Paddlers and anglers find direct access to the Withlacoochee River at this 20-site campground within the state forest system. Sites spread across sandy ground beneath tall pines, with water hookups but no electricity—a feature that keeps larger RVs away and maintains quieter conditions year-round.
The campground's layout provides substantial privacy between sites, with natural understory vegetation screening neighbors from view. Site 13 offers the most space but requires longer walks to facilities, while Site 1 sits closer to restrooms with notable seclusion despite less shade coverage. Perry J. notes the "staff is excellent and park is very clean," with an honor-system firewood program during winter months.
River access sits within walking distance of all sites, though campers report it's a decent hike from the higher-numbered locations. The boat ramp accommodates canoes and kayaks for exploring both directions along the waterway. CJ describes kayaking around the island as a "perfect little trip for a novice like me and better fishing spots." The 2-mile Hog Island Nature Trail connects to the Florida National Scenic Trail system, while longer hiking and equestrian trails extend throughout the forest.
Cell service works for most carriers but remains spotty in areas. Ticks present seasonal concerns, and campers note the abundance of cypress trees creates "a very unique feel" but produces firewood that burns poorly. The nearest supplies require a drive to Brooksville or Inverness. For those exploring beyond this forest location, campsites near Nobleton provide additional options in the area.
Summer camping proves challenging without electrical hookups for air conditioning, making this destination most comfortable during cooler months when the river activities and forest trails offer the best experience.
Description
9274 CR 635, BUSHNELL, FL 33513 Hog Island Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Sumter County), and is approximately 15 miles from Brooksville. On the bank of the Withlacoochee River, this campground is a peaceful, paddlers paradise. Other recreational activities include: fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking. CAMPSITE #21 IS CANOE/PADDLE IN ONLY, NO VEHICLE ACCESS.
Leashed Pets Allowed.
Before bringing a pet to a Florida State Forest campground, please review Florida Administrative Code 5I-4 and adhere to the following rules: Pets must be on a leash (unless signs in the area indicate otherwise). Pets may not damage natural or manmade resources or create a nuisance. Pets must be well-behaved at all times and confined in the owner's camping sleep quarters during designated quiet time. Visitors must pick up after their pets and properly dispose of all pet waste in trash receptacles. Visitors must comply with section 828.30, Florida Statutes, requiring rabies vaccinations.
No hunting allowed in campgrounds. Please refer to kiosk or myfwc.com for specific hunting seasons and dates if planning on using any trails.
It is recommended that visitors wear 500 square inches of Blaze Orange while hiking in the area during hunting seasons.
Please contact WSF Dispatch at 352-797-4100 before you begin each day of your outing to verify if prescribed burning will be taking place that day.
Per Florida Administrative Code, 5I-4006(4)(k) Chainsaw use in camping facilities is prohibited. Operation/use of chainsaws in other areas of the forest requires a Fuel Wood Permit.
Firewood is generally available on-site within the campground.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Drought conditions continue to worsen, and numerous Florida counties have implemented burn bans. State Forest campgrounds within counties under a burn ban are subject to the same restrictions, which may affect your camping experience. Please check the Burn Ban Public Dashboard and plan accordingly before making a reservation.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundHog Island Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest is located in Florida
Directions
**Physical Address:** 9274 CR 635, Bushnell, FL 33513 **USNG:** 17R LM 78772 66606 **Via I-75:** Take Exit 309, bear right on exit ramp to stop sign at C-476B. Turn right (north) and continue on C-476B to the stop sign. Turn left (west) on C-476 to CR-635. Turn left (south) and continue straight to the entrance of the Hog Island Recreation Area. The campground is just past the day use area. **Via Suncoast Parkway:** Take the Suncoast Parkway (TR-589) north to Interchange 46-SR-50 Bear right (east) onto SR-50 and continue through Brooksville following the SR 50 Truck Route. From SR-50, head north on I-75 to Exit 309 (Webster). Bear right to the stop sign. Turn right (north) on C-476B and continue to the stop sign passing the National Cemetery and Sumter Correctional Institution. Turn left (west) on C-476 and continue to CR-635. Turn left (south) on CR-635 and continue straight to the entrance of Hog Island Recreation Area. The campground is just past the day use area.
Coordinates
28.61900093 N
82.23900036 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/14/25- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 3/12/26
AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/2/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/14/25
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 16 usersLast on 3/12/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 3/2/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 27 min from Wildwood, FL
- 29 min from Homosassa Springs, FL
- 38 min from Ocala, FL
- 58 min from Lakeland, FL
