Best Dispersed Camping near Clermont, FL
The central Florida landscape surrounding Clermont features primarily dispersed camping options within an hour's drive, with several primitive sites located in water management areas and national forest lands. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers free primitive camping with fire rings and picnic tables suitable for both tent campers and RVs, while the Ocala National Forest to the north contains multiple dispersed camping areas including Freak Creek, Blue Sink, and St. Johns River spots. Most sites maintain a rustic, undeveloped character with minimal amenities, though some like Trout Lake Primitive Sites provide lakeside access popular with paddlers and anglers.
Road conditions present significant challenges at many dispersed sites near Clermont, with several requiring high-clearance or four-wheel drive vehicles. As one camper at Freak Creek noted, "The main road in has huge deep ruts, the other road has a water crossing that was over my bumper on my lifted Mojave." Sandy terrain poses particular difficulty, with multiple reviews mentioning vehicles becoming stuck. Cell service remains limited or nonexistent at most sites, and virtually all lack drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities. Safety concerns have been reported at some locations, particularly in parts of Ocala National Forest, where one reviewer warned of feeling unsafe and needing to leave Lake Dorr campground.
Water access represents a primary draw for campers in the region, with riverside and lakefront sites receiving consistently positive reviews. The St. Johns River dispersed area offers stargazing opportunities where "the trees open up so you get a great view of the stars," according to one visitor. Wildlife sightings, including reports of panthers near Freak Creek, add to the wilderness experience. Campers frequently mention the seclusion and quiet atmosphere as major benefits, though some sites experience occasional party crowds. Vehicle size limitations restrict larger RVs and campers at most locations, with one reviewer noting, "I would not attempt bringing a camper unless it's really small." Kayaking and fishing opportunities exist at several water-adjacent sites, particularly those near creeks and lakes.
