Best Dispersed Camping near Indian Springs, AL
Dispersed camping options near Indian Springs, Alabama include two notable sites in neighboring Mississippi: Deer Island Dispersed Camping and Leaf Wilderness Area. Deer Island requires boat access, situated approximately half a mile offshore from Biloxi. Leaf Wilderness Area provides primitive camping with sites visible along the main road. Both locations offer free camping with no permits required, though amenities are minimal to nonexistent.
Deer Island Dispersed Camping is accessible only by watercraft. Kayakers report the paddle takes just minutes from the Biloxi shore. The island features no facilities, drinking water, or designated campsites. Visitors must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. According to camper reviews, the island provides good bird watching opportunities but sometimes suffers from shoreline litter. Bug spray is recommended as insects can be prevalent.
Leaf Wilderness Area presents challenges for first-time visitors. Several campers noted difficulty finding the entrance, with one reporting "an old, overgrown wagon trail" with no signage. The area permits fires but provides no drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Public land shooting activities occur nearby, which may disturb the camping experience. Road conditions vary seasonally, and GPS directions may be unreliable. Visitors should arrive during daylight hours to locate suitable sites.
Both locations permit pets and alcohol. Neither site offers hookups, showers, or sanitary dump stations. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly on Deer Island where exposure to coastal elements requires additional preparation. Campers should follow Leave No Trace principles, as these areas have limited maintenance and rely on visitor stewardship to remain clean and accessible.
