HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The days of waking up before sunrise to snag a spot at Hillsborough County’s favorite campgrounds are officially over. As of Monday, March 9, 2026, the county has transitioned to a fully digital reservation platform, allowing nature lovers to book any of the nearly 200 sites at Edward Medard, E.G. Simmons, or Lithia Springs Conservation Parks from their phones or computers.
Before this rollout, campers often had to arrive early and in person to secure a space. The new online portal changes that dynamic, offering a real-time view of vacant sites and allowing users to pay for a specific spot up to six months in advance.
The system also filters for specific amenities, so visitors can choose sites based on needs like electricity, water hookups, fire rings, or proximity to picnic tables.
Despite the technology upgrade, camping fees remain unchanged. Standard nightly rates are $24 per site. Discounted rates are available for older adults, with those aged 55-64 paying $18, and Hillsborough County residents 65 and older paying $12.
All three locations accommodate both RV and tent camping, though the stay limits differ: RV users can stay for up to 30 consecutive days, while tent campers are limited to 14 days within a 30-day window.
The parks included in the new system offer a diverse range of recreational activities. Edward Medard in Plant City features a 700-acre reservoir and disc golf, while Lithia Springs is centered around a natural freshwater spring popular for swimming. E.G. Simmons in Ruskin provides access to Tampa Bay with boat ramps and a 200-acre mangrove bird sanctuary.
Between the three locations, 191 total sites are now available online, with E.G. Simmons offering the most at 103 spots, followed by Lithia Springs with 45 and Edward Medard with 43.
County officials noted that while the booking process has moved online, the person who makes the reservation must still be physically present during the check-in process.
Pets are also welcome, with a limit of two dogs or cats per site. Residents and visitors interested in planning their next outdoor excursion can view availability and secure their dates at HCFL.gov/camping.
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