Tent camping near Zephyrhills offers diverse ecosystems across three counties where the Hillsborough River flows through central Florida's Green Swamp area at elevations between 70-100 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop into the 40s. Seasonal flooding affects trail and campsite accessibility particularly between June and September during Florida's rainy season.
What to do
Hiking year-round trails: Hillsborough River State Park offers several miles of hiking trails along the river corridor where you can observe Florida's only class II rapids. "The park itself is very nice, with some hikes and kayak rentals! You can kayak in the river, which is really neat to do," notes a visitor to Hillsborough River State Park.
Paddling opportunities: Launch your canoe or kayak directly from Crooked River Campground for river exploration. "We enjoyed a group paddle down the river for a few hours. We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back. And have a lunch at the campsite afterwards. Perfect area for this," explains a camper at Crooked River Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Green Swamp East Tract offers opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife. "We were a short walk to the water which kept camp cool during the day but pretty buggy at night," reports a camper about Trail Ford campsite at Green Swamp East Tract.
What campers like
Secluded camping areas: Foster Bridge Primitive Site offers isolation for those seeking quieter experiences. "This is a nice pleasant location with nothing around but nature. This totally primitive site can be found 12 miles out from the McNeil Trailhead near Colt Creek State Park on Hwy 471," shares a hiker who stayed at Foster Bridge Primitive Site.
Spacious campsites: Starkey Wilderness Park offers tent sites with ample room for larger groups. "Campsite #9 has so far been my most favorite spot here. It's VERY spacious (could easily fit 5 large tents here) and the back of the site has a trail that leads directly to The McNeil Homestead," describes a camper at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park.
Natural water features: Swimming and cooling off in natural springs and rivers during hot months. "The spring area so nice the sound of the breeze through the trees, just wow!" remarks a visitor about Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access roads to primitive sites can be challenging, particularly after rain. "The drive is very rough due to teenagers mudding out there," notes a visitor to Upper Hillsborough Preserve's Alston Tract.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are particularly intense during summer months. "Bring plenty of bugspray, the mosquitoes here are big enough to carry away a small dog," warns a camper at Hillsborough River State Park.
Water availability: Many primitive sites require bringing your own water or filtration systems. "You have to bring in your own water or a filter system, since thanks to COVID the park stopped putting water along the paved trail," explains a camper at Starkey Wilderness Park.
Site-specific challenges: Some locations experience frequent flooding or unique challenges. "We stayed here for a few nights but our reservations were cut short due to flooding," shares a camper at Upper Hillsborough Preserve.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Choose developed campgrounds for first-time family camping trips. "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," notes a family that stayed at Hillsborough River State Park.
Weekday camping benefits: For quieter experiences with children, avoid weekends at popular sites. "IF YOU ARE HOPING FOR PEACE AND QUIET, DO NOT GO ON A WEEKEND... I went on a Friday night, and the entire campground was PACKED. Very loud, too many tents packed into each site," cautions a visitor to Starkey Wilderness Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with educational opportunities. "My boyfriend, myself, and 3 kids (7-8y/o) spent 4th of July weekend here and LOVED it! The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs, they all agree that this was there favorite part," shares a family that camped at Crooked River Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many of the best tent camping near Zephyrhills requires advance research for RV access. "We needed a campsite near Tampa FL for a few days to meet friends visiting the area from up north. Being a Floridian, we've experienced FL's state parks and found them to offer privacy between sites. We weren't disappointed with Hillsborough River State Park," notes an RVer.
Utility limitations: Plan for limited hookups at most natural areas. "Site has a picnic table, fire pit with grill rack or grate. There is an old but packed dirt road to the sites," explains a camper at Lithia Springs Conservation Park.
Seasonal timing: Schedule RV camping during drier months for easier access. "We had torrential downpours for a few hours one night. Bathhouse was clean. They offer recycling, which is a great plus! It's nice and dark at night," reports a visitor to Hillsborough River State Park.
