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Best Dispersed Camping near Crystal River, FL

8 Reviews

Boat access makes Crystal River's dispersed camping options quite limited, with Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground standing out as the main choice. You'll need your own watercraft to reach this island camping area, so plan your packing carefully. The camping here is completely primitive - no restrooms, no water sources, and nothing but what you bring along. All campers must follow Leave No Trace practices and pack out everything they bring in. Check current fire rules before your trip, as they change seasonally and are often restricted due to the sensitive environment. The park limits how long you can stay, typically to just a few days per visit. Before heading out, make sure you've got detailed maps and have told someone about your plans, since you'll be truly off-grid once you arrive. The island itself is quiet and uncrowded most weeknights. Wildlife watching is good year-round, with birds being particularly common. Camp at least 200 feet from any water's edge, as required throughout Florida's public lands. Crystal River locals consider Anclote Key one of the few genuine backcountry camping experiences in this part of Florida.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Crystal River, Florida (3)

    1. Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Holiday, FL
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 638-4447

    "Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access!"

    "There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse."

    2. Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    2 Reviews
    Ocklawaha, FL
    49 miles

    "Set of primitive spots near lake. Main road entry is packed dirt; smaller access road to sites is two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance. 4WD recommended."

    "Very narrow trails but really easy access, you will leave with some new pinstripes"

    3. Lake Mary Tent Camping

    Be the first to review!
    Ocklawaha, FL
    49 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Crystal River, FL

12 Photos of 3 Crystal River Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Crystal River, FL

8 Reviews of 3 Crystal River Campgrounds

  • Alyssa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Only accessible by water!

    Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access! Depending on the weather and the tides/current, the may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak). Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer.

    Must make reservation online for camping permit.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 26, 2024

    Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    Nice secluded sites

    Set of primitive spots near lake. Main road entry is packed dirt; smaller access road to sites is two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance. 4WD recommended. Just barely scraped a FWD Promaster through the trees, into a pullout just before sand started. Poor cell service even with booster. Plan on returning after antenna upgrade. Not the cleanest but passable.

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2019

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Best Primitive Island Camping for Bird Lovers

    Anclote Key Review 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 that is the only way you can get here.

    “Ferry services do not drop visitors off for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar.” 

    This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island. 

    There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse. Once you arrive take time to explore each area- Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. 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! The 1887 lighthouse stands as a historical reminder on the southern end of the island. Occasionally tours can be made available by contacting the onsite ranger. 

    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 and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE. Fire up the grill but make sure you leave no charcoal or burned wood pieces on the beach! 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.. 

    Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach. There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. 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). Usually it is quite windy so plan ahead.

    A Florida Saltwater Fishing license is required to fish. 

    Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight.

  • Kaitlin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 25, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Primitive camping on a "private" island

    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. During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    Great spot

    Very narrow trails but really easy access, you will leave with some new pinstripes

  • Dan X.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 5, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    An island to yourself!

    As others have noted, boat access only, primitive put-your-tent-wherever type camping. BYO everything, and please bring it all back.

    No skeeters in October.

  • mandy P.
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Serene and Natural

    Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves. Camping is definitely pack in pack out. It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless

Guide to Crystal River

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Crystal River, Florida, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of unique spots to explore, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors.

Dispersed campers should check out Anclote Key Preserve State Park

Enjoy stunning sunrises and sunsets while free camping near Crystal River

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Crystal River, Florida

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Crystal River, Florida?

Free dispersed camping is available at Trout Lake Primitive Sites, which offers primitive spots near the lake. Access is via a packed dirt main road and a narrow two-track access road about 1/4 mile through woods. Note that tree clearance is very tight, and 4WD is recommended as the trail narrows significantly. These sites provide a true primitive camping experience but require proper preparation as amenities are not available.

What permits or regulations do I need to follow when dispersed camping in Crystal River?

When dispersed camping at Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground, no formal permits are required, but you must follow strict pack-in, pack-out guidelines. The island is boat-access only and offers primitive camping where you can set up your tent wherever suitable. There are no amenities, so bring everything you need including water, food, and waste disposal bags. Camping may be shut down depending on weather conditions and tides. Always check with Florida State Parks before planning your trip as regulations can change seasonally.

When is the best season for dispersed camping in Crystal River, Florida?

Fall through spring (October to May) is the best season for dispersed camping in Crystal River area, with October specifically noted as a good time with fewer mosquitoes. Summer months can be extremely hot and buggy, making camping less comfortable. At Lake Mary Tent Camping, the drive-in access makes it accessible year-round, but the cooler months provide the most pleasant experience. Always check weather forecasts before heading out, as Florida's unpredictable storms can affect camping conditions regardless of season.

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