It’s that time of year again to grab the sleeping bag, your favorite camp food, and make your way the Great American Campout. Two parks will offer opportunities to sleep under the stars and discover the great outdoors.

Learn how to light a campfire, cook dinner over the flames, and learn to use a pie iron to make dessert. It’s a chance to treat your family to a night out, make friends, and experience the joys and challenges of camping.

The overnight campout dates and conservation park locations are as follows:

Saturday, March 3 – Lithia Springs – Basic Camping
Saturday, March 24 – Dead River – Primitive Camping

Check-in is from noon to 1 p.m. Participants break camp and check out at 9 a.m. on Sunday.

Campers will enjoy games, fishing, paddling, hiking, and stargazing. The event is intended to introduce families to camping, providing opportunities for them to set up tents, start a campfire, and enjoy the park – with assistance, if needed.

Family groups must include at least one child age 12 or younger.

No pets or alcohol are allowed. The cost is $2 (cash) per camper. There are optional guided hikes for an additional $5 per person.

Organizers suggest campers bring the following gear:
– Food and water
– Tent
– Sleeping bag, blanket, pillow
– Change of clothes
– Insect spray
– Sunscreen
– Flashlights
– Binoculars

This is Hillsborough County’s sixth Great American Campout. Space is limited. To register, call (813) 744-5595 and choose extension #2 for Recreation.