The best camping in De Soto National Memorial, FL

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95% (28)

The best camping near De Soto National Memorial, FL

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
By the Pond...

1. By the Pond...

97%
(732)
19mi from De Soto National Memorial · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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. 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!
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$33
 / night
Sandy Bottom River Retreat

3. Sandy Bottom River Retreat

92%
(92)
21mi from De Soto National Memorial · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging · Wimauma, FL
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.
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$24
 / night
Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

6. Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

96%
(12)
35mi from De Soto National Memorial · 2 sites · Lodging · 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; No parties. RV parking & electric hookup for RV. Dog friendly, only friendly dogs and people. This is glamping experience, no kitchen or hot water. However there is a small fridge, coffee maker, hot plate & full bathroom a short walk to the shed. Book a meditation, yoga or private Soundbath for an extra charge, inquire with host. Yoga can be specialized from chanting to Tantric meditations. 420 friendly however please be discreet. This is not a party atmosphere please respect the property, this is family atmosphere. Looking forward to hosting you!
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$56
 / night
T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

8. T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

98%
(127)
40mi from De Soto National Memorial · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!
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$35
 / night
Blind Pass Beach at Sunset (20 min)

10. Serenity in the Tropics

100%
(28)
47mi from De Soto National Memorial · 2 sites · RVs · Englewood, FL
Sleep under the stars and the palm trees in a lovely and quiet neighborhood 15 min from the crystal clear water and white sand of world class Gulf Coast beaches. 25 minutes to Caspersen Beach- shark tooth capitol of the world! Myakka State Park with tropical forest hiking trails and biking, and river kayaking opportunities is only a 20 min drive. Local Thursday Farmers Market in Old Towne Englewood is a can't miss. Easy access in and out for most sizes of RV's. Hosts (avid RV'ers themselves) live on site on the main lot and can help with information on what's available in the local area- grocery stores, fuel, RV dump sites, restaurants, etc. RV parking is on the home's second lot- sites are on each side of a .25 acre lot. A 30 amp plug  and fresh water hookup is available for each site. Dump site is close by at a local RV resort. Pets allowed but must be on leash at ALL times and pet waste must be immediately picked up and thrown away. Trash disposal is available onsite. For the sake of the neighbors, quiet hours are from 9pm-6am. Need beach supplies? Ask about our beach umbrella, beach chairs, shark tooth sifters, and beach toys- all available for a low daily rental fee. Manasota Key- 15 min Boca Grande- 25 min Venice Beach- 35 min Sanibel Island- 1 hr, 45 minLearn more about this land:Sleep under the stars and the palm trees in a lovely and quiet neighborhood 15 min from the crystal clear water and white sand of world class Gulf Coast beaches. 25 minutes to Caspersen Beach- shark tooth capitol of the world! Myakka State Park with tropical forest hiking trails and biking, and river kayaking opportunities is only a 20 min drive. Local Thursday Farmers Market in Old Towne Englewood is a can't miss. Easy access in and out for most sizes of RV's. Hosts (avid RV'ers themselves) live on site on the main lot and can help with information on what's available in the local area- grocery stores, fuel, RV dump sites, restaurants, etc. RV parking is on the home's second lot- sites are on each side of a .25 acre lot. A 30 amp plug  and fresh water hookup is available for each site. Dump site is close by at a local RV resort. Pets allowed but must be on leash at ALL times and pet waste must be immediately picked up and thrown away. Trash disposal is available onsite. For the sake of the neighbors, quiet hours are from 9pm-6am. Need beach supplies? Ask about our beach umbrella, beach chairs, shark tooth sifters, and beach toys- all available for a low daily rental fee. Manasota Key- 15 min Boca Grande- 25 min Venice Beach- 35 min Sanibel Island- 1 hr, 45 min
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$45
 / night
A boardwalk leads you to the pavilions along the Cotee River.

11. Cotee River Bend

98%
(219)
49mi from De Soto National Memorial · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · New Port Richey, FL
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.
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$26
 / night
St Pete Micro Farm

13. St Pete Micro Farm

100%
(21)
13mi from De Soto National Memorial · 1 site · Tent · St. Petersburg, FL
Founded in 2018, the St Pete Micro Farm (SPMF) is an ambitious project located in Saint Petersburg Florida. Resting on just 1/10th of an acre, this 1957 mid-century modern home hosts over 80 different species of fruiting tree and shrub. With the goal of blending natural beauty and innovative design, it's an ever-evolving space that is both inviting and surprising. During your stay, we invite you to enjoy an open-air yet tastefully private shower under the bananas, or relax back into the big enough for two garden tub. A large outdoor kitchen area with a gas burner and grill will also be available for your use. An 8' x 7' yoga deck is a great place to stretch out, and doubles as your tent's platform when it's time to set up camp. If you're bringing your own tent (standard), please ensure it will fit on the available deck. Or, if you'd like for us to provide a tent for you, please select it in the add-ons section before completing your booking (Heat beating, air conditioned/AC option also available under extras). In the outdoor shower area there's a "Nature's Head" composting toilet just a few steps away from where you'll be staying. On chillier evenings, you can toast marshmallows by the fire pit, or just star gaze and let time trickle by. During the day, you'll be free to get online and catch up with the work world, or walk the garden and discover one of the many hideaways scattered around the property. You never know what will be in season, but with the guidance of one of your hosts, you can try a variety of fruits, greens, and berries if they're ready for harvest. A rich variety of wild birds visit regularly, recognizing it as a safe haven for wildlife. And though we can't guarantee you'll see a rare one, we can guarantee you'll see CHICKENS! Six of them in fact, Salty, Sleepy, Jet, Little Comb, Tapatio, and Dutchess. These friendly, curious, and fearless little marauders are guaranteed to make your acquaintance, and if you're not looking, invite themselves to share your breakfast. They free roam the yard during daylight hours, so please help us keep all gates shut to prevent them from going on an unscheduled field trip. They will also leave "landmines" on the pathways, so be sure to watch your step. We do our best to keep everything clean and tidy, but chickens abhor tidiness. And will go out of their way to unleash chaos at every turn. Still, we love the little bird brains and they are an entertaining addition to the grounds. They're also the reason we ask that all pets, and children under 12, be left at home. We thank you for your understanding and help in preserving the safety of our flock, and as thanks, please help yourself to any fresh eggs in the chicken coop. This is only a brief description, there's so much more to see on-site, but you'll also want to make your way out into the city (15 minute drive) for some of the unique flair St Pete is known for. Check out the Salvadore Dali museum and see his famous surrealist paintings. Visit some of the best beaches in the country, like St Pete Beach (15 minutes drive due West). Wander the Fort Desoto historical park area. Or Stop by the Morean Arts Center and see live glass blowing demonstrations, or just walk along Central Ave to soak up the cool vibe and rich city art scene. Complete with murals, sculptures, and a pier scene that's not to be missed.
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$54
 / night
Home is where you park it

14. Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

98%
(103)
14mi from De Soto National Memorial · 3 sites · RVs · St Petersburg, FL
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.
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$39
 / night
Mad Beach Rv Or Trailer Spot

16. Mad Beach Rv Or Trailer Spot

97%
(36)
21mi from De Soto National Memorial · 1 site · RV · Madeira Beach, FL
Experience the ultimate beachside getaway at our charming single home, just a short 3-block walk from the beach. Park your RV alongside our property and enjoy all the amenities of the home right at your fingertips. With both 30-amp and 50-amp plug connections available, you'll have everything you need to power up your RV and settle in for a relaxing stay. Our outdoor toilet and shower facilities are accessible 24/7, providing convenience and comfort during your beachside retreat. Relax and unwind on our spacious patio, complete with exterior seating and a cozy breakfast nook where you can enjoy your morning coffee or a leisurely meal. For entertainment, our outdoor smart TV with surround sound is perfect for movie nights under the stars. As the sun sets, watch your favorite films in style with our exterior chandelier casting a warm glow over the patio area. Whether you're lounging in the evening breeze or soaking up the sun during the day, our beachside oasis offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your RV adventure.
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$79
 / night
Bayou Bliss

18. Bayou Bliss

100%
(50)
13mi from De Soto National Memorial · 1 site · RV · Sarasota, FL
🚗 Two miles (5min drive) from downtown Sarasota 🌴 Old-Florida charm: lots of lush tropical greenery 🚣🏼‍♂️ On Whitaker’s Bayou. 🌟 It’s the best of both worlds: peaceful nature on the creek, and easy access to all the best restaurants, beaches, and charming Main St atmosphere. 💩 MUST have a bathroom on-board. No sewer hookup 💦 No water hookup, but you may fill your water tank with the hose ⚡️ 15amp & 30 amp plug ins. BYO adapter. Extension cord needed to reach the plug. 🏕️ No long term campers. No tent camping. 🚴🏼 Biking to Main St takes 8-10minutes if you have bicycles! 🏖️ Ten minute drive from St-Armands Circle and Lido Beach; 20-25 minute drive from Siesta Key Beach. The Bayou goes all the way out to the Gulf - we see large schools of mullet here, occasionally turtles, hawks, and herons. If you are lucky, you might see a manatee or an otter! We have a 36” campfire pit you are welcome to use. We are still working on getting seating for the campfire pit, but if you have camping chairs, it’s perfect! We have an amazing location to share AND we also have neighbors to the left, and across the creek. We value and respect them. We wish to share our space with quiet and mindful campers. The property is 0.5 acre. You will be parking in part of the yard, under the shade of one of the oaks, slightly tucked back away from the house. We can be available to help/welcome you, and offer local guidance if you like. **A sweet but fearful rescue dog lives here and we are not allowing any other animals to camp or stay on the property.** NO DOGS WHATSOEVER. You will be made to leave if you violate this condition. ***Our acceptance rate is lower because people with dogs, 5 people in their party, or no onboard facility of their own submit booking requests, which we must decline.
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$60
 / night
Just Like The Beach

20. Just Like The Beach

100%
(4)
43mi from De Soto National Memorial · 1 site · RV · Tarpon Springs, FL
Tarpon Springs Suites is beautifully landscaped to bring the charm of the Florida Keys to your stay. Our property and residences are meticulously maintained, ensuring a peaceful and comfortable retreat. While the beach is just a short distance away, you’ll feel like you’re already there. A unique historical fact: Tarpon Springs Suites and the surrounding neighborhood sit on the site of the old Tarpon Zoo. As you explore the area, you might spot remnants from this hidden piece of local history. Tarpon Springs is rich in culture and home to many landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places. The famous Sponge Docks and adjacent Greek community offer an authentic experience, with residents proudly preserving their heritage. Festivals, religious celebrations such as Epiphany, and cultural events are open to all. There’s no shortage of attractions—visit the Tarpon Springs Aquarium, Suncoast Primate Sanctuary, museums, theaters, art and music festivals, microbreweries, and pristine beaches. Outdoor lovers can enjoy waterside parks, salt and freshwater boat ramps, and the Pinellas Trail, just blocks away. This scenic trail runs from Tarpon Springs to St. Pete, offering an all-day adventure filled with shops, restaurants, and beautiful landscapes. If you prefer a relaxed ride, take the Trolley, which stops at popular destinations, including the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and the award-winning Clearwater and St. Pete Beaches. The private, fenced RV space features a 12' wide gated entry, accommodating a 45' motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer. The parking area is made of limestone and crushed shell, providing a stable and level surface. Full hookups include sewer, potable water, and a 50 Amp RV receptacle with a breaker. If your rig doesn’t support 50 Amp service, adapters are available at Walmart (across the street) or Camping World (nearby)—please review photos of the receptacle to ensure compatibility. You’ll share a beautiful common area with guests of four spacious, pet-friendly 2BD/1BA apartments. The landscaped grounds feature a large picnic table, chaise lounges, tables, chairs, and a grilling area, perfect for socializing or unwinding. A large oak tree provides ample shade, creating a serene spot to relax and enjoy the Florida sunshine.
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$81
 / night
95% (28)

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The best camping in De Soto National Memorial, FL guide

Overview

About

Spanish conquistadors set their sights on North America long before the English arrived. In May 1539, Hernando De Soto made landfall near present-day Tampa Bay. He was in search of gold and glory. This memorial site showcases where De Soto's crew landed and met fierce resistance from the natives.

The most unique aspect of this park is ranger-led kayak tours. Each tour takes about 90 minutes. You see the site as De Soto would have encountered it nearly 500 years ago. You'll travel into Tampa Bay and the Manatee River. If you're lucky, you might see one of these gentle giants in the water.

Nature trails take you through Florida's varied ecosystems. A mangrove forest looks similar to the one De Soto saw when his crew landed. You also see where the river and bay meet. Ranger-led tours along these trails last around 45 minutes. Signs on the sides of the trails interpret what happened back in 1539.

Camp Uzita is the site's living history section. People dressed in period costumes welcome you from December through April (basically during non-hurricane season). Some re-enactors showcase weapons used at the time of the landing.

Grab a picnic lunch after you're done exploring. All of this walking, kayaking, and history will make you hungry. A 10-table picnic area is near the parking lot for convenience.

Campsites in the Tampa area provide year-round accommodations. Pick one near the beach to have the waves lull you to sleep at night.

95%
28 ratings · 11 reviews