Pitch a Tent at Lake Park for the Great American Camp-Out

Lutz residents who want to try camping on for size without the worry of being too far from home or having to spend too much have an opportunity coming up soon.

The Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department announced that Lake Park will play host to the Great American Camp-Out March 23.

The event starts at 2 p.m. that Saturday and runs through 9 a.m. Sunday at 17302 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz.

The cost is only $2 per vehicle with up to eight people per car. The only caveat is campers must have at least one child 12 or younger with them.

This is the first time the county has offered such a campout at Lake Park, said Kemly Green, county spokeswoman.

“We realize that camping can be challenging,” Green said. “Especially if it’s your first time, and we wanted to offer families a great way to come and experience camping together by learning not only camping tips, but also different camping activities and games.”

During the event, campers will learn how to set up their tents and how to cook outdoors. They’ll also learn camping skills and get to take part in planned activities, such as crafts and games.

What to Bring

Campers are asked to bring such items as:

• Blankets
• Water
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Sleeping bags
• A tent, blanket or tarp
• A sleeping pad or air mattress
• Insect repellent

Families can also bring board games, camp chairs, binoculars and other gear.

“The Great American Camp-Out is a unique opportunity to learn about nature, the outdoors without traveling far away from home,” Green said. “Lake Park is just minutes away from downtown Tampa and has so much to offer including canoeing, trails, playground, remote control track, BMX track, horse trails and fishing.”

For more information about Lake Park, visit the county’s website.  The website also has information about other county parks, including regional parks, that offer regular camping.

To find out more about the campout or to register, call Mary Clements Fowler of the parks department at 813-635-3519. The deadline to register is March 20.