Tent campsites near Clewiston, Florida position campers in a region with year-round average temperatures of 74°F and minimal elevation changes, creating fairly level camping terrain throughout the area. The area features a distinct wet season (May-October) and dry season (November-April) that dramatically affects water levels and accessibility to primitive sites. Camping options range from free primitive sites to established campgrounds with basic amenities within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Indiantown Marina offers easy access to multiple fishing spots, though facilities are minimal. One visitor noted it has "spaces to camp but without anything else," making it ideal for anglers focused primarily on fishing rather than amenities.
Mountain biking trails: Caloosahatchee Regional Park provides "really good mtb biking trails (as far as mtb biking is in S. Florida)" according to one camper. The park also features "mile-long trails to walk along the Caloosahatchee River, with beautiful sight-seeing."
Wildlife viewing: Pink Jeep Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve requires an ORV license to enter but rewards visitors with abundant wildlife sightings. A January 2023 visitor reported: "Wildlife everywhere! We will be back."
What campers like
Fire rings and communal spaces: Most camping areas near Clewiston feature designated fire pits. At Little Gopher, one camper described "a firepit, 4 wood benches surrounding it and two poles for hanging backpacks. Plenty of firewood in the area."
Quiet environment: Many campsites offer peaceful surroundings away from urban areas. A visitor to Uncle Joe's Motel & Campground called it "one of the finer older campgrounds in Florida, peaceful and serene," noting they "basically caught a Bass every time we cast a line."
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers can find no-cost alternatives. At DuPuis Campground, a camper noted: "FREE stay, register at the SFWMD site and request a permit. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. Various trees at the camp sites to provide shade."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Water sources at some sites may have taste or odor issues. At Loop 4, a camper reported: "The water from the pump came out with a purple tinge and smelling of Sulphur. I opted to get my drinking water from the creek after filtering it."
Weather impacts: The region's wet/dry seasons significantly affect camping conditions. At Wildcow Campground, a visitor in dry season noted: "Ground was very dry as it hadn't rained in over a week and it was the middle of the dry season."
Access restrictions: Several sites require special permits or have unique access requirements. For Pink Jeep Campground, a camper advised: "You do need to make sure you make a reservation and you have a ORV license to enter the area."
Tips for camping with families
Gear transportation: At Caloosahatchee Regional Park, vehicles can't reach campsites, but equipment solutions exist. A camper explained: "You do have to carry all your gear to the campsites, but they have carts near the checkin office." Another noted it's "great for kids and new campers" with "great paths to manicured campsites."
Wildlife safety: Educate children about keeping safe distances from wildlife, especially near water. One Loop 4 camper mentioned: "The creek farther down had adolescent gators, nothing to worry about. But I kept my eyes pealed for sudden movements when I got the water."
Campground amenities: Look for sites with bathroom facilities if camping with young children. Caloosahatchee provides "primitive showers available; restrooms available" and according to one camper, "the restrooms are usually always clean" with a playground for children.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Many primitive sites near Clewiston don't accommodate larger RVs. Wildcow Campground reports indicate a small trailer or van could park next to the tent pads, but the site is primarily designed for tent camping.
Gate access codes: Some campgrounds require access codes for entry gates. At Wildcow Campground, a visitor noted: "Gate is locked 1.9 miles from the campground. Accessible by vehicle. Gate code is available, I am told."
Seasonal considerations: RVers should check water levels before visiting during wet season. Indian Prairie Canal Recreation Area offers boat-in camping where "you can't quite literally take a boat to the campsite," with opportunities to explore "tons of little inlets and outlets all over the place to explore and fish."
