🌝 2024 Solar eclipse: Book now for 4/8

The best camping near Hillsborough River State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hillsborough River adventure.

94% (8 reviews)
94% (8 reviews)

Hillsborough River State Park draws campers with its Class II rapids and the occasional alligator.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Hillsborough River State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Hillsborough River State Park

99%
(231)

Wilderness Shores Ranch_Campground!

110 sites ¡ RVs, Tents750 acres ¡ Lakeland, FL
NOW OPEN!!! WINTER SALES GOING ON!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 3 beautiful miles of Shoreline and 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore! Lake View or Oak Forest RV sites available with (20/30/50 amp) along with double water hookups and dump station on site! Shoreline tents sites available right along the lake shoreline! Or chose a primitive tent campsite or RV boondocking! Picnic table, fire ring, water and charcoal grills provided with RV sites and Shoreline tent sites! We also have 2 beautiful RV Camper Rentals on site to book a stay as well, sleeping 4 or 8 guests! Don't have a tent? We rent those too! Tent rentals medium/large are $35-$45. FREE HIGHSPEED OPTIC WIFI ON THE RANCH FOR ALL! Come see the beautiful scenery and breathtaking sunsets! We are Florida's Best Kept Secret! Non-Urbanized, Solitude and Family Fun Recreation! Join us for our exciting Texas Longhorn Cattle drives and kid Hayrides! Pet and feed snacks to our herd of friendly Nigerian Dwarf goats, beautiful Ranch Horses and our amazing Longhorn Cows! Grab a kayak (we rent them) and hit the lake to explore our dozens of islands and vast waterways! Walk or bike ride our many ridge trails! Along with fishing galore on our 3 miles of Lake Shoreline! Sit on our relaxing 3 person swings throughout the property and enjoy a beautiful nature filled sunrise or sunset! End the day with cookouts, music, fun, laughter and family time around the Campfire! Country Store on site with our grass fed hamburger meat/steaks for sale! Along with other food items/ essentials to purchase. Firewood cut on site/large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome! Our Ranch and Campsite is a designated Agritourism by the State of Florida combining its two largest industries, Agriculture and Tourism. Feel free to inquire with us! wildernessshores.com Centrally located! 18 miles to LEGOLAND, 37 miles to Busch Gardens and 32 miles to Disney World! Enjoy all the Parks! In addition, we are 6 miles to Super Walmart for shopping needs.
from 
$48
 / night
Booked 4 times

Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

392 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs66 acres ¡ Auburndale, FL
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort Auburndale is a family-friendly RV and cabin oasis located in Central Florida. Situated on 66 acres located off the Polk Parkway next to Lake Myrtle in Auburndale, our resort is your all-access pass to everything Florida. From our two resort swimming pools, complete with a 147 ft. water slide, to our 9-hole putting course and tiki bars, we offer amenities to excite the whole family. Even your furry friends are welcome! Explore the major theme parks and sparkling beaches or stay central for a sports event or festival without sacrificing any of the amenities. At Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, Our resort pools are more than just water – they're a sanctuary of luxury and enjoyment that will take your vacation to new heights. Get ready to immerse yourself in a poolside paradise like no other: Our resort features a variety of water-based activities that cater to guests of all ages. Our main pool features a thrilling 147 ft. water slide, whereas our Chill Pool overlooks Lake Myrtle. And the best part, our pools are heated year-round, so no matter when you visit, you can always enjoy a dip. So come join us at Camp Margaritaville Auburndale, where every day is a pool day! We understand that family vacations are all about creating magical moments that your kids will cherish forever. That's why we're thrilled to present an array of kid-friendly amenities that will light up their smiles and make your stay truly unforgettable! From the moment your kids step foot on our resort, they'll be immersed in a world of adventure. Our dedicated play areas are designed to ignite their imagination, whether they're making a splash at the Jolly Mon Splash Pad, engaging in age-friendly activities, or making new friends at the Parakeets Kid's Park. Download our app to see our weekly activities schedule! Our resort boasts sprawling grounds where your pets can explore, sniff, and play to their heart's content. Enjoy leisurely strolls through paradise and scenic pathways, making memories together every step of the way. Take them to explore and play at one of our four Barkaritaville Dog Parks, located throughout the resort. Pamper them with a bath and blow dry at one of our two Barkaritaville Dog Spas. Or you can take them to exercise at our dog run! We ensure a paw-positive vacation for all our furry guests! Rain or shine, energize your mornings with an invigorating workout, or wind down after a day of adventure with a rejuvenating evening session. Enjoy the refreshing AC in our Fins Up! Fitness Center with state-of-the-art equipment. Or work up a sweat at our out-door basketball courts! Whether you're aiming to refine your skills or simply have fun, our fitness areas provide the perfect backdrop.
from 
$77
 / night
100%
(24)

Bethany Oaks Farm

1 site ¡ RV, Tent17 acres ¡ Plant City, FL
Our beautiful property is only 7 miles from the Strawberry Festival! Pull in and set up in our pasture where you will be greeted by a few friendly goats and maybe a cow walking by! Climb a tree or sit under its cool canopy. You can always choose to soak up that Florida sun. We also haver an unfinished pole barn with a super cool loft that can be used as a place to relax or pitch your tent! Explore the wetlands with cypress trees and lots of hawks and other native Florida birds. It’s a very quiet area away from traffic or neighbors. We have a bathroom in our barn venue available. Campfires are allowed within local regulations. Pets are welcome!
from 
$40
 / night
93%
(650)

Smokey Acres

15 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Brooksville, FL
Welcome to Smokey Acres! This property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires out there. Down a hidden gravel drive with wetlands on either side you will find a completely fenced in field surrounded by pine, oak, and swamp maple trees. There are two ponds located on the property both stocked with bass, bluegill, and sunfish. The front pond is home to many natural Florida wildlife and is a great location to bird watch. Located a few miles from Brooksville and the Suncoast Parkway, this quiet and peaceful setting is just 5 minutes from the parking area and trailhead for the Suncoast Trail and 10 miles from the famous Weeki Wachee Springs, where you can spend the day at the local park or float down the river with the manatees. Withlacoochee State Park and other natural preserves with trail access and kayaking are only a short distance away, and Dames Cave, Homosassa Springs, and Chasawiska Springs are all within a ~20-minute drive as well. Spending a day at the beach is easy with plenty of options along the Nature Coast. We’re also less than an hour from Tampa and Clearwater and two hours from Orlando. A perfect weekend get-away for anyone looking to “unplug,” Smokey Acres is also a great stop for those passing through the area. We are a close distance to many racing, livestock, boating and fishing events. We have no problem accommodating whatever you’re towing! Whether you'd like a leisurely day on the river or an adventure in the Gulf, there are plenty of boating options nearby. Be sure to make it back to the property in time to enjoy amazing sunsets that bring peace and tranquility to your experience. Our neighbors, JG Ranch, offers U- Pick Fruit and Vegetables or a great selection of local harvest at their roadside stand. This 10-acre property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires together out there. I've recently moved back home with my own family and as much as we enjoy the land for ourselves we'd love to share it. Any profit from hosting campers will help us maintain our sustainable farm that we're hoping to expand onto Smokey Acres. Just in! Our dirt road has been repaved. So no worries about a bumpy drive in!
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(1)

Yurt & Treefort

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Tampa, FL
A magical space designed to give you peace and serenity from the hussle & bussle of the city. Formally, a yoga studio, this yurt is 30 ft round which is about 800 square feet w/ 30 ft high vaulted dome. The ancient cultures who lived in yurts lived longer happy lives due to the closeness to nature the round design & Nomadic lifestyle. We invite you to enjoy this perfect getaway space, affordable accommodation w/ outdoor dining & treefort for bird watching or meditations. No parties. RV parking.
from 
$89
 / night
100%
(116)

Myrtle Oaks

6 sites ¡ RVs, Tents22 acres ¡ Lakeland, FL
Welcome to our home!Welcome to Lakeland Florida; close to everything, and away from it all! As you enter our property through a canopy of mature oaks you’ll be greeted by a host of curious squirrels, rabbits, turtles, woodpeckers, and the like. Continue down the long dirt road and around the bend to your peaceful campsite.
from 
$29.90
 / night
98%
(537)

By the Pond...

12 sites ¡ RVs, Tents33 acres ¡ Ruskin, FL
Stay by a lovely pond on 33 acre fruit and ornamental tree nursery property with great vibes. Located near I-75 just 20 miles South of Tampa, 35 miles east of Saint Petersburg, 35 miles North of Sarasota, 2 hours West of Orlando. This property is home to a farm/nursery operation and has a large pond on the west side. Approximately 33 private acres allows for space and social distancing. Site is loaded with hundreds of fruit trees Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava), and thousands of banana plants. Fishing can be great, wildlife and bird watching too. Fenced and gated for safety, this old historic nursery property has good vibes and plenty to offer. Until you see it - you really may not understand. Part s of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, & some fields - large pond is surrounded by cattails and marsh/wetlands and has fish (Bass, Tilapia, Sunfish, Catfish). Several species of wildlife have been seen on the property. We think the property is lovely, and definitely want you to enjoy your camping experience!
from 
$32.50
 / night
100%
(107)

Lucky U Ranch

16 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents60 acres ¡ Bushnell, FL
Authentic old Florida homestead. Beautiful Spanish moss veiled Grandfather Oak trees, rolling subtle grassy hills and Cypress filled wetlands with an abundant of bird life every day. We raise Nigerian Dairy goats and always have time for goat visits and petting. Our horses are boarded at night and roam freely during the day along with our donkeys. Hiking our land and marked trails, gives you the feeling of serenity and back to nature, clearing your mind so you can remember what nature is all about. Just minutes away are amazing places and parks like the Withlacoochee State park, Hog Island and the Withlacoochee river, where kayaking is a must. Peace and quiet and privacy as you tent, stay in one of our RV's or bring your own. Be part of our AGRITOURISM VENUE and take part in the RANCH EXPERIENCE, a guided visit to meet and pet our livestock, from baby goats to miniature horses! Get to pet one of our over 60 goats and check out our twin turkeys and many chickens.... Pigs are just begging to be scratched as well!!! As it gets warmer out.... How about renting one of our portable AC's for tent camping. Stay cool at night and enjoy the springs, rivers and forest during the day. ENJOY!
from 
$32
 / night
99%
(101)

T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

8 sites ¡ RVs, Tents40 acres ¡ Lithia, FL
We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family. Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We are offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property. You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavilions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! Learn more about this land: We are a working horse farm who hosts groups, summer camps, after school program, boarding, girl scouts, boy scouts, and birthday parties! We are very kid friendly and are perfect getaway for the family.  Come and camp on our open, grassy field. We  offer horseback riding, boarding, and more with our beautiful horses. Lithia Springs is only 15 minutes away and the beaches are an hour from our property.  You're also near tons of different parks with canoeing, playgrounds, pavillions, and activities only 15 minutes away, restaurants are only 10 minutes from our facility We are private property off of a private road and await your visit! We can accommodate two, 30 amp & one, 50 amp site plus four, 20 amps or less at this time. We do not have a septic black tank hook up for RVs or campers. We do have a bathroom in the barn with a working toilet and sink but no shower.  We do have plenty of room for campers, tents, and RVs!
from 
$38
 / night
100%
(1)

Awakened Retreats

3 sites ¡ RVs, Tents2 acres ¡ Valrico, FL
Welcome, Hipcampers! Our 1.5-acre retreat features an updated Community Center with a full shower and bathroom. You enjoy our grass-covered campsites with multiple sites space for up to two tents each, fostering a communal camping experience. Engage in on-site activities like board games or bonfires. Explore nearby attractions like Lithia Springs State Park or Florida Aquarium for diverse experiences. Whether relaxing in our retreat, setting up tents, or exploring, our property promises a memorable escape for nature enthusiasts.
from 
$44
 / night
100%
(10)

SC Campgrounds

22 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents80 acres ¡ Astatula, FL
Welcome to SC Campgrounds, , a peaceful 80 acre homestead turned into a serene activity campground located just outside Orlando, FL. Our campground offers a wide range of accommodations, including several camp sites with power, water, restrooms and cozy campers with central A/C and Heat. But that's not all – we also offer a range of exciting extras to enhance your camping experience. On the estate there is a putt putt course, canoes, pirate ship, swimming pool, ATV trails, and much. And for a unique outdoor movie experience, we offer a projector screen with any movie of your choice - just imagine enjoying your favorite film under the stars! 🎥 Each campsite comes with electricity, a fire pit, and a picnic table. Our campgrounds are very pet friendly as long as you have friendly pets. So what are you waiting for? Come join us at the SC Campgrounds for an unforgettable camping experience filled with nature, farm animals, and plenty of extras to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Please note:::::: Requirement as of 2/19/24 All campers and guests must present a valid ID upon check it.
from 
$21
 / night
100%
(6)

Still Waters Pines

1 site ¡ RV, Tent2 acres ¡ Dover, FL
Camp in a quiet, secluded area near a pond. Campers may choose to use the firepit, picnic table, or the unique Tea Time Terrace. Bring your fishing poles and enjoy catch and release fishing! Five homes surround the pond so you may occasionally see neighbors fishing. Owners live onsite in a house. We gladly share our space with many birds including ducks, egrets, sandhill cranes, hawks, owls, cardinals, and occasionally spoonbills or Eagles. You might also see turtles, otters, or raccoons. Our nearby county and state parks offer hiking, biking, and canoeing. We are close to the: Florida State Fair - 11 miles Florida Strawberry Festival - 6 miles Gasparilla - 20 miles Busch Gardens - 17 miles Beaches and Disney are an hour away!
from 
$40
 / night

The best camping near Hillsborough River State Park guide

Overview

About

Just 30 minutes from downtown Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park draws adventure seekers to some of Florida’s only Class II river rapids, plus seven miles of Central Florida nature trails through hammocks, flatwoods, and wetlands, a suspension bridge, and a swimming pool to cool off in. This popular getaway for birding, wildlife viewing, fishing, and hiking also contains the Fort Foster State Historic Site, a re-construction of an 1830s U.S. Army fort from the Second Seminole War. The sole Hillsborough River Campground features 171 tent camping and RV sites with water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Most (but not all) have electric hookups, too.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Like at other Florida state park campgrounds, all campsites at the Hillsborough River Campground are available to book online or by phone. Florida residents can make campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
  2. Same-day campsites are bookable until 1pm ET, after which time open sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Call the ranger station to check for same-day availability after 1pm. 

When to go

Hillsborough River State Park is a year-round destination. Summer break is busy, when campers should prepare for heat, humidity, and rain. Spring and summer rain can also affect the flow of the river, so check river conditions in advance of paddling. Winters are mild and generally pleasant, and the Fort Foster State Historic Site hosts a living history event in December and January.

Know before you go

  • Kayak, canoe, and bicycle rentals are available on-site.
  • The park’s historic pavilions, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), are popular picnic areas. The nearest food services outside of the park are in Zephyrhills and Thonotosassa.  
  • Spring and summer rains can flood lowland areas around Tampa Bay. Hikers should check hiking trail conditions in advance.
  • No matter when you visit, good hydration and bug spray are key to a safe and comfortable stay.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping.

Download the Hipcamp App

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.