Destination: Fort DeSoto

Located at the very southern end of Tampa Bay, Fort DeSoto is actually a county park operated by Pinellas County.  I’ve been camping at Ft DeSoto since I was a child.  The most vivid memories I have of Ft DeSoto involve insanely talented racoons, hunting rabbits Elmer Fudd-style, and swinging on the playground.  Now that I’m an adult, fun at Ft DeSoto is slightly different.  There are still racoons, and I’m sure they are just as skilled at opening coolers and Tupperware.  The playground is still there, as are the rabbits, but now, we kayak, tour the old fort, swim at the beach, and venture into St. Pete for goodies.  The kids love the adventure; we love the quiet; it’s unbelievably affordable (averaging $35-$40/night for a camper/RV)…a win-win-win!

Our Suggestions:

1)  Make reservations early OR go online at 7am on Friday morning to get a spot.  The campground reserves a certain number of sites for “walk up” visitors—a throw-back policy from the early days of the park.

2)  Make plans to visit the fort.  It’s free with admission to the park or camping.  The view from the top deck is fabulous.  You can see out to Fort Dade (aka Egmont Key), all the way to Manatee County (Anna Maria Island to the south), and over to the Skyway Bridge.

3) Check out the beaches…they are BEAUTIFUL. Tripadvisor rates it 4 ½ stars out of 5 for good reason.

4) Stop in at the Bayway Country Store and Butcher Shoppe before turning onto the island.  HUGE selection of gourmet goodies, fresh seafood, homemade sausages & fish dips, and a meat selection that is second to none!

5) Visit the local breweries.  All are kid/family friendly, so don’t shy away.  3 Daughters, Cycle, Green Bench, and Mad Beach Brewing are all within a few minutes-drive, so head in to “town” for the evening.

6) Check out St. Pete Beach.  Yes, the beach is nice, but I’m talking more about the town.  There’s still a 1960s vibe of old-school motels and kitschy shops along the beach.  Very cool stuff and GREAT eats too!  Larry’s Ice Cream is a MUST! Be prepared to wait…there’s always a line.