August 6, 2025

Top 10 Budget Friendly RV Camping Spots Near Tampa, FL

If you’re craving the freedom of the open road without breaking the bank, you’re not alone. For many travelers, RVing offers the perfect blend of comfort, flexibility, and affordability—especially when you know where to camp on a budget. Luckily, there are plenty of budget friendly RV camping spots near Tampa, FL that combine scenic settings with low nightly rates.

Whether you're a weekend warrior or planning a longer staycation, these 10 destinations—all within a 1–2 hour drive of Tampa—offer everything from nature preserves to coastal charm. And if you don’t own an RV, renting one locally makes getting there easy and cost-effective.

1. Hillsborough River State Park – Thonotosassa, FL

Distance from Tampa: 30 minutes
Cost: Around $24/night

Nestled along the scenic Hillsborough River, this park offers a peaceful escape with spacious campsites, hiking trails, and kayak rentals. It’s a favorite for families and nature lovers looking for budget friendly RV camping near Tampa, FL. Sites include water and electric hookups.

Why Go: Class II river rapids (rare in Florida), shady campsites, and close proximity to the city.

2. Alafia River State Park – Lithia, FL

Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes
Cost: Around $22/night

This park is a haven for mountain bikers and bird watchers. The terrain is surprisingly hilly, offering 20+ miles of bike trails and scenic hiking paths. RV sites are basic but spacious, offering electric and water hookups at a fraction of what you'd pay at a resort.

Why Go: One of the best trail systems in Florida, plus great fishing and wildlife.

3. Withlacoochee State Forest – Silver Lake Campground

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Cost: Around $15–20/night

Silver Lake Campground is one of the most peaceful spots in the Withlacoochee Forest. It offers shaded RV sites with electric hookups near the river, where you can launch kayaks or paddleboards.

Why Go: Tranquil setting, riverside views, and one of the cheapest options for RV campers in Central Florida.

4. Little Manatee River State Park – Wimauma, FL

Distance from Tampa: 40 minutes
Cost: Around $22/night

Perfect for a quick, budget-friendly getaway, this park features shady, quiet sites with water and electric hookups. It’s less crowded than some of the other state parks, which means more solitude and serenity.

Why Go: Peaceful hiking trails and a pristine river for canoeing or fishing.

5. Fort De Soto Park – Tierra Verde, FL

Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes
Cost: Around $38/night for non-residents

Though a little more expensive than others on this list, Fort De Soto is a coastal gem and well worth it. You get full hookups, waterfront views, and easy beach access for a fraction of what you'd pay at a private resort.

Why Go: Award-winning beaches, historic fort tours, and kayaking through mangroves.

6. Saddle Creek Park – Lakeland, FL

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour
Cost: Around $20/night

This Polk County-run park is a hidden treasure for RV campers on a budget. While it doesn’t offer flashy amenities, the lakeside views and quiet setting are perfect for a relaxing escape.

Why Go: Great fishing lakes, birding trails, and peaceful vibes.

7. Edward Medard Conservation Park – Plant City, FL

Distance from Tampa: 45 minutes
Cost: Around $24/night

A lesser-known spot with excellent value. RV sites offer water and electric hookups, and the park surrounds a massive lake with boardwalks, canoe rentals, and a small disc golf course.

Why Go: Budget camping with nature trails and beautiful sunrise views over the lake.

8. Hardee Lakes Park – Bowling Green, FL

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 20 minutes
Cost: Around $18–22/night

Operated by Hardee County, this spacious park is great for those looking to get away from it all. The large campsites, tranquil lakes, and horseback trails make it a peaceful and low-cost destination.

Why Go: Remote beauty, plenty of space, and some of the best value camping near Tampa.

9. Manatee Springs State Park – Chiefland, FL

Distance from Tampa: 2 hours
Cost: Around $20/night

If you’re willing to make the full two-hour drive, this spring-fed paradise is worth every minute. RV sites have electric and water, and the crystal-clear springs are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.

Why Go: Some of Florida’s best natural springs without the crowds or resort prices.

10. Lake Kissimmee State Park – Lake Wales, FL

Distance from Tampa: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cost: Around $20–25/night

With sweeping prairies, tall pines, and classic Florida marshland, Lake Kissimmee offers a back-to-nature experience at a budget price. Full of local wildlife, it’s a great spot for photographers and quiet-minded campers.

Why Go: Spacious, shaded sites with wildlife galore and peaceful lakeside trails.

How to Access These Spots in a Rented RV

All of the parks listed above are easily reachable from Tampa within a few hours—perfect for weekend getaways or last-minute road trips. Most have wide, accessible roads, even for first-time RV drivers. Many parks recommend making reservations in advance through Florida State Parks or local county websites, especially during peak seasons.

If you don’t have an RV, no problem. Renting one locally is easy, affordable, and gives you everything you need for a comfortable camping experience.

Plan Your Affordable Getaway Today

You don’t have to sacrifice adventure when you’re traveling on a budget. With so many budget friendly RV camping spots near Tampa, FL, your next escape is just a short drive away.

Ready to explore the outdoors without overspending?
Visit Tampa RV Rentals to find the perfect RV for your trip—family-sized models, cozy couples’ rigs, and everything in between.

Affordable adventures start here. Let Tampa RV Rentals help you hit the road for less.

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