Best Dispersed Camping near Aripeka, FL

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Aripeka, look no further. Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Aripeka, including photos, reviews, and tips. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Aripeka, FL (2)

    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    1. Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    55 Photos
    205 Saves
    Holiday, Florida

    Enjoy the blue-green Gulf of Mexico waters that lap gently along the sandy beaches of the four islands that make up Anclote Key Preserve State Park - Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island.

    The 11,773-acre park is home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover.

    A picturesque 1887 lighthouse stands as a sentinel on the southern end of the island. Visitors can swim and sunbathe at the beach, fire up a grill and enjoy a picnic, or pitch a tent and enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars.

    Primitive camping is permitted on the very north end of Anclote Key. There is a compostable toilet for use in that area.

    There is no water or any other amenities, so you will have to bring everything that you need.

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    2. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    1 Review
    11 Photos
    33 Saves
    Zephyrhills, Florida

    Primitive and backcountry camping available. No amenities available.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Dispersed
    • Picnic Table
    • WiFi
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Showing results 1-2 of 2 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Aripeka

7 Reviews of 2 Aripeka Campgrounds


  • mandy P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Serene and Natural

    Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves. Camping is definitely pack in pack out. It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless

  • Kaitlin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    May. 25, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Primitive camping on a "private" island

    We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak. During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water.

  • Alyssa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Only accessible by water!

    Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access! Depending on the weather and the tides/current, the may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak). Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer.

    Must make reservation online for camping permit.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground
    Aug. 30, 2019

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Best Primitive Island Camping for Bird Lovers

    Anclote Key Review There is only 1 way to get to Anclote Key and that is by boat. Whether you take the few hours and kayak the 3 miles over from Tarpon or motor in from one of the many docks in the area that is the only way you can get here.

    “Ferry services do not drop visitors off for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar.” 

    This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island. 

    There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse. Once you arrive take time to explore each area- Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40! The 1887 lighthouse stands as a historical reminder on the southern end of the island. Occasionally tours can be made available by contacting the onsite ranger. 

    Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE. Fire up the grill but make sure you leave no charcoal or burned wood pieces on the beach! EVERYTHING- and they mean everything you bring on the island must be taken off with you! There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash.. 

    Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach. There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. Make sure all food is secured (we anchored our boat with provisions on board a bit off shore and swam in to no risk raccoons getting into gear as it was a calm night with clear weather). Usually it is quite windy so plan ahead.

    A Florida Saltwater Fishing license is required to fish. 

    Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight.


Drive Time


Guide to Aripeka

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Aripeka, Florida, where nature awaits with open arms. Experience serene landscapes and the thrill of adventure in these unique spots.

Unique Island Experience for Dispersed Campers

  • For those seeking a truly secluded getaway, Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground offers a primitive camping experience accessible only by boat, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without the distractions of modern life.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Aripeka, Florida

  • When planning your trip, remember that Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides a spacious area with great shade trees, making it an ideal spot for setting up camp without the need for reservations or permits.

A Must-Visit Spot for Nature Lovers

Frequently Asked Questions

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Aripeka, FL is Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 6 reviews.