Hillsborough River State Park Campground Introduce
For local residents in the Tampa Bay area and beyond searching for "camping near me," Hillsborough River State Park Campground, located at 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592, USA, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Florida. You can contact them at (813) 688-9500 or +1 813-688-9500 for inquiries and reservations. Based on recent customer reviews, this state park campground provides a clean, serene, and activity-rich environment, making it an excellent choice for a local camping getaway.
The environment at Hillsborough River State Park Campground is characterized by its lush greenery, the scenic Hillsborough River, and well-maintained natural trails. Reviewers consistently praise the park's beauty and the peaceful atmosphere it offers. The campsites are described as "pretty secluded," providing a sense of privacy and immersion in nature for campers. The abundance of mature trees throughout the campground likely offers ample shade, enhancing the comfort of the campsites, especially during warmer periods. The river itself is a central feature, contributing to the park's tranquility and providing opportunities for various recreational activities.
Hillsborough River State Park offers a range of services and amenities to enhance the camping experience. The campground is noted for its cleanliness, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors. While one review mentioned that the store was closed during their visit, it's advisable to check the current operating status when making reservations. The availability of clean bathrooms with hot showers and good water pressure is a significant plus for campers seeking comfort and convenience. The park also provides facilities for various recreational activities, as highlighted by visitor feedback.
One of the key features of Hillsborough River State Park is its extensive network of "nice trails for walking," allowing visitors to explore the diverse natural landscapes within the park. While specific biking trails may be limited, visitors can enjoy bike riding on the "big loop around the park," which also provides access to different walking trails. This offers a great way to navigate the park and discover its various points of interest. A notable attraction within the park is the "cool" suspension bridge, which offers unique views of the river and the surrounding natural beauty. The park also presents opportunities for kayaking and fishing in the Hillsborough River, catering to water enthusiasts.
The staff at Hillsborough River State Park Campground are consistently praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. One reviewer gave a special shoutout to Darren, a staff member who "went above and beyond" to ensure a great experience. Darren's knowledge about the park and its wildlife, his willingness to answer questions, and his recommendations for trails and spots to visit significantly enhanced the visitor's experience. This positive interaction with the staff highlights the park's commitment to providing excellent customer service.
Hillsborough River State Park is also a fantastic destination for wildlife viewing. While specific species encountered by the reviewers within the campground area weren't detailed, state parks in Florida are generally known for their diverse flora and fauna. The park's natural environment likely supports a variety of birds, small mammals, and possibly other wildlife, offering opportunities for nature observation and photography. Bird-watching is specifically mentioned as an activity the park offers, suggesting a rich avian population.
While one review mentioned trail closures that prevented them from seeing the rapids, this highlights the importance of checking the park's website or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions and any temporary closures. State parks often manage and maintain their trails, and closures can occur due to weather or maintenance needs. Despite this temporary inconvenience for one visitor, the overall experience at the park remains highly positive.
Promotional information is not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews. For local users interested in camping at Hillsborough River State Park Campground, it is recommended to visit the official Florida State Parks website or contact the park directly at the provided phone numbers. These resources will offer the most accurate information regarding camping fees, reservation procedures, availability, and any current promotions or special events happening at the park. State parks often have seasonal rates and may offer discounts for Florida residents or annual pass holders. Checking the official sources will ensure you have the latest details for planning your camping trip.
In conclusion, Hillsborough River State Park Campground near Thonotosassa provides a clean, scenic, and well-maintained environment for those seeking "camping near me" in the Tampa Bay area. With its secluded campsites, beautiful walking trails, access to the Hillsborough River for kayaking and fishing, and the iconic suspension bridge, the park offers a diverse range of outdoor activities. The friendly and helpful staff contribute to a positive visitor experience. While checking for trail closures and the operating status of amenities like the store is advisable, the overall feedback indicates a high level of satisfaction among visitors. For local residents looking for a natural escape with excellent facilities and opportunities for outdoor recreation, Hillsborough River State Park Campground is a compelling choice. Be sure to contact them or visit the Florida State Parks website to plan your visit and learn about any current promotions.
Hillsborough River State Park Campground Photos










Hillsborough River State Park Campground Location
Hillsborough River State Park Campground
15402 US-301, Thonotosassa, FL 33592, USA
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Hillsborough River State Park Campground Reviews
Clean campground. Nice campsites that are pretty secluded. Nice trails for walking. No biking trails but you can bike ride the big loop around the park, which takes you to different walking trails. Store was closed. Trails has closures too so we couldn't see the rapids. But the suspension bridge is cool.
May 02, 2025 · Lindsey Branco⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Hillsborough River State Park is a fantastic destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. From the moment we entered the park, we were impressed by the well-maintained trails and the stunning scenery. The lush greenery and the serene river create a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for a day of hiking, picnicking, or simply relaxing in nature.What truly made our visit exceptional was the incredibly helpful and friendly staff. A special shoutout to Darren, who went above and beyond to ensure we had a great experience. His knowledge about the park and its wildlife was impressive, and he took the time to answer all our questions and provide recommendations for the best trails and spots to visit. Darren’s enthusiasm and dedication to his work really made a difference and added a personal touch to our visit.The park offers a variety of activities, from kayaking and fishing to camping and bird-watching. The suspension bridge over the river is a highlight and offers a unique perspective of the park’s natural beauty. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Hillsborough River State Park has something for everyone.We had an amazing time and will definitely be returning. Thanks to Darren and the entire staff for making our visit memorable!
Jun 30, 2024 · Li VasIncredible experience if you’re trying to get away from the city and enjoy some fresh air, definitely call before coming because when I went they only had 1 trail opened.
Sep 07, 2024 · Juan SernaThis is a beautiful park. It has lovely trails and some river rapids. I believe it costs at least $6 to get in. They have bathrooms and picnic tables at the entrance only.
Apr 21, 2024 · Jennifer ClarkPet friendly and large campsites by the river. Lots of shade, to consider when wanting to get sun on the solar panels. Camp site is sandy, not paved. Women’s bathroom was clean but men’s was not. Pool and cafe was closed. Spotted a few alligators in the river, by the canoe launch inside camp area. Canoes, kayaks and bikes available for rent. You can bring your own and launch it for free if you have a paid camp site, otherwise there is a fee.
May 21, 2023 · Blig Bal
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