Tent camping in Webster, Florida offers access to the Withlacoochee River watershed with multiple conservation lands at elevations ranging from 40-75 feet above sea level. The area experiences subtropical climate with average summer highs of 92°F and winter lows around 49°F. During summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are common, often creating muddy conditions at primitive campsites where drainage can be poor.
What to do
Paddle the river system: Crooked River Campground provides direct access to the Withlacoochee River. According to one camper, "You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do. The campground is also not far from some big cities, such as Tampa and St Pete, which is convenient." River access points allow for multi-hour paddling trips.
Explore hiking trails: Trail networks connect many campgrounds in the Withlacoochee State Forest. At Croom B Loop Primitive Site, "We love backpacking and to get to this site you will hike some beautiful trails!" The Croom Hiking Trail consists of three stacked loops: A, B, and C, with the Florida Trail following the eastern and northern perimeter.
Watch wildlife: Early mornings provide the best opportunities for wildlife viewing at Flying Eagle Preserve. "Amazing is all I can say. Hiking trails horse area. Fire rings and picnic tables," notes one visitor. Many campers report seeing deer, armadillos, and various bird species throughout the conservation lands.
What campers like
Natural site separation: At Hillsborough River State Park Campground, "Nice campsites, clean bathrooms, friendly campers." The park's vegetation creates secluded spaces, with one visitor noting "a campground that is completely shaded by oak trees. At night the green fireflies put on an amazing light show in the canopy."
Access to water: Most popular camping areas provide some water access. At Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground, "We really enjoyed our stay at this site. It was nice and quiet. You can't drive up to the river view campsites. So cart would be useful for that reason." The river proximity provides both recreational opportunities and natural cooling.
Bathroom facilities: While primitive sites lack facilities, established campgrounds maintain good bathroom access. As one camper at Hillsborough River State Park noted, "The bathrooms are well kept and clean. The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals!"
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer camping brings significant challenges. At Hillsborough River State Park, "Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. 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." Spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions.
Site access limitations: Some primitive sites require considerable effort to reach. At Tucker Hill Forestry Primitive Sites, "Access primitive camp from the Tucker Hill Day Use Area located on the Hernando County side of the Croom Tract on Croom Road, or hike in from trails. If parking in gated day use area there are fees."
Water availability: Most primitive sites require bringing your own water. For tent campers at Flying Eagle Preserve, "Stayed here on 3 separate occasions. Each time not a single soul to be found with the exception of the passing airboats. Site was very spacious and private. Port a potty was kept extremely clean."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: For families with younger children, developed campgrounds provide more comfort. At Crooked River Campground, "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids (7-8y/o) spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore."
Plan river activities: The Withlacoochee River provides cooling recreation during hot days. One family noted, "The walk to the river from our site was so worth it. We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass... no luck there. But we should have known. The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs."
Pack appropriately for insects: Families need comprehensive bug protection. At Hillsborough River State Park, one camper advised, "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog." Long clothing and closed footwear help reduce tick exposure, particularly in warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should carefully research sites as many primitive areas can't accommodate larger vehicles. At Idlewild Lodge and RV Park, "Found this beautiful quiet little resort while taking an airboat tour. The owners are simply amazing. They went the extra mile to make sure everything was perfect for our stay."
Boondocking preparations: RVers staying at primitive sites need to be self-sufficient. One camper at Flying Eagle Preserve shared, "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."
Security considerations: RV campers often seek areas with controlled access. At Flying Eagle Preserve, "You make a free reservation and receive the gate code to get in. We had a wonderful time and ran into very few people." Most water management lands require advance reservations for security purposes.
