• Experience primitive camping in Crystal Springs, Florida.camping image by BOOJOO from Fotolia.com
  
  The primitive camping experience is all about connecting with nature and disconnecting from life's distractions for a while. Whether planning on swimming with the manatees, bird watching or simply relaxing in western Florida's sunny weather, a primitive campground near Crystal Springs makes an excellent base camp for your adventure.
  
  

Hillsborough River State Park

• Hillsborough River State Park is located on the Hillsborough River and is 16 miles from Crystal Springs. Their primitive campground is accessible by foot trail across the river from the main campground. The site has one campfire ring, and campers must pack in all necessities including water. All garbage must be packed out upon checkout. The park has a small store that sells supplies and souvenirs and a cafe serving breakfast and lunch daily. Local activities include fishing, canoeing, kayaking, biking, hiking and swimming. Reservations are recommended.
  
  Hillsborough River State Park
  
  15402 U.S. 301 North
  
  Thonotosassa, FL 33592
  
  813-987-6771
  
  floridastateparks.org
  
  

Little Manatee River State Park

• The Little Manatee River State Park is situated 47 miles from Crystal Springs. It hosts a primitive campground 2.5 miles up a hiking trail suitable for 12 people, and offers a picnic table and fire ring. Park activities include river fishing, wildlife viewing and 12 miles of equestrian trails. A picnic pavilion is also available offering tables and grills. Reservations are recommended.
  
  Little Manatee River State Park
  
  215 Lightfoot Road
  
  Wimauma, FL 33598
  
  813-671-5005
  
  floridastateparks.org
  
  

Alafia River State Park

• Twenty-four miles from Crystal Springs is Alafia River State Park, well-known for its expansive off-road biking trails. The park's primitive campground is available for organized groups, and is located along a hiking trail, requiring a round-trip hike of two miles. The campground has a fire ring, benches and a picnic table, and accommodates up to 30 people with an eight-person minimum. Explore some of the 17 miles of biking trails, equestrian trails and go bird-watching, canoeing and fishing. The park also offers a playground, volleyball court and horseshoe pit. Reservations are recommended.
  
  Alafia River State Park
  
  14326 South County Road 39
  
  Lithia, FL 33547
  
  813-672-5320
  
  floridastateparks.org