Primitive camping near Keystone Heights, Florida offers accessible wild camping options within Ocala National Forest and surrounding areas. These free dispersed sites have varying access conditions, with most requiring navigation down unpaved roads that deteriorate after rainstorms. The Florida heat intensifies from May through September, with average summer temperatures reaching 90°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms creating potential access challenges.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Davenport Landing provides direct river access for kayakers and paddleboarders. "There's an amazing little access point here to the Ocklawaha river that runs through this neck of the woods – which used to be a riverboat stop where steamboats would stop to fuel or disembark enroute to Silver Springs," notes Stuart K. from Davenport Landing.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for diverse Florida wildlife across all sites. At 17 Mile Hunt Camp, the pond area offers excellent wildlife viewing. "We got an amazing spot with a view of the pond," shares Moe B. from 17 Mile Hunt Camp, though campers should "be extra careful with our little dog tho because we did get the sense that something could try to eat it since the sites are in the middle of the woods."
Historical exploration: For history enthusiasts, several sites offer opportunities to explore old settlements. "If you have an explorer's mindset, you'll be richly rewarded here as there is a small gravesite from the Civil War that you can find along with middens along the Ocklawaha River hiding traces of the Timucuan Indians that once populated this area," according to one Davenport Landing camper.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: The forest canopy provides welcome relief during hot Florida days. "We didn't see anything bad with this place when we were there. Had no one around and nice and cool in the forest," writes Ethan B. about Davenport Landing.
Space between sites: Most dispersed areas offer good separation between campsites. At West Tower Hunt Camp, Brian notes the campground "was very clean and most spots were very well spaced out." Similarly, Aliyah B. appreciates 17 Mile Hunt Camp for having "tons of space with space between camp spots. Quiet. Lots of locals during the day but settles down at night."
Book exchange: The primitive camping area at West Tower Hunt Camp offers a unique amenity. "Also available is a bathroom and an outdoor cold shower. (There is a book exchange in the bathroom)," mentions Jamie W. from West Tower Hunt Camp.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: During hunting season, amenities may change. At Cobb Hunt Camp, Jamie W. notes, "During hunting season, there are portable toilets, but no water. Picnic tables at various spots and plenty of shady areas."
Variable occupancy patterns: Some sites experience seasonal influxes. "Stayed a week. 2 different sights in campground. Really secluded, kept sights. Toilet and trash bins maintained 2 times a week. Went to other two sights, East Tower: Jam packed with hunters," reports Michael W. about Cobb Hunt Camp.
Connectivity limitations: Cell reception varies significantly between sites. "Minimal, if any, cell service, so you will be disconnected pretty much," cautions Moe B. about 17 Mile Hunt Camp, while Chris D. reports "Good verizon and tmobile cell coverage" at Cobb Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Ground conditions: Prepare for potentially soft ground throughout the area. Chrischelle N. warns about 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. Just make sure to check the ground before you park. Very muddy, could get stuck."
Safety considerations: Some sites have reported safety concerns. "There were obviously some long term residents that had set up shack here, and while they did not make the campground feel unsafe, they were trashing up the place," reports Sam S. about Davenport Landing.
Facility availability: West Tower Hunt Camp offers the most family-friendly amenities. "Host was very nice. Bathroom and shower but no hot water," mentions DeziRay M. about West Tower Hunt Camp.
Tips from RVers
Access road challenges: Many access roads require careful navigation. Patrick M. from 17 Mile Hunt Camp shares: "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, it was a little wet because of a rain a day earlier."
Leveling considerations: Some sites offer naturally level parking. "We ended up loving the site we picked. We were able to pull through instead of backing in (although a lot of the spots looked like you would need to back 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," reports Will J. about 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Campground layout: At some sites, navigation within the campground can be challenging. Hilary G. notes about Cobb Hunt Camp: "Can't drive thru the campground expect in a lifted truck due to water hole but main road access is available to the other side."