Cabin camping near Tierra Verde, Florida offers access to diverse ecosystems including mangrove forests, coastal marshlands, and pine flatwoods. The area maintains an average year-round temperature of 73°F with summer highs often exceeding 90°F. Cabins in this region typically require reservations 6-11 months in advance due to high demand during winter months.
What to do
Water activities at the dock: St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday provides water access for fishing and other activities. "Water access to the gulf for fishing crabbing claming kayaking etc. The pinellas county trail runs along side KOA and they rent bikes and fun little tricycles to ride the trail or use in campground," notes Joy H.
Hiking varied terrain: Little Manatee River State Park Campground offers multiple trail options through Florida's natural landscape. "Extremely helpful rangers who warned that some of the trails were still not cleared from Hurricane Irma. Even with the down trees, it was a wonderful hike filled with Black Swallowtail butterflies," reports Elizabeth G.
Boat tours and wildlife viewing: At Palmetto Ridge Campground — Myakka River State Park, guests can take guided boat tours when water levels permit. "There is even a flat bottom boat tour on the Upper Myakka lake. The visitor center offers a lot of rentals too... from kayaks to tandem bikes," explains Travyl Couple.
Canoe trips to campgrounds: Canoe Outpost Little Manatee River offers unique canoeing-to-campsite experiences. "Canoeing to your camp site is the way to go. We did the 8-mile trek which wasn't too bad for a group of 30 year old guys that are out of shape," shares Armando F.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday provides convenient access to regional attractions. "Great inner city spot. Friendly staff and the grounds are bigger then expected. Full hook ups for RVs and separate tent area. Has a small shallow marina," writes Doug E.
Dark skies for stargazing: Palmetto Ridge Campground offers minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. "Very dark & quiet at night," notes Amanda W., making it ideal for stargazing enthusiasts staying in cabins near Tierra Verde.
Clean facilities: Hillsborough River State Park maintains well-kept amenities. "Campsites were nice. Lots to do. Rapids to look at. Plenty of hiking and biking. Rental canoe staff were amazing. Tons of wildlife," says Bryan.
Natural privacy: Oscar Scherer State Park Campground provides secluded sites despite its urban location. "It is located between Nokomis and Osprey, an urbanized area of Sarasota county, however when you enter the park, it feels like you are miles from civilization," explains Jennifer D.
What you should know
Wildlife precautions: At Palmetto Ridge Campground, alligators are common residents. "Went to drain the tanks yesterday morning and a large sounding gator started to growl territorially at me. So heads up with your pets please," warns Jenelle J.
Insect preparation: Hillsborough River State Park has significant mosquito activity. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," cautions Jake H.
Reservation timing: Little Manatee River State Park Campground often fills quickly during peak season. "We arrived an hour sooner then the check in time and it was already available so no need to wait. The fire ring was clean as well as the RV spot," explains Ronald H.
Water hookup location: Oscar Scherer State Park has unique water hookup positioning. "The electric hookup is in its normal spot, but be aware that the water is in the woods on the opposite side (one pedestal feeding two sites). Make sure to bring a longer hose," advises Denise.
Tips for camping with families
Enclosed recreation areas: Hillsborough River State Park Campground offers kid-friendly activities in protected spaces. "A beautiful park that is a real taste of old Florida, with a campground that is completely shaded by oak trees. At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy," describes Jason D.
Social environment for children: At some cabin accommodations, the community atmosphere allows for supervised freedom. "Our 6 yo son loved that we felt safe enough that he could ride his bike around the camp ground to play with the other campers. There are play areas for the kids," shares Jennifer M.
Outdoor education opportunities: Oscar Scherer State Park provides wildlife observation chances. "We also loved that fellow campers pointed out a pair of screech owls just above our site," mentions Denise.
Recreational equipment rentals: St. Petersburg-Madeira Beach KOA Holiday has equipment available on-site. "They rent bikes and fun little tricycles to ride the trail or use in campground. They even had a movie night at the pool," notes Joy H.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Terry Tomalin Campground offers well-spaced sites despite being a tent-focused facility. "The campsites are nicely spaced out so you aren't too close to other campers," reports Caleb H.
Water hookup preparation: Oscar Scherer State Park requires planning for utility connections. "Make sure to bring a longer hose, or park closer to the water than electric," advises Denise.
Site surfaces: Palmetto Ridge Campground has varying site types. "The Palmetto Ridge pull thrus are gigantic. I would say the vegetation gives semi privacy but they aren't on top of each other so it's not like you're looking right at your neighbor. Gravel sites but pretty level," explains Amanda W.
Weather considerations: During rainy seasons, some facilities may become challenging. "I'd avoid this park during the rainy season," advises Keisha D. about Vacation Village RV Resort, indicating the importance of seasonal planning for cabin stays near Tierra Verde.
