Best Dispersed Camping near Maitland, FL

Are you planning a dispersed camping trip to Maitland? We've got you covered. Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. Find dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Maitland, FL (7)

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      1. St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF

      1 Review
      146 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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        Camper-submitted photo from Blue Sink

        3. Blue Sink

        1 Review
        1 Photo
        38 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
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              Showing results 1-7 of 7 campgrounds

              Recent Dispersed Reviews in Maitland

              5 Reviews of 7 Maitland Campgrounds


              • B
                Camper-submitted photo from bull creek WMA
                Feb. 8, 2024

                bull creek WMA

                Hunt camp

                This is camp for hunters it's free and has pit toilets open area park anywhere in the camp. Lots of land to explore, hiking very close to Florida scenic trail.

              • 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.


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              Guide to Maitland

              Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Maitland, Florida, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of spots to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

              Top Activities While Free Camping Near Maitland

              • Enjoy stargazing at the St. Johns River Dispersed Spot, where the open tree canopy provides a perfect view of the night sky.
              • Kayaking is a popular activity at Freak Creek Dispersed Camping, making it an ideal spot for water lovers looking to explore the serene waters.
              • Hiking trails abound near Blue Sink, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ocala National Forest.

              Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Trout Lake Primitive Sites

              • The Trout Lake Primitive Sites provide a secluded experience, perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat in nature.
              • Accessing the sites requires navigating a narrow two-track road, making it a great adventure for those with 4WD vehicles.
              • Campers can enjoy the rustic charm of primitive camping while being close to a picturesque lake, ideal for fishing or simply relaxing by the water.

              Scenic Spots for Nature Lovers

              • The bull creek WMA offers expansive land to explore, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
              • This area features pit toilets and plenty of space for parking, making it convenient for those who want to enjoy a day in nature without the need for extensive facilities.
              • With its proximity to the Florida Scenic Trail, visitors can easily access beautiful hiking routes right from their camping spot.

              Frequently Asked Questions

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

                According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Maitland, FL is St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

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

                TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Maitland, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.