Primitive camping near Osceola National Forest provides year-round access to North Florida wilderness. The forest contains several dispersed camping areas with varying levels of amenities across its 200,000 acres. The hunt camps throughout the forest operate on a first-come, first-served basis with most sites situated on level terrain suitable for a variety of camping setups.
What to do
Climb observation towers: West Tower Hunt Camp features a rickety but climbable fire tower that provides forest views. "We weren't sure what to expect considering the ride in past some shacks and few and far-between homes but the forest itself is incredibly spacious and shady with the campsites pretty far apart from each other," notes Jennifer M. at West Tower Hunt Camp.
Wildlife watching: The small pond at 17 Mile Hunt Camp attracts local wildlife. "We got an amazing spot with a view of the pond. Ground can be soft, but luckily it had been dry for a few days, but you could get stuck in some spots," reports Moe B. about their experience at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Stargazing: The remote location offers dark skies. "It was a half-moon so scattered moonlight but otherwise, no light pollution," explains Jennifer M., making these sites ideal for night sky observation when weather permits.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most primitive sites offer good separation from neighbors. "Campsites are scattered with nicely cleared areas within bush palms," writes Jamie W. about West Tower Hunt Camp, while Will J. notes about 17 Mile Hunt Camp, "It was really peaceful. There were only a few other people there and we hardly ever saw them."
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive sites, the facilities are maintained regularly. "This place was very clean and most spots were very well spaced out. Porta potties and trash bins," states Brian about West Tower Hunt Camp. At 17 Mile Hunt Camp, Michael W. confirms, "Toilet and trash bins maintained 2 times a week."
Book exchange: A unique feature at West Tower Hunt Camp. "Also available is a bathroom and an outdoor cold shower. (There is a book exchange in the bathroom)," mentions Jamie W., while another camper notes "bathroom book exchange and power at the bathroom if you need it."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between sites. "Minimal, if any, cell service, so you will be disconnected pretty much," reports Moe B. about 17 Mile Hunt Camp. At Cobb Hunt Camp, Chris D. found "Good verizon and tmobile cell coverage," while Nadya K. states about West Tower Hunt Camp, "Verizon service was nonexistent at the second site and spotty at the first. I ended up driving out about 10 minutes to make calls & check my phone."
Hunting season impacts: The presence of hunters affects the camping experience. "Heard many shots during the late afternoon when we got there, around 4p. Off and on until it got dark at 6:30p," explains Moe B. Nadya K. adds, "Hunters come on weekends and kick up a lot of dust while driving past camp sites; their dogs also make a lot of noise."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging in wet conditions. "The roads are a little rough, yet passable, it was a little wet because of a rain a day earlier," reports Patrick M. Another camper warns, "Can't drive thru the campground expect in a lifted truck due to water hole but main road access is available to the other side."
Tips for camping with families
Pack entertainment options: Limited connectivity means bringing your own entertainment. "No cell service, no tv stations, I brought movies, really enjoyed myself," advises Patrick M. from 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is important with children. "We did have to be extra careful with our little dog tho because we did get the sense that something could try to eat it since the sites are in the middle of the woods," cautions Will J. about 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Simple activities: The open areas work well for basic camp games. "Loved this spot. It had tons of space with space between camp spots. Quiet. Lots of locals during the day but settles down at night," shares Aliyah B., noting the spacious nature of the sites.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many areas offer naturally level sites. "We ended up loving the site we picked. We were able to pull through instead of backing in, the ground wasn't too muddy so we didn't get stuck, and we didn't even need to level the camper - it was naturally flat," explains Will J. at Cobb Hunt Camp.
Size limitations: Most sites can accommodate mid-sized rigs only. "Nice place to unwind, I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer," reports Patrick M., who successfully camped with a travel trailer at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Ground conditions: Check soil firmness before driving heavy rigs into sites. "Nice primitive campground with well maintained dispersed spots. Just make sure to check the ground before you park. Very muddy, could get stuck," advises Chrischelle N.
