Best route to Fort De Soto from the North

[nickcrowhurst]

On Sunday 17th December we're towing the Airstream down North-West Florida from Trenton on 26 to Fort De Soto County park campground. MapPoint suggests 19, 98, "new" toll road 589, 60, 275, 682, 679. I would have chosen Williston, Ocala, 75, 275, 682, 679. ( Mainly because my map book doesn't show 589) However, this goes through the center of Tampa, according to my map. What is the best route to avoid congestion and stop-start driving while hauling the trailer? Many thanks,
Nick.

[overlander63]

Nick, my route of choice would be I-95 to Yulee, Florida. Go West to US 301, and South through Baldwin to Ocala. Soon after US 441 joins 301, you would turn West again for about 2 miles, where you would acquire I 75. Take I-75 South past the first I-275 interchange North of the Tampa/Brandon area, through that area (it goes around Tampa) past Ruskin to the second I-275 interchange (the one direct to the Sunshine Skyway Bridge). Go North on I- 275 across the Skyway Bridge to the 54th Avenue South/ Pinellas Bayway exit. This is a left hand exit. Take 54th Avenue South/ Pinellas Bayway through the first toll plaza, and turn South at Tiera Verde. Park entrance is just beyond the toll plaza on that road. Campground is on the right.
Enjoy your trip and your stay, maybe we'll see you there.

[bobchevy89]

hi overlander nick is in trenton florida.
Bob

[bobchevy89]

hi nick,

[bobchevy89]

hi nick,take 75 t0 the 275 split go 275 to st pete get off at 54 ave south follow the directions to ft desoto.plan your trip to go through tampa brtween 10am and 2 pm I go that route quite often. no problems.I fish off the long pier good fishing some times...
Bob

[overlander63]

Originally Posted by bobchevy89

hi overlander nick is in trenton florida.
Bob

Oh, okay. Well, if he ever wants go go from Trenton, New Jersy to Fort Desoto, those driving directions should help a lot...

[nickcrowhurst]

Many thanks, everyone, that's just what we needed to know.. We're just staying one night, but will return to Fort De Soto for a week at the end of January. Thanks again,
Nick.