Tent camping opportunities near Paisley, Florida range from secluded forest sites to riverside locations within a 30-minute drive. The area sits on the edge of the Ocala National Forest at elevations around 50-75 feet above sea level, with sandy soil common throughout camping areas. Water access is limited at most primitive sites, with campers needing to pack in their own drinking water supply.
What to do
Paddle clear springs: At King's Landing, access Rock Spring Run for kayaking through crystal-clear waters. "The springs are crystal clear, especially when you're the 1st one out there in the a.m. which is a huge perk of camping here," notes one camper. Morning launches avoid crowds as "the line to get in for non-campers gets really long fast."
Wildlife viewing: The remote locations provide excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. At Freak Creek Dispersed Camping, campers report possible panther sightings. According to one visitor, "I talked to another person that use to go out there and said she has seen a panther." Bring binoculars for bird watching, especially in early morning hours.
Hiking forest trails: Sawgrass Island Preserve offers multiple interconnected trails through old Florida landscapes. A camper describes the experience: "I like to go across the causeway and down the Bog Button Trail and over to the Hammock Trail and along the Cactus Trail and down around the ponds and back out the Bent Pine Trail. This is around a five mile hike."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many primitive sites offer genuine isolation. At Freak Creek, one camper notes, "It's super secluded and quiet. Depending when you stay there's at times people who show up to party and then leave." The remote setting attracts those seeking to disconnect completely.
Natural water features: Lake Dorr Cabin provides direct lake access with boating amenities. A reviewer highlights, "You have your own private boat slip, 100ft long dock for fishing & swimming, canoes/paddles/life jackets on site." The cabin setting allows both comfort and water recreation.
Minimal light pollution: The distance from urban areas creates excellent stargazing conditions. Forested areas like Sawgrass Island Preserve feature minimal artificial lighting, allowing for clear night sky viewing. Campers recommend bringing red-light headlamps to preserve night vision.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many dispersed sites require specialized vehicles. A Freak Creek camper 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."
Limited facilities: Ocala National Forest Farles Prairie Recreation Area has basic amenities only. "Vault toilets are not cleaned regularly so come prepared with sanitizers if you need to use them," advises one visitor. Most sites lack potable water, requiring campers to bring their own supply.
Wildlife precautions: Bears and raccoons frequent these areas. "This entire area is infested with raccoons and black bears, so you want to make sure that all of your food and gear doesn't run off in the middle of the night – and trust me, whatever you don't have inside your tent or car WILL be stolen by the raccoons," cautions a King's Landing camper.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for beginners: For those new to the best tent camping near Paisley, Florida, cabins offer a transition option. At Lake Dorr, "It worked out well as some family members like the cabin experience and others were able to stay in tents near the cabin," says one reviewer who appreciated the flexibility.
Island experience: Hontoon Island State Park Campground offers a unique ferry access camping trip. "All camping supplies must be brought over by boat in wheelbarrows provides by the parks services," explains a camper. The island includes "a great playground for the kids and we enjoyed a nice long hike as well."
Transport assistance: Some sites offer help with gear transport. At Hontoon Island, "Once on the island there is a small store where you can buy firewood and any miscellaneous items you might have forgotten then catch one of the free shuttle vans that takes you out to the actual campsite (about a mile from the ferry dock)."
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive sites near Paisley accommodate smaller vehicles only. At Bluff Landing, a reviewer cautions, "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."
Road conditions: Sand and mud create challenges for larger rigs. A camper at Bluff Landing shares, "The roads are plenty wide enough. However, they are mostly sand and a lot of dips and mud holes from all the 4wheeling. 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."
Parking alternatives: For those with trailers, look for designated areas. "There is a parking area just past the camping turn off though with room for a trailer," notes a Bluff Landing visitor, suggesting that detaching and walking to sites might be necessary for successful primitive camping with RVs near Paisley.
