Hillsborough River State Park features standard campsites and glamping accommodations throughout its 3,400-acre natural area near Lutz, Florida. Located at an elevation of 42 feet, the park's terrain consists of riverfront woodlands with cypress swamps and pine flatwoods. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F with high humidity, while winter temperatures average 50-70°F with lower precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking to abandoned sites: The park offers river paddling opportunities beyond the main attractions. "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," notes Rebecca A. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Night hiking with wildlife viewing: Take advantage of dark, quiet evenings for wildlife spotting. "It's nice and dark at night. The nature trails are amazing," states Lorilee S., who visited after hurricane recovery. Joe R. adds, "This park just reopened a couple of weeks ago from the hurricanes. They are slowly bringing the sites back up to par, but it is still an awesome place."
Multi-day biking adventures: Connect multiple preserves via extensive trail systems. "Starkey Park campground is clean, rustic, and has lots of firewood for campers. There are many hiking, bike trails, and 2 playgrounds within mere steps of your tent or cabin," explains Melanie B. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural barriers. "The sites are very large and there is water and electric hook-ups and a dump station nearby. Lots of things to do here and great waterfront sites available on first come first serve basis," reports Christy C. about E.G. Simmons Regional Park.
Night sky viewing: Low light pollution creates ideal stargazing conditions. "We stayed at one of the hike-in sites and had a good time. Be prepared for a trek, as the site was a couple miles in. The trail was nice and paved though, suitable for bicycling in," states Jeremiah F. about Starkey Wilderness Park.
Wildlife encounters: Expect to see diverse Florida native species. "We spent 7 days it was a great camping trip. Clean. There weren't that many people due to covid issue. Weather couldn't have been any better," notes Thomas E. who camped at Cypress Creek Preserve. Another camper observed, "Bring bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings intense heat and insects. "A beautiful park that is a real taste of old Florida, with a campground that is completely shaded by oak trees. Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June," warns Jason D. about Hillsborough River.
Water management: Many preserves protect watershed areas, resulting in seasonal flooding. "We stayed here for a few nights but our reservations were cut short due to flooding," reports Annie C. about Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Reservation systems: Each park operates under different reservation platforms. "Free camping, i love. Nice and quiet, i use a quiet run generator and bring in 50 gallons of fresh water for weekend stays. The drive is very rough due to teenagers mudding out there," advises Nate D. about Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas near camping loops. "Large, beautiful campground with miles of trails, natural and paved for cycling. Nature education center for children. Playgrounds and pavilions for get togethers," notes Tim L. about Starkey Wilderness Park.
Water activities for different ages: Look for designated swimming areas with varying depths. "You can rent Surrey's and golf carts to cruise the park which is a nice plus, although they are overpriced. Nature Trails are amazing," states Jason D.
Kid-friendly glamping options close to Lutz, Florida: For families seeking comfort while camping, Fort De Soto Campground offers accessible options. "Great spot for relaxing by the water. Highly recommend. Bring good bug spray lol," advises David B.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size constraints: RVers should carefully research site dimensions. "We are boondockers so we tend to stay away from very peoplely places. That said it was very comfortable everything was clean and super convenient. There was 30 amp as well as 50 amp water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers," explains Gail W. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Utility connections: Available hookups vary widely between parks. "Very good service. Nice park. Level concrete pads. Ours was pull through. Gated. Mix of permanent residents and rentals," shares Lucile F. about Quail Run RV Park.
Weather preparation: Florida's rainy season can cause campground closures. "Weather was cool in February that allowed for comfortable hiking and biking. Good Verizon signal to allow for plenty of streaming," mentions Rick G. who stayed at Hillsborough River State Park in winter.
