Best Dispersed Camping near Nokomis, FL

Shell Key Preserve and Peace River Banks offer the primary dispersed camping options near Nokomis, Florida. Both sites require boat access, with Shell Key accessible only by paddle craft from the Pinellas Byway launch point. Shell Key requires a free camping permit and strictly enforces leave-no-trace principles with no facilities available. Campfires are permitted except during summer sea turtle nesting season. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste, including human waste via portable toilets.

Peace River Banks Backcountry provides primitive camping between Zolpho Springs and Gardner, with additional sites extending south to Arcadia. Camping is permitted on the west bank of the river with no designated sites. Most visitors access the area by canoe or kayak, though some use jon boats or airboats. Both locations feature minimal site preparation, with Shell Key offering occasional sandy spots among vegetation. A recent review noted, "You can only get to this camping spot by water. We saw sting rays, a baby turtle, many different birds within 5 minutes of parking the boat."