Camping near Caladesi Island State Park

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

It’s not actually an island (at least, not anymore) but this Florida Park is a lil' scoop of bliss.

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Stay at a public campground in Caladesi Island State Park

Caladesi Island Campground

5 sites In Caladesi Island State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Caladesi Island State Park

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Smokey Acres

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Brooksville, FL

Welcome to Smokey Acres! This property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires out there. Down a hidden gravel drive with wetlands on either side you will find a completely fenced in field surrounded by pine, oak, and swamp maple trees. There are two ponds located on the property both stocked with bass, bluegill, and sunfish. The front pond is home to many natural Florida wildlife and is a great location to bird watch. Located a few miles from Brooksville and the Suncoast Parkway, this quiet and peaceful setting is just 5 minutes from the parking area and trailhead for the Suncoast Trail and 10 miles from the famous Weeki Wachee Springs, where you can spend the day at the local park or float down the river with the manatees. Withlacoochee State Park and other natural preserves with trail access and kayaking are only a short distance away, and Dames Cave, Homosassa Springs, and Chasawiska Springs are all within a ~20-minute drive as well. Spending a day at the beach is easy with plenty of options along the Nature Coast. We’re also less than an hour from Tampa and Clearwater and two hours from Orlando. A perfect weekend get-away for anyone looking to “unplug,” Smokey Acres is also a great stop for those passing through the area. We are a close distance to many racing, livestock, boating and fishing events. We have no problem accommodating whatever you’re towing! Whether you'd like a leisurely day on the river or an adventure in the Gulf, there are plenty of boating options nearby. Be sure to make it back to the property in time to enjoy amazing sunsets that bring peace and tranquility to your experience. Our neighbors, JG Ranch, offers U- Pick Fruit and Vegetables or a great selection of local harvest at their roadside stand. This 10-acre property has been in my family for decades. My Husband and I were married under the oaks and have had our share of campfires together out there. I've recently moved back home with my own family and as much as we enjoy the land for ourselves we'd love to share it. Any profit from hosting campers will help us maintain our sustainable farm that we're hoping to expand onto Smokey Acres. Just in! Our dirt road has been repaved. So no worries about a bumpy drive in!

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By the Pond...

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · 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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Cotee River Bend

8 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · New Port Richey, FL

Our RV 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 open air pavilions with several places to sit and enjoy nature. Cell phone service is not a problem, as we are not that 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 lazy 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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Honey ranch

8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Dade City, FL

A 5 acres well manicured estate with an over century old farm house ranch . Plenty of little spots to put h a tent and in house quarters . Room for only 2 RVs so book your spot before high season . We are starting out so help us create the mood of this small chill out farm stay locale in the hills of Florida .

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Twin Pines

4 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Sugarmill Woods, FL

Welcome to your own, private campsite in the heart of Weeki Wachee surrounded by the wildlife management area, various state parks and fresh water springs! Our well-maintained campsite is a big, open area with full sun, surrounded by trees which give you plenty of shade if preferred. It is quiet and dark enough for you to hear the wildlife at night! The primitive backyard campsite rural, secluded and easy accessible, the spot is 20 feet wide so you’ll have enough space for your motorhome to pull in. We, the owners, will be your neighbors (on the same property) so we can assist you with your needs. Right now what we have available is a 20 amp extension cord and a water hose. You can also run your generator. THINGS TO DO The wildlife management area is a one minute walk from the campsite with the buford and eagle nest springs inside. There is also a distillery (NJoy Spirit) on site. Seven Sisters springs are a ten minute car ride away. You can rent a kayak or a canoe to go out and see dolphins, turtles, alligators, manatees, snakes, deer, various birds or even bears. Other springs in the area are Hunters Springs, Rogers Park and Three Sisters springs. Crystal River is a charming, historical town 25 minutes north. You’ll pass Homosassa and their State Park (the oldest Hippo Lu (65) lives here). At the waterfront restaurant ‘Crumps’ you can watch monkeys on an island! Dames Cave in Lecanto is about 17 minutes from here with multiple caves to explore. The famous Weeki Wachee Springs State park is a 15 minute drive south highway 19. Howard’s Flea Market is the largest in Citrus County, 10 minutes north from the camp site. ‚Adventure Flg X’ is a fun Zip Line park in Brooksville. Rainbow River Springs is an hour north from Twin Pines. The park has beautiful scenic trails and a water temperature of 72 degrees year round which invites you to explore the river in a tube or kayak. The Weeki Wachee preserve is another beautiful, close spot worth visiting. Disney World, Legoland and Universal Studios are within two hours. St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Tampa and Tarpon Springs are must-see cities! Beaches: Pine Island, Fort Island, Sunwest Park Beach. Further away: Madeira Beach, Honeymoon Island & Fort DeSoto. Make sure the beaches are open!

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Cedarkirk Camp & Conf. Center

6 sites · RVs, Tents170 acres · 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."

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Sandy Bottom River Retreat

7 sites · Tents8 acres · Wimauma, FL

Come relax and rejuvenate in our private oasis. Surround yourself with the tranquility of the woods and private river access in this very rustic, amenity-less experience; home to towering pine trees, fluffy saw palmettos, soaring air plants, you name it! Looking to spot a few critters? You’ll likely encounter squirrels, rabbit and may even find an occasional river otter, deer, or hog. Bird watchers welcome, it’s easy to spot real beauties in our untouched gem. Make your way down to the river for tubing, kayaking, canoeing, wading,or just picnicking on the bank overlooking the pristine golden sandy bottom where the water is almost always just knee high. Need to pick up snacks? You’ll be pleased to find that delivery is just one click away via Walmart, Instacart, Amazon and more but you’re also just minutes away from shopping, restaurants, entertainment and the interstate is no more than a 10 minute drive from the property :-) Please note that there are currently only 2 camp sites that are situated directly on the river, the other campsites will require you to make a short trek to the river. Our property is nestled in the heart of a very rural area in Wimauma, our property is large enough that you do not need to see neighboring properties, however, our neighbors may ride ATVs or shoot guns on their properties, at their will and we have no control over the sounds you may hear during your stay as a result of that, if this is something that you are not comfortable with, please seek another Hipcamp property that may be more suitable to your comfort level. We have a zero-tolerance policy for and there is absolutely no hunting, shooting, archery, or the like, permitted on our property at any time. Please contact us in advance if you are looking to book for clothing optional friendly, one of the "on the river" camp sites, to confirm their availability and/or for special pricing to book the entire property for events.

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The Olive Grove Cabin Tent

21 sites · Lodging, Tents4 acres · Brookridge, FL

Glamping in The Olive Grove. Aframe Cabin Tent nestled in a 4 acre olive orchard. We are a working farm and harvest and mill our olives into high quality, extra virgin olive oil. Free range chickens and ducks and rescue dogs roam the grounds. Cabin tent side opens, queen bed, Wi-fi, heat and AC, TV, electric outlets and fire pit. Kitchenette and bathrooms are separate from the cabin tent. Kitchenette has coffee maker, toaster over/ air fryer, hot plate, pots and pans. Bathrooms have showers with hot water and flushing toilets. Located on the bike path, close to Weeki Wachee River Mermaids and the beautiful Chassahwitzka River. Relax, rest and take it all in. No pets please. Enjoy farm fresh eggs and fresh olive oil with your stay, our gift. Firewood available $1 per log. Farm Store open on weekends August thru March. Ask about our kayak and sailboat adventures.

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T.L.C.'S GYPSY HAVEN

8 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · 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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Honey Bunny’s Urban Oasis

3 sites · RVs1 acre · 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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Bobby's quite place

2 sites · RVs1 acre · Lutz, FL

I live on an acre property I have free range chickens, enjoy some free eggs from them. I live in an rural neighborhood all my neighbors sit on at least a acre of property. At night there's deer that roam around the neighborhood. If you're looking for somewhere to stop on the way on your camping trip this is the place with full hookups. Can only accommodate RVs and travel trailers up to 34ft due to the turning radius into my front gate.

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Boulevard Landing

4 sites · RVs1 acre · Port Richey, FL

5645 Bay Boulevard is 2 blocks off US 19 in Port Richey Florida. The property is 1 mile east of the Gulf Of Mexico. There are 5 restaurants on the water that are a short ride bicycle, golf cart or 1 wheel ride away. One is a Hooters. Within 2 blocks is a Dunkin Donuts, Culvers and Hardees. Walmart is accessible without driving on 19. If you need fuel there is a WaWa and Walmart station. The Veteran's Expressway is a short drive east which makes a drive to the Tampa Fairgrounds less than 1 hour. We have a 50 amp covered full hook up spot, a 50 amp with water spot and 6 plus boondocking spots. We have a place to dump and refill the water tank. We aren't fancy, just very convenient. Convenience is what makes our property special. We enjoy being able to help people save while enjoying a nice safe place to stay John Thompson is the manager of the property and lives in the house .

The best camping near Caladesi Island State Park guide

Overview

About

Just off the coast of Tampa, this place hasn’t really changed much in the last few hundred years. Although everyone still calls it an island, a hurricane filled in the Dunedin Pass in 1985. It's now possible to walk to the island from neighboring North Clearwater Beach. You can also catch a ferry from the mainland.

The beach here is out of this world: ribbons of perfect white sand framed by turquoise water. In 2008, it was rated the best beach in America by Dr. Stephen Leatherman, AKA “Dr. Beach”. Dr Leatherman is a coastal ecologist by day but spends his free time rating America’s beaches. Receiving “beach of the year” is a high honor; he’s seen a lot of beaches.

There are miles of waterways crisscrossing the mangrove forest. A kayak is a perfect way to explore these channels and can be rented from the visitor center. There’s also a three-mile hiking trail that winds through the interior of the island. See if you can spot snow-white egrets or speckled ospreys up in the pines.

If one day at Caladesi isn’t enough and you brought in your own boat, dock at the marina and stay overnight. You’ll wake up to a deserted island paradise—so worth it.

Nearby attractions

Envision a camping adventure near the stunning Honeymoon Island State Park. With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, it provides a dreamy setting for camping, perfect for anyone seeking to experience the bliss of island life.