Primitive Campgrounds Near Crystal Springs, Florida

Hillsborough River State Park

• Hillsborough River State Park is a large forest tract divided by the Hillsborough River just four miles southwest of Crystal Springs. It offers a primitive camping site on one side of the river that is only accessible by hiking trails, and campers must backpack all their supplies, as there is no bridge for motorized traffic from the more developed side of the park. The primitive campground includes a fire ring and a map of hiking trails. Campers must carry out all items they brought in, including garbage. Hillsborough River State Park also has a modern campground that includes restrooms, private showers, and hookups for electric and water service. Other amenities include several picnic pavilions, a concession stand and several hiking and nature trails.

  Hillsborough River State Park
  15402 U.S. Highway 301 North
  Thonotosassa, FL 33592
  813-987-6771
  floridastateparks.org/hillsboroughriver/

Lake Louisa State Park

• Lake Luisa State Park is located 30 miles northeast of Crystal Springs and features six lakes. The park has two primitive campsites, Wilderness Point and Pine Point. Each site can accommodate up to six campers and has a fire ring and level tent area. Guests must pack in and out everything that is needed, as there is no vehicle access or water available. There is a modern campground on Hammond Lake that includes two bathhouses, a picnic pavilion and full hookups. Other amenities include fishing access points on four lakes, hiking trails and an equestrian trail along with 20 rental cabins that include a fully equipped kitchen and two bedrooms.

  Lake Louisa State Park
  7305 U.S. Highway 27
  Clermont, FL 34714
  352-394-3969
  floridastateparks.org/lakelouisa/default.cfm

Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park

• Starkey Wilderness Park is an 8000-acre nature preserve located 30 miles to the west of Crystal Springs. It features four primitive campsites spread throughout the park along the hiking trails. Campsites include a fire ring and flat tent pad, but campers must backpack in all necessities and carry out everything they brought in, including trash. The park's welcome center has amenities including modern restrooms and a water source along with a day use area that includes five picnic pavilions, a playground and bonfire pits. The park has 27 miles of marked hiking trails as well as a 7-mile paved walking trail.

  Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park
  10500 Wilderness Park Boulevard
  New Port Richey, FL 34655
  727-834-3247
  swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/areas/starkey-park.html