Want to go dispersed camping near Lacoochee? Dispersed camping is an excellent way to get away from it all and to disconnect. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Florida camping adventure.
Primitive and backcountry camping available. No amenities available.
Enjoy the blue-green Gulf of Mexico waters that lap gently along the sandy beaches of the four islands that make up Anclote Key Preserve State Park - Anclote Key, North Anclote Bar, South Anclote Bar and Three Rooker Island.
The 11,773-acre park is home to at least 43 species of birds, including the American oystercatcher, bald eagle and piping plover.
A picturesque 1887 lighthouse stands as a sentinel on the southern end of the island. Visitors can swim and sunbathe at the beach, fire up a grill and enjoy a picnic, or pitch a tent and enjoy a night of primitive camping under the stars.
Primitive camping is permitted on the very north end of Anclote Key. There is a compostable toilet for use in that area.
There is no water or any other amenities, so you will have to bring everything that you need.
Guide
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.
ScoutSet of primitive spots near lake. 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, into a pullout just before sand started. Poor cell service even with booster. Plan on returning after antenna upgrade. Not the cleanest but passable.
Guide
One of our fav place to go camping
TravelerShort 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
GuideWe 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.
RangerAs 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.
LegendAnclote 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.
LegendAnclote 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.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lacoochee, Florida, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom of camping in serene settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lacoochee, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lacoochee, FL is Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lacoochee, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Lacoochee, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
