Primitive camping near Hilliard, Florida is concentrated in the Osceola National Forest, approximately 30-45 minutes southwest of town. The forest spans 200,000 acres across Baker and Columbia Counties, with elevations ranging from 150-200 feet above sea level. During summer months, temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter overnight temperatures can drop below freezing between December and February.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple hunt camps offer access to diverse ecosystems. At 17 Mile Hunt Camp, campers can explore the small pond that attracts local wildlife. "We ended up loving the site we picked. We were able to pull through instead of backing in, the ground wasn't too muddy so we didn't get stuck, and we didn't even need to level the camper - it was naturally flat," notes Will J.
Hiking access: The Florida National Scenic Trail passes near several camping areas, providing day hiking options. Nate D. at Cobb Hunt Camp reports, "We hiked in a few miles on the Florida Trail, so we had all our water supplies on our person. There's a little pond there that we were purifying water out of with no issue."
Disconnected relaxation: With minimal or no cell service at most sites, these areas provide true digital detachment. "Minimal, if any, cell service, so you will be disconnected pretty much," explains a camper at 17 Mile Hunt Camp. Another visitor noted, "Nice place to unwind, I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Dispersed camping offers varying degrees of separation between camping spots. "Lots of dispersed camping spots throughout, some right out in the open, and others are private. Campsites are scattered with nicely cleared areas within bush palms," reports Jamie W. about West Tower Hunt Camp.
Spacious camping areas: Many sites provide ample room for setup. Chrischelle N. observed at 17 Mile Hunt Camp, "Nice primitive campground with well maintained dispersed spots. No picnic tables or fire rings but plenty of space. Nice and quiet. Lots of space for RVs as well."
Minimal light pollution: Remote locations away from urban areas create excellent stargazing conditions. "My first night here was fantastic. I can stay up to two weeks here. It's December and there was only two other people camping here my site. I couldn't even see anybody," reports Dan B. about West Tower Hunt Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal closure issues: Some hunt camps experience periodic closures without advance notice. "Cobb Camp Osceola is closed though the website makes no mention of the closure. There are people camping just beyond the campground without issue," notes Chris D. Another camper reported, "We arrived late and saw the campground was taped off and a sign read closed indefinitely. However, we drove just past the campground and found many others camped on the side of the road."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging, especially after rain. Brian observed at 17 Mile Hunt Camp, "Sites are spread out and the road is rough getting in." Another camper added, "Just make sure to check the ground before you park. Very muddy, could get stuck."
Hunting activity: Be aware of hunting seasons when planning your visit. "It's a hunt camp. But it wasn't hunting season necessarily. Heard many shots during the late afternoon when we got there, around 4p. Off and on until it got dark at 6:30p," reports one camper about their experience.
Tips for camping with families
Bring all necessary supplies: No services are available at most sites. "This was our first time boondocking and it was the perfect site to try it out. We have a 26' travel trailer and we did a few loops looking for a good site," shares Will J., who visited with family.
Consider wildlife encounters: Small children and pets require supervision. "We did have to be extra careful with our little dog though because we did get the sense that something could try to eat it since the sites are in the middle of the woods. We generally felt safe though and just made sure to take bear spray when we went out into the woods."
Seek out kid-friendly areas: Some sites offer more contained spaces for children. Aliyah B. at 17 Mile Hunt Camp shared, "Loved this spot. It had tons of space with space between camp spots. Quiet. Lots of locals during the day but settles down at night. Has picnic tables. Would go again for sure!"
Tips from RVers
Water management: No hookups are available, so plan accordingly. Patrick M. suggests, "Nice place to unwind, I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer, the roads are a little rough, yet passable."
Level site selection: RVers should scout locations before setting up. "Depends on what you're into. Great if you're here as a hunt base camp maybe, but Cobb is not the idyllic peaceful personal campsite," notes Nate D. At West Tower Hunt Camp, one camper noted the area "was very clean and most spots were very well spaced out. Porta potties and trash bins. Camp host was nice and they have a 14 day stay limit."
Generator rules: Policies vary by location. Some campers report hearing generators running overnight at certain locations, while other areas maintain quieter conditions.
