Rustic camping near Hawthorne, Florida centers primarily around the Ocala National Forest, which spans over 387,000 acres of pine scrub, sand pine scrub, and longleaf pine forests. The terrain features scattered sinkholes, natural springs, and seasonal flooding in low-lying areas. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity while winter nights can drop below 40°F, requiring both cooling and occasional heating strategies for campers.
What to do
Water exploration at Blue Sink: This secluded swimming spot requires determination to reach as "the Forestry Service recently chopped down trees and covered the easy access roads," according to Destiny R., who recommends "ATV or creative backpacking to get there." The effort rewards visitors with crystal-clear water surrounded by native vegetation.
Fishing opportunities: At Davenport Landing, the Ocklawaha River offers productive fishing spots. Stuart K. reports meeting local anglers who confirmed "the fishing was great" while David P. notes it's "a great tent/van spot" with easy river access for fishing excursions.
Historical exploration: The Davenport Landing Trail provides educational opportunities beyond camping. Stuart K. explains there's "a 1.2 mile interpretive hiking trail called Davenport Landing Trail that will take you to the former steamboat landing" plus "a small gravesite from the Civil War" and "middens along the Ocklawaha River hiding traces of the Timucuan Indians."
What campers like
Convenient Interstate access: Cobb Hunt Camp provides easy access for travelers. Hilary G. describes it as "open and close to I-10" with "lots of wide open area where if you have a trailer you can park," making it practical for overnight stays while traveling across northern Florida.
Shade coverage: The mature tree canopy at many sites provides essential protection from Florida's intense sun. At Davenport Landing, Stuart K. describes "a dozen or so medium-sized Magnolias that blot out the sun's rays" creating a shaded camping area enhanced by "Spanish moss falling from the tree limbs of these magnificent trees."
Privacy options: Trout Lake Primitive Sites offers isolation from crowds. Entropical Breeze E. describes them as "nice secluded sites" near the lake while Joe P. appreciates the "very narrow trails but really easy access" that limit traffic and create separation between camping areas.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements vary significantly: Access roads often demand specific vehicles. At Trout Lake, Entropical Breeze E. warns the "smaller access road to sites is two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance. 4WD recommended." Similarly, Hilary G. notes at Cobb Hunt Camp you "can't drive thru the campground expect in a lifted truck due to water hole."
Safety considerations: Campground safety varies considerably by location. At Lake Dorr, Michael S. reports they "left because it felt unsafe" after being warned by "a local that warned of violence, robbery, and killings in this area of the national forest." The tow truck driver who helped them "carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is."
Communication limitations: Cell service remains unreliable throughout the region. Entropical Breeze E. reports "poor cell service even with booster" at Trout Lake Primitive Sites, though Chris D. found "good Verizon and TMobile cell coverage" at Cobb Hunt Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly option: Cobb Hunt Camp provides amenities that benefit families with children. Jamie W. reports "there are portable toilets" during hunting season and "picnic tables at various spots and plenty of shady areas." Nate D. adds his boys "had a blast just playing in the dirt" making it suitable for children who enjoy simple outdoor play.
Wildlife education opportunities: Davenport Landing offers chances to observe native species safely. Stuart K. advises "to be on the look-out for 'Coyo-Dogs' (a cross between canine species where a dog mates with a coyote) and black bear," while noting the importance of keeping "eyes peeled for alligators in this area."
Water safety planning: Families should prepare for multiple water hazards. Hilary G. observed a "small pond in the middle of the campground seems to have a few swirls" at Cobb Hunt Camp, indicating possible currents, while the riverfront at Davenport Landing requires supervision due to steep banks and wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Clearance challenges: Trout Lake Primitive Sites presents specific challenges for larger vehicles. Entropical Breeze E. describes "just barely scraped a FWD Promaster through the trees, into a pullout just before sand started," highlighting the tight clearances that could damage RVs without careful navigation.
Campground closures: Verify operating status before arrival as temporary closures occur frequently. Chris D. reports "Cobb Camp Osceola is closed though the website makes no mention of the closure" while noting "there are people camping just beyond the campground without issue" which provides an alternative.
Generator etiquette: Some campers run generators continuously at dispersed sites. Nate D. at Cobb Hunt Camp describes having "to sleep through a running generator all night" from long-term campers, suggesting RVers should consider battery or solar alternatives to avoid noise complaints.
