Dispersed camping near Killarney, Florida offers wilderness experiences in the subtropical environment of Central Florida, where sandy soil and pine forests dominate the landscape. The Ocala National Forest spans over 380,000 acres and contains multiple primitive camping options with varying seasonal challenges. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides convenient water access for paddlers. "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings," notes Scott O.
Swimming opportunities: Blue Sink offers natural swimming holes in a secluded setting. According to one visitor, it's the "Most beautiful place to stumble upon. You may need ATV or creative backpacking to get there now. The Forestry Service recently chopped down trees and covered the easy access roads."
Stargazing: The remote locations provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities away from light pollution. At St. Johns River Dispersed Spot, campers report excellent conditions as "the trees open up so you get a great view of the stars."
What campers like
Complete solitude: Upper Hillsborough provides genuine seclusion for those seeking isolation. One camper reported, "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free."
Wildlife encounters: Freak Creek Dispersed Camping offers opportunities to spot native Florida wildlife. "It's super secluded and quiet. Depending when you stay there's at times people who show up to party and then leave. Sites are primitive. Great place to put a kayak in the water," notes one regular visitor.
River proximity: Several sites offer direct water access for fishing and recreation. At St. Johns River Dispersed Spot, the riverside location provides both recreation and scenic value, though access requires navigation of "bumpy" roads.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Most dispersed sites require appropriate transportation. At Trout Lake Primitive Sites, expect challenging access conditions. "Main road entry is packed dirt; smaller access road to sites is two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance. 4WD recommended. Just barely scraped a FWD Promaster through the trees," warns one camper.
Connectivity limitations: Cell reception varies significantly between sites but is generally poor. One Trout Lake visitor noted "Poor cell service even with booster. Plan on returning after antenna upgrade."
Safety considerations: Research current conditions before visiting. Some areas have reported safety concerns, particularly around Lake Dorr where one camper warned of potential hazards and noted that even a "tow truck driver carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is."
Tips for camping with families
Reservation reality check: Despite online reservation systems showing "booked," actual occupancy may differ. At Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area, one camper shared, "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."
Facilities awareness: Most dispersed sites lack amenities families might need. At Upper Hillsborough, "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."
Trash management: No trash services exist at these primitive sites. Prepare to pack out all waste. One camper observed the "lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace."
Tips from RVers
Clearance concerns: RV access is severely limited at most dispersed sites. At Freak Creek, campers advise "I would not attempt bringing a camper unless it's really small."
Recovery equipment: When bringing any vehicle into these areas, prepare for challenging conditions. One Freak Creek visitor cautions, "If you don't have 4wd and recovery gear I wouldn't risk it. There is a nice creek area where you can swim and or fish if you have the right equipment to get back there it can be fun, but if you don't you will be stuck until some one comes by."
Vehicle protection: Expect minor damage from tight trails. At Trout Lake Primitive Sites, even with careful driving, one camper warns you will likely leave "with some new pinstripes" due to the extremely narrow access roads.
