# By the Pond...

See photos, check availability, and book on Hipcamp: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/florida-by-the-pond-r57hnldn

- **Location:** Ruskin, Florida, United States
- **Price:** from $32.50/night
- **Rating:** 96% recommend (580 reviews)
- **Sites:** 12
- **Size:** 33 acres
- **Host:** Mike & Bill E.

## Overview

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!

## Highlights

- **Best Hipcamps in Florida:** Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2025.
- **Best in Florida: 3rd place:** Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.
- **Amazing views:** Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.
- **Staff verified:** Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.
- **Mike & Bill is a Star Host:** Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

## Amenities

- **Amenities:** Pets, Potable water, Toilets, Campfires, Showers, Trash, Cooking equipment, Wifi
- **RV amenities:** Generators
- **Activities:** Biking, Boating, Fishing, Hiking, Paddling, Swimming, Wildlife watching
- **Terrain:** Beach, Cave, Forest, Lake, River, stream, or creek, Field, Suburban, Wetlands, Farm, Ranch

## Sites

- **Site 4 at the Dock** (rv-tent, up to 6 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 7 West Road** (rv-tent, up to 6 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 5 at S.W. Corner** (rv-tent, up to 6 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 3 near East shore of pond** (rv-tent, up to 9 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 6 West Road** (rv-tent, up to 6 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 2 @ Road to Nowhere** (rv-tent, up to 7 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 8 West Road** (rv-tent, up to 7 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 9 North side of Pond** (tents, up to 6 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 15 - new South Site** (rv-tent, up to 7 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 10 North end, tents only** (rv-tent, up to 8 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Site 1 near 24th Street** (rv-tent, up to 6 guests, $32.50/night)
- **Grey Wolf Glam Camper** (rv-or-trailer, up to 4 guests, $95.00/night)

## Recent reviews

> The host Mike is very welcoming. The property has a lot of potential, but needs to be cleaned up from all the things around the property. I thought it was junkyard when I first arrived. I booked site 4 to enjoy the deck but there was too many things near it and on the deck. There's a road near campsite 4, so if you're a light sleeper it may be an issue. Unfortunately, I didn't stay, but Mike refunded me asap.
>
> - Gwen D., August 13, 2026

> Great place for a getaway! Beautiful views, quiet surroundings, and wonderful hosts. Highly recommend
>
> - Chris B., July 26, 2026

> Site 10 provided spaces to park. Great view of pond and area to walk around. Also great areas to set up tent.
>
> - Michael T., July 17, 2026

> The place is beautiful and relaxed. Watched the birds and the bunnies. Enjoyed the campfire while watching the Moon. Mike is very kind, helpful, and knowledgeable. Will definitely be back.
>
> - Michael T., July 6, 2026

> This is my second time coming and I highly recommend. We are at the dock and there's so much room. Our dogs were able to run around. Funny thing is that I am currently about to book another night but this survey came up first. Yall should definitely try it!!!
>
> - Adam R., June 28, 2026