Campgrounds near Zephyrhills, Florida offer diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts in Pasco County's gently rolling terrain. Located in central Florida at 89 feet above sea level, the area experiences year-round camping opportunities with warm winters averaging 60°F. Seasonal conditions vary dramatically with summer temperatures routinely exceeding 90°F and high humidity levels making spring and fall optimal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: 5 miles of river access from Withlacoochee River Park launches let visitors explore winding waterways. "The river was an obstacle course but adventurous and challenging. What we were really impressed was the campsites. Very shaded and quiet. One added bonus is the Florida Trail starts there also," notes Joanne W.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk prime times at Upper Hillsborough Preserve — Alston Tract where campers report diverse sightings. "We stayed overnight on a Friday and were the only people in the area. Lovely space for dispersed camping with a picnic table, fire pit, an outhouse and hiking trails," shares The Longs.
Hiking multi-county trails: Extensive network connects preserves and parks. "These 'trails' at the Alston Tract of the Upper Hillsborough Preserve meander through pine flatwoods, consisting of both slash and longleaf pine overstory and floodplain swamp along the river," explains Elliott B. "An interesting note is that on a short hike, one can travel through three different counties."
What campers like
Glamping alternatives to tent camping: Luxury accommodation options have expanded beyond those mentioned in existing descriptions. Lake Louisa State Park Campground offers additional glamping options close to Zephyrhills, Florida. "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," reports Bruce D.
Secluded sites for privacy seekers: Primitive camping offers solitude away from crowds. "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," writes Jeremiah F. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Clean facilities despite primitive settings: Many campers note well-maintained amenities. "The bath house was very clean and modern, with spacious shower stalls and plenty of hot water. Just up the road from Citrus Showcase if you are looking for oranges and other goodies," reports Cyndi B. about Lake Louisa State Park.
What you should know
Weather impacts: Seasonal considerations affect comfort levels dramatically. "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. Unfortunately, the fireflies aren't the only bugs. The mosquitoes were ridiculous in June," warns Jason D. about Hillsborough River State Park Campground.
Bug preparedness essential: Insect protection isn't optional during warm months. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," advises Jake H. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Water availability varies: Access to drinking water differs between sites. "Bring water with you or filtration system... So, campers will need to bring their own water or filtration system..." notes Elliott B. regarding Upper Hillsborough Preserve. This applies to many primitive sites in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom accessibility considerations: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night," shares Lorilee S. about Hillsborough River State Park.
Recreation options for different ages: Multiple activities keep children engaged. "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," recommends Melanie B. about Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Nature education opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences. "There are armadillos, turtles, large Ospreys, and a small gator by the fishing dock. We didn't catch any fish but got a few good bites," reports the R. about Withlacoochee River Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. "Our site was spacious. It did not flood when we had torrential downpours for a few hours one night," notes Lorilee S. about site selection at Hillsborough River State Park.
Electrical hookup options: Full-service sites available at select locations. "Very good service. Nice park. Level concrete pads. Ours was pull through. Gated. Mix of permanent residents and rentals," reports Lucile F. about Quail Run RV Park.
Seasonal rate variations: Pricing changes based on time of year. "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 water there's a dump station clean bathrooms nice showers even dedicated dishwashing sinks," explains Gail W. about Hillsborough River facilities.