Primitive camping near Brooksville, Florida offers self-sufficient camping options across several conservation lands and state parks. The region contains over 11,000 acres of protected natural habitat within a 60-minute drive radius, with most sites receiving fewer than 20 campers per weekend during peak season. Campers access most sites via forest roads with varying levels of maintenance and must bring all necessary supplies.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Anclote Key Preserve State Park requires a Florida Saltwater Fishing license for anglers exploring its surrounding waters. As one visitor notes, "Try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE."
Wildlife observation: Anclote Key Preserve State Park hosts numerous native and migratory species. According to a camper, "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!"
Paddling excursions: Kayaking remains popular at several locations. One visitor to Anclote Key remarked, "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."
Stargazing: Clear skies offer excellent night viewing at several sites with minimal light pollution. A camper at Anclote Key shared, "It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Trout Lake Primitive Sites offers secluded camping spots away from crowds. A camper described them as "Nice secluded sites. Set of primitive spots near lake."
Natural beaches: Undeveloped shorelines allow for swimming and sunbathing without facilities. An Anclote Key visitor observed, "Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water."
Quiet evenings: Many primitive sites become even more tranquil after day visitors depart. A camper at Anclote Key shared, "During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves."
Uncrowded camping: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area often has available sites even during busy periods. One visitor noted, "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Forest roads to camping areas often have limited clearance. A visitor to Trout Lake warned, "Main road entry is packed dirt; smaller access road to sites is two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance."
Waste management: Most primitive sites operate under pack-in, pack-out principles. At Anclote Key, a visitor advised, "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."
Communication limitations: Cell coverage varies significantly across the region. A Trout Lake camper reported, "Poor cell service even with booster. Plan on returning after antenna upgrade."
Weather considerations: South Tower Hunt Camp and other primitive sites may become difficult to access during rainy periods due to dirt access roads.
Tips for camping with families
Supply planning: All necessities must be brought in, requiring careful preparation. Regarding Anclote Key, a camper advised, "There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies."
Boat transportation safety: When camping with children at boat-access sites, consider weather conditions carefully. One visitor noted, "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)."
Site selection priority: At Lake Mary Tent Camping, arrive early to secure sites with natural shade for midday comfort, particularly important for camping with children during warmer months.
Fire restrictions: Several locations have strict fire policies. A camper at Upper Hillsborough noted, "I do wish the fire rings weren't so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance concerns: Access roads to primitive sites often challenge larger vehicles. A visitor to Trout Lake noted they "Just barely scraped a FWD Promaster through the trees, into a pullout just before sand started."
Site configuration: Upper Hillsborough provides easier access for recreational vehicles. A camper described it as having "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings."
Nearby services: Some areas offer limited conveniences in surrounding towns. An RV camper at Upper Hillsborough mentioned, "Harley-Davidson approved. Golden Coral buffet in town."
