the pigs getting slaughtered and squealing! The place felt demonic! Very dark place. I didn’t feel safe at all and couldn’t wait til daylight to get out of there! Didn’t even stay the next night! Much better camping places in the area!
ScoutThis was the first time we had camped at Fort De Soto and I was so excited because we planned it for my 61st birthday. However, the bugs were so bad. We set up camp with our tent and all our gear, the bugs became so bad we took it all down and went home.I love the fact that my two dogs could come, but the bugs are a no go. It was absolutely miserable. Other than that it’s a beautiful area so maybe we will try again in the winter. I live north of here in Pasco County and frequently bring my dogs down to the dog beach, which is absolutely beautiful. A shame the campground is so infested.
Scout
I recently had a wonderful experience at the St. Petersburg/Madeira Beach KOA Holiday, and I’m excited to share my positive review! I’ve hosted friends in their Deluxe Cabins before, and they were thoroughly impressed. The cabins were equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay—fresh linens, a full kitchen, and even a private patio with a grill and fire ring. And they had a great view of the lush mangrove lined Long Bayou.
They loved the blend of cozy and convenient, making their getaway truly enjoyable. At the end of the road driving out of this campground is a great restaurant called Doe Doe's that makes a delicious homestyle breakfast if you don't want to cook it yourself.
Wanting to be close to them I opted for one of the small tent sites at the end of the park where I car camped in my Subaru Outback. It was a peaceful and charming spot, perfect for a relaxing camping experience - and away from more of the centrally located activities that people camping with children enjoy.
Overall, the amenities were top-notch, including the heated outdoor pool, bike and kayak rentals, and clean and large facilities. They have something called KampK9 which is a fenced in dog park area. Less than a mile away is Bay Pines Park which is nice to jog or ride your bike through and there is also a super Walmart nearby so you can stock up for your drive to the next campground. You also have easy access to the Gulf Coast's stunning beaches and the scenic Pinellas Trail.
Driving on the main road, and seeing the somewhat industrial area you pass through on your way down the small side street to this campground, you wouldn't expect much - but this KOA has been there for decades and is one of the nicest family campgrounds in the middle of a city I have experienced.
ScoutUnfortunately, the description is incorrect. This is no where near KEY Largo or the Everglades park. This is in the city of LARGO in Pinellas County. It's in Tampa Bay near the Gulf of Mexico.
Largo is a big and busy city and this park on Seminole Blvd. is nowhere near nature. Many people who park there actually live there in permanent trailers. It is an adults only park with a pet weight limit of 20 pounds.
LegendWe stayed in site 26, which was tucked back and fairly private. We planned on trail riding, but rain changed the plans. We didn’t get to explore much, but will be back. Nice long drive down to the sites. Electric and water were both great, and dump stations easy. Staff was extra friendly.
Camping near Thonotosassa, Florida, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Thonotosassa, Florida, has something for everyone, whether you're in an RV or tent camping. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Thonotosassa, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Thonotosassa, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 293 campgrounds and RV parks near Thonotosassa, FL and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Thonotosassa, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Thonotosassa, FL is Hillsborough River State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 63 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Thonotosassa, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Thonotosassa, FL.
What parks are near Thonotosassa, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Thonotosassa, FL that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.
Keep Exploring
