Best Dispersed Camping near Apopka, FL

Looking for the best dispersed camping near Apopka? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the trees or wide open spaces, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect dispersed campsite.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Apopka, Florida (8)

    Camper-submitted photo at Freak Creek Dispersed Camping near Paisley, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF near De Leon Springs, FL

    2. St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF

    1 Review
    153 Saves
    De Leon Springs, Florida

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of dispersed camping - camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers with few services or facilities. Additional skills are necessary for a successful trip. It is your responsibility to know your limits and abilities before you try this experience. Certain rules and regulations will make your experience safe and ensure settings remain scenic and unspoiled.

    Leave No Trace. Be Bear Aware. Minimize Waste. Pack it in, pack it out. Dispose of all garbage in proper receptacles. Bury all human and pet waste at least 6 inches deep and at least 100 feet away from any water source. Camp Considerately. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas or less than 100 feet from streams and other water sources. Pick a previously used site. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites. Make your campsite less visible, so other visitors can experience a “wild” setting. Avoid camping in the middle of a clearing or meadow. Be aware of forest boundaries. Get permission before camping on private property. Control your Campfire. Do not camp in an area with campfire restrictions listed under Alerts & Notices and Forest Supervisor's Orders. Use existing fire rings, fire pans or mound fires to minimize scarring rocks, soil and plants. Gather and use down and dead firewood. Do not cut standing trees or limbs off standing trees. Burn all wood and coals down to ashes. Make sure campfires are dead out and cold to the touch before leaving. Douse them with water and stir with a shovel. Know the Rules. Generally, there is a 14-day per month stay limit on the National Forests in Florida. Establishing residency is against federal regulation. Groups of over 75 people must obtain a special use permit from the nearest national forest office. Pets are welcome in most areas but must be kept on a leash. Camping is allowed only in designated campsites during general gun season, as defined in Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations for the Wildlife Management Areas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Destiny R.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Blue Sink near Altoona, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Sink near Altoona, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at Blue Sink near Altoona, FL

    3. Blue Sink

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    41 Saves
    Altoona, Florida

    Area may be unavailable. Please check with the local USFS Ranger station to check on status.

    Many people enjoy this solitude and primitive experience, but knowing your limits, skills and abilities is a must. Following certain rules and regulations will help make your experience safer and ensure settings remain unspoiled. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/florida/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=70792&actid=34

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Trout Lake Primitive Sites near Ocklawaha, FL

    4. Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    1 Review
    19 Saves
    Ocklawaha, Florida
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Dorr near Altoona, FL

    5. Lake Dorr

    1 Review
    8 Saves
    Altoona, Florida
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo at South Tower Hunt Camp near Altoona, FL
    Scott O.'s photo of a dispersed camping area at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area near Zephyrhills, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area near Zephyrhills, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area near Zephyrhills, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area near Zephyrhills, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area near Zephyrhills, FL
    Camper-submitted photo at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area near Zephyrhills, FL

    7. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    1 Review
    11 Photos
    42 Saves
    Zephyrhills, Florida

    Primitive and backcountry camping available. No amenities available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • WiFi
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Mary Tent Camping near Ocklawaha, FL
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Showing results 1-8 of 8 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews near Apopka, Florida

5 Reviews of 8 Apopka Campgrounds


  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorr
    Nov. 13, 2023

    Lake Dorr

    Area Unsafe and Had to Leave. Please avoid.

    Attempted to stay at this campground but left because it felt unsafe. Spoke to a local that warned of violence, robbery, and killings in this area of the national forest.

    Got stuck in sand on the way out and had to wait for a tow truck. Tow truck driver carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is and warned us not to stay.

    Please avoid the Ocala NF!

    If you do decide to come to this campground, avoid north part of Ron Paul Drive. You’ll either get stuck in sand or have issues to low/tight trees. Drive further south of the other side of Ron Paul Drive.

  • Destiny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Sink
    May. 4, 2022

    Blue Sink

    Blue Sink

    Most beautiful place to stumble upon. You may need ATV or creative backpacking to get there now. The Forestry Service recently chopped down trees and covered the easy access roads.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trout Lake Primitive Sites
    Jan. 26, 2024

    Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    Nice secluded sites

    Set of primitive spots near lake. Main road entry is packed dirt; smaller access road to sites is two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance. 4WD recommended. Just barely scraped a FWD Promaster through the trees, into a pullout just before sand started. Poor cell service even with booster. Plan on returning after antenna upgrade. Not the cleanest but passable.


Guide to Apopka

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Apopka, Florida, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of spots to choose from, you can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Stargazing Opportunities While Free Camping Near Apopka

  • The St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF offers a stunning view of the night sky, making it perfect for stargazers. The open tree canopy allows for unobstructed views of the stars.
  • At Freak Creek Dispersed Camping, you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for unwinding under the stars after a day of kayaking.
  • For those seeking solitude, Blue Sink provides a remote experience where you can truly connect with nature and enjoy the celestial display above.

Kayaking Adventures for Dispersed Campers

Secluded Spots for Nature Lovers

  • For those who appreciate tranquility, Freak Creek Dispersed Camping is known for its seclusion, providing a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle.
  • The Blue Sink area is a hidden gem that requires some effort to reach, rewarding visitors with a peaceful environment surrounded by nature.
  • Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area features spacious sites with great shade, perfect for those looking to escape into the wilderness while still having access to basic amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Apopka, FL?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Apopka, FL is Freak Creek Dispersed Camping with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Apopka, FL?

    TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Apopka, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.