Dispersed camping near Durant, Florida offers primitive experiences with minimal facilities across several waterfront areas. Seasonal restrictions affect accessibility, particularly during Florida's wet season from June to September when some sites experience flooding. Water levels in the Peace River fluctuate dramatically throughout the year, requiring campers to check conditions before planning their trip.
What to do
**Wildlife observation: Spot diverse bird species at Shell Key Preserve where campers encounter abundant coastal wildlife. "We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds & other wildlife within 5 minutes of parking the boat," notes a visitor who frequently camps on the island.
**Beach exploration: Collect shells and explore tidal pools along shorelines. "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," advises a reviewer about Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground.
**Stargazing: Florida's coastal islands offer exceptional night sky viewing without light pollution. "Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach," explains one camper about their experience at Anclote Key.
What campers like
**Solitude after day visitors leave: Island preserves transform from busy daytime destinations to tranquil overnight spots. "This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island," shares a reviewer about their experience at Anclote Key Preserve.
**Crystal clear waters: Peace River Banks Backcountry offers freshwater swimming in a natural Florida setting. "Excellent backcountry camping between Zolpho Springs and Gardner. More camping down to Arcadia. Canoeing and kayaking are preferred mode of transportation," notes one camper about the river experience.
**Natural Florida landscapes: These sites showcase Florida environments without development. "Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves," mentions a visitor about their island camping experience.
What you should know
**Water transport required: Most free camping near Durant, Florida requires boat access. "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," explains a regular visitor.
**Self-contained camping mandatory: No facilities exist at most sites. "There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash," warns an Anclote Key camper who emphasizes the primitive nature of these sites.
**Variable conditions: Weather impacts island accessibility. "Depending on the weather and the tides/current, they may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak)," advises a reviewer about Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area.
Tips for camping with families
**Plan transport carefully: Getting gear to island sites requires logistical preparation. "We paddled from Ft Desoto (one on kayak, other on paddleboard) with all of our gear roped on," shares a Shell Key camper describing their method for transporting equipment.
**Bug preparation essential: Coastal areas experience significant insect activity. "Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer," warns a visitor to Anclote Key.
**Consider weather windows: Fall and winter offer more comfortable camping conditions. "No skeeters in October," notes a camper about Shell Key Preserve, highlighting the seasonal nature of insects in the region.
Tips from RVers
**Upper Hillsborough offers RV accessibility: This area provides the only vehicle-accessible dispersed sites near Durant. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings," explains a reviewer who found the area accommodating for recreational vehicles.
**Self-containment essential: No hookups or facilities exist at Upper Hillsborough. "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn't check it out," notes a camper who appreciated the isolation despite minimal facilities.
**Limited site availability: Vehicle sites fill quickly during peak periods. "Didn't find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn't run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out," shares a visitor who found alternative parking when main areas were full.
