Best Dispersed Camping near High Springs, FL
The forested areas surrounding High Springs, Florida feature several dispersed camping options within an hour's drive, primarily hunt camps managed by the Florida Forest Service. West Tower Hunt Camp near Lake City, Cobb Hunt Camp near Sanderson, and 17 Mile Hunt Camp offer primitive camping experiences with varying levels of amenities. These sites provide spacious, well-spaced camping areas suitable for both tent camping and smaller RVs or travel trailers. The Florida Trail passes near some of these locations, offering hiking opportunities for campers seeking to explore the natural landscape of North Florida's forests.
Road conditions vary significantly when accessing these hunt camps, with several campers reporting rough roads that can become problematic after rainfall. As one visitor noted, "Sites are spread out and the road is rough getting in." Ground conditions can be soft and potentially muddy, requiring careful site selection to avoid getting vehicles stuck. Most locations enforce a 14-day stay limit and operate on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations. Cell service is generally limited, with Verizon described as "spotty" at West Tower Hunt Camp and "minimal, if any" at 17 Mile Hunt Camp. Campers should arrive prepared with sufficient water supplies, as drinking water is only available at West Tower Hunt Camp.
Visitors consistently mention the privacy and quiet atmosphere as highlights of these camping areas. "It was really peaceful. There were only a few other people there and we hardly ever saw them," reported one camper at 17 Mile Hunt Camp. Basic amenities vary by location, with most sites offering porta-potties and trash receptacles. West Tower Hunt Camp provides additional facilities including an outdoor cold shower, bathroom with book exchange, and drinking water spigot. Hunters frequently use these areas during hunting season, when portable toilets are more likely to be available. Several campers have noted that Cobb Hunt Camp has experienced periodic closures, though camping has been permitted just beyond the entrance. Wildlife awareness is recommended, particularly for those with small pets.
