Glamping in Trilby, Florida occurs within a year-round warm climate zone with an average of 46 inches of rainfall annually. Located in central Florida's Green Swamp region, the area sits at an elevation of approximately 75 feet above sea level with predominantly sandy soil conditions. Most sites remain accessible even during summer's peak rainy season, though nearby waterways can experience flooding.
What to do
Hiking the Florida Trail: Upper Hillsborough Preserve offers access points to the Florida Trail with various difficulty levels. "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," explains a visitor to Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract.
Wildlife spotting: Early mornings provide optimal viewing opportunities for native Florida species. "We saw armadillos, turtles, large Ospreys, and a small gator by the fishing dock. We didn't catch any fish but got a few good bites," notes one reviewer about their experience at Withlacoochee River Park.
Swimming in natural waters: Several glamping locations offer unique swimming opportunities. At Mutual Mine Campground, "The pond seems clean enough for a swim," according to one camper, while another notes it helps visitors "cool off in the waters of the mine pond" after a day of outdoor activities.
Stargazing at astronomy field: Some Trilby area glamping sites provide exceptional dark sky viewing. "On new moon nights the local astronomy club uses neighboring field to gaze at the stars. This place is quiet and dark at night!" shares a visitor to Withlacoochee River Park.
What campers like
Secluded glamping sites: The privacy between accommodations allows for a peaceful nature experience. "This is a great free camping area in the Florida wilderness. Plenty of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails," reports a visitor to Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Clean facilities: Many glamping locations maintain high cleanliness standards. "Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night," notes a visitor to Hillsborough River State Park.
Diverse accommodation options: The region offers various glamping setups. "This park has RV sites, regular tent sites, cabins and primitive camping. I like the regular tent sites, not much of a walk in but secluded," explains a camper at Withlacoochee River Park.
Wildlife encounters: Many glamping sites provide opportunities to view Florida's native species. "The park's natural setting supports wildlife viewing, with one visitor saying, "I could hear wild boat running around near my campsite at night! Tons of nature."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Trilby require advance booking. "A free reservation is required and must be displayed or available at campground," notes a visitor to Foster Bridge Primitive Site.
Water conditions: Nearby waterways can vary in navigability. "The river was an obstacle course but adventurous and challenging," reports a Withlacoochee River Park visitor about kayaking conditions.
Weather preparedness: Florida's climate affects camping comfort. "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," shares a visitor to Hillsborough River State Park.
Seasonal pest management: Insects can be prevalent depending on season. "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," warns a Hillsborough River State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible glamping spots: Some sites offer family-friendly accommodations with convenient amenities. "The campsites are well shaded. (unless grounds were full when you reserved and you took option to camp in adjoining astronomy field)," notes a visitor to Withlacoochee River Park.
Pack appropriate gear: Florida's climate requires specific preparation. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," advises a Hillsborough River State Park visitor.
Consider water activities: Many families enjoy water recreation options. "We kayaked on Dixie Lake, hiked, swam, and biked while others were less than a ½ hour away hanging with Mickey Mouse," shares a Lake Louisa State Park camper.
Verify bathroom facilities: Restroom availability varies between glamping sites. "I would have rated a 5+ except that there is only 1 small bathhouse in campground. There are other bathrooms on property though," mentions a Withlacoochee River Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some glamping areas present challenges for larger vehicles. "Holy moly did it take a lot to get this into our spot. Our neighbor across from us had to move his truck and several neighbors were helping direct us into our spot," warns a visitor to Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Power options: Electricity availability varies between locations. "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," notes a Hillsborough River State Park visitor.
Dump station quality: Sanitation facilities differ in quality and accessibility. "The dump area was clean + had water hoses to clean your sewage hose out," reports a visitor to Withlacoochee River Park.
Site spacing: RV pad dimensions and privacy vary between glamping destinations. "Very nice park. Level concrete pads. Ours was pull through. Gated. Mix of permanent residents and rentals," describes a visitor to Quail Run RV Park.
