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Best Dispersed Camping near Hudson, FL

9 Reviews

Dispersed camping near Hudson, Florida centers primarily on boat-access sites along the Gulf Coast. The region includes three notable primitive camping areas: Anclote Key Preserve State Park, Shell Key Preserve, and Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area. Anclote Key and Shell Key are island preserves accessible only by water transportation such as kayak, paddleboard, or motorboat. Upper Hillsborough provides more traditional land-based primitive camping with drive-in and walk-in access options. These areas function as true primitive camping zones with minimal infrastructure and pack-in, pack-out requirements.

Access to Anclote Key requires a boat trip of approximately 3 miles from launch points in Tarpon Springs or Dunedin. Shell Key necessitates a shorter paddle, roughly one mile from mainland access points. Both island preserves require visitors to bring all supplies, including drinking water. Upper Hillsborough features simple pull-through sites suitable for tents and some RVs, though no hookups exist. No permanent facilities exist on the islands, and Upper Hillsborough offers only basic amenities with a porta-potty reported at the site. Free camping permits are required for Shell Key and Anclote Key.

These primitive camping areas provide isolation and natural coastal experiences uncommon in developed Florida campgrounds. Anclote Key campers note the feeling of having "an island to yourself" with "crystal clear water" and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper described seeing "sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds and other wildlife within 5 minutes" at Shell Key. Upper Hillsborough offers "very quiet and peaceful" camping according to visitors, with "great shade trees" though "damaged fire rings." Island camping delivers stunning sunsets and stargazing opportunities, but requires complete self-sufficiency. Weather conditions, particularly wind and seasonal mosquitoes, significantly impact the camping experience. All areas strictly enforce leave-no-trace principles, requiring campers to pack out all trash and waste.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Hudson, Florida (4)

    1. Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Holiday, FL
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 638-4447

    "Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access!"

    "There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse."

    2. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    3 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 796-7211

    "Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!"

    "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town."

    3. Shell Key Preserve

    7 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (727) 453-6900

    "specifically cleared sites) so you do need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect"

    "Shell Key is one of the larger uninhabited islands off of the west coast of Florida near St. Petersburg."

    4. St. Pete rest area (north)

    Be the first to review!
    Tierra Verde, FL
    49 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Hudson, FL

23 Photos of 4 Hudson Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hudson, FL

9 Reviews of 4 Hudson Campgrounds

  • Alyssa D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2020

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Only accessible by water!

    Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access! Depending on the weather and the tides/current, the may shut down camping, or you may want to go by boat (not paddle/kayak). Make sure to have everything you need, too, especially bug spray — the mosquitos (among other bugs) are insane during the summer.

    Must make reservation online for camping permit.

  • SukiDookie ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Very quiet and peaceful

    We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn’t check it out, so I’m not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren’t so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!

  • Jeanene A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2019

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Best Primitive Island Camping for Bird Lovers

    Anclote Key Review There is only 1 way to get to Anclote Key and that is by boat. Whether you take the few hours and kayak the 3 miles over from Tarpon or motor in from one of the many docks in the area that is the only way you can get here.

    “Ferry services do not drop visitors off for overnight camping. You must have your own transportation to stay overnight. Dogs are allowed only on North Anclote Bar.” 

    This seldom used camping area is wonderful after the sun sets and day visitors leave the island. 

    There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse. Once you arrive take time to explore each area- Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island. There are over 11,000 acres full of migrating and native shorebirds and other creatures that have made their way to the island. Last count of bird species I believe was over 40! The 1887 lighthouse stands as a historical reminder on the southern end of the island. Occasionally tours can be made available by contacting the onsite ranger. 

    Spend your day swimming and sunbathing at the beach or kayaking around the island. If you arrived by motor boat try a bit of flats fishing but stay in designated areas and remember most area around the island in NO WAKE. Fire up the grill but make sure you leave no charcoal or burned wood pieces on the beach! EVERYTHING- and they mean everything you bring on the island must be taken off with you! There are no bathroom facilities and all human waste must be buried well and paper take in trash.. 

    Enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars without a sound except insects and lapping waves on the beach. There are no provisions offered on the island, so be prepared to bring your own water and supplies. Make sure all food is secured (we anchored our boat with provisions on board a bit off shore and swam in to no risk raccoons getting into gear as it was a calm night with clear weather). Usually it is quite windy so plan ahead.

    A Florida Saltwater Fishing license is required to fish. 

    Reservations MUST be made in advance and the island does close during bad weather not allowing visitors to stay overnight.

  • Kaitlin B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 25, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Primitive camping on a "private" island

    We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak. During the day there were quite a few boats on the island but by about 4pm we basically had the island to ourselves. Beautiful sunset and sunrises with crystal clear water.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 11, 2024

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Primitive, easy pull through sites

    Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town.

  • Dan X.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 5, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    An island to yourself!

    As others have noted, boat access only, primitive put-your-tent-wherever type camping. BYO everything, and please bring it all back.

    No skeeters in October.

  • mandy P.
    Dec. 1, 2021

    Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    Serene and Natural

    Short boat ride out to what felt like a secluded island, back when florida was all natural. We had the whole place to ourselves. Camping is definitely pack in pack out. It's worth every minute to see the sun rise and set in the same day, and the stars at night were endless

  • Nina O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Nice and quite

    Didn‘t find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn’t run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out.

Guide to Hudson

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hudson, Florida, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy a truly primitive experience. With a variety of options available, these spots offer unique opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Stunning Sunsets at Anclote Key Preserve State Park for dispersed campers

  • The Anclote Key Preserve State Park is accessible only by boat, providing a secluded atmosphere perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy breathtaking sunsets.

Dispersed campers should check out Shell Key Preserve

  • At Shell Key Preserve, you can experience the thrill of camping on a remote island, where the only access is by water, ensuring a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Hudson, Florida

  • For a truly primitive experience, consider the Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area, which offers free camping with no amenities, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites near Hudson?

Dispersed camping sites near Hudson are typically primitive with minimal amenities. Shell Key Preserve is completely primitive, requiring campers to pack in and pack out all supplies. There are no established facilities, running water, or trash service. Some areas like Upper Hillsborough may provide basic facilities such as porta-potties and fire rings, though these are often minimal and may not be well-maintained. Always bring everything you need, including drinking water, and prepare to leave no trace.

Are there free tent camping sites near Hudson?

Yes, Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers free tent camping in a nicely maintained area with plenty of shade trees. This dispersed camping location provides fire rings and tent spots in a large open area. While it's free to camp, it's best to check for current regulations as permit requirements may change seasonally.

Where can I find dispersed camping locations near Hudson?

For dispersed camping near Hudson, consider Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground, a beautiful island accessible only by boat or kayak (approximately 3 miles from shore). You can set up camp anywhere in designated areas, with primitive beach camping available. Permits may be required, so check with park authorities before your trip. The island offers a secluded experience with beautiful sunrises and sunsets, though you must be self-sufficient as there are no amenities on the island.

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