If you’re an RVer who treasures a scenic backdrop for even the most mundane of chores, then you need to put the Fort De Soto Campground Store on your map. This isn't just a place to empty your tanks; it's a stop that’s part of a larger, incredible experience. Fort De Soto Park is a legendary destination for campers in the know, famous for its stunning oceanfront campsites nestled among mangroves and palm trees. The great news for those of us just passing through is that the campground’s dump station is accessible to non camping visitors for a small fee during posted hours. So, if you've been boondocking at one of the causeway pullouts along the Pinellas Bayway or just finished a beach day and need to service your rig, this facility is a perfect solution. You can pull in, empty your tanks, refill your fresh water, and maybe even grab an ice cream from the camp store before settling in to watch the nightly pelican show over Tampa Bay. It’s about as pleasant as this particular RV task can get.
The park itself is a destination worth exploring for a full day, or even longer. Spread across five interconnected islands right at the mouth of Tampa Bay, it has a rich history and an abundance of natural beauty. The park gets its name from the historic fort that was built here in the late 19th century during the Spanish American War era. You can still explore the impressive concrete fortifications of Battery Laidley, where massive 12 inch mortars once stood guard over the shipping channel. It’s a fascinating piece of history. But the park’s real claim to fame is its 1,136 acres of pristine nature. There are miles of paved bike paths, kayak and canoe launches that lead into serene mangrove tunnels, and the world famous North Beach, which was once named the best beach in America. It’s a spectacular stretch of white sand and clear, calm water. History buffs can spend an hour in the Quartermaster Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life of the soldiers stationed here over a century ago. For the anglers in your crew, the park boasts two long fishing piers that jut out into the emerald green waters, a prime spot for catching snook, redfish, and more. It’s not uncommon to see dolphins playing just offshore.
Using the dump station here feels like part of a well run, organized operation. Because it serves a large campground with 238 sites, you can expect some traffic, especially around the checkout time of 11 a.m. My pro tip is to avoid that 10 a.m. to noon window if you can. The dump station lane itself is long, level, and easy to access, even for bigger rigs. It’s flanked by potable water spigots, so you can easily rinse your hoses and refill your fresh water tank. Park rangers patrol the area regularly, which helps ensure that the space is kept clean and that everyone is following the rules. It’s a good idea to stop into the Campground Store while you’re there. You don’t have to buy anything, but it’s a nice gesture to support the park. They have basic supplies, bait, snacks, and some great souvenirs.
The amenities here are what you would expect from a top tier county park campground. You have access to potable water, clean restrooms, and showers, which is a fantastic bonus for a day use visitor. There are plenty of trash receptacles, so you can finally get rid of that bag of trash you’ve been carrying. Pets are allowed on a leash throughout most of the park, and there’s even a dedicated Paw Playground and dog beach where your furry friend can run free and splash in the waves. It’s one of the best dog beaches in the entire state. What you won’t find right at the station are things like fuel, propane, or laundry services. You’ll need to gas up in St. Pete Beach or Tierra Verde before you enter the park. The laundry facilities are reserved for registered campers.
The cost for non campers isn’t usually listed online, but based on my experience with other county parks in Florida, you can expect to pay a very reasonable fee, likely in the $5 to $10 range. When you consider that this small fee also gives you access to the park’s incredible beaches, fishing piers, and historical sites for the day, the value is simply unbeatable. It’s an amazing deal. A few tips for a smooth visit: To avoid the morning rush of departing campers, plan your arrival for mid afternoon. The post checkout lull is the perfect time for a quick, no-wait visit. Be prepared with either exact change or a credit card for the park entrance fee and the dump station fee, as some of the kiosks are automated. When you’re at the station, be a good RVer. Rinse the pad thoroughly after you’re done. The rangers are diligent about cleanliness, and it’s our shared responsibility to keep these great facilities in top shape. And my best piece of advice: don't just dump and run. Reward yourself for getting the chore done by exploring the park. Rent a bike and ride the seven mile multi use trail that winds past beautiful lagoons and through coastal hammocks where you can spot ospreys and other wildlife. Turning a maintenance stop into a mini vacation is what the RV lifestyle is all about, and Fort De Soto makes that easy.
3550 Pinellas Bayway S, St. Petersburg, FL 33715
(727) 866-9191
Cost: Price not available
Category: Camping store
Has Water
fortdesotobeach.com