Best Dispersed Camping near Live Oak, FL
Dispersed camping near Live Oak, Florida centers around several hunt camps in the Osceola National Forest. These primitive sites include West Tower Hunt Camp, Cobb Hunt Camp, and 17 Mile Hunt Camp, all offering basic dispersed camping options with varying levels of amenities. The camps are situated between 30-45 minutes from Live Oak, primarily around Lake City and Sanderson, providing access to Florida's pine flatwoods and wetland ecosystems.
Road conditions vary significantly between the dispersed camping areas. Most require driving on unpaved forest roads that may become difficult after rain. West Tower Hunt Camp provides the most amenities among these sites, including toilets, cold outdoor showers, trash disposal, and drinking water. Cobb Hunt Camp has been reported as temporarily closed in recent periods but offers toilets and trash service when open. 17 Mile Hunt Camp features the most primitive experience with only portable toilets and trash receptacles. All sites enforce a 14-day stay limit, and visitors should bring sufficient water supplies, especially at the more remote locations.
These dispersed camping areas provide seclusion and natural settings typical of Florida's forest ecosystems. West Tower Hunt Camp tends to receive positive reviews for cleanliness and spacious sites. "Campsites are scattered with nicely cleared areas within bush palms," noted one visitor, while another mentioned "most spots were very well spaced out." 17 Mile Hunt Camp offers particularly quiet camping with views of a small pond, though cellular service is limited or non-existent. A camper described it as "peaceful, relaxing, easy" while warning that "ground can be soft" and vehicles could potentially get stuck after rain. Visitors should be aware that during hunting seasons, increased activity and occasional gunshots may be heard in the vicinity.
