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Camper submitted image from Flat Island PreserveView 26 Photos
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Flat Island Preserve

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SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Managed by the Lake County Water Authority, Flat Island Preserve runs a registration-based camping system with three distinct site types at no net cost after a refundable $50 deposit. The group site near the trailhead has two fire pits, benches, a picnic table, and access to running water; a primitive site roughly two miles into the loop adds a pitcher well (water requires boiling); and a canoe-access island site provides only a fire ring, lantern pole, and picnic table. Pets are not permitted, and the access road is rough. Insect repellent is strongly advised, and snakes are present on the trail. Campers exploring campgrounds around Leesburg will find few setups this varied for paddlers and hikers working through central Florida's lake country.

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Map & DirectionsFlat Island Preserve is located in Florida near Leesburg

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

28.780215 N
81.91454 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Flat Island Preserve

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4.5

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3 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the preserve's unique variety of camping experiences from group sites to remote island camping. Many mentioned excellent facilities and the clean, natural setting, though visitors should expect an isolated location with minimal activities.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Sep. 29, 2018

Ok

Isolated but relaxing Clean and quiet Not a whole lot going on

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed May. 9, 2018

This is the real Florida

See Florida how it was before the settlers came in wild and natural!

Hiking trails are amazing, canoe rentals available ( with reservation in advance)

Group site and canoe rentals are no charge after a refunded $50 deposit. There is a restroom in the parking lot and running water at the start of the short trail to the camp area. There is plenty of room for several tents. There are two fire pits, benches and one picnic table. I have taken many groups out there.

Note: You WILL need insect repellent nearly year round and you need to be sure to watch for snakes on the trail (if you don't bother them they will not bother you...)

  • Review photo of Flat Island Preserve by Jeanene A., May 9, 2018
  • Review photo of Flat Island Preserve by Jeanene A., May 9, 2018
  • Review photo of Flat Island Preserve by Jeanene A., May 9, 2018
  • (15) View All
Reviewed Sep. 27, 2016

Wild Florida

This preserve has several camping opportunities. You can register (its really free since deposit is returned if site is left as found), to use the group camp which is near the trail head and parking area. There is a restroom in the parking lot and running water at the start of the short trail to the camp area. There is plenty of room for several tents. There are two fire pits, benches and one picnic table. I have used this many times to have camping 101, dutch oven cooking, and Leave No Trace classes. There is the option of primitive camping by hiking out half way through the loop to the campsite over 2 miles. There is a picnic table there, a lantern pole, and a fire ring, and as a bonus a pitcher well for water, although you need to boil it, but its there. Then the third option is really primitive....you canoe (small fee that is returned to use on site canoe which is the only way to get one to the water) to an island and camp. Only a fire ring, lantern pole, and picnic table. (right now it is closed for maintenance Sept 2016) The hiking trail is wonderful and very shaded. There is a wildflower field at the trail head areas. A must do if in the area.

  • Review photo of Flat Island Preserve by Tracy L H., September 27, 2016
  • Review photo of Flat Island Preserve by Tracy L H., September 27, 2016
  • Review photo of Flat Island Preserve by Tracy L H., September 27, 2016
  • (11) View All
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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Flat Island Preserve?

Flat Island Preserve offers several camping opportunities, including a group campsite located near the trailhead and parking area. Camping is free, requiring only a refundable $50 deposit that's returned if the site is left as found. Facilities include a restroom in the parking lot and running water at the start of the trail. The preserve provides a basic camping experience in a natural setting. For specific camping details and to arrange a site, registration is required.

Where is Flat Island Preserve located in Leesburg, FL?

Flat Island Preserve is located in Leesburg, Florida. The preserve features a natural, wild Florida landscape that showcases the region as it existed before settlement. The preserve has a designated parking area with trail access and is designed to allow visitors to experience Florida's natural environment. For specific directions and GPS coordinates, contact the preserve management or check the official Lake County website prior to your visit.

What do visitor reviews say about Flat Island Preserve?

Flat Island Preserve is characterized as a natural, wild area that shows Florida as it was before settlers arrived. The preserve is described as clean, quiet, and relaxing, though some note it is isolated with "not a lot going on." Visitors appreciate the amazing hiking trails and canoe opportunities. The preserve earns praise for its authentic Florida wilderness experience and well-maintained facilities. Those seeking a peaceful nature retreat rather than a bustling recreational area tend to enjoy their experience at Flat Island Preserve most.

Where is Flat Island Preserve located in Leesburg, FL?

Flat Island Preserve is located in Leesburg, Florida. The preserve features a natural, wild Florida landscape that showcases the region as it existed before settlement. The preserve has a designated parking area with trail access and is designed to allow visitors to experience Florida's natural environment. For specific directions and GPS coordinates, contact the preserve management or check the official Lake County website prior to your visit.

What do visitor reviews say about Flat Island Preserve?

Flat Island Preserve is characterized as a natural, wild area that shows Florida as it was before settlers arrived. The preserve is described as clean, quiet, and relaxing, though some note it is isolated with "not a lot going on." Visitors appreciate the amazing hiking trails and canoe opportunities. The preserve earns praise for its authentic Florida wilderness experience and well-maintained facilities. Those seeking a peaceful nature retreat rather than a bustling recreational area tend to enjoy their experience at Flat Island Preserve most.

What camping facilities are available at Flat Island Preserve?

Flat Island Preserve offers several camping opportunities, including a group campsite located near the trailhead and parking area. Camping is free, requiring only a refundable $50 deposit that's returned if the site is left as found. Facilities include a restroom in the parking lot and running water at the start of the trail. The preserve provides a basic camping experience in a natural setting. For specific camping details and to arrange a site, registration is required.

Are there hiking trails or outdoor activities at Flat Island Preserve?

Flat Island Preserve features amazing hiking trails that allow visitors to experience wild and natural Florida. The trail system begins near the parking area and leads into the preserve's natural habitats. Beyond hiking, canoe rentals are available with advance reservations. Like camping, canoe rentals require no charge after a refundable $50 deposit. These activities provide excellent opportunities to explore the preserve's natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.

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