Best Tent Camping near Grand Island, FL

Tent camping near Grand Island, Florida provides access to several natural areas with primitive and established sites within the Ocala National Forest and surrounding state lands. Sawgrass Island Preserve offers walk-in tent sites with fire rings and picnic tables along the Hammock Trail, while Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites provide secluded tent camping opportunities about 20 miles south of Grand Island. Trout Lake Primitive Sites and Freak Creek Dispersed Camping offer more rustic tent camping experiences for those seeking solitude in natural settings.

Most tent campgrounds in the area require advance reservations, with some sites accessible only by hiking trails. Sawgrass Island Preserve requires completing an application at lcwa.org with a small refundable fee. Seminole State Forest sites feature a quarter-mile walk from parking areas to campsites, which can become muddy during wet seasons. Basic amenities at most primitive tent sites include fire rings and picnic tables, though potable water is rarely available. Insect repellent is essential, particularly during warmer months when mosquitoes are abundant. Bear safety precautions are recommended, including proper food storage in bear-proof containers.

The backcountry tent camping experience in this region offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife and access to hiking trails. According to reviews, Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites provide excellent stargazing opportunities and quiet surroundings. One camper noted, "We packed light but not that light because we like to be comfortable; it took about 3 trips each to get everything we needed to the site." At Crooked River Campground in Withlacoochee State Forest, tent sites are nestled in dense undergrowth providing natural privacy between campsites. The Florida Trail passes through several of these areas, making them ideal for hikers wanting to explore sections of this long-distance trail. During summer months, early morning and evening hiking is recommended due to Florida's heat and humidity.

Best Tent Sites Near Grand Island, Florida (57)

    1. Lake Dorr Cabin

    3 Reviews
    Altoona, FL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 669-3522

    $290 / night

    "Super cute secluded cabin directly on the lake. You have your own private boat slip, 100ft long dock for fishing & swimming, canoes/paddles/life jackets on site."

    "It worked out well as some family members like the cabin experience and others were able to stay in tents near the cabin. There are lots of places to sleep (bunk beds, queen, etc)."

    2. Sawgrass Island Preserve

    1 Review
    Grand Island, FL
    5 miles
    Website

    "I like to go across the causeway and down the Bog Button Trail and over to the Hammock Trail and along the Cactus Trail and down around the ponds and back out the Bent Pine Trail. "

    3. King's Landing

    5 Reviews
    Sorrento, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (407) 886-0859

    $30 / night

    "The camp spaces are on a large field and each has its own fire ring.

    It has a very cozy communal vibe. Saturday nights they host a large fire down by the boat launch for everyone to join."

    "To begin with, there’s nearly 1,000 crystal clear springs throughout the state of Florida, so when you find one that’s pretty spectacular, it’s like finding a needle in a haystack."

    4. North Shore Relic Ranch

    2 Reviews
    Astatula, FL
    13 miles
    Website

    $20 - $35 / night

    "The hiking near by is great and plenty of trails near by. Also a spot to go paddling but we didn’t this trip. We will deff be back!"

    "It was great getting to learn about the north shore ranch and the abundance of trails in the area for exploring!  Stop by and leave a review with some pictures of your favorite views!"

    5. Trout Lake Primitive Sites

    2 Reviews
    Ocklawaha, FL
    13 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"

    6. Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites

    6 Reviews
    DeBary, FL
    18 miles
    +1 (352) 360-6675

    $9 - $18 / night

    "Jumper camp is a primitive area with a picnic table and a fire ring."

    "We packed light but not that light because we like to be comfortable; it took my BF and me about 3 trips each to get everything we needed to the site, including firewood, our 4 person tent, air mattress"

    7. Freak Creek Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Paisley, FL
    18 miles

    "Sites are primitive. I would not attempt bringing a camper unless it's really small. Great place to put a kayak in the water."

    8. Ocala National Forest Farles Prairie Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Astor, FL
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 669-3153

    "If you’re hauling water gear or want to hike/backpack a section of the Florida Scenic Trail (FL Keys to GA state line), this is a lovely place to hang out on the small lake."

    9. Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    38 Reviews
    Nobleton, FL
    37 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 797-4140

    "Crooked River Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Hernando County), and a short 5-mile drive from I-75."

    "Tent camping only, with a picnic table, fire ring and water faucet. You have a bath house you can get to by walking and it has hot water in the fall and winter months."

    10. Bluff Landing

    2 Reviews
    Paisley, FL
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 625-2520

    "Places to tuck off and set up camp that are private. I would have said 5 stars but when choosing my options on what I was looking for I said rv accessible. Well it is for a half mile maybe."

    "This is a good spot just off the road/trail. Small and kind of tight in the official camping area with three spots kind of spread out. Tight in here, so would not recommend a trailer."

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Showing results 1-10 of 57 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Grand Island, FL

1328 Reviews of 57 Grand Island Campgrounds



Guide to Grand Island

Tent camping near Grand Island, Florida offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying various outdoor activities. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to set up your tent and explore the beautiful surroundings.

Tips for tent camping near Grand Island

  • Hontoon Island State Park Campground provides a rustic experience accessible only by ferry, making it a memorable getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • King's Landing offers primitive campsites with reserved parking, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and easy access to the stunning Rock Springs.
  • Seminole State Forest - Moccasin Camp features a secluded site along Blackwater Creek, perfect for those who enjoy a peaceful environment away from crowds.

Some prices for tent camping range from $18 to $30

  • At Hontoon Island State Park Campground, tent camping is available for $18 per night, providing a budget-friendly option for nature lovers.
  • King's Landing charges around $30 for a night of camping, which includes access to beautiful springs and nearby hiking trails.
  • Jumper Camp offers primitive sites that are great for large groups, with prices typically around $20, making it an affordable choice for campers.

Local attractions and activities

  • Hontoon Island State Park Campground is surrounded by over 1,600 acres of trails, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, including opportunities to see manatees and alligators.
  • King's Landing is a fantastic spot for kayaking and canoeing, with easy access to the scenic Rock Springs and the Emerald Cut, ideal for a day on the water.
  • Lake Dorr Cabin provides a unique cabin experience with a private boat slip, allowing for fishing and swimming right from your doorstep, making it a great base for exploring the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Grand Island, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Grand Island, FL is Lake Dorr Cabin with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Grand Island, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 57 tent camping locations near Grand Island, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.