The best camping in Hillsborough River State Park, FL

·
94% (8)

The best camping in Hillsborough River State Park, FL

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

7. Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

96%
(12)
17mi from Hillsborough River State 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$56
 / night
Florida Farm School & Animal Rescue

8. Florida Farm School & Animal Rescue

100%
(18)
18mi from Hillsborough River State Park · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Dade City, FL
Camping at Florida Farm School is unlike any other experience—this is true farm life, up close and personal. When we say "camping with the cows," we mean it! You'll be setting up camp in their pasture, sharing their home and daily routine. This is more than just a place to pitch a tent—it's an immersive farm experience. Want to join in on chores? You're welcome to help! Prefer to slow down and soak in the peaceful farm atmosphere? That’s exactly what you’ll get. You'll be surrounded by free-roaming livestock, including cows, donkeys, chickens, ducks, and our hardworking farm dogs. What to Expect: Sharing the land with the animals—including their manure Friendly farm animals in your personal space Beautiful, dark skies with no city light pollution A real farm experience—expect nature in all its forms! How to Prepare: Wear closed-toe shoes (and ones you don’t mind getting dirty) Expect natural farm life, including mosquitoes and gnats Bring your own fire pit, grill, or generator if needed Property Rules: No running, jumping, screaming, or skipping around animals No standing behind livestock No chasing or disturbing the animals Keep trash contained—no food or garbage left outside Leave your space just as you found it Whether you're looking to disconnect from the hustle or dive into farm life hands-on, our farm camping experience is one you'll never forget! You'll probably want to stay more than a day but we assure whether it's a single night or a several nights, you will have an experience!! We offer farm fresh products such as eggs, honey, soaps, and farm raised proteins
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Aerial Photo of island across from Marina

12. Island Retreat Florida

98%
(32)
20mi from Hillsborough River State 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night
Seems Like Everyday there is a New Addition to our Longhorn Herd! We are still Thinking of a Name for This Little Guy and open to Suggestions!

13. Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

98%
(395)
21mi from Hillsborough River State 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

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

98%
(127)
23mi from Hillsborough River State 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!
Pets
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Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
The HolmesStead

16. The HolmesStead

100%
(17)
23mi from Hillsborough River State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Dade City, FL
Privacy and country comforts, yet 3 miles from the I-75 exit. Grocery and restaurants nearby as well. There is a stable and 2 cross-fenced paddocks for grazing. An RV site with 30A power and water hookup, but no restroom available fo the RV site. A one room cabin with a queen bed is available with a separate full bathroom. Come visit our friendly donkey (Henry) and Scottish Highland cow (Wallace). You will hear roosters, braying and some mooing early in the morning. The Withlacoochee Trail is a mile east at the end of the road. This is a biking, hiking and equestrian trail. Florida Classic Park is roughly 2 miles north on Lockhart. The Croom Recreational Area is also 3 miles away. If you are traveling with farm animals, we do have (2) 2-acre cross-fenced paddocks available for an additional fee. We also have a stable available, but that does have a concrete floor with mats. Please reach out to us directly in this regard.
Pets
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Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

17. Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

100%
(38)
25mi from Hillsborough River State 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.
Pets
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from 
$77
 / night
Picturesque Mango Tango Estate

18. Picturesque Mango Tango Estate

92%
(30)
26mi from Hillsborough River State 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
Pets
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from 
$36
 / night
Spotted Dance Ranch

19. Spotted Dance Ranch

99%
(88)
27mi from Hillsborough River State Park · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Brooksville, FL
We opened to the public on Labor Day 2014. Most people come to stay either in our rental cottage or in their horse trailers/RVs with their horses to ride the awesome trails in the 20,000+ acre adjacent Croom Forest. However, because our ranch is so peaceful, many stay here without horses just to enjoy the peace and quiet. There are many opportunities to recreate in the area, including outstanding mountain and road biking, OHVing, hiking, golfing, and canoeing/kayaking. Many full-time and working RVers stay for extended periods. Note that our camping area is small and intimate, so you will be close to other campers. We have 5 30-amp hookups, and 2 50-amp hookups; if you need 50-amp service, please request it. Note that a minimum of a 2-night stay will typically be required on weekends, especially during our busy season. WiFi is available, but we call it "Country WiFi" since it sometimes can be slow and may or may not be accessible from where you are parked; also, Verizon cell service in our area is terrible. If internet access is important to you, we suggest having your own hotspot or internet service (many working RVers have Starlink). Note that GPS can be very mean in our rural area; make sure your turn off Highway 50 is onto paved High Corner Road, which is 2 miles west of I-75 (if GPS tries to turn you down unpaved, dead-end roads, DO NOT LISTEN..you will get stuck!).
Pets
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from 
$60
 / night
In this photo, you can see all three campsites.  From left to right, we call them sites A, B, and C.

20. Sheepy Hollow

100%
(20)
28mi from Hillsborough River State Park · 3 sites · RVs · Spring Hill, FL
Are you searching for a quiet, tranquil space to hook up your RV or Travel Trailer for a few days, weeks, or long term? Look no further! Come share three beautiful acres of oak trees and pines in northern Pasco County located north of Tampa on the Gulf Coast. Three lovely camping spots located at the end of a cul-de-sac away from the hustle and bustle, but still close to shopping and restaurants. We currently have three full hook-up spots available with brand new 50 amp service including water and sewer at the site, so no dealing with disgusting dump stations! Free wifi access AND laundry facilities! Owners live on premises for safety, security, peace of mind and attentiveness. 8 minutes to Publix, Walgreen’s, Starbucks, Dunkin', gas stations, and some restaurants, including a brand new Culver's (We're very excited!). 10 minutes to the Veteran’s expressway. 30 minutes to I-75. Under 20 minutes to Weeki Wachee Mermaids, natural springs, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, fishing, manatees, boat ramps, and many more restaurants! 30 minutes to Trinity, Crystal River, Homosassa, and ATV trails. 45 minutes to Wesley Chapel. Under 1 hour to Tampa International, theaters, Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, museums, pristine white sand beaches, Ybor nightlife, concerts, professional sporting events (hockey, baseball, football, and soccer!), USF, and so much more! Under 2 hours to Disney World, Universal, Sea World, Legoland, and all that Orlando offers! Historic Cedar Key, Micanopy antiques, and Gainesville. About 3 hours to Daytona Beach, Bike Week, and Cape Canaveral.
Potable water
Campfires
Trash
from 
$36
 / night
94% (8)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hillsborough River State Park adventure.

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Yurt Glamping Nature in the City

96%
(12)
17mi from Hillsborough River State 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!
Pets
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from 
$56
 / night

Florida Farm School & Animal Rescue

100%
(18)
18mi from Hillsborough River State Park · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Dade City, FL
Camping at Florida Farm School is unlike any other experience—this is true farm life, up close and personal. When we say "camping with the cows," we mean it! You'll be setting up camp in their pasture, sharing their home and daily routine. This is more than just a place to pitch a tent—it's an immersive farm experience. Want to join in on chores? You're welcome to help! Prefer to slow down and soak in the peaceful farm atmosphere? That’s exactly what you’ll get. You'll be surrounded by free-roaming livestock, including cows, donkeys, chickens, ducks, and our hardworking farm dogs. What to Expect: Sharing the land with the animals—including their manure Friendly farm animals in your personal space Beautiful, dark skies with no city light pollution A real farm experience—expect nature in all its forms! How to Prepare: Wear closed-toe shoes (and ones you don’t mind getting dirty) Expect natural farm life, including mosquitoes and gnats Bring your own fire pit, grill, or generator if needed Property Rules: No running, jumping, screaming, or skipping around animals No standing behind livestock No chasing or disturbing the animals Keep trash contained—no food or garbage left outside Leave your space just as you found it Whether you're looking to disconnect from the hustle or dive into farm life hands-on, our farm camping experience is one you'll never forget! You'll probably want to stay more than a day but we assure whether it's a single night or a several nights, you will have an experience!! We offer farm fresh products such as eggs, honey, soaps, and farm raised proteins
Pets
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Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

Island Retreat Florida

98%
(32)
20mi from Hillsborough River State 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

Wilderness Shores Ranch Campground!

98%
(395)
21mi from Hillsborough River State 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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

Other options near Hillsborough River State Park

The best camping in Hillsborough River State Park, FL guide

Overview

About

Just 30 minutes from downtown Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park draws adventure seekers to some of Florida’s only Class II river rapids, plus seven miles of Central Florida nature trails through hammocks, flatwoods, and wetlands, a suspension bridge, and a swimming pool to cool off in. This popular getaway for birding, wildlife viewing, fishing, and hiking also contains the Fort Foster State Historic Site, a re-construction of an 1830s U.S. Army fort from the Second Seminole War. The sole Hillsborough River Campground features 171 tent camping and RV sites with water, picnic tables, and fire rings. Most (but not all) have electric hookups, too.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Like at other Florida state park campgrounds, all campsites at the Hillsborough River Campground are available to book online or by phone. Florida residents can make campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
  2. Same-day campsites are bookable until 1pm ET, after which time open sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Call the ranger station to check for same-day availability after 1pm. 

When to go

Hillsborough River State Park is a year-round destination. Summer break is busy, when campers should prepare for heat, humidity, and rain. Spring and summer rain can also affect the flow of the river, so check river conditions in advance of paddling. Winters are mild and generally pleasant, and the Fort Foster State Historic Site hosts a living history event in December and January.

Know before you go

  • Kayak, canoe, and bicycle rentals are available on-site.
  • The park’s historic pavilions, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), are popular picnic areas. The nearest food services outside of the park are in Zephyrhills and Thonotosassa.  
  • Spring and summer rains can flood lowland areas around Tampa Bay. Hikers should check hiking trail conditions in advance.
  • No matter when you visit, good hydration and bug spray are key to a safe and comfortable stay.
94%
8 ratings · 2 reviews

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