Best Dispersed Camping near Lake Panasoffkee, FL

Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp near Lake Panasoffkee? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lake Panasoffkee, FL (8)

    • No image available

      1. Trout Lake Primitive Sites

      1 Review
      19 Saves
      Ocklawaha, Florida
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Sink

      2. Blue Sink

      1 Review
      1 Photo
      40 Saves
      Altoona, Florida

      Area may be unavailable. Please check with the local USFS Ranger station to check on status.

      Many people enjoy this solitude and primitive experience, but knowing your limits, skills and abilities is a must. Following certain rules and regulations will help make your experience safer and ensure settings remain unspoiled. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/florida/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=70792&actid=34

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

      3. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

      1 Review
      11 Photos
      38 Saves
      Zephyrhills, Florida

      Primitive and backcountry camping available. No amenities available.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Dispersed
      • Picnic Table
      • WiFi
      • No image available
        • No image available
          • No image available

            6. Lake Dorr

            1 Review
            8 Saves
            Altoona, Florida
            • Dispersed
            • No image available
              • No image available

                8. St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF

                1 Review
                149 Saves
                De Leon Springs, Florida

                Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of dispersed camping - camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers with few services or facilities. Additional skills are necessary for a successful trip. It is your responsibility to know your limits and abilities before you try this experience. Certain rules and regulations will make your experience safe and ensure settings remain scenic and unspoiled.

                Leave No Trace. Be Bear Aware. Minimize Waste. Pack it in, pack it out. Dispose of all garbage in proper receptacles. Bury all human and pet waste at least 6 inches deep and at least 100 feet away from any water source. Camp Considerately. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas or less than 100 feet from streams and other water sources. Pick a previously used site. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites. Make your campsite less visible, so other visitors can experience a “wild” setting. Avoid camping in the middle of a clearing or meadow. Be aware of forest boundaries. Get permission before camping on private property. Control your Campfire. Do not camp in an area with campfire restrictions listed under Alerts & Notices and Forest Supervisor's Orders. Use existing fire rings, fire pans or mound fires to minimize scarring rocks, soil and plants. Gather and use down and dead firewood. Do not cut standing trees or limbs off standing trees. Burn all wood and coals down to ashes. Make sure campfires are dead out and cold to the touch before leaving. Douse them with water and stir with a shovel. Know the Rules. Generally, there is a 14-day per month stay limit on the National Forests in Florida. Establishing residency is against federal regulation. Groups of over 75 people must obtain a special use permit from the nearest national forest office. Pets are welcome in most areas but must be kept on a leash. Camping is allowed only in designated campsites during general gun season, as defined in Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations for the Wildlife Management Areas.

                • Pets
                • Fires
                • Phone Service
                • Dispersed
                • Alcohol
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              Showing results 1-8 of 8 campgrounds

              Recent Dispersed Reviews in Lake Panasoffkee

              5 Reviews of 8 Lake Panasoffkee Campgrounds


              • EThe Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Trout Lake Primitive Sites
                Jan. 26, 2024

                Trout Lake Primitive Sites

                Nice secluded sites

                Set 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.

              • M
                Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorr
                Nov. 13, 2023

                Lake Dorr

                Area Unsafe and Had to Leave. Please avoid.

                Attempted to stay at this campground but left because it felt unsafe. Spoke to a local that warned of violence, robbery, and killings in this area of the national forest.

                Got stuck in sand on the way out and had to wait for a tow truck. Tow truck driver carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is and warned us not to stay.

                Please avoid the Ocala NF!

                If you do decide to come to this campground, avoid north part of Ron Paul Drive. You’ll either get stuck in sand or have issues to low/tight trees. Drive further south of the other side of Ron Paul Drive.

              • Destiny R.The Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Blue Sink
                May. 4, 2022

                Blue Sink

                Blue Sink

                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.


              Guide to Lake Panasoffkee

              Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lake Panasoffkee, Florida, where nature enthusiasts can find secluded spots to unwind and connect with the outdoors. This area offers a variety of primitive sites that cater to those seeking a more rugged camping experience.

              Dispersed campers should check out Trout Lake Primitive Sites

              • Located near a serene lake, Trout Lake Primitive Sites provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
              • Access to the sites involves a narrow, two-track road through the woods, making it ideal for adventurous campers with 4WD vehicles.
              • While the area may not be the cleanest, it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy nature in a secluded setting.

              Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lake Panasoffkee, Florida

              • For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, consider Blue Sink, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and requires some effort to reach.
              • Be prepared for limited amenities; sites like Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offer basic facilities but no drinking water or trash services.
              • Always check local conditions and access routes, as some areas may require creative navigation, especially after recent forestry work.

              Secluded spots for nature lovers at Freak Creek Dispersed Camping

              • Freak Creek Dispersed Camping is praised for its quiet atmosphere, making it perfect for those looking to relax away from crowds.
              • The site is ideal for kayaking enthusiasts, providing easy access to the water for a day of paddling and exploration.
              • Keep in mind that the sites are primitive, so it's best suited for tent camping rather than larger RVs.

              Frequently Asked Questions

              • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

                According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lake Panasoffkee, FL is Trout Lake Primitive Sites with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

              • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lake Panasoffkee, FL?

                TheDyrt.com has all 8 dispersed camping locations near Lake Panasoffkee, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.