There’s a spot for every type of camper!
@lisa.ventures
Dive into your inner outdoorsy self at Upper Tampa Bay Park by enjoying a hike on nature trails and boardwalks throughout the 596 acres. You’re almost guaranteed to see tortoises, butterflies, manatees, and more wildlife!
Our recommendation: They also have canoe and kayak rentals if you want to get out on the water or do some fishing.
8001 Double Branch Rd, Tampa, FL 33635
@rv_travel_adventures
Camping on the beach Yes, please! This campground near Tampa, the Fort De Soto Park Campground is a 238-acre, waterfront campsite over in Tierra Verde.
Our recommendation: You can take a ferry to islands like Egmont Key or Shell Key Preserve. Fort De Soto is one of the best places to catch the sunset! Ride your bike, walk along the beach, kayak, birdwatch, and more.
2528, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S, Tierra Verde, FL 33715
@zachj_photoshot
The trails here are diverse from family-friendly trails to horseback riding trails. There are also a lot of activities to do at Little Manatee River State Park like kayaking, canoeing, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more.
215 Lightfoot Rd, Wimauma, FL 33598
@explorehillsborough
With 7,400 acres, you really can’t get bored here! With so many miles to hike, Cypress Creek Nature Preserve is one of our favorite Tampa campgrounds for active hikers looking to spend a few days walking trails.
Our recommendation: The trails are dog-friendly and very peaceful. The Cypress Creek drains into the Hillsborough River and you can expect to see wildlife if you stop and wait for it!
18000 Lizards Tail Rd, Tampa, FL 33647
@floridatrippers
Paradise meets camping. Caladesi Island State Park is a beautiful, untouched Island on the Gulf of Mexico, making it one of the most perfect campgrounds near Tampa, FL that many active beach lovers enjoy. A trip to Caladesi Island is unforgettable, starting with the ferry boat ride over!
Our recommendation There are fun things to do like kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, and more. It’s the tropical paradise staycation you need!
1 Causeway Blvd, Dunedin, FL 34698
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@amandafindsblog
With over 2,990 acres and more than seven miles of trails, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy or find an inspiring spot to relax. They have a great campsite, hiking and bike trails, canoe and kayak rentals, playgrounds, and more!
Our recommendation: Kayak down the Hillsborough River and walk over the beautiful suspension bridge. Be on the lookout for alligators along the shoreline and other wildlife on the trails!
15402 US-301 N, Thonotosassa, FL 33592
@amarra_422
The camping here is phenomenal with 103 sites, all of which have electricity, potable water, fire pits, and picnic tables. E.G. Simmons Regional Park is 258 acres of mangroves with open land and beautiful waterways!
Our recommendation: There’s so much fun stuff to do here like wander to the 700-foot Tampa Bay beach for pleasant scenery, join your kids on the playgrounds, rent kayaks, or fish on the pier.
2401 19th Ave NW, Ruskin, FL 33570
@the_mills_life
Who knew camping could be this beautiful? Frog Creek RV Resort and Campground offer awesome campgrounds near Tampa that lay under canopies of live oaks.
Our recommendation The Spanish moss hanging down from the branches is so pleasant and perfect for some nature photos! Frog Creek has a nice pool to cool off after a day of hiking. You can also kayak in Terra Ceia Reserve, and play shuffleboards, cornhole, and basketball!
8515 Bayshore Rd, Palmetto, FL 34221
Comfy Camping Glamping Rentals
Enjoy games, a fireplace, a BBQ grill, marshmallow skewers, a cooler, extra blankets, beds, and so much more.
Our recommendation: Only 15 minutes from Lithia Springs, so if you’re planning to glamp with Comfy Camping Glamping Rentals, definitely spend some time at the springs to cool down!
14326 S County Rd 39, Lithia, FL 33547
Wonderfield Farm & Retreat
Because the glampsites are secluded down by the river, you get to fall asleep to the sounds of the water and wake up to birds singing. Meet the sweet cows, journal at the barn, and stroll around the beautiful farm’s garden!
Our recommendation: Since it’s just a short drive from Rainbow Springs, why not extend the outdoor fun and enjoy the most beautiful springs in Tampa Bay
10775 E Gobbler Dr, Floral City, FL 34436
Don't miss out on the best attractions in Tampa Bay, camp lovers!
Calling all adventure seekers! Don't miss out on the coolest things to do.
Immerse yourself in nature while staying close to the area’s exciting attractions. So pack your gear, gather your friends or family, and embark on a memorable camping adventure that showcases the best of Tampa Bay’s great outdoors!
Dive into our guides curated by locals for unique recommendations, things to do, and more!
Haley is a blogger for the Stuff to Do in Tampa Bay City Guide. For more insight on the best events and things to do in the Tampa Bay area, download the UNATION app and follow @StufftoDoinTampaBay on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and TikTok.

