Tent camping opportunities near Inglis, Florida center around the Withlacoochee River system, with sites typically located within a 30-mile radius of town. The region's subtropical climate creates warm conditions year-round, with summer humidity levels often exceeding 80% and temperatures regularly reaching the 90s. Winter months (November through March) offer more comfortable camping conditions with nighttime temperatures between 50-65°F and significantly reduced insect activity.
What to do
Paddling access points: At Potts Preserve River Primitive Campground, the float into Gum Slough is accessible at the edge of the campground. Charles V. notes, "Simply an awesome trip...still one of my favorite short trips and free camping as a bonus!" The access requires limited portage since the area changed in 2021.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The quiet surroundings of Flying Eagle Preserve provide excellent nature observation. According to Cristina M., "Each time not a single soul to be found with the exception of the passing airboats. Site was very spacious and private." Native wildlife includes deer, wild turkey, and numerous bird species.
Hiking trails exploration: The tent sites at Crooked River Campground connect directly to the trails within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest. One camper notes, "Also connects to hiking trails in the Croom Tract. Also near many other Forest camp areas, trails, and launch sites. So many options available for nature fun."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The natural vegetation creates excellent site separation at many campgrounds. A Crooked River camper mentioned, "The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest and the kids loved getting to explore." This natural buffer reduces noise between neighboring campers.
Water access: Multiple campsites offer direct river access for cooling off during hot weather. One family at Crooked River shared, "The walk to the river from our site was so worth it. We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass... The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs."
Authentic primitive experience: Colonel Robins Group Area offers a true natural setting with basic amenities. A visitor described it as having "Absolutely beautiful, clean, well shaded, natural campsites. Prices start at $5 per person per night. There is limited parking available near sites. Well water and bathrooms onsite."
What you should know
Airboat noise impacts: Several riverside campgrounds experience regular airboat traffic. At Flying Eagle Preserve, Patrick S. reports, "The only noise pollution is from air boats on the nearby swamp river, but this dies down at maybe 10 or 11 pm ET and mostly only on weekend nights." Similar conditions exist at Potts Preserve.
Access changes: Recent modifications at Potts Preserve have changed how campers reach sites. A camper explained, "The large open pasture/meadow is no longer a vehicle area, same with the 5 sites within that area. There is a designated area to leave vehicles, and the sites on the river are walk in only." Visitors now need to walk approximately an eighth of a mile to riverside campsites.
Navigation challenges: Directions to some of the best tent camping near Inglis, Florida can be problematic with GPS systems. For Flying Eagle Preserve, a camper advises, "Waze, google, and Apple Maps are all wrong" and suggests specific alternate directions via Circle K and Eden Drive.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat significantly impacts comfort levels. A camper at Crooked River noted, "Weekends have a different vibe on the weekdays it's quiet. Each campground has its primitive camp charm... there's mosquitoes but that is Florida camping bring bug spray and keep the fire going helps."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Several sites provide safe water play areas during warm months. A family camper reported, "We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back. And have a lunch at the campsite afterwards. Perfect area for this."
Site selection for space: Choose larger sites that accommodate play areas for children. A parent shared about Crooked River Campground: "Our kids were able to run around and be noisy and we weren't worried about annoying our neighbors. My only 'complaints' are that it flooded very quickly during the few thunderstorms we experienced and there was some poison ivy in an easy to run into area."
Wildlife education opportunities: The river system provides opportunities to observe native species. As one camping parent noted, "Lots of wildlife abounds and it's right along the river with a launch area. Very nice primitive campsites. Very quiet and peaceful."
Transportation solutions: For sites with walk-in requirements, bring equipment to transport camping gear. A Potts Preserve camper suggested, "You can't drive up to the river view campsites. So cart would be useful for that reason."
Tips from RVers
Primitive site limitations: Most sites near Inglis cater better to tent camping than RVs. At Flying Eagle, one RVer explained, "Definitely an 'is what it is' spot, similar to the rest of Florida camping" and noted the underwhelming scenery but appreciated the 50-degree winter nights.
Overnight temperature advantages: Winter camping provides the most comfortable RV experience without air conditioning. The moderate temperatures from November through March allow for pleasant sleeping conditions with only minimal heating required on the coldest nights.
