Best Dispersed Camping near Elkton, FL
Dispersed camping near Elkton, Florida features several primitive island sites accessible only by water. Shell Key Preserve and Anclote Key Preserve State Park provide free camping opportunities on uninhabited barrier islands along Florida's Gulf Coast. Both preserves require advance permits and strict adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers mainland primitive camping with drive-in access, while Peace River Banks Backcountry provides riverside camping accessible by boat or kayak.
These primitive sites demand thorough preparation. No drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities exist at most locations. According to reviews, Shell Key Preserve has "no specifically cleared sites" and campers must be "mindful of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough." A good sleeping pad and tarp are essential. Campfires are permitted at most sites except during summer months at Shell Key due to sea turtle nesting. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly at island sites where strong winds are common.
Water-accessible sites require careful planning. Anclote Key is approximately 3 miles from the mainland by kayak or boat. Several campers noted that while day visitors frequent these islands, "by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with over 40 bird species recorded at Anclote Key alone. Stingrays, turtles, and dolphins are commonly sighted. The 1887 lighthouse at Anclote Key stands as a historical landmark on the southern end of the island. Fishing is permitted with a valid Florida Saltwater Fishing license, though designated areas must be observed and most waters surrounding the islands are no-wake zones.
