Dispersed camping opportunities near Citra, Florida exist primarily within the Ocala National Forest, located approximately 20 miles west of the town. This federally managed woodland spans over 387,000 acres and features sandy soil terrain with elevations ranging from 20 to 200 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures average 50-70°F while summer months regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, significantly affecting camping comfort.
What to do
Kayaking access points: At Freak Creek Dispersed Camping, paddlers can launch directly into the creek system. "There is a nice creek area where you can swim and or fish if you have the right equipment to get back there it can be fun," notes camper Hilary G., who recommends proper recovery gear due to challenging access conditions.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple primitive sites offer fishing access throughout the Ocala National Forest. Frank E. describes Davenport Landing as "primitive, no reservations, gets some traffic visiting historic site" with good water access for anglers.
Stargazing: The St. Johns River Dispersed Spot provides exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. Camper Mike D. appreciates how "the trees open up so you get a great view of the stars" while camping riverside.
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: Freak Creek Dispersed Camping earns praise for its remoteness. "It's super secluded and quiet. Depending when you stay there's at times people who show up to party and then leave," explains Adamm A., highlighting the site's isolation from crowds.
Natural features: Blue Sink offers a unique geological feature within the forest. Camper Destiny R. describes it as the "most beautiful place to stumble upon," though access has become more challenging as "the Forestry Service recently chopped down trees and covered the easy access roads."
Quick overnight spots: For travelers passing through, Davenport Landing provides convenient overnight camping. David P. notes, "Pulled in around 9:30 pm. Big open spot. Last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van," making it suitable for last-minute stops.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Trout Lake Primitive Sites, the access road is described as "two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance. 4WD recommended. Just barely scraped a FWD Promaster through the trees," according to Entropical Breeze E.
Safety concerns: Some areas of Ocala National Forest have security issues. A visitor to Lake Dorr reports: "Tow truck driver carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is and warned us not to stay." Research current safety conditions before selecting campsites.
Site maintenance: Conditions at rustic camping areas near Citra fluctuate based on recent use. Dylan D. notes about Davenport Landing: "Really nice area unfortunately there's a homeless commune... Then the rest of them showed up. It got super rowdy. Not to mention the whole area smells like burning plastic."
Tips for camping with families
Vehicle clearance planning: When bringing children to remote sites, assess vehicle capabilities honestly. Joe P. mentions about Trout Lake Primitive Sites: "Very narrow trails but really easy access, you will leave with some new pinstripes," indicating potential vehicle scratches from vegetation.
Wildlife awareness: Educate family members about local wildlife before arrival. Stuart K. warns Davenport Landing visitors to "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."
Clean site selection: For family comfort, arrive early to select cleaner sites. Sam S. advises about Davenport Landing: "There was a literal burning pit of garbage that we had to set up next to. We had to douse the fire just to not feel nauseous," emphasizing the importance of site inspection.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Larger RVs cannot access most primitive sites near Citra. Ethan B. mentions about Davenport Landing: "We didn't see anything bad with this place when we were there. Had no one around and nice and cool in the forest," but notes access limitations for larger vehicles.
Campsite approach: When driving to rustic camping areas near Citra, Florida, maintain slow speeds. Stuart K. advises: "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," specifically referring to Davenport Landing's access road.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service is minimal throughout the forest. Entropical Breeze E. reports "Poor cell service even with booster" at Trout Lake Primitive Sites, recommending antenna upgrades for better connectivity.
