Open Year-round
Yes
Reservations possible?
Yes
RV Hookups
No
Potable water
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Enjoy 1,000 acres of raw nature at the Oak Ridge Equestrian Area in Thonotosassa, Florida. Part of the Lower Hillsborough Wilderness Preserve, this free natural Florida camping, hiking and horseback riding spot has around 16 miles of multi-use trails and camping both equestrian and primitive. Although this is an amazing recreational resource, it's main purpose is water storage, supply, and natural resource conservation. Humans have been utilizing the land here since the Native Americans harvested flint from the rivers before the woods were logged in the 1800s. 

While hiking the multi-use trails you will encounter multiple vistas including wetlands, flatwoods and forests. Almost every trail lets you experience different foliage and wildlife. 

A free permit for camping is required and can be easily applied for online. The camping area is clean and easy to find. When your reservation is approved you receive a code for the lock at the gate. A short drive down a gravel road brings you to the camping area. The spots aren't organized, so you can pick your favorite spot. There is a pavillion shelter, fire rings with built in cooking grills, non-potable water, and an ADA-accessible portable toilet. Enjoy stargazing by the fire as you listen to the coyotes sing. It doesn't get any better than that.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Winter
Fall

Congestion

Occasionally full

Parking Pass

Other

Pros

Clean. Quiet. ADA toilet. Water, picnic tables, fire rings w/grills.

Cons

No power hookups.

Pets allowed

Allowed with Restrictions

Managed by

Southwest Florida Water Management District

Reservation phone number

1 (352) 796-7211

Features

Family friendly
Shelters
Wildlife
Big vistas
Wildflowers
Bird watching
Picnic tables
Old-growth forest
ADA accessible

Access

Vehicle

Total number of sites

15

Maximum trailer length

26.00 ft (7.92 m)

Location

Comments

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