Dispersed camping near Branford, Florida primarily centers around the Osceola National Forest, which spans approximately 200,000 acres of pine flatwoods, cypress swamps, and hardwood hammocks. The elevation across these forest camping areas ranges from 100 to 150 feet above sea level, creating mostly flat terrain with occasional sandy ridges. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing between December and February.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several ponds and small lakes near 17 Mile Hunt Camp offer freshwater fishing. "Nearby clean pond too," notes camper Michael W., who stayed at the site for a week and found it more secluded than other hunt camps in the area.
Hiking access: The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through portions of the forest. "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," reports Nate D., who camped at Cobb Hunt Camp.
Wildlife observation: The forest supports diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and numerous bird species. Bring binoculars for better viewing. "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," shares Will J., who camped at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Many campers value the privacy and quiet environment. "My first night here was fantastic. I can stay up to two weeks here. It's December and there was only two other people camping here my site. I couldn't even see anybody," reports Dan B. about his experience at West Tower Hunt Camp.
Uncrowded camping: The dispersed nature of these sites means fewer neighbors. Will J. notes about 17 Mile Hunt Camp: "It was really peaceful. There were only a few other people there and we hardly ever saw them."
Basic amenities: Some sites offer more facilities than typical dispersed camping. "Lots of dispersed camping spots throughout, some right out in the open, and others are private. Campsites are scattered with nicely cleared areas within bush palms. Also available is a bathroom and an outdoor cold shower. Simple horse stables with drinking water spigot," explains Jamie W. about West Tower Hunt Camp.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads can become problematic after rain. "The roads are a little rough, yet passiable, it was a little wet because of a rain a day earlier," mentions Patrick M. about accessing 17 Mile Hunt Camp in his travel trailer.
Service availability: Cell coverage varies significantly by location and carrier. "No Verizon cell service," reports Brian about 17 Mile Hunt Camp, while at Cobb Hunt Camp, Chris D. noted "Good verizon and tmobile cell coverage."
Temporary closures: Some hunt camps experience unannounced closures. "Cobb Camp Osceola is closed though the website makes no mention of the closure. There are people camping just beyond the campground without issue," reports Chris D., highlighting the importance of backup plans when visiting.
Hunting activity: Expect occasional shooting during hunting seasons. "Heard many shots during the late afternoon when we got there, around 4p. Off and on until it got dark at 6:30p," reports Moe B. about 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Book exchange: West Tower Hunt Camp offers an unexpected amenity for families. "Also available is a bathroom and an outdoor cold shower. (There is a book exchange in the bathroom)," notes Jamie W., providing an option for entertainment without electronics.
Ground conditions: Soil can become soft and muddy, creating potential hazards. "Nice primitive campground with well maintained dispersed spots. No picnic tables or fire rings but plenty of space. Just make sure to check the ground before you park. Very muddy, could get stuck," advises Chrischelle N. about 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Safety preparations: Wildlife activity requires appropriate precautions. Will J. shares, "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. We generally felt safe tho and just made sure to take beat spray when we went out into the woods."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Finding level ground is important but possible. Will J. explains about 17 Mile Hunt Camp, "We have a 26' travel trailer and we did a few loops looking for a good site. We ended up loving the site we picked. 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."
Self-containment: Limited facilities require preparation. "I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer," notes Patrick M., who enjoyed his stay at 17 Mile Hunt Camp despite limited external amenities.
Accessibility considerations: Some areas have challenging water crossings. Michael W. notes about Big Camp Hunt Camp that it's "remote, small hard to get to. Rd 235. Deep hole, not recommended to cross."
