Best Dispersed Camping near De Leon Springs, FL

Dispersed camping in the Ocala National Forest surrounds the De Leon Springs, Florida area, with multiple primitive sites located within 30-45 minutes of town. The St. Johns River Dispersed Spot and Freak Creek provide free camping options on forest service land, while Blue Sink and Trout Lake Primitive Sites offer additional backcountry camping opportunities. Most sites have no amenities and require self-sufficient preparation, as they lack designated facilities, potable water, or waste disposal services.

Road conditions to these primitive sites vary significantly across the forest, with many requiring slow navigation on unpaved, rutted dirt roads. Several campers report narrow access routes with limited clearance between trees, potentially causing vehicle scratching. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most areas, and 4WD is essential for accessing Freak Creek, which features deep ruts and water crossings. According to one visitor, "The main road in has huge deep ruts, the other road has a water crossing that was over my bumper on my lifted Mojave." Visitors should prepare for potentially sandy conditions that can cause vehicles to become stuck.

The dispersed sites feature varying levels of seclusion and natural settings. Trout Lake Primitive Sites provide lakeside camping with potential for fishing, though one camper noted the access requires navigating "very narrow trails but really easy access, you will leave with some new pinstripes." St. Johns River Dispersed Spot allows camping near the river with open views for stargazing. Blue Sink receives positive reviews for its beauty but now requires "ATV or creative backpacking" for access due to forestry management blocking easy access roads. Davenport Landing offers river access and hiking opportunities via a 1.2-mile interpretive trail, though visitor experiences range widely, with some reporting excellent solitude while others mention occasional long-term occupants. Wildlife awareness is important throughout the region, as bears, coyotes, and alligators are present.

Best Dispersed Sites Near De Leon Springs, Florida (8)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near De Leon Springs, FL

2 Photos of 8 De Leon Springs Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near De Leon Springs, FL

14 Reviews of 8 De Leon Springs Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 25, 2024

    Davenport Landing

    Magnolia-Shaded Cul-de-Sac Primitive Camping

    Located a hefty trek down a winding gravel road west of Route 19, you’ll have to maneuver around divots and potholes along this narrow gravel, dusty roadway for the better part of 2 miles before arriving to a small sign on the left-hand side of the road that indicates you’ve arrived at Davenport Recreational Area – so finding this place is relatively easy. Unless you make the unwise decision to turn into one of the small handful of options beforehand that would have you drive down a patch of road that likely you are not authorized to, 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. Once you come across the Davenport Recreational Area sign, take a right and slowly (as the road conditions worsen as you get off the main road) follow the narrow tire-rutted pathway to a fork, where on the right you’ll see TRAILHEAD marked on a tree to your right– here you want to turn left instead and follow the pathway to its conclusion, which is a round-about that you will have no other alternative but to stop and park your vehicle.

    Here at literally ‘the end of the road,’ you’ll be greeted by a dozen or so medium-sized Magnolias that blot out the sun’s rays and cast an unusually spooky shadow on this area, made even more dramatic by all of the Spanish moss falling from the tree limbs of these magnificent trees. While the ground here is flat – welcome to Florida, where for the most part, that’s par for the course – but barren and comprised of a combination of dirt and sand silt, which isn’t so bad when it’s dry, but when there’s rain, we’re talking some pretty messy mud-like conditions. As for what you’ll find here at this natural cul-de-sac, there isn’t anything. Literally. No picnic tables. No fire ring. No stand-up grill. No potable(or for that matter, non-potable) water spigot. Nothing. There is what looks to be a small wooden sign that likely was filled with information at some point in time that might have educated you about your stay here, but even that had nothing on it, apart from a single hand-made sign above it, indicating: “You are trash, if you leave trash,” which I wholeheartedly agree with. In all, perhaps there’s 5-6 individual spots that you could make a campsite from.

    If you are a true primitive camper who really wants NOTHING to complement or aid their outdoor survivalist experiment, then you have hit the primitive camping jackpot! Apart from the solid peace & quiet you’ll experience here, there’s an amazing little access point here to the Ocklawaha river that runs through this neck of the woods – which used to be a riverboat stop where steamboats would stop to fuel or disembark enroute to Silver Springs via the St. Johns which this tributary eventually connects to. Apart from being a scenic access point to the river, if you are looking to catch and eat your meals, then this will certainly be an added bonus. The steps down the ravine to the river basin are somewhat steep, but for anyone towing a light-weight kayak or paddleboard, me thinks you could likely manage to bring your watercraft down here and easily access emerald-green waters shouldered with an abundance of spade-shaped lily pads to grab some great oaring.

    When we stopped by, there was a team of fisherman there – not camping, mind you – but having a great afternoon nonetheless of ‘hooking‘ em’ and according to these local anglers, the fishing was great. Apart from this and the shade that the mighty Magnolias provide, the only other amenity that exists out here are the few trails that you can jump on to get a bit of hiking in. One word of caution, from my fishermen friends, is 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.

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) There’s a 1.2 mile interpretive hiking trail called Davenport Landing Trail that will take to you to the former steamboat landing, which makes for a medium-grade hike with some interesting history; (2) If you have an explorer’s mindset, you’ll be richly rewarded here as there is a small gravesite from the Civil War that you can find along with middens along the Ocklawaha River hiding traces of the Timucuan Indians that once populated this area; (3) For fellow arborists, in addition to finding these amazing Magnolias that seem to be especially planted here for you, additionally there’s sweetgum and red maple trees; and (4) You definitely want to keep your eyes peeled for alligators in this area, where while we didn’t see any right at the ravine’s base, we were told that plenty were sunbathing right around the bend in the river from where we were.

    Happy Camping!

  • M
    Nov. 13, 2023

    Lake Dorr

    Area Unsafe and Had to Leave. Please avoid.

    Attempted to stay at this campground but left because it felt unsafe. Spoke to a local that warned of violence, robbery, and killings in this area of the national forest.

    Got stuck in sand on the way out and had to wait for a tow truck. Tow truck driver carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is and warned us not to stay.

    Please avoid the Ocala NF!

    If you do decide to come to this campground, avoid north part of Ron Paul Drive. You’ll either get stuck in sand or have issues to low/tight trees. Drive further south of the other side of Ron Paul Drive.

  • Destiny R.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 4, 2022

    Blue Sink

    Blue Sink

    Most beautiful place to stumble upon. You may need ATV or creative backpacking to get there now. The Forestry Service recently chopped down trees and covered the easy access roads.

  • Frank E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2019

    Davenport Landing

    Generally quiet primitive camping with water access

    Pprimitive, no reservations, gets some traffic visiting historic site.

  • D
    Feb. 4, 2021

    Davenport Landing

    Quiet spot

    Pulled in around 9:30 pm. Big open spot. Last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV. But great Tent/van spot.

  • hThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 19, 2025

    Freak Creek Dispersed Camping

    Remote and lifted 4wd needed

    The main road in has huge deep ruts, the other road has a water crossing that was over my bumper on my lifted Mojave. I talked to another person that use to go out there and said she has seen a panther. I’ve yet to see anything. The campground is overgrown, and not many ppl visit due to not being able to get back. If you don’t have 4wd and recovery gear I wouldn’t risk it. 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, but if you don't you will be stuck until Some one comes by.

  • 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


Guide to De Leon Springs

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near De Leon Springs, Florida, where nature lovers can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Dispersed campers should check out St. Johns River Dispersed Spot

  • Located right next to the river, St. Johns River Dispersed Spot offers stunning views of the stars, making it an ideal spot for stargazing enthusiasts.
  • The access roads may be bumpy, but the journey is worth it for the serene atmosphere and natural beauty surrounding this well-reviewed area.
  • With no permit required and the freedom to enjoy campfires, this spot is perfect for a laid-back camping experience.

Top activities while free camping near De Leon Springs

  • Kayaking is a popular activity at Freak Creek Dispersed Camping, where you can launch your kayak right from the site and explore the tranquil waters.
  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the secluded trails that lead to beautiful scenery, especially around Blue Sink, which is known for its stunning natural beauty.
  • For those who enjoy fishing, the nearby lakes and rivers provide ample opportunities to cast a line and relax in nature.

Scenic attractions for dispersed campers

  • The primitive sites at Trout Lake Primitive Sites are nestled near a picturesque lake, perfect for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
  • Adventurers looking for a challenge can navigate the narrow access roads to reach Lake Dorr, where the natural landscape offers a unique camping experience.
  • If you're seeking a quiet escape, Davenport Landing provides a serene environment, although it's wise to be aware of the local atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near De Leon Springs, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near De Leon Springs, FL is St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near De Leon Springs, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near De Leon Springs, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.