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245 campgrounds and RV Parks near University, FL. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
245 campgrounds
44241 campsites
271 RVs available for delivery
From $15/night
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Best campgrounds near University, FL
Tampa RV Park Camp Nebraska
Tampa, FL (2 miles away)
$$$$$
(86 sites)
+3
Happy Travelers RV Park
Thonotosassa, FL (6 miles away)
$$$$$
(224 sites)
+10
Spanish Main RV Resort
Thonotosassa, FL (8 miles away)
$$$$$
(280 sites)
+4
Winter Quarters Pasco RV Resort
Lutz, FL (8 miles away)
$$$$$
(255 sites)
+5
Florida Park Tampa
Tampa, FL (8 miles away)
Southern Aire RV Park
Thonotosassa, FL (8 miles away)
$$$$$
(450 sites)
+4
Lazydays RV Resort
Seffner, FL (9 miles away)
$$$$$
(299 sites)
+8
McCormick Lakes RV Park
Seffner, FL (10 miles away)
$$$$$
(30 sites)
Lake Bambi RV Park
Land O' Lakes, FL (12 miles away)
Bay Bayou RV Resort
Tampa, FL (12 miles away)
$$$$$
(275 sites)
+9
Tampa East
Dover, FL (12 miles away)
Tampa East RV Resort
Dover, FL (12 miles away)
$$$$$
(694 sites)
+7
Most common amenities
Laundry Pet friendly Showers Internet Pool Toilets Tables Dump station RV storage Cable TV
Campgrounds near University, Florida
University is a census-designated place in Hillsborough County, immediately north of Tampa and adjacent to the University of South Florida. The area sits inside the greater Tampa Bay metro, which gives RV travelers a dense choice of private RV resorts, county parks, and a state park campground within a 30 to 45 minute drive of the CDP.
Closest to the destination, private RV resorts including Happy Travelers RV Park, Florida Park Tampa, and Tampa RV Park Camp Nebraska serve as convenient bases for city-side stays. Slightly farther north in Pasco County, Winter Quarters Pasco RV Resort and Spanish Main RV Resort cater to snowbird and long-stay travelers with full hookups and resort amenities.
For a natural setting, Hillsborough River State Park, one of Florida's oldest state parks established in 1936, protects a stretch of river featuring the state's only naturally occurring Class II rapids. The 112-site campground about 30 minutes northeast of downtown is the primary public-land camping option in the immediate Tampa area. Gulf beaches, theme parks, and downtown attractions are all within an hour of most sites.
Things to do near University
The area is built around big-name family attractions. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the marquee family attraction and sits within a short drive of most local RV parks. The Tampa Riverwalk, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and the Museum of Science and Industry cover a full slate of city-side activities. Adventure Island water park sits next door to Busch Gardens and is an easy add-on for hot days.
Outdoor recreation clusters along the Hillsborough River. Hillsborough River State Park protects the state's only naturally occurring Class II rapids, and visitors can explore miles of trails, rent canoes and kayaks to paddle the rapids, swim in the man-made pool, and visit the reconstructed Fort Foster, a Second Seminole War fortification.
Beach days are a short drive west. Gulf beaches at Clearwater, St. Pete, and Fort De Soto are 30 to 60 minutes west, and Ybor City offers a walkable historic district for evenings out.
Camping spots and RV parks near University, FL
When to visit
- spring
March - May
83° / 63°F 65 mmWarm and dry through April; humidity climbs by May.
- summer
June - August
91° / 75°F 195 mmDaily thunderstorms; hot and humid; easier availability.
- fall
September - November
84° / 68°F 95 mmHurricane season peaks; watch tropical forecasts.
- winter
December - February
72° / 54°F 62 mmPeak RV season; snowbird sites fill months ahead.
There are two basic seasons in the Tampa Bay area, a hot and wet season from May through October, and a mild and dry season from November through April. Winter is the peak RV season. Snowbirds fill monthly sites at private resorts from January through March, and daytime highs typically sit in the low 70s Fahrenheit with cool, comfortable nights. Expect the fewest bugs and the driest weather in this window.
Spring stays warm and dry through April, then rain and humidity climb through May. Summer brings daily afternoon thunderstorms and heat indices well above 100, with nearly two-thirds of the annual precipitation falling in the months of June through September. Sites are easier to book but conditions can be uncomfortable without shaded pads and strong air conditioning.
Fall is transitional. September and October fall inside peak Atlantic hurricane season, so travelers should watch tropical forecasts. By mid-November the dry season returns and demand ramps back up.
Top Hosts near University, FL
moises56 trips - Joined Nov 2020
All good nice setup support person
Safraz K. - Jul 2024
Everything worked perfectly! Moises is a great host, he responded to all my questions and calls and even provided his personal camping app, which is a great find if you are into off grid cool safe camping spots to discover. It's not fancy on the outside, but the price is good and all the features are functional.
Mina H. - Mar 2024
Chris21 trips - Joined Oct 2020
Chris is great and so is the van!! Definitely will rent again!
Sarabeth H. - Jun 2026
Excellent Campervan Experience We recently rented a campervan to travel to Savannah and Northern Georgia. We had a great time, thanks to the excellent orientation provided by Morgan. We truly had everything we needed, from a French Press to start our days out right to a comfy bed that accommodated two adults comfortably. It was an amazing experience, with all the comforts of home while still being able to connect with nature. Morgan was a phenomenal host and we can't recommend him highly enough!
Omar D. - Mar 2026
How to book
Private RV resorts around Tampa, including Happy Travelers RV Park, Florida Park Tampa, and Tampa RV Park Camp Nebraska, take reservations directly through their own websites or phone lines. Winter Quarters Pasco RV Resort and Spanish Main RV Resort follow the same direct-booking pattern. Winter stays fill first, so booking three to six months ahead is common for January through March, and monthly rates typically require earlier commitment.
For the nearest public campground, Hillsborough River State Park is booked through the Florida State Parks reservation system at reserve.floridastateparks.org or by phone. Florida residents may make campsite reservations up to 11 months in advance, and non-Florida residents up to 10 months in advance, with new sites becoming available for reservation daily at 8 a.m. Eastern time. The campground accommodates RVs up to 50 feet, and reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance.
What to expect
Most private parks near University are paved or hard-packed pull-through resorts with full 30 and 50 amp hookups, laundry, pools, and clubhouses. Tree cover varies. Happy Travelers RV Park sits in a shaded area near Lake Thonotosassa, while several urban parks offer more open sites with less canopy.
Expect an older snowbird demographic at long-stay resorts through winter, with quiet hours strictly enforced. Family-oriented campgrounds pick up during school breaks and summer weekends. Most parks are pet friendly with designated dog areas, and Wi-Fi is standard though speeds vary.
Summer travelers should plan for daily thunderstorms, mosquitoes near wooded and riverfront sites, and the possibility of tropical weather advisories. The Hillsborough River campground area experiences seasonal flooding during the rainy season, which runs from April through October. Confirm rig-length limits, age restrictions if any, and cancellation policies at booking, particularly for monthly winter stays.
Own an RV? Earn up to $35,319/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near University, FL
How much does it cost to rent an RV in University, FL?
RV rental in University, FL is approachable for travelers heading to the University of South Florida area or nearby Busch Gardens. Motorhomes around Tampa typically average about $200 to $250 per night, while towable trailers often run closer to $100 to $150 per night, and many hosts discount weekly or monthly bookings. To find a cheap RV rental University FL travelers love, book mid-week, target the shoulder season (late May or September), and filter for Instant Book listings on RVezy. Pro tip: a travel trailer paired with delivery to a full-hookup park is often the best-value combo for first-time renters.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=University%2C%20FloridaWhat license do I need to rent an RV in University, FL?
Good news: a regular driver's license is all you need to rent an RV in University, FL, no commercial driver's license (CDL) or special RV endorsement is required in Florida. Approved drivers on RVezy are generally 25 or older, and RVezy verifies your ID right through the platform when you book, so there's no extra paperwork at pickup. Visiting from abroad? Bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home auto association before you fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA), which sits about 20 minutes from the University area.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsIs RV rental in University, FL protected if something goes wrong?
Yes, every RV rental in University, FL booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan plus 24/7 roadside assistance, so you can hit the road with real peace of mind. The plan provides meaningful financial protection for damage to the RV while you explore Tampa Bay, Bayshore Boulevard, and the Gulf beaches. During checkout, you choose your protection level, so you can match coverage to your comfort and trip length. That bundled-in safety net is one reason families love booking a motorhome rental University FL for their first big Florida adventure.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat is the cancellation policy if my University, FL trip plans change?
Booking is low-risk: RVezy sets the cancellation policy (it is not host-defined), and the exact terms that apply to your reservation are shown during checkout and inside your RVezy dashboard. If a hurricane warning or other qualifying event impacts Tampa Bay, RVezy's team works directly with you on options, which is reassuring during Florida's June to November storm season. Pro tip: book early for Gasparilla weekend or USF football home games, then review your cancellation details in your dashboard so you know your flexibility before plans shift.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsCan I bring my dog on a pet-friendly RV rental in University, FL?
Absolutely, plenty of pet-friendly RV rental University FL options are just a click away, just toggle the Pet-Friendly filter on RVezy to see listings that welcome your pup. Tampa is famously dog-loving: take your dog to Al Lopez Park (about 10 minutes from University), the off-leash Davis Islands Dog Park, or the dog-friendly patios along Bayshore Boulevard. Several local campgrounds, including Hillsborough River State Park and Bay Bayou RV Resort, allow leashed dogs on most sites. Pro tip: message the host before you book to confirm any breed or size details, and ask about a small cleaning add-on so your check-out is breezy.
floridastateparks.org/learn/pets-florida-state-parksCan the RV be delivered to my campground or hotel near University, FL?
Yes, RV delivery University FL is one of the most popular options on the platform, which is perfect if it's your first time renting an RV or you're flying into Tampa International Airport. Many local hosts will drive the RV to your chosen spot, level it, hook up water, sewer, and 30/50 amp power, and walk you through every system before they leave. Popular delivery destinations include Lazydays RV Resort in Seffner, Hillsborough River State Park in Thonotosassa, and Fort De Soto Park down in Pinellas County. Filter for Delivery on RVezy, message the host with your address, and you can essentially skip driving the rig yourself.
visitflorida.com/things-to-do/outdoors-nature/camping/How far can I drive on an RV road trip from University, FL?
You're sitting in one of Florida's best launch points for an RV road trip from University, FL. Walt Disney World and Orlando are about 85 miles (90 minutes) east on I-4, the Gulf beaches of Clearwater and St. Pete are 30 to 45 minutes west, the Florida Keys are around 5.5 hours south via I-75 and the Turnpike, and St. Augustine is roughly 3.5 hours northeast. Mileage policies are set by each host, so look for listings with generous daily allowances or RV rental with unlimited mileage if you're planning a big loop. Pro tip: ask the host upfront about adding extra miles, it's usually cheaper to bundle them in advance.
fdot.gov/agencyresources/mapsWhere are the best campgrounds near University, FL?
You're spoiled for choice when it comes to the best campgrounds near University, FL. Happy Traveler RV Park in Thonotosassa is a popular full-hookup park about 15 minutes north of USF. Hillsborough River State Park (30 minutes northeast) offers shaded sites, paddling, and rare Class II rapids. Lazydays RV Resort in Seffner sits next to a major RV dealership with resort-style amenities, and Bay Bayou RV Resort west of Tampa is a well-reviewed favorite. For beach lovers, head about 45 minutes south to Fort De Soto Park. Pro tip: book Florida State Parks up to 11 months ahead through the Florida State Parks reservation system, weekends sell out fast in winter.
floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/hillsborough-river-state-parkWhen is the best time of year for RV camping University, FL?
The sweet spot for RV camping University, FL is late October through April, when daytime highs sit in the 70s and low 80s°F, humidity drops, and mosquitoes back off. This is also peak snowbird season, so book your RV and campsite early. Summer (June to September) brings 90°F afternoons, daily thunderstorms, and hurricane season, but it's also when you'll find the lowest nightly rates and easy campground availability. Pro tip: February and March are magical, the weather is gorgeous, the Florida State Fair rolls into Tampa, and the Strawberry Festival in nearby Plant City draws huge crowds, so reserve your University, FL RV trip well in advance.
weather.gov/tbw/I've never done this before, what should I expect at pickup?
Relax, first time renting an RV is exactly what most University, FL hosts specialize in. At pickup (or delivery), your host gives you a hands-on walkthrough of everything: how to run the generator, switch the fridge from propane to electric, dump the tanks, deploy the awning, and operate the AC, which you'll definitely want in Tampa's heat. They'll share their cell number, and RVezy support is on call 24/7 if you have questions later. Pro tip: record the walkthrough on your phone so you can replay the steps while you're parked at Lithia Springs Conservation Park or settling in at Lazydays. You've got this.
nps.gov/subjects/camping/rv-camping.htmWhat happens if I have a breakdown or issue on the road?
You're never stranded. Every RVezy booking in University, FL includes 24/7 roadside assistance as part of the renter protection plan, with help available for issues like flat tires, jump starts, lockouts, fuel delivery, and towing. If something goes sideways at 2 a.m. on I-75 heading to Ocala or out near Hillsborough River State Park, one phone call gets help dispatched. Your host is also just a message away inside the RVezy app, and most Tampa-area owners reply quickly. Pro tip: before you pull out of the driveway, save the roadside assistance number in your phone for fast access.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailCan I take my RV rental across state lines or into Canada or Mexico?
Yes, you can absolutely cross state lines on your RV rental in University, FL, road-tripping up I-75 into Georgia, the Carolinas, or even Canada is allowed by many hosts (just confirm in your message thread before booking). Travel into Mexico, however, is not permitted on RVezy rentals because insurance coverage doesn't extend there. Popular multi-state routes from Tampa include Savannah (5 hours), the Great Smoky Mountains (9 hours), and Nashville (10 hours). Pro tip: if you're planning a long-haul trip, look for hosts offering RV rental with unlimited mileage or a high daily allowance, it makes a huge difference on Interstate-heavy itineraries.
cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-goWhat should I budget for fuel on an RV trip from University, FL?
Fuel is easy to plan for around University, FL because Florida gas is typically below the national average and Tampa has dozens of large stations that fit big rigs (Wawa, RaceTrac, and the Pilot off I-75 at Fowler Avenue are local favorites). Expect roughly 8 to 10 mpg for Class A motorhomes, 10 to 14 mpg for Class C, 15 to 20 mpg for a Class B campervan rental University FL, and 12 to 16 mpg for a truck pulling a travel trailer. A typical 4-day, 400-mile loop to Orlando and back usually runs $120 to $200 in fuel. Pro tip: use GasBuddy and fuel up before crossing into the Florida Keys, prices jump south of Homestead.
eia.gov/petroleum/gasdiesel/How far in advance should I book a campground near University, FL?
For winter and spring trips, book Florida State Parks like Hillsborough River, Little Manatee River, and Fort De Soto exactly 11 months out through the Florida State Parks reservation system, peak weekends from January through April vanish within minutes. Private parks like Lazydays RV Resort, Bay Bayou, and Happy Traveler usually have more flexibility but still fill up 2 to 3 months ahead in season. For summer or last-minute trips, you can often grab sites a week out. Pro tip: set up a free account on FloridaStateParks.org in advance with payment info saved, so when the 8 a.m. release hits, you're three clicks from confirmed.
floridastateparks.org/reservationsWhat are driving conditions like around University, FL?
Driving an RV around University, FL is very manageable once you know the local quirks. The University area sits along Fowler Avenue and Bruce B. Downs Boulevard near USF, with easy access to I-75 (east) and I-275 (west), both wide, flat, and RV-friendly. Avoid the Selmon Expressway during weekday rush hours (7 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m.) and skip the narrow streets of Ybor City and downtown Tampa with anything over 25 feet. Watch for daily summer thunderstorms (usually 3 to 5 p.m.) and pull over if visibility drops. Pro tip: nervous about city driving? Choose RV delivery and let the host handle the highway part.
fl511.com/What amenities should I expect at campgrounds near University, FL?
Campgrounds near University, FL run the full range from luxury resorts to rustic state parks, so you can match the vibe to your trip. Private parks like Lazydays RV Resort, Bay Bayou, and Keylime Bay typically offer full hookups (30/50 amp electric, water, sewer), Wi-Fi, heated pools, laundry, and dog washes. Florida State Parks like Hillsborough River and Little Manatee River provide 30-amp electric and water at the site, plus central dump stations and bathhouses. Free dump stations are also available at Flying J locations on I-75. Pro tip: fill your fresh water tank at the campground spigot before arrival day storms, Tampa water pressure often exceeds 60 psi, so use a pressure regulator.
floridastateparks.org/learn/camping-florida-state-parksWhat's inside a typical RV rental in University, FL?
Local rentals are built for Florida comfort. Expect a queen or king bed, bunk options for the kids, a kitchenette with fridge, freezer, stove, microwave, sink, and cookware, plus a bathroom with toilet and shower. Powerful air conditioning is standard around Tampa (you'll thank yourself in August), and most listings include a TV, Bluetooth speakers, outdoor chairs, and seatbelted seating for the whole crew. Many Class A, Class C, and toy hauler rentals also include a generator for boondocking. Wi-Fi varies, but Tampa has strong LTE coverage almost everywhere. Pro tip: filter by Sleeps count on RVezy to instantly match your group size for that family RV trip University FL is famous for.
nps.gov/articles/000/rv-camping-tips.htmWhat add-ons and pickup options should I know about?
Hosts in University, FL offer a buffet of helpful add-ons: delivery and setup, linens and kitchen kits, camp chairs, grills, generators, bike racks, kayaks, and even pre-stocked groceries. Each host sets their own mileage allowance (often 100 to 150 miles per day with options to pre-purchase more) and their own pet, generator, and late-return fees, so review the listing details before booking. Pickup is usually at the host's home in the Tampa Bay area, though delivery to Lazydays, Bay Bayou, or Tampa International Airport (TPA) is widely available. Pro tip: bundle delivery plus a linen package on your first trip, you'll arrive to a fully made bed and a ready-to-roll kitchen.
tampainternationalairport.com/ground-transportationHow do payment and the security deposit work on RVezy?
Payment is simple and secure: when you book your RV rental in University, FL, RVezy charges your card through the platform, no cash, checks, or off-platform transfers needed. The security deposit is handled separately from your booking payment and is pre-authorized on your card before pickup, then released after the trip ends assuming there's no damage. Deposit amounts vary by RV and are shown on every listing before you book. Pro tip: take date-stamped photos and a quick video of the interior and exterior at pickup and dropoff, it's the easiest way to ensure your full deposit comes back fast.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksWhat's a great local insider tip for an RV trip from University, FL?
Here's the insider move locals love: instead of fighting Orlando theme-park traffic on I-4, point your University, FL RV trip south on US-41 toward Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach (free, and you'll see dozens of manatees from November to April near the TECO power plant warm-water discharge). From there, continue to E.G. Simmons Regional Park for waterfront camping right on Tampa Bay, or push to Fort De Soto for some of America's top-ranked beaches. It's a 90-minute loop most tourists miss entirely. Pro tip: pack polarized sunglasses, the manatee viewing platform is shadeless but the wildlife sightings are unforgettable, especially on cool January mornings.
tampaelectric.com/manatee/Nearby cities with campgrounds
Tampa, FLGainesville, FLFort Myers, FLBranford, FLConway, FLGoldenrod, FLSt. Petersburg, FLFruit Cove, FLDunedin, FLPalmona Park, FLOdessa, FLGreater Carrollwood, FLBell, FLDeBary, FLCelebration, FLRio Pinar, FLBelleview, FLMinneola, FLDelray Beach, FLOak Ridge, FLSilver Springs, FLLongwood, FLKathleen, FLCheval, FL