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Edward Medard Conservation Park

The best camping in Edward Medard Conservation Park, FL

75% (3)

Just east of Tampa sits a pleasant grove of trees surrounding a 700-acre lake.

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Stories from the community

Amy

6 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to St Pete Micro Farm

Bill and his wife were such amazing hosts! We highly recommend staying here. He gave my fiance and I such a wonderful tour of his beautiful property and we truly had the best time enjoying all of the nature and amenities at their micro farm.

Michele

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Bare RV Resort

Jessica was friendly and great with communication, both leading up to my stay and during my visit. There were lots of RVs on site, as well as a cozy circle for tents. Tent sites were conveniently located a short walk away from the pool, hot tub, and bathrooms. Thank you for your hospitality, Jessica!

Ashley

1 week ago

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!

Dillon

2 weeks ago

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!

Angela

2 weeks ago

33 ft Class A

5 nights at Bobby's quite place

This spot was great! It was tucked back into a country setting while still being minutes from anything we needed. We saw deer at night. There were cows and chickens on the drive to his property. Bobby was very nice and super responsive with communications. We stayed for several nights. It was quiet and peaceful.

Jim

2 weeks ago

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.

2 weeks ago

5 nights at Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

Great opportunity to meet people, Ellen is friendly and helpful. Definitely feel relaxed and welcoming. Highly recommended to anyone who is looking to unwind from city of Florida. P.S I will pay extra if hot water is available. Good job Ellen!!

Mark

2 weeks ago

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.

Sara

2 weeks ago

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.

RV Site #5. Accommodates up to 30 ft. RV with water/electric/sewage hookups. Charcoal grill and picnic table.

Cindy

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

Really nice campground. I didn’t explore much as I just needed a quiet place to tent camp overnight after a sport event, but it was perfect for me. Site was large, with two spigots, a big picnic table and grill. Bathroom was very clean and great water pressure in the shower! Would definitely stay here again.

Milton

2 weeks ago

12 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Myrtle Oaks

Otter Cove is a great place for a weekend get away. Easy to find and fairly secluded. Short dirt road leading in. The spot is on the back end of a large clearing with big oaks surounding and drop off on two sides. The site has a good mix of shade and sun. We were the only ones their and had complete privacy. You can hear some traffic, but its pretty far off. We would stay here again.

Nathan

3 weeks ago

25 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

We ended up on site 6 from site 5 but also used the dock site the first night, the host was very accommodating and checked in once or twice a day on his bike or vehicle. The water was nice to sit on and troll for fish with my kayak and the ground was very clean, the site numbers are hard to figure out bc the numbers are small but again accommodating enough to figure out. A little cramped when exiting with a diesel truck so slow is best to avoid hitting the top of camper with softer low limbs. Also my GPS took me through the neighborhood next door to reach the mailboxes where I ended up at the back gate, just follow the pond around and you will wind up on the road with the mailboxes.

Melanie

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

We were looking for a bit of green space close to home to unwind for the weekend, and this spot worked out nicely for that. It was easy to get to and had a peaceful feel once we settled in. You can hear some road noise in the background, but overall it was a nice, simple getaway and just what we needed to take a little break.

greg

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Myrtle Oaks

Vince greeted us the evening we arrived. He was very friendly and accommodating. Campsite was spacious and had a great view overlooking an open field. My daughter and I had a great time.

Britany

November 2025

1 night at Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

We loved our stay at Ellen’s yoga yurt! It was better than I even could have expected, and was such the perfect little spiritual retreat. We opted to add on the Kundalini Yoga and Sound Bath experiences and are SO happy that we did. These are the kind of experiences you usually have to travel out of the country for. I truly loved the design and the decorations, and especially all of the sound bowls and instruments I got to play with while I was there. The gong and the rain stick were a few of my favorites. The tree house was another super fun addition, and climbing up into it took me back to my childhood. It was truly magical and I can’t wait to come back again. Thank you, Ellen 🙏🏼🧘🏼‍♀️🕉️

Elizabeth

November 2025

49 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

One of the best places we've stayed at! Tammi was very welcoming, the place itself was gorgeous.Perfect place to relax in the countryside.

Jamason

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Find Out Farms

Great off the grid site. Met Brian in the morning and he was very outgoing and accommodating. Would stay again.

Lisa

November 2025

21 ft Class B

2 nights at By the Pond...

Great place . Can’t get to lake to fish however . To grown over .

Carl

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to By the Pond...

Great host!! Great bass and bream fishing!! Very private and peaceful.

rachel

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

This place is absolutely fantastic. The campsites are so well maintained, the scenery is incredible & Paul is the best (make sure you get to hear one of his jokes after you check in). There are beautiful longhorns roaming around the campsites and goats in a pen you can go feed. Oh and the bathrooms? Impeccable. So clean and very nice. Truly cannot recommend this place enough. We will be back!!!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Edward Medard Conservation Park

75%

(3)

Edward Medard Park Campground

41 sites · Tents, RVs · in Edward Medard Conservation Park

Top-rated campgrounds

Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

99%

(119)

4.1mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Lithia, FL

Cedarkirk was founded in 1971 as a year-round camp and conference center that serves churches, not-for-profits, and schools. Our beautiful property and amenities exist for all people to enjoy recreation and renewal in nature. We own 170 acres of land, most of which looks like wild Florida has for thousands of years, and provides sanctuary for many native plants and animals. We are excited to welcome you to this "place apart."

T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

98%

(127)

7.7mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 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!

Island Retreat Florida

98%

(32)

12mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 1 site · Tent · Progress Village, FL

*****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.

Myrtle Oaks

100%

(149)

17mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

96%

(12)

18mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 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!

Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

98%

(395)

19mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 84 sites · Tents, RVs · Lakeland, FL

ESCAPE TO THE WILD!!!! 750 acres of Ranch, Water and Islands to explore!! Wilderness Shores is an active Texas Longhorn Ranch with 4 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! WE have beautiful RV CAMPERS ON SITE TO RENT AS WELL!!! 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! 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, lots of animals 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 vast 4 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 on site/we sell large round tubful's for a great price to last all weekend! Friendly pets are welcome!! Limit 2 per site/keep on a leash. 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! Our website is wildernessshores.com For all of our sites Check-in is daily from 2PM - 6PM. Check-out is a 11am daily. 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 and close to lots of restaurants!

Florida Palms

100%

(19)

19mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 3 sites · RVs · Wimauma, FL

Park your RV on our property. There are 2 different locations to choose from. The paved driveway is lined with palm and myrtle trees. Manatee viewing center 22 minutes, Tampa airport 35 minutes, Tampa Aquarium 40 minutes, Busch Gardens 45 minutes, Beaches 50 minutes There is access to several stores, restaurants 5-10 minutes down the road.

Moore Manor

97%

(17)

20mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 1 site · RV · Lutz, FL

Our location is situated under large live oak trees in a peaceful suburb of Tampa. The property is 1/2 an acre total but the site is located at the end of our driveway.A large nature preserve with hiking trails is within close walking distance. We're also located near I-275 and I-75 as well as Busch Gardens. The site features a 50 amp hookup and water is available.

By the Pond...

97%

(734)

21mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 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!

Sandy Bottom River Retreat

92%

(92)

21mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 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.

Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

100%

(38)

23mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 353 sites · RVs, Lodging · 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.

Picturesque Mango Tango Estate

92%

(30)

25mi from Edward Medard Conservation Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Auburndale, FL

Picturesque Mango Tango Estate Hipcamp Swimming Pool and Lake Front Fishing From our Dock. We only take clean updated RV’s no damaged or tarps on RV. Tent camping is allowed restroom locked hours set. To hook up to our hookups only at Pine Apple Ln Site. Here in Auburndale, Florida, we are a lakefront property with two palm trees greeting you at our front driveway. We have lake dock access to Lake Ariana with 300 ft of shoreline, a lakefront BBQ area, and a boat launching area for kayaks and inflatables right here at our docks. We have a large mango tree (mangoes are seasonal) and over 150 mango trees that range from starts to three-year-old trees scattered around the property. Additionally, we have an outdoor pool. Pool hours 8am to 6pm or ask for special times. You can enjoy boating, kayaking, sailboats, and BBQs right at our lakeside dock. Not into lakes? You can swim in our outdoor pool with a waterfall and decorative koi pond close by. The views of the lake are stunning. If you want to explore nearby attractions, we are close to Florida theme parks such as Disney, LegoLand, and Bush Gardens, and it's only a 40-minute drive to Gulf Coast beaches (we supply all beach gear; just ask). We welcome you to stay at Mango Tango Estate RV Camping, close to Camp Margaritaville, Berkley Sports Fields, Bonita Springs Park, Dyno World, and beaches. TEXT BEFORE COMING TO VERIFY THAT YOUR RIG WILL FIT

The best camping in Edward Medard Conservation Park, FL guide

Overview

About

Gaze upon beautiful sunsets at this 700-acre reservoir. Hillsborough County and Plant City transformed a former mining site into a recreational and flood-control area. Cast your line for catch-and-release fishing.

The 3-mile loop trail around the lake welcomes hikers, equestrians, and birdwatchers. The pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks harbor plenty of wildlife to see. Be sure to bring your binoculars if you're looking for birds.

The large boardwalk lets you enjoy the lake while staying dry. You might spot some turtles sunning themselves on logs. The observation tower provides Instagram-worth views from above. You might see some gators from this vantage point.

Residents of Tampa visit this popular park in droves, so watch out for crowds. A year-round campground offers 42 sites, all with electrical hook-ups. Some sites can accommodate RVs up to 60 feet.

When to go

The best time to visit Edward Medard Conservation Park is during the cooler months from November to March, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Summer months can be hot and humid, with a higher chance of rain, which might hinder some adventures.

Know before you go

Check the park's website for any alerts on closures or safety information before your visit.
Accessible facilities ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Remember to pack sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against the Florida sun and bugs.
Various amenities are available, but always come prepared with essentials like water and snacks.
Respect the park's natural beauty by disposing of trash properly and following the 'Leave No Trace' principles.

75%

3 ratings · 1 review

January 2016

i have camp at medard many times, had a motor home then, and i loved it, all the people that worked there are as nice as they can be, i sold the motor home as we are done with seeing the states, i am now going to try a tent, and medard will be where i try it out, so nice and peaceful, good fishing, good place to take your bike, or just good for a nice walk.