The best pets off leash campgrounds near Tampa, Florida

On the east side of Florida on the Gulf Coast, Tampa delivers about 264 days of sunshine a year. Aside from downtown attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park, campers like to venture outside the city for kayaking in Lake Kissimmee State Park and hiking at Hontoon Island State Park, where there’s a 300-year-old oak tree. Campers can expect excellent boating access at Fort De Soto Park and opportunities to sit back and catch some rays on its white sandy beaches. Find more camping options nearby, including primitive backcountry campsites, glamping in air-conditioned canvas tents, and RV parks with full hookups.

92% (627)

Top-rated campgrounds near Tampa

On the east side of Florida on the Gulf Coast, Tampa delivers about 264 days of sunshine a year. Aside from downtown attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park, campers like to venture outside the city for kayaking in Lake Kissimmee State Park and hiking at Hontoon Island State Park, where there’s a 300-year-old oak tree. Campers can expect excellent boating access at Fort De Soto Park and opportunities to sit back and catch some rays on its white sandy beaches. Find more camping options nearby, including primitive backcountry campsites, glamping in air-conditioned canvas tents, and RV parks with full hookups.

92% (627)

Top-rated campgrounds near Tampa

1. Island Retreat Florida

98%

(32)

11mi from Tampa · 1 site · Tent

*****PLEASE READ THIS PRIOR TO BOOKING: THIS IS TRUELY AN ISLAND THAT IS UN-INHABITED OTHER THAN NATURE. DUE TO THIS FACT YOU MUST HAVE YOUR OWN PERSONAL WATERCRAFT OR ADD AN "EXTRA" KAYAK/CANOE RENTAL OR SHUTTLE SERVICES TO YOUR BOOKING FOR ADDITIONAL COST BEYOND CAMPING FEE. THE ADDITIONAL SERVICES REQUIRE A HUMAN BEING TO BE ON CALL AND DELIVER EQUIPMENT AND MACHINES FOR YOUR ADVENTURE. **** if ok with the above please proceed as there has been some confusion about islands. About the Island: Ever wonder what it would be like to stay on a deserted island? This is truly an adventure you will never forget. Once you land in paradise you will wander thru the looping trail system to find your campsite. There are (5) campsites with elevated tent platforms tucked back in the trees. Once you are settled in,  it is time to gather wood and build a fire in one of the (2) 8 foot wide,  2 ton concrete fire pits.   Awake a dawn with a nice kayak/canoe trip on a secluded water trail thru mangrove islands and stop for lunch at River's Edge Bar and Grill across the river from the island.  Having too much fun, take a nap in hammock and rock to breeze and sounds of river.  This is an island is accessible via water only so there is some preparation to get here and stay here.  Kayaks, Canoes and a shuttle are available if you don't have your own transportation.  Please contact prior to booking to ensure you understand the packages, for example,  if you want to rent the whole island for yourself and need transportation for your group. We offer tailored quote for package based on your needs. Our Story: After 6 years of my neighbor bugging me to buy this island, I finally took him up on it. My neighbor bought it in the 1970's but did little with it. It has been overgrown for years. I am actively work to develop multiple campsites of the island for enjoyment of the river and its surrounding. All money from your stay here is re-invested back into the property.

2. By the Pond...

97%

(740)

19mi from Tampa · 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!

3. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

92%

(96)

23mi from Tampa · 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.

4. Dom’s nature camp 🍃

100%

(11)

33mi from Tampa · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

5 wooded acres close to town. Nice oak trees with a peaceful setting. We have a lot of wildlife in the area. It’s great bird watching. Full rv hookup onsite. The Weeki Wachee river is approximately 20 minutes away.

5. Costa Myakka

99%

(99)

49mi from Tampa · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to the "Wild and Scenic Myakka River"! Our 20 acre ranch has everything from Longhorn cattle, to a white sand beach. We like to say our sand is like Siesta Key, except it's...in a swamp. Our property is not too far upstream from the Myakka State park, and parking is never a problem. ;-) We have a beautiful homestead, and you have the choice of a furnished camper with water and power hookups in our pasture, or 2 primative tent or RV spots on the edge of a beautiful stand of Live Oak trees and Sabal palms along the river. We have a porta potty on site that is regularly maintained. Bring your family, bring your dog, bring your friends.....and don't forget to bring a fishing pole!

6. Tropical Acres Rv Park

15mi from Tampa · 4 sites · RVs

Experience a little piece of heaven right in the heart of Riverview—only 10 minutes from I-75 and Hwy 301. Tropical Acres RV Park neighbors Stephen J. Wortham Park, a charming green space in Riverview, FL. The park features well-maintained hiking trails, horseback riding trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

7. Private Pets Welcome Full Hook Up !

79%

(14)

39mi from Tampa · 1 site · RV

Completely private and fenced, dog friendly. Brooksville is known for its prime location near beautiful green areas like Withlacoochee State Forest and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Come enjoy a mermaid show, see manatees or drive one hour to Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, to experience the beaches and nightlife. Here you will enjoy a serene getaway with comfort because we’re located one minute away from a Walmart Supercenter, a Sprouts Supermarket, coffee shops, restaurants, golf courses and many other options to choose from. The property is spacious (5,000 sqft), gated, easy to access and has water, electricity and septic installed. Don’t wait because this lot gets booked fast.

8. The Kozy Cottage

37mi from Tampa · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

The Kozy Cottage of Hernando Beach is your perfect getaway! Located in the heart of Hernando Beach, enjoy walking to nearby bars and restaurants. With stunning waterways leading to the Gulf of Mexico, adventure is right at your doorstep. The Hernando Beach Marina is less than a 5-minute drive, where you can bring your own boat or rent one. Relax, explore, and make memories at this charming cottage!

9. Riverbend Retreat

39mi from Tampa · 1 site · Tent

Unplug and unwind at RiverBend Retreat! Imagine waking up steps from the sparkling Withlacoochee River on a 1.7-acre haven near Dade City. Explore the wooded trail to your private beach area, perfect for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Primitive campsites are available now, with future RV spots on the horizon! Your riverside adventure starts here, you don’t want to miss it! ☀️🛶

10. Restoration Ranch, Tents And Trucks

42mi from Tampa · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

We have a 2.5-acre fenced and gated camping lot in the heart of West Central Florida. This location is within walking distance of a dog park, kids’ playground, and a 4-mile biking trail. A Publix grocery store, Chinese restaurant, and other shopping and dining options are located 2.8 miles west of our property. Most of our land has trees for shade and is a work in progress. At the entry, there is an electric gate that opens inward with private coded access. At this time, we don’t have well water, electricity, or private bathrooms, but we plan to have them installed by March 2026. Your campsite will be on the back-left side of the property (northwest side), giving you over 9,945 sq. ft. of space to hang out, create a bonfire, go for a walk, and make memories. Oh, and yes—we currently have free Wi-Fi on site, thanks to our generous neighbors who allow us to use their electricity for the router. At this time, we cannot offer space for heavy vehicles or RVs due to dirt road access.

11. The Inn At The Forest

83%

(3)

46mi from Tampa · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy the lush natural zen of this sanctuary on the edge of miles of protected forest. Retreat to peace and serenity with kayaks, paddleboards, and a trailer available for your convenience. We’re just moments from the Withlacoochee River and Silver Lake, and right at the edge of River Junction — a free nature park with a sandy beach and island. Feel free to bring your boat. Our barn includes a full bathroom with shower, sink, and toilet, plus a screened-in kitchen with water and electricity. We offer tent sites with access to electricity. There’s also a swing bed in the barn and outdoor furniture for lounging. Guests can enjoy our above-ground pool during set swimming hours. As experienced and friendly hosts, we’re happy to answer any questions — feel free to call us anytime.

12. River Front, Fish, Access To River.

49mi from Tampa · 1 site · Tent, RV

Cozy cottage with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Features include a terrace, kitchen, carport, living room, and a small dog-friendly area. There’s also space for RVs or storage. Enjoy river access for fishing (bring your own poles and gear) or bring along your boat, jet ski, canoe, or kayak. Nearby Outdoor Recreation Options • Dade Battlefield Historic State Park – Scenic walks under longleaf pines and live oaks, nature trails, boardwalks, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park – A local park with a jogging trail, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, multi-purpose field, and picnic areas. • Bushnell Community Park – Offers walking trails, playgrounds, picnic spots, and open green space for a relaxing outing. • Withlacoochee State Trail – A long paved rail-trail, perfect for biking, walking, or skating, with flat and accessible terrain.

13. Twin Pines

80%

(42)

49mi from Tampa · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to your own, private campsite in the heart of Weeki Wachee surrounded by the wildlife management area, various state parks and fresh water springs! Our well-maintained campsite is a big, open area with full sun, surrounded by trees which give you plenty of shade if preferred. It is quiet and dark enough for you to hear the wildlife at night! The primitive backyard campsite rural, secluded and easy accessible, the spot is 20 feet wide so you’ll have enough space for your motorhome to pull in. We, the owners, will be your neighbors (on the same property) so we can assist you with your needs. Right now what we have available is a 20 amp extension cord and a water hose. You can also run your generator. THINGS TO DO The wildlife management area is a one minute walk from the campsite with the buford and eagle nest springs inside. There is also a distillery (NJoy Spirit) on site. Seven Sisters springs are a ten minute car ride away. You can rent a kayak or a canoe to go out and see dolphins, turtles, alligators, manatees, snakes, deer, various birds or even bears. Other springs in the area are Hunters Springs, Rogers Park and Three Sisters springs. Crystal River is a charming, historical town 25 minutes north. You’ll pass Homosassa and their State Park (the oldest Hippo Lu (65) lives here). At the waterfront restaurant ‘Crumps’ you can watch monkeys on an island! Dames Cave in Lecanto is about 17 minutes from here with multiple caves to explore. The famous Weeki Wachee Springs State park is a 15 minute drive south highway 19. Howard’s Flea Market is the largest in Citrus County, 10 minutes north from the camp site. ‚Adventure Flg X’ is a fun Zip Line park in Brooksville. Rainbow River Springs is an hour north from Twin Pines. The park has beautiful scenic trails and a water temperature of 72 degrees year round which invites you to explore the river in a tube or kayak. The Weeki Wachee preserve is another beautiful, close spot worth visiting. Disney World, Legoland and Universal Studios are within two hours. St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa and Tarpon Springs are must-see cities! Beaches: Pine Island, Fort Island, Sunwest Park Beach. Further away: Madeira Beach, Honeymoon Island & Fort DeSoto. Make sure the beaches are open!

Camper favorites near Tampa

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Private Pets Welcome Full Hook Up !

79%

(14)

39mi from Tampa · 1 site · RV

Completely private and fenced, dog friendly. Brooksville is known for its prime location near beautiful green areas like Withlacoochee State Forest and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Come enjoy a mermaid show, see manatees or drive one hour to Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, to experience the beaches and nightlife. Here you will enjoy a serene getaway with comfort because we’re located one minute away from a Walmart Supercenter, a Sprouts Supermarket, coffee shops, restaurants, golf courses and many other options to choose from. The property is spacious (5,000 sqft), gated, easy to access and has water, electricity and septic installed. Don’t wait because this lot gets booked fast.

The Kozy Cottage

37mi from Tampa · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

The Kozy Cottage of Hernando Beach is your perfect getaway! Located in the heart of Hernando Beach, enjoy walking to nearby bars and restaurants. With stunning waterways leading to the Gulf of Mexico, adventure is right at your doorstep. The Hernando Beach Marina is less than a 5-minute drive, where you can bring your own boat or rent one. Relax, explore, and make memories at this charming cottage!

Riverbend Retreat

39mi from Tampa · 1 site · Tent

Unplug and unwind at RiverBend Retreat! Imagine waking up steps from the sparkling Withlacoochee River on a 1.7-acre haven near Dade City. Explore the wooded trail to your private beach area, perfect for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Primitive campsites are available now, with future RV spots on the horizon! Your riverside adventure starts here, you don’t want to miss it! ☀️🛶

Restoration Ranch, Tents And Trucks

42mi from Tampa · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

We have a 2.5-acre fenced and gated camping lot in the heart of West Central Florida. This location is within walking distance of a dog park, kids’ playground, and a 4-mile biking trail. A Publix grocery store, Chinese restaurant, and other shopping and dining options are located 2.8 miles west of our property. Most of our land has trees for shade and is a work in progress. At the entry, there is an electric gate that opens inward with private coded access. At this time, we don’t have well water, electricity, or private bathrooms, but we plan to have them installed by March 2026. Your campsite will be on the back-left side of the property (northwest side), giving you over 9,945 sq. ft. of space to hang out, create a bonfire, go for a walk, and make memories. Oh, and yes—we currently have free Wi-Fi on site, thanks to our generous neighbors who allow us to use their electricity for the router. At this time, we cannot offer space for heavy vehicles or RVs due to dirt road access.

The Inn At The Forest

83%

(3)

46mi from Tampa · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy the lush natural zen of this sanctuary on the edge of miles of protected forest. Retreat to peace and serenity with kayaks, paddleboards, and a trailer available for your convenience. We’re just moments from the Withlacoochee River and Silver Lake, and right at the edge of River Junction — a free nature park with a sandy beach and island. Feel free to bring your boat. Our barn includes a full bathroom with shower, sink, and toilet, plus a screened-in kitchen with water and electricity. We offer tent sites with access to electricity. There’s also a swing bed in the barn and outdoor furniture for lounging. Guests can enjoy our above-ground pool during set swimming hours. As experienced and friendly hosts, we’re happy to answer any questions — feel free to call us anytime.

River Front, Fish, Access To River.

49mi from Tampa · 1 site · Tent, RV

Cozy cottage with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Features include a terrace, kitchen, carport, living room, and a small dog-friendly area. There’s also space for RVs or storage. Enjoy river access for fishing (bring your own poles and gear) or bring along your boat, jet ski, canoe, or kayak. Nearby Outdoor Recreation Options • Dade Battlefield Historic State Park – Scenic walks under longleaf pines and live oaks, nature trails, boardwalks, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park – A local park with a jogging trail, basketball and volleyball courts, playground, multi-purpose field, and picnic areas. • Bushnell Community Park – Offers walking trails, playgrounds, picnic spots, and open green space for a relaxing outing. • Withlacoochee State Trail – A long paved rail-trail, perfect for biking, walking, or skating, with flat and accessible terrain.

Twin Pines

80%

(42)

49mi from Tampa · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to your own, private campsite in the heart of Weeki Wachee surrounded by the wildlife management area, various state parks and fresh water springs! Our well-maintained campsite is a big, open area with full sun, surrounded by trees which give you plenty of shade if preferred. It is quiet and dark enough for you to hear the wildlife at night! The primitive backyard campsite rural, secluded and easy accessible, the spot is 20 feet wide so you’ll have enough space for your motorhome to pull in. We, the owners, will be your neighbors (on the same property) so we can assist you with your needs. Right now what we have available is a 20 amp extension cord and a water hose. You can also run your generator. THINGS TO DO The wildlife management area is a one minute walk from the campsite with the buford and eagle nest springs inside. There is also a distillery (NJoy Spirit) on site. Seven Sisters springs are a ten minute car ride away. You can rent a kayak or a canoe to go out and see dolphins, turtles, alligators, manatees, snakes, deer, various birds or even bears. Other springs in the area are Hunters Springs, Rogers Park and Three Sisters springs. Crystal River is a charming, historical town 25 minutes north. You’ll pass Homosassa and their State Park (the oldest Hippo Lu (65) lives here). At the waterfront restaurant ‘Crumps’ you can watch monkeys on an island! Dames Cave in Lecanto is about 17 minutes from here with multiple caves to explore. The famous Weeki Wachee Springs State park is a 15 minute drive south highway 19. Howard’s Flea Market is the largest in Citrus County, 10 minutes north from the camp site. ‚Adventure Flg X’ is a fun Zip Line park in Brooksville. Rainbow River Springs is an hour north from Twin Pines. The park has beautiful scenic trails and a water temperature of 72 degrees year round which invites you to explore the river in a tube or kayak. The Weeki Wachee preserve is another beautiful, close spot worth visiting. Disney World, Legoland and Universal Studios are within two hours. St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa and Tarpon Springs are must-see cities! Beaches: Pine Island, Fort Island, Sunwest Park Beach. Further away: Madeira Beach, Honeymoon Island & Fort DeSoto. Make sure the beaches are open!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Rick

3 days ago

Tent

3 nights at Sandy Bottom River Retreat

As always, an excellent camping experience, very connected with the natural environment here. Love being near the river! Also, the new fire pits are a nice touch. I will definitely be back, was a great camping trip overall, and perfect weather for it. Thanks again, Kira!

C

Cazzie

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Twin Pines

It was absolutely awesome and very peaceful and will recommend to others and plain on take another trip there in the future

R

Ramon

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

First time tent camping here and I loved it! Location was easy to find, site was clean and beautiful pond nearby. Also the owner the next day came by and introduced himself which was very nice. Will camp again!

D

Deborah

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

It was a wonderful experience. It was calmong and peaceful. Rebecca, her husband Kery, and son were awesome hosts! We will definitely be back with our family. Love the fact it was dog friendly! Thank you so much it was it was exactly what my wife ordered!

B

Bailey

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sandy Bottom River Retreat

On top of being right next to the creek and a clean camp site, you don't get the typical 100 spot camp grounds vibe where you see the next 5 camp site next to you at site #2. Also the clothing optional is hella cool. 💁 lastly as a queer couple we get nervous camping in FL, but felt safe the entire stay here.

P

Paul

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

awesome experience!! Mike was amazing and so accommodating. It was just what the family needed. I HIGHLY RECOMMED IT!

D

Danette

3 weeks ago

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Private Pets Welcome Full Hook Up !

Host Amanda is very responsive. Nice spot for dogs to run and play. Loved the swing!

S

Steve

3 weeks ago

40 ft toy hauler

4 nights at Dom’s nature camp 🍃

Easy place to back in. Everything was neat, orderly, and as advertised. Nice quiet spot.

M

Milton

3 weeks ago

12 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at By the Pond...

Pleasant stay. Close to town, but still feels remote. Spot 7 was fine for a smaller camper, but if I did it again, I would choose spot 8 ( bit more room). The pond was beautiful, but difficult to see from all the growth. The location is near the interstate, but the traffic noise was surprisingly minimal. If you like old time florida citrus farms, this is your spot.

J

Jim

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at By the Pond...

It's quiet, in this spot you get a tropical kind of feeling with the banana trees. It is a nice size lot. Plenty of space.

A

Ashley

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at By the Pond...

The site is beautiful! The hosts are absolutely wonderful. They went out of their way to help me when I had trouble with my tent! Highly recommend!

Bradley

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at By the Pond...

It’s a GREAT little get away spot without the hassle of trying to find an open camp sight at one of the bigger state parks. The owners are very responsive and very personable. Would 10/10 recommend for anyone looking for a way to get away from their everyday drama.

B

Bradley

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

Always a great stay out here. Nothing better than listening to the owls and counting the stars!

J

Jacob

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sandy Bottom River Retreat

Great camping site tucked away in the woods but still close enough to stores if additional supplies are needed. The river was amazing! We sat with our chairs in the river and enjoyed the cool water. The host was spectacular and very clear with the communications. Would highly recommend!!

S

Seth A.

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

The host were excellent and kind. Sweet spot to hide out for a couple days. Can conoe, fish, just sit around and enjoy the scenery. Kid friendly and just all around very nicely set up.

D

Dillon

November 2025

Tent

1 night at By the Pond...

Beautiful land and clean , well marked spots ! Mike was communicative , helpful and an all around kind soul who takes pride in his land. Great site overall!

J

Jim

November 2025

Tent

5 nights at By the Pond...

It's quiet, sites are spread well for privacy. The site I am in gives you a tropical feel with banana trees around it.

M

Mark

November 2025

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Sandy Bottom River Retreat

This was a great trip! We had the place to ourselves for the most part. This was the first time primitive camping for the wife and 3 kids and a great spot to disconnect from everyday life. The cameras pointed at the campsites was a little uncomfortable, but we were able to setup behind them so we knew we weren’t being watched constantly. At night time on the weekends, the next door property had atv’s running and big guns shooting till 3am. So having good ear plugs is necessary. During weeknights, the atv’s and guns are not going. Definitely would go back again.

h

haylen

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Costa Myakka

We loved the land here. Gorgeous, and very secluded! We even got to see the cows before we left. ❤️

S

Sara

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sandy Bottom River Retreat

Awesome spots along the river. One is very accessible to the river. The river has a long sandbar that is perfect for playing and relaxing in. The water is nice and cold. No problems with wildlife getting into our stuff. They have swings throughout the property and perfect spots for hammocks. Be sure to look for the cute messages hanging from trees and you can even go home with a souvenir! 😁 The only down side is the gunshots throughout the night but it didn’t bother us at all. We will definitely be back with friends! Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful land with us.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping near Tampa guide

Where to go

Lake Kissimmee State Park

Drive 1.5 hours east of Tampa to Lake Kissimmee State Park. Spend the day conquering the 10-mile long Buster Island Paddling Trail by kayak, or head to Joe Overstreet Landing for bird watching. Then, find a range of camping accommodations, from primitive campsites accessed by foot to drive-in campsites with laundry facilities, dump stations, and full hookups. For more luxury, go glamping in pioneer-style canvas tents with queen-sized beds and air-conditioning.

Hontoon Island State Park

Two hours northeast of Tampa, Hontoon Island State Park is ready to wow campers with its natural scenery. The island is only accessible by boat, but there is a public ferry system and a marina. On the island, campers will find canoe, kayak, and bike rentals, as well as a hike to Bear Tree Landing, which features a 300-year-old living oak tree. Rent a rustic cabin with bunk beds, picnic tables, outdoor grills, and electricity. Or, opt for a tent campsite with shared restrooms and heated showers. The park does not allow motorized vehicles, so RV campers will need to enjoy the island as a day trip.

Fort De Soto Park

With over 1,000 acres of land, including seven miles of waterfront and three miles of sandy beaches, Fort De Soto Park is consistently rated one of America’s top beaches. Wander to North Beach for swimming, or take your furry friend to Dog Park Beach where they can run off-leash. Boaters will also appreciate the 800-foot launch area in addition to several floating docks. Then set up at campgrounds within the park offering grills, potable water, electricity hookups, laundry facilities, flush toilets, and showers. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, and it’s recommended to book ahead.

When to go

Due to its subtropical climate, Tampa experiences a wet season and a dry season. Summers last from June until October and often see temperatures in the 90s, along with thunderstorms. The winters, running from November until May, are dryer and a little bit cooler, with an average high of 71°F in January. The weather in spring and fall is warm with a low chance of rain—a prime forecast for hiking and swimming.