Dispersed camping sites in the Osceola National Forest near Alachua, Florida offer rustic overnight options with minimal amenities. This region features a flat, subtropical landscape with sandy soil and pine-palmetto ecosystems typical of north-central Florida. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing.
What to do
River access exploration: Davenport Landing provides opportunities for fishing and water activities on the Ocklawaha River. "There's an amazing little access point here to the Ocklawaha river that runs through this neck of the woods – which used to be a riverboat stop where steamboats would stop to fuel or disembark enroute to Silver Springs," notes a visitor to Davenport Landing.
Trail hiking: The area features multiple hiking opportunities connecting to the Florida Trail system. "We hiked in a few miles on the Florida Trail, so we had all our water supplies on our person. There's a little pond there that we were purifying water out of with no issue," explains a camper at Cobb Hunt Camp.
Wildlife observation: The forest offers chances to spot native Florida wildlife. "You definitely want to keep your eyes peeled for alligators in this area," warns one Davenport Landing camper, while another notes, "I did spot a bear on my way in and scat along the road. I wouldn't recommend this spot to beginners or inexperienced outdoor enthusiasts."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Many sites provide ample space between campers. "We did a few loops looking for a good site. It was pretty easy to see where the areas for camping are but it's not as clear as a paid RV park. We ended up loving the site we picked," reports a visitor to 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Simple accommodations: The basic facilities suit self-sufficient campers. "Host was very nice. Bathroom and shower but no hot water," mentions a camper about West Tower Hunt Camp, while another notes, "Nice spots with a bathroom book exchange and power at the bathroom if you need it."
Cost-free camping: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the free accommodations. "There are some older couples that come there every year. During hunting season, there are portable toilets, but no water. Picnic tables at various spots and plenty of shady areas," explains a Cobb Hunt Camp visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities vary depending on the time of year. "During hunting season, there are portable toilets, but no water," notes one camper about dispersed camping in the area.
Varying ground conditions: Soil stability depends on recent rainfall. "Ground can be soft, but luckily it had been dry for a few days, but you could get stuck in some spots," warns a 17 Mile Hunt Camp visitor.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the forest. "Minimal, if any, cell service, so you will be disconnected pretty much," reports a camper from 17 Mile Hunt Camp, while a West Tower visitor notes "Verizon service was pretty spotty."
Temporary closures: Campgrounds may close without notice. "We arrived late and saw the campground was taped off and a sign read closed indefinitely. However, we drove just past the campground and found many others camped on the side of the road," shares a visitor to Sandhill Hunt Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: Wildlife awareness is essential with children. "We did have to be extra careful with our little dog tho because we did get the sense that something could try to eat it since the sites are in the middle of the woods," notes a 17 Mile Hunt Camp camper.
Activity planning: Simple activities keep children entertained. "I camped there with my boys in a tent, and they had a blast just playing in the dirt," shares a Cobb Hunt Camp visitor.
Alternative options: Consider developed campgrounds for families new to camping. "There is a campground nearby that charges 10 bucks a night that I would recommend for families or beginners. Delancy Campground is accessible from this location," suggests a Davenport Landing review.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "The roads are a little rough, yet passable, it was a little wet because of a rain a day earlier, but I had a blast," reports an RVer at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Site selection strategy: Carefully assess potential campsites. "We have a 26' travel trailer and we did a few loops looking for a good site. We were able to pull through instead of backing in, the ground wasn't too muddy so we didn't get stuck, and we didn't even need to level the camper - it was naturally flat," shares a 17 Mile Hunt Camp visitor.
Self-sufficiency planning: Come prepared with all necessities. "I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer, not much cell service, no tv stations, I brought movies, really enjoyed myself," explains an RVer staying at rustic camping near Alachua.
