Tent campsites near Mount Dora, Florida occupy diverse ecosystems ranging from pine flatwoods to cypress swamps, with most sites at elevations under 100 feet. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping offers milder 50-70°F days. Most primitive sites require proper food storage due to the presence of black bears and raccoons throughout the region.
What to do
Paddle Blackwater Creek: At Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites, campers can access this scenic waterway directly from some sites. As one camper notes, "This is a really nice spot situated between the spring and Blackwater Creek. The site is 100 yards down a path from where you park. It's a great spot if you want to paddle the creek."
Explore island wilderness: The ferry-accessible Hontoon Island State Park Campground provides a unique off-mainland experience. "You can come on your own boat or take the free ferry over (donations are encouraged). The campsites are about a half mile from the docks and they even have a van to take your stuff to your site if you can't take it yourself," explains one visitor.
Early morning river access: Tent camping at Kings Landing provides direct spring access. The campground layout includes eight tent sites with fire rings arranged around an open field, making it easy to launch kayaks before day visitors arrive.
Wildlife observation hikes: Several campgrounds offer walking trails where wildlife viewing is common. A camper at one preserve observed, "I have seen several whitetail deer, sandhill cranes, lots of other birds, quail, and some turkeys while hiking. I also saw a black bear up a tree in the marsh."
What campers like
Secluded water access: Campers at Freak Creek Dispersed Camping appreciate the remote location and swimming opportunities. One review states, "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."
Communal atmosphere: At smaller campgrounds like North Shore Relic Ranch, the limited number of sites (just five) creates a more intimate setting. A visitor shared, "Great place to camp, my wife and I really enjoyed our time at the Ranch. James was the best host, I was able to order wood and it was waiting on arrival."
Private waterfront campsites: Some tent sites offer direct water access without neighbors. As one camper described their experience at a secluded site: "I love this site and have camped there twice. The walk from where you can park to the actual site is also not that long (about a quarter mile away)."
Canoe and kayak convenience: Multiple tent sites are positioned for quick water access. At Lake Dorr Cabin area, a reviewer noted, "Super cute secluded cabin directly on the lake. You have your own private boat slip, 100ft long dock for fishing & swimming, canoes/paddles/life jackets on site."
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate transportation. A camper at Freak Creek warns: "The main road in has huge deep ruts, the other road has a water crossing that was over my bumper on my lifted Mojave. If you don't have 4wd and recovery gear I wouldn't risk it."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage. At Black Bear Wilderness Area, "you must practice bear safety using a bear proof container for food and hanging from tree at night." Multiple campgrounds report raccoon activity that can result in stolen food.
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have sulfur-smelling water. One camper advised: "The water to shower with smells terrible, I recommend you bring your own water to shower with or you can go to Publix (10 mins away) and buy those 86 cent water bottles."
Reservation systems vary: Many tent sites near Mount Dora require advance booking, but some have different systems. For Black Bear Wilderness Area, "You MUST have a reservation to camp here," while other sites operate on first-come, first-served basis.
Tips for camping with families
Island adventure option: For a unique family experience, consider Hontoon Island State Park Campground. As one visitor explains, "I came here with a group who had reserved the picnic pavilion for a birthday party. The trip to the island on the ferry was quick and easy. There was a great playground for the kids and we enjoyed a nice long hike as well."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many camping areas offer chances to see Florida wildlife. A visitor at one preserve reported, "I have seen several whitetail deer, sandhill cranes, lots of other birds, quail, and some turkeys while hiking."
Swimming access points: Several tent campsites offer swimming options. One visitor described a site: "Has a small zip line over the creek and a rope swing. Doesn't look deep but there's a super deep hole you aim for."
Pack-in necessities: Most primitive tent sites require bringing all supplies. At some camping areas, "There is no water available at any of the campsites," making preparation crucial for family comfort.
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most tent-only sites near Mount Dora aren't suitable for large RVs. One camper with a 36-foot fifth wheel described their experience: "They are mostly sand and a lot of dips and mud holes from all the 4-wheeling. I have a 36ft 5th wheel and it sounded like I'd have the ability to get it there. Well, I did, with a few broken dishes and messing up the camper a bit."
Trailer parking options: Some areas offer alternative parking. At Bluff Landing, one RVer noted, "This is a good spot just off the road/trail. Small and kind of tight in the official camping area with three spots kind of spread out. Tight in here, so would not recommend a trailer. There is a parking area just past the camping turn off though with room for a trailer."
Primitive conditions: Most tent areas near Mount Dora lack RV hookups. Areas with limited facilities require self-sufficiency, as one camper advised, "Super off grid. Barely a cell signal."
