Primitive camping near Archer, Florida includes remote sites in the Ocala National Forest with minimal development and no facilities. Access requires traveling 2-3 miles on unpaved forest roads that degrade seasonally. While Cobb Hunt Camp and Davenport Landing provide free primitive camping options, there are periodic closures and changing conditions that require advance planning.
What to do
River activities: At Davenport Landing, visitors can access the Ocklawaha River for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. "If you are looking to catch and eat your meals, then this will certainly be an added bonus. The steps down the ravine to the river basin are somewhat steep, but for anyone towing a light-weight kayak or paddleboard, me thinks you could likely manage to bring your watercraft down here," notes Stuart K.
History exploration: The area contains Civil War sites and Native American artifacts. "If you have an explorer's mindset, you'll be richly rewarded here as there is a small gravesite from the Civil War that you can find along with middens along the Ocklawaha River hiding traces of the Timucuan Indians that once populated this area," advises a Davenport Landing visitor.
Wildlife observation: The forests near Archer support diverse wildlife. According to fishermen at Davenport Landing, campers should "be on the look-out for 'Coyo-Dogs' (a cross between canine species where a dog mates with a coyote) and black bear, both of which have been known to frequent this area, especially at night."
What campers like
Natural shade: The wooded campsites provide cooling relief during hot months. "This place is very beautiful way out in the woods," notes Heather F. about Cobb Hunt Camp. At Davenport Landing, Stuart K. appreciates "a dozen or so medium-sized Magnolias that blot out the sun's rays and cast an unusually spooky shadow on this area, made even more dramatic by all of the Spanish moss falling from the tree limbs."
Quiet seclusion: When not during hunting season, these sites offer peaceful retreats. "We didn't see anything bad with this place when we were there. Had no one around and nice and cool in the forest," reports Ethan B. about his stay at Davenport Landing.
Accommodating space: The open layout works well for various camping setups. "Lots of wide open area where if you have a trailer you can park. Not much privacy. Has the feel of a regular campground but its free," mentions Hilary G. about Cobb Hunt Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal facilities: Basic amenities appear only during certain periods. "During hunting season, there are portable toilets, but no water. Picnic tables at various spots and plenty of shady areas," reports Jamie W. about Cobb Hunt Camp.
Closure issues: Sites may close without notice. "Cobb Camp Osceola is closed though the website makes no mention of the closure. There are people camping just beyond the campground without issue," notes Chris D.
Vehicle limitations: Access roads deteriorate at camp approaches. "Unless you make the unwise decision to turn into one of the small handful of options beforehand that would have you drive down a patch of road that likely you are not authorized to, my only advice would be not to exceed 15 MPH on this road as the poor condition of the road could do damage to a lower-lying vehicle," cautions Stuart K. about Davenport Landing.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: With minimal facilities, prepare activities for children. "I camped there with my boys in a tent, and they had a blast just playing in the dirt," shares Nate D. about Cobb Hunt Camp.
Plan water supplies: No potable water exists at these sites. "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, but if you drive in and car camp you can easily bring water with you," explains Nate D.
Neighbor awareness: Visitors report varying experiences with neighboring campers. "Most campers stay to themselves and there's room for privacy," says DeziRay M. about their experience at Cobb Hunt Camp.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility concerns: Larger vehicles face significant challenges at primitive sites. "Last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV. But great Tent/van spot," advises David P. about Davenport Landing.
Alternative camping: During closures, nearby options exist. "Currently closed, for maintenance, so could not stay there. Sites were level and Verizon service was good. As of 1 Nov closed with no date to reopen. State campground just down the road," shares Brian about Cobb Hunt Camp.
Cell coverage: Mobile service varies by carrier and location. "Good verizon and tmobile cell coverage," notes Chris D. about the area surrounding Cobb Hunt Camp, even when the main campground was closed.
