During most of the 19th century, Tampa functioned as a military center with the establishment of Fort Brooke. Following the Civil War, Tampa was reincorporated as a city in 1887. During the first few decades of the 20th century, the cigar industry played a huge role in holding Tampa's economy together. The area featured two large factories producing massive amounts of cigars with over 500 million hand-rolled in 1929 alone. After World War II, Tampa began to truly flourish and expand, eventually growing to become one of the largest cities in the state.
Today, Tampa has a massive population of around 3.3 million people. Resting on the shores of Tampa Bay near Florida's Gulf Coast, Tampa is known for its variety of unique tourist attractions, many of which focus on animals and wildlife. For example, Busch Gardens is a huge African-themed park featuring exotic animals, thrill rides, live music, and more. Another great attraction is the Tampa Zoo, which boasts more than 2,000 animals in natural habitats. Other animal-based attractions include the Florida Aquarium and the Big Cat Rescue wildlife sanctuary.
Visitors to Tampa can also check out the Museum of Science and Industry, which features many interactive exhibits and kid-friendly educational activities. At the Tampa Bay History Center, interested visitors can learn all about the rich history of the area. During your visit, you'll also want to spend some time exploring the Tampa Riverwalk. The 2.4-mile walkway features gorgeous views, lots of public art, and several top-notch restaurants. You could also stop by the Tampa Theatre, which is known for its unique mix of architectural styles. There, you can catch a foreign film or specialty concert.
• Annual Pride Music and Art Festival 2022 – This annual festival takes place at HCC Ybor City Performing Arts Building in mid-March. The event features the Tampa Bay Symphonic Winds and Lumina Youth Choir, and advance tickets cost $20.
• Taste of Latino Hispanic Heritage Festival – Come celebrate Hispanic heritage at this annual festival in mid-October. Taking place in Ybor City, the festival offers food, music, and much more.
• Annual Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival – The Annual Tampa Bay Caribbean Carnival is happening in late April at Perry Harvey Sr. Park. Attendees will enjoy carnival music shows, a colorful street parade, arts and crafts exhibits, and a lively family atmosphere.
Three hours and six minutes southeast of Tampa, Everglades National Park is situated on the southern tip of Florida. Covering roughly 1.5 million acres of marshes, coastal mangrove forests, and pine flatwoods, the park is most known for being home to some fascinating animals. While hiking through the park's forests or taking an unforgettable airboat tour, you may be lucky enough to spot a Florida panther, American crocodile, or manatee. Keep your eyes on the sky, too, as Everglades National Park is known as an excellent area for bird-watching.
Biscayne National Park lies right off Florida's southeastern coast about four hours and 24 minutes southeast of Tampa and is known for its exceptional beauty. Much of the 172,000-acre park is only accessible via boat. The park is considered one of the best spots for scuba diving and snorkeling in the country, offering opportunities to check out glistening coral reefs and plenty of unique sea creatures. If you keep your eyes open, you may even spot a few frolicking bottlenose dolphins leaping through the pristine waters.
Roughly seven hours and 15 minutes southwest of Tampa off the shore of Key West, you can visit one of the most remote national parks in the country. Dry Tortugas National Park, which is only accessible by boat or seaplane, lies on an island in the Gulf of Mexico. The park doesn't see many visitors, but those who make the journey are in for a treat. There's a lighthouse and a 19th-century fortress to explore, lots of native sea turtles to observe up close, and a variety of cool sights for snorkelers and scuba divers. The park is also a great spot to do some fishing or paddling in the gorgeous waters.
Located about 28 minutes northeast of Tampa, Hillsborough River State Park offers a peaceful getaway from the nearby big cities. The area features a river, forested trails, and even a military fort. The nearby Hillsborough River offers Class II rapids for any whitewater rafting enthusiasts to take on. The park's seven miles of trails are perfect for hiking or mountain biking, and the on-site replica of Fort Foster offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's history for those who explore it.
Little Manatee River State Park is located near Wimauma, Florida 37 minutes south of Tampa, and contains the peaceful Little Manatee River. During your visit, you can enjoy a unique experience paddling along the shallow river under a canopy of trees. If you have the proper licenses, you can even cast your fishing line while you float along the quiet river. Alternatively, you can have a picnic on the riverbanks or explore the scenic park by walking along the boardwalk.
Alafia River State Park, located 42 minutes southeast of Tampa, is known as a premier mountain biking destination. Experienced bikers will have a wonderful time navigating the twisting boardwalk and single-track features of the park. There's even a bike shop at the park from which you can rent the necessary gear. Alternatively, visitors can head to the Alafia River and enjoy a day of kayaking or canoeing.
You may want to spice up your RV travels by visiting some of Florida's most compelling monuments and landmarks. Since you're in the Tampa area, why not spend a day exploring Tampa Zoo? Featuring thousands of amazing animals, it is widely regarded as one of the best zoos in the country. Additionally, the zoo is highly dedicated to conservation and educational efforts.
In nearby St. Petersburg, which is 25 minutes southwest of Tampa, you can stop by The Dalí. The stunning museum holds the single largest collection of Salvador Dalí's paintings and sculptures, and the building itself boasts some truly incredible architecture.
If you head two hours and 12 minutes northeast of Tampa, you'll eventually find your way to the Kennedy Space Center. Located at Cape Canaveral, the center offers visitors the chance to see the area where rockets have been launched up close. Plus, the site features a variety of engaging and interactive exhibits from which you can learn all about the history of space exploration.
One great camping option 40 minutes northwest of Tampa is Caladesi RV Park, which features full-hookup RV sites, an air-conditioned clubhouse, a heated pool, propane for sale, and more. The campsite rates vary depending on the season, but you'll likely be paying between $55 and $99 per night.
Another quality campground in the area is Cypress Campground & RV Park. The campground, which is about an hour and three minutes east of Tampa, boasts 200 RV campsites, many of which are big rig friendly. The campsites also feature full hookups, and the rates are affordable.
You could also stay at Dunedin RV Resort 40 minutes northwest of Tampa, which offers both back-in and pull-through RV campsites with full hookups. The daily rates range from $60 to $80, and campers will also have access to an on-site swimming pool, multiple sports courts, and many other amenities.
In most areas, the price to rent a motorhome is around $200 a night and the price to rent a towable trailer is around $120 a night.
What does RVshare Protection cover with my Tampa, FL RV rental?RVshare's protection plan standard package covers Up to $300,000 in comprehensive and collision coverage based on the value of the RV. It also includes free 24/7 roadside assistance and free towing and tire service. For more information on RVshare insurance, click here.
What do I need to know before renting an RV in Tampa, FL?Tampa is a city along Florida's gulf coast. The city is a major business and cultural center. There is a lot of dining and night life in this city along with Bush Gardens, an African-themed amusement park. The city is also home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers National Football Team.
What are the RV rental requirements in Tampa, FL?There is no special license needed to rent an RV but check in with the state before your trip if you have any questions.
What are the minimum age requirements for renting an RV in Tampa, FL?The minimum age requirement for renting an RV is 25.
What is included in my Tampa, FL RV rental?Check your RV listing and ask the owner about what is included with your RV rental. Every rental may not have the same inclusions.
Are there pet friendly RVs for rent in Tampa, FL?Looking for a pet friendly RV rental? Use the pet-friendly filter when searching on RVshare.com to find the perfect one for you!
Can I have my Tampa, FL RV rental delivered to a specified location?Many owners on RVshare.com offer delivery. They will drop the RV off and some will even set it up for you at the campsite. Check the listing or ask the owner to see if this service will be offered and its associated cost.
Are there one way rental options from Tampa, FL?One way costs will strongly depend on your destination. You can use this page to find out what the one way costs may be for your trip.
What are some tips for first-time RV renters in Tampa, FL?In Tampa, Florida, the summers are long, hot, muggy, wet, and mostly cloudy. The winters are short, cool, windy, and partly cloudy. The best time to go camping or RVing in Tampa is October through March since the heat will not be nearly as intense and muggy like it is in the summers.