The best camping near Alafia River State Park

Mountains in Florida? Well, they might not be natural peaks, but the reclaimed mining land at Alafia River State Park has some of Florida’s steepest elevation changes, affording some thrilling terrain for mountain biking. If you don’t fancy biking, you can hit the trails on foot or by horseback, or take to the water instead—there are ample spots for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing along the Alafia River. Alternatively, head to the lakeside to picnic, soak up the scenery, or camp at one of the park’s two camping loops, which include RV sites, equestrian sites, and primitive campsites for groups.

• Best for family RVers: Alafia Lake Campground has spacious paved sites for RVs and trailers, with full hookups, fire rings, solar-heated showers, and a dump station. 
• Best for horsey Hipcampers: Lonesome Lake Campground has 12 equestrian sites with full hookup, pull-through sites, and access to paddocks and a barn.

1. You can reserve one of the 30 full-facility campsites at Alafia River State Campground, as well as primitive group campsites, via the Florida State Parks Reservation website. 
2. Florida residents can make Alafia River campsite reservations 11 months in advance, while non-residents can make reservations 10 months in advance.
3. Campsites can book up as fast, so book at least three months in advance or at least six months in advance for holiday weekends.

The Sunshine State is ideal for four-season camping, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed right through winter at Alafia Lake State Park. The lakeside campgrounds are equally popular as a retreat from the summer heat or to sneak in some winter sun, and the campgrounds and trails can get crowded on weekends year-round.

• Alafia Lake State Park sits 28 miles southeast of Tampa, about a 40-minute drive away.
• There are day-use fees for all Florida State Parks, and campsite booking fees also apply.
• Dogs are welcome at Alafia Lake but must be kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash.
• Facilities at Alafia Lake include bathrooms, a playground and volleyball area, a lakeside amphitheatre,  a boat ramp, bike rentals, and a bike-washing station. 
• There are accessible restrooms, campsites, and picnic sites at Alafia Lake State Park.