Thonotosassa camping areas sit at approximately 60 feet above sea level in central Florida's subtropical climate zone, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through September. The region features a mix of oak hammock forests and wetland ecosystems surrounding Lake Thonotosassa, the largest natural lake in Hillsborough County at 839 acres. Most campgrounds in the area maintain year-round operations with peak season running January through April when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent.
What to do
Water activities at natural springs: Lithia Springs Conservation Park features a refreshing 72°F natural spring where visitors can swim in crystal clear waters. As one camper noted, "The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" The spring maintains its temperature year-round, offering relief during hot summer months.
Hiking with wildlife viewing: Colt Creek State Park Campground has multiple trails where wildlife sightings are common. "This park is beautiful, quiet, alive with wild life, we saw deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets," reports one visitor. The park's mix of wetlands and pine flatwoods provides diverse habitats for Florida's native species.
Paddling opportunities: Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers canoe rentals for exploring the river. "Nice trails, great river canoeing. Close to Tampa and Busch Gardens," mentions one camper. The park also contains Florida's only Class II rapids, with one visitor noting they're "Pretty wild" to see.
Disc golf course: Edward Medard Park maintains a challenging disc golf course set among mature trees. "I have had fun at Medard no matter the situation camping, grilling, family time, or disc golf," shares a regular visitor. The course is open daily during park hours with no additional fees beyond standard entrance costs.
What campers like
Natural spring swimming: Lithia Springs Conservation Park receives consistent praise for its swimming area. "Nice spring to swim in for 2.00 a person. Most campsites are very shaded," notes one camper. The spring maintains 72°F water temperature year-round and includes a designated swimming area with lifeguards during peak season.
Shaded campsites: Tampa summers can be intensely hot, making tree coverage valuable. One camper at Lithia Springs mentioned sites have "really excellent tree coverage (this is a MUST during Florida 'summers')." At Edward Medard Park, visitors appreciate that the "camping area is clean and well spaced where we were."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently mention facility cleanliness. At Fort De Soto Campground, a visitor noted, "The bath house is pretty central...They clean them daily, so they are not bad." Another camper at Hillsborough River State Park reported, "The bathrooms are well kept and clean."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to see Florida wildlife. One Colt Creek visitor reported seeing "deers, owls, turtles, rabbits & a mama wild boar with her piglets." At Fort De Soto, campers regularly spot "raccoons, dolphin, manatee, tons of birds!"
What you should know
First-come, first-served policies: Several parks including Edward Medard Park do not accept reservations. "It is a first come, first serve type campground," notes one camper. Lithia Springs operates similarly, with weekends often filling by Thursday afternoon.
Insect preparation: Florida's humid climate supports abundant insect populations, especially mosquitoes. At Hillsborough River State Park, one camper warned, "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." Another camper at the same park advised, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog."
Pool availability varies: While several parks advertise swimming pools, availability can be inconsistent. At Hillsborough River State Park, one visitor cautioned, "Don't come expecting the pool to be open, just consider it a lucky bonus if it happens to be. They look for any reason possible to close it, and it seems to be closed almost all the time."
Wildlife concerns: Raccoons can be problematic at some campgrounds. At Edward Medard Park, one camper advised, "I wouldn't recommend leaving food out because they'll take everything." Proper food storage in sealed containers is essential.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Edward Medard Park offers excellent recreational facilities for children. "Hiking climbing park playing area," notes one visitor. Lithia Springs Conservation Park also provides "a large playground area" near the spring swimming section, making it convenient for families to alternate between activities.
Accessible camping sites: Colt Creek State Park features dedicated accessible sites. "We had the opportunity to camp at one of the handicap accessible sites recently and found it to be very convenient. Path and pad on site were roomy and fire pit was higher than usual for safety," reports one visitor. These sites include water and electric hookups.
Swimming safety: Natural springs provide safer swimming than lakes or rivers for families with young children. Lithia Springs offers "natural spring waters" with consistent depth and visibility. The swimming area includes a gradual entry point suitable for younger children.
Noise considerations: Fort De Soto maintains quiet hours that are generally well enforced. "It is a family friendly place," notes one camper. Most visitors report the campground is "quiet at night" despite being popular and frequently at capacity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Lazydays RV Resort accommodates larger vehicles but site layout requires planning. "Paved roads and pads, concrete patio, FHU 50A throughout. Sites are close together but have nice grass in the park," reports one RVer. At Tampa East RV Resort, one visitor noted their site was "plenty large for our 42'. Our electric box was a bit tricky to plug in since somehow it was almost on the ground."
Adult-only options: For pet-friendly camping near Thonotosassa without children, Southern Aire RV Resort provides a dedicated option. "Please Note: this park is ADULT ONLY, no kids," explains one visitor. Another mentions, "By adult I mean that children are not allowed beyond overnight." This policy creates a quieter environment for pet owners.
Seasonal reservation requirements: During peak events, securing sites becomes challenging. At Southern Aire RV Resort, "Reservations are required during the RV show, fair and Strawberry Festival." Planning 3-6 months ahead is recommended for winter stays at most Thonotosassa area campgrounds.
Electrical service variations: RVers should verify electrical service meets their needs. At Southern Aire RV Resort, "Most sites are being upgraded to 50 Amp service," but availability varies. Hillsborough River State Park provides both 30-amp and 50-amp hookups, making it suitable for a range of RV types.
