The best forest camping near Palmetto

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In Palmetto, forest camping means waking up to the sound of woodpeckers and the scent of pine in the air. With over 400 forest campsites, you can pitch your tent, roll out a sleeping bag, or set up camp in a hammock on shaded, leafy ground. Prices average $45 a night, but you’ll find spots for as little as $28. Campsites like By the Pond... (376 reviews), Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach (208 reviews), and Cotee River Bend (134 reviews) are local favorites for their easy access to forest trails and cool, shaded sites. Most spots are pet friendly, allow campfires, and offer showers. Bring your rod for fishing, saddle up for horseback riding, or cool off with a swim—these woods aren’t just for wandering. Book early if you want a site near the water or close to the trailheads; the best sites fill up fast when the weather’s right.

99% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Palmetto

1. By the Pond...

97%
(740)
16mi from Palmetto · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, 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. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$33
 / night

3. Cotee River Bend

98%
(220)
50mi from Palmetto · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Our RV and Tent Campsites are located in a grassy field next to dense woods. Electric and water hookups are included in the RV/Camper sites, but not the Tent Site. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring. Our newly renovated restrooms on the property have toilets and one shower. A boardwalk takes you along the Cotee River to our two open air pavilions with several places to sit and enjoy nature. Cell phone service is not a problem, as we are not remote (although it sort of feels like we are when you are here) - we are 5 min from downtown New Port Richey, 2 minutes from groceries, gas, restaurants. This beautiful slice of Old Florida is named for the Pithlachascotee River that bends along the back side of the property. Pithlo is the Creek word meaning canoe, and chaskita means to dig or chop out, together signifying "place where canoes are chopped or dug out". Seminoles of this area used canoes dug out from the great cypress trees found along Florida rivers. From the 1980s until 2014, this property was owned by the Cotee River Lions Club. They held a popular monthly pancake breakfast fundraiser in the large pavilion along the river. We purchased this 4.9 acres of land in late 2019. It is now where we live and have a woodworking shop. It has been a magical place for us, with no shortage of wildlife, rich jungle forest, a winding narrow river, and even the occasion river otter sighting. We are grateful to all the humans who have occupied this place over the centuries before us for keeping it as nature intended it. It is our intention to do our part to conserve and protect its natural beauty as long as possible. We hope you find it to be as restful and rejuvenating as we do.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night

6. Medulla Ranch

48mi from Palmetto · 11 sites · Tents
Our camping area is surrounded by trees so you won’t even realize that you are close to everything. You are only 9 minutes (4.9 mi.) away from the Sun-N-Fun Fly In, less than that for restaurants, 6 minutes (2.3 mi.) from Walmart and Home Depot is less than a mile away too! Many denominations of churches are also within 10 minutes of camping. Walt Disney World, Busch gardens and Sea World are all approximately 45 minutes away. There are many parks, hiking and bike trails within a few minute drive. We have an outhouse (with a modern toilet), an outdoor heated shower, a cute “Clubhouse” (a converted 1950s camper) for small social gatherings and 2 community fire pits. Electricity is available at the Clubhouse for small appliances and charging electronics. There are several shared water faucets that run off our well. We hope that this is a quiet relaxing place. Our quiet times are: weekdays at 9pm and weekends 12am. Being this is a smaller place, we only have 1 public outhouse and 1 shower. They both are first come-first served. The “clubhouse” is available by reservation only. Being there are exotic animals on site (all are caged and not visible), no pets are allowed. Courteousness will make this a very enjoyable stay. We have lived on this property securely since the early 70’s. We hold NO LIABILITY on people or acts of God.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

8. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

93%
(96)
17mi from Palmetto · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Sandy Bottom River Retreat – Your Private Escape into Nature’s Serenity Discover the perfect blend of peace, adventure, and natural beauty at Sandy Bottom River Retreat. Tucked away in the heart of Wimauma’s untouched wilderness, this secluded hideaway offers private river access and a truly off-the-grid camping experience surrounded by towering pines, lush palmettos, and the soothing sounds of the great outdoors. Enjoy a refreshing dip, launch your kayak or tube, or simply unwind along the golden sandy riverbank where the water sparkles knee-deep and crystal clear. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting deer, rabbits, otters, and a colorful array of native birds that make this retreat their home. While you’ll feel miles away from everything, modern conveniences are just minutes away—restaurants, shops, and deliveries from Walmart, Instacart, or Amazon can reach you in no time. Two of our campsites sit directly on the river, while the others are a short, scenic walk away. Please note that this is a rustic, amenity-free experience designed for true nature lovers. The area is rural and neighbors may occasionally ride ATVs or enjoy target practice on their own land. For safety and peace of mind, outdoor cameras are placed around the property to help ensure the protection of our guests and the land. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for hunting, shooting, or archery on site to preserve the peaceful environment for all. Looking for a private event booking or clothing-optional friendly stay? Contact us in advance to reserve one of our coveted riverfront sites or inquire about exclusive property rentals. Come reconnect with nature, recharge your spirit, and experience camping the way it was meant to be—wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night

9. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%
(103)
14mi from Palmetto · 3 sites · RVs
Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 Everyone Welcome 🌈 As a family who has towed campers across the US a couple times utilizing Hip Camp we know others will appreciate the ease of pulling into our little 1 acre urban oasis just a couple miles off the interstate in Floridas Coolest City. It’s an ideal location to explore St Pete as we are right between the beaches and downtown (5 miles to St Pete beach, 4 miles to downtown -$10 Uber ride), Sarasota and/or Tampa. Ours is an urban spot based on ease, safety and location, not a wilderness "experience" We have a paved circular driveway overlooking our beehives, henhouse and seasonal garden where you’ll find a table with chairs and plenty of space to cookout and enjoy a quiet evening with a great sunset by the blowing bamboo. This is one of South St Pete’s oldest neighborhoods- it surrounds an active former PGA golf course and lively country club. It’s a great place for safely biking or walking with green spaces, tennis courts, playgrounds and dog parks nearby. There are many owls, raptors, green parrots, purple martins and osprey overhead as we’re just a few blocks from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. - not to be missed! The Pinellas Trail is just a short bike ride away too and can lead you to downtown. It is a cyclists favorite! We love our city - happy to give recommendations.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$39
 / night

20. Hidden Oak Hideaway Treehouse

100%
(2)
43mi from Palmetto · 2 sites · Lodging
Imagine a tranquil retreat that blends nature, simplicity, and comfort. Picture a cozy 100 sq. ft. treehouse—completely off-grid and equipped with a generator-powered AC. Check us out on Facebook at Hidden Oak Hideaway treehouse retreat, Arcadia, Florida for more pictures and info. The loft area features a plush queen-size bed, while the living space downstairs includes a single futon couch and a charming coffee bar accented with macramé, hanging chairs, and a large picture window overlooking the deer and other wildlife that wander by. This serene escape invites you to reconnect with nature and disconnect from the digital world, with no TV or Wi-Fi to distract you. Unwind in the cozy seating areas inside or on the front deck. You’ll also enjoy the outdoor shower, composting toilet, and cooking area beneath the treehouse equipped with a single one burner propane stove. As this retreat continues to grow, exciting additions are on the horizon: Coming Winter 2026 — a ½-acre, three-pond oasis featuring two swimming ponds, waterfalls, a lazy river, short nature trails, farm-fresh free-range eggs, homegrown fruits and vegetables (depending on availability), an outdoor massage space, a 200 ft. zip line, and much more! Save this spot to your favorites—each year brings something new to enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$122
 / night

In Palmetto, forest camping means waking up to the sound of woodpeckers and the scent of pine in the air. With over 400 forest campsites, you can pitch your tent, roll out a sleeping bag, or set up camp in a hammock on shaded, leafy ground. Prices average $45 a night, but you’ll find spots for as little as $28. Campsites like By the Pond... (376 reviews), Bell Oaks Ranch 5 min from Beach (208 reviews), and Cotee River Bend (134 reviews) are local favorites for their easy access to forest trails and cool, shaded sites. Most spots are pet friendly, allow campfires, and offer showers. Bring your rod for fishing, saddle up for horseback riding, or cool off with a swim—these woods aren’t just for wandering. Book early if you want a site near the water or close to the trailheads; the best sites fill up fast when the weather’s right.

99% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Palmetto

1. By the Pond...

97%
(740)
16mi from Palmetto · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. The pond is Spring-fed at the headwaters of Marsh Branch Creek which begins at our property and flows West about five miles in to Tampa Bay. Approximately 33 private acres allows for plenty of space between our campsites. Property is home to a farm with hundreds of fruit trees- Lychee, Mango, Starfruit, Papaya, Guava). Red Mombin, 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. Parts of property are wide open, other areas are rugged and difficult to walk through including some wetland areas. The nursery has plenty of trees, and some fields -the 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$33
 / night

3. Cotee River Bend

98%
(220)
50mi from Palmetto · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Our RV and Tent Campsites are located in a grassy field next to dense woods. Electric and water hookups are included in the RV/Camper sites, but not the Tent Site. All sites have a picnic table and fire ring. Our newly renovated restrooms on the property have toilets and one shower. A boardwalk takes you along the Cotee River to our two open air pavilions with several places to sit and enjoy nature. Cell phone service is not a problem, as we are not remote (although it sort of feels like we are when you are here) - we are 5 min from downtown New Port Richey, 2 minutes from groceries, gas, restaurants. This beautiful slice of Old Florida is named for the Pithlachascotee River that bends along the back side of the property. Pithlo is the Creek word meaning canoe, and chaskita means to dig or chop out, together signifying "place where canoes are chopped or dug out". Seminoles of this area used canoes dug out from the great cypress trees found along Florida rivers. From the 1980s until 2014, this property was owned by the Cotee River Lions Club. They held a popular monthly pancake breakfast fundraiser in the large pavilion along the river. We purchased this 4.9 acres of land in late 2019. It is now where we live and have a woodworking shop. It has been a magical place for us, with no shortage of wildlife, rich jungle forest, a winding narrow river, and even the occasion river otter sighting. We are grateful to all the humans who have occupied this place over the centuries before us for keeping it as nature intended it. It is our intention to do our part to conserve and protect its natural beauty as long as possible. We hope you find it to be as restful and rejuvenating as we do.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night

6. Medulla Ranch

48mi from Palmetto · 11 sites · Tents
Our camping area is surrounded by trees so you won’t even realize that you are close to everything. You are only 9 minutes (4.9 mi.) away from the Sun-N-Fun Fly In, less than that for restaurants, 6 minutes (2.3 mi.) from Walmart and Home Depot is less than a mile away too! Many denominations of churches are also within 10 minutes of camping. Walt Disney World, Busch gardens and Sea World are all approximately 45 minutes away. There are many parks, hiking and bike trails within a few minute drive. We have an outhouse (with a modern toilet), an outdoor heated shower, a cute “Clubhouse” (a converted 1950s camper) for small social gatherings and 2 community fire pits. Electricity is available at the Clubhouse for small appliances and charging electronics. There are several shared water faucets that run off our well. We hope that this is a quiet relaxing place. Our quiet times are: weekdays at 9pm and weekends 12am. Being this is a smaller place, we only have 1 public outhouse and 1 shower. They both are first come-first served. The “clubhouse” is available by reservation only. Being there are exotic animals on site (all are caged and not visible), no pets are allowed. Courteousness will make this a very enjoyable stay. We have lived on this property securely since the early 70’s. We hold NO LIABILITY on people or acts of God.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

8. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

93%
(96)
17mi from Palmetto · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Sandy Bottom River Retreat – Your Private Escape into Nature’s Serenity Discover the perfect blend of peace, adventure, and natural beauty at Sandy Bottom River Retreat. Tucked away in the heart of Wimauma’s untouched wilderness, this secluded hideaway offers private river access and a truly off-the-grid camping experience surrounded by towering pines, lush palmettos, and the soothing sounds of the great outdoors. Enjoy a refreshing dip, launch your kayak or tube, or simply unwind along the golden sandy riverbank where the water sparkles knee-deep and crystal clear. Wildlife enthusiasts will love spotting deer, rabbits, otters, and a colorful array of native birds that make this retreat their home. While you’ll feel miles away from everything, modern conveniences are just minutes away—restaurants, shops, and deliveries from Walmart, Instacart, or Amazon can reach you in no time. Two of our campsites sit directly on the river, while the others are a short, scenic walk away. Please note that this is a rustic, amenity-free experience designed for true nature lovers. The area is rural and neighbors may occasionally ride ATVs or enjoy target practice on their own land. For safety and peace of mind, outdoor cameras are placed around the property to help ensure the protection of our guests and the land. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for hunting, shooting, or archery on site to preserve the peaceful environment for all. Looking for a private event booking or clothing-optional friendly stay? Contact us in advance to reserve one of our coveted riverfront sites or inquire about exclusive property rentals. Come reconnect with nature, recharge your spirit, and experience camping the way it was meant to be—wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night

9. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%
(103)
14mi from Palmetto · 3 sites · RVs
Send Van Type and Length with Request to Book 🐝 👀check out our EXTRAS👀 🐝 Elderberry Tonic/Tropic Spice Hot Sauce/Shoo Fly! Bug Spray 🦩WE ONLY HOST VANS/CLASS B vehicles/very small travel trailers🦩 If you need to book for longer VanLife stays just message me 🌈 Everyone Welcome 🌈 As a family who has towed campers across the US a couple times utilizing Hip Camp we know others will appreciate the ease of pulling into our little 1 acre urban oasis just a couple miles off the interstate in Floridas Coolest City. It’s an ideal location to explore St Pete as we are right between the beaches and downtown (5 miles to St Pete beach, 4 miles to downtown -$10 Uber ride), Sarasota and/or Tampa. Ours is an urban spot based on ease, safety and location, not a wilderness "experience" We have a paved circular driveway overlooking our beehives, henhouse and seasonal garden where you’ll find a table with chairs and plenty of space to cookout and enjoy a quiet evening with a great sunset by the blowing bamboo. This is one of South St Pete’s oldest neighborhoods- it surrounds an active former PGA golf course and lively country club. It’s a great place for safely biking or walking with green spaces, tennis courts, playgrounds and dog parks nearby. There are many owls, raptors, green parrots, purple martins and osprey overhead as we’re just a few blocks from the beautiful Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. - not to be missed! The Pinellas Trail is just a short bike ride away too and can lead you to downtown. It is a cyclists favorite! We love our city - happy to give recommendations.
Electrical hookup
Pets
from 
$39
 / night

20. Hidden Oak Hideaway Treehouse

100%
(2)
43mi from Palmetto · 2 sites · Lodging
Imagine a tranquil retreat that blends nature, simplicity, and comfort. Picture a cozy 100 sq. ft. treehouse—completely off-grid and equipped with a generator-powered AC. Check us out on Facebook at Hidden Oak Hideaway treehouse retreat, Arcadia, Florida for more pictures and info. The loft area features a plush queen-size bed, while the living space downstairs includes a single futon couch and a charming coffee bar accented with macramé, hanging chairs, and a large picture window overlooking the deer and other wildlife that wander by. This serene escape invites you to reconnect with nature and disconnect from the digital world, with no TV or Wi-Fi to distract you. Unwind in the cozy seating areas inside or on the front deck. You’ll also enjoy the outdoor shower, composting toilet, and cooking area beneath the treehouse equipped with a single one burner propane stove. As this retreat continues to grow, exciting additions are on the horizon: Coming Winter 2026 — a ½-acre, three-pond oasis featuring two swimming ponds, waterfalls, a lazy river, short nature trails, farm-fresh free-range eggs, homegrown fruits and vegetables (depending on availability), an outdoor massage space, a 200 ft. zip line, and much more! Save this spot to your favorites—each year brings something new to enjoy!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$122
 / night

Camper favorites near Palmetto

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds near Palmetto

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field