Dispersed camping options within driving distance of Plant City provide varied experiences from inland water management areas to coastal barrier islands. The region's humid subtropical climate creates year-round camping opportunities with moderate winter temperatures around 50-70°F and hot, wet summers often exceeding 90°F. Most sites require some degree of self-sufficiency as amenities are minimal or non-existent.
What to do
Explore shoreline fishing: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers freshwater fishing opportunities with several access points. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved," notes Scott O. from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area.
Kayak to island campsites: Paddling to Shell Key Preserve provides both transportation and recreation. "We paddled from Ft Desoto (one on kayak, other on paddleboard) with all of our gear roped on. Once you get to the island, is is 100% primitive as it's a preserve. Absolutely amazing with stunning views," reports Alyssa D. from Shell Key Preserve.
Birdwatching: The coastal islands host numerous bird species. "There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40!" describes Jeanene A. about the area.
What campers like
Solitude in popular areas: Even busy sites can offer quiet experiences with proper timing. "Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves," shares mandy P. about Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground.
Night sky viewing: Barrier islands provide minimal light pollution. "Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach," notes Jeanene A. about the coastal camping experience.
Easy vehicle access at inland sites: For those seeking free camping near Plant City without boating requirements, inland options provide simpler logistics. "Didn't find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn't run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out," reports Nina O. about her camping experience.
What you should know
Self-contained facilities required: Shell Key has strict regulations. "All campers must bring a port-a-potty. Once you decide to stay, you will be amazed by the white sands, abundant wildlife, crazy beautiful sunsets all while pitching your tent among the seagrass in one of the designated camping spots," explains Steve S. from Shell Key Preserve.
Permit requirements vary: Each site has different reservation systems. "Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight," warns a reviewer about Anclote Key.
Pack-in, pack-out strictly enforced: All sites require complete waste removal. "EVERYTHING- and they mean everything you bring on the island must be taken off with you! There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash," emphasizes Jeanene A.
Tips for camping with families
Consider site accessibility: Boat-in sites require additional planning with children. "Get your permit online. Park off the Pinellas Byway before you get to the DeSoto bridge, paddle between Summer Resort Key and Sister Key and you're there. One of the easiest island paddles out there - just a little over a mile," suggests Dan X. from Shell Key Preserve.
Beach recreation options: Coastal sites offer natural entertainment. "Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas," recommends a regular visitor.
Plan for weather variables: Florida's coastal weather can change rapidly. "Usually it is quite windy so plan ahead," notes an experienced Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground camper about conditions that families should prepare for.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access points: Most dispersed camping near Plant City restricts larger vehicles. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn't check it out, so I'm not sure about the cleanliness," reports SukiDookie about Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area.
Fire restrictions and seasonal rules: Fire regulations vary between sites and seasons. "Campfires not permitted in summer months due to sea turtle nesting," notes Alyssa D. about coastal regulations that affect cooking options.
Insect preparation essential: Florida's humidity creates significant insect pressure. "Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer," warns an experienced camper about seasonal challenges.
