Mary B.
Traveler
TravelerAnastasia State Park Campground
We are in the tent section and the site is secluded with a forest feel. Rustic. The comfort station is clean and could use a little updating but works fine
Tent Camping near Pierson, FL
5 campgrounds with availability this weekend
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Primitive tent camping options near Pierson, Florida include several dispersed sites and established campgrounds within wildlife areas and state forests. Freak Creek Dispersed Camping offers a tent-only experience where camping is permitted without amenities, while nearby Lake George Conservation Area provides more established tent sites with picnic tables in a natural setting. These areas serve as gateways to the wider Ocala National Forest region with its varied tent camping opportunities.
Most tent sites around Pierson require preparation for minimal facilities. Freak Creek has no drinking water, toilets, or trash collection, making it essential to bring adequate supplies and practice leave-no-trace principles. At Ocala National Forest's Farles Prairie Recreation Area, tent campers have access to vault toilets but still need to bring their own water. According to one visitor, "Vault toilets are not cleaned regularly so come prepared with sanitizers if you need to use them." Fire rings are typically available at designated sites, and alcohol is permitted at many locations, though some wildlife management areas restrict it.
The tent camping experience near Pierson offers significant wildlife viewing opportunities. Tent sites at Lake George Conservation Area provide access to multiple hiking trails and natural landscapes. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, many campsites in this region require awareness of local wildlife including alligators, snakes, and black bears. The primitive nature of these campgrounds means tent campers should follow proper food storage protocols. Seminole State Forest's primitive tent sites are particularly appreciated for their seclusion, with one camper noting, "Drive up then walk in campsite on the water with no neighbors." Most sites in the area allow pets, though they must be kept on leashes. Seasonal considerations include higher humidity in summer months and potential for afternoon thunderstorms, making spring and fall ideal for tent camping visits.
Best Tent Campgrounds near Pierson (52)
1. Buddy Martin Road Campsite - Lake George Forest WMA
"Beautiful campsite right on Lake George. No bathrooms or electrical hookups. Gorgeous views and easy kayak access"
Check Availabilityfrom $15 / night
2. River Road Campground — Lake George State Forest
"Well kept primitive camping site. No road noise, and nice bear cabinets, picnic tables, grill and fire ring."
3 Sites AvailableAvailable this weekend
from $9 / night
3. Freak Creek Dispersed Camping
"Sites are primitive. I would not attempt bringing a camper unless it's really small. Great place to put a kayak in the water."
4. Bluff Landing
"Places to tuck off and set up camp that are private. I would have said 5 stars but when choosing my options on what I was looking for I said rv accessible. Well it is for a half mile maybe."
"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."
5. Haw Creek Preserve State Park Dispersed
"So here’s a strong call out to all of those primitive campers that want to rock it out in nature without a SINGLE soul within spitting (or hearing) distance. But you know what?"
6. Hontoon Island State Park Campground
"We did not stay over night but I did notice some nice looking cabins and primitive camping sites."
"This is really getting away from it all. The only way to reach the island is via the ferry (free, and runs all day) or bring your own boat. There are boat docking facilities."
7. Jumping Gully Campsite - Lake George Conservation Area
8. Lake Dorr Cabin
"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."
"It worked out well as some family members like the cabin experience and others were able to stay in tents near the cabin. There are lots of places to sleep (bunk beds, queen, etc)."
Check AvailabilityCampground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $300 / night
9. Ocala National Forest Farles Prairie Recreation Area
"If you’re hauling water gear or want to hike/backpack a section of the Florida Scenic Trail (FL Keys to GA state line), this is a lovely place to hang out on the small lake."
10. 52 Landing
Drive Time
- 41 min from Deltona, FL
- 59 min from Ocala, FL
- 1 hr 4 min from Orlando, FL
- 1 hr 11 min from Wildwood, FL
Recent Tent Camping Photos near Pierson, FL
43 Photos of 52 Pierson Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
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Tent Camping Reviews near Pierson, FL
1210 Reviews of 52 Pierson Campgrounds
Stuart K.
LegendPellicer Campground - Princess Place Preserve
Pristine, Secluded Nature Getaway Hidden Away @ Princess Place Preserve
What you will enjoy most about the Pellicer Campground is that it is the tiniest of all the camping areas here at Princess Place Preserve, offering up just 2 campsites. That said, IMHO Pellicer is the best of all the camping options here, for a few reasons. First of all, it’s size alone gives it a real sense of privacy along with that comes next to no noise (unless you count the constant drumming of the choir from the cicadas noise). If you don’t keep your eyes peeled, you will drive right by Pellicer Campground, so once you’ve entered Princess Place Preserve proper, meaning that you will have passed through an actual gate (likely open if during day hours) and you’ll go around the bend past the horse staging area on your left and just when you see the covered bridge, you will want to hang a left (if you cross the covered bridge, you’ve gone too far).
Camping here is fairly basic and primitive with just water spigots, fire ring and designated trash receptacles as well as a duo port-O-potty. Also, there is an eerie feeling of desolation when we visited as this part of the preserve had recently undergone a controlled burn, which simply adds to the mystique and uniqueness to the place in my mind. What I absolutely loved about Pellicer Campground is that either site#1 or #2 comes with its very own kayak / canoe launch and offers a really exclusive access point to the waterways you’ll discover here – whereas the main kayak / canoe launch across the bridge and closer to Moody CG will dump you out in the largeness of the Matanzas River, But here at Pellicer, you’ll slowly slip into one of the many small tributaries that zig zag throughout Princess Place Preserve like a water snake. The other upside locating yourself here at Pellicer Campground is that you will be centrally located to everything that Princess Place Preserve has to offer, so nothing is too far out of reach.
As far as Princess Place Preserve itself is concerned, there are more than 1,500 square acres to explore that will offer the best of both surf (with 3 conjoining rivers) & turf (which is simply fantastic marsh). On the surf front, you’ll have the trifecta of salt marshes from the Matanzas River, slow-moving currents of the Moody Creek and abundant fishing of the Pellicer Creek to contend with – all three of which make for perfect kayak, canoe and paddleboard exploration (just be on the watch for alligators!). Back on land, there’s plenty of hiking trails that provide a bevy of well-cleared fully-functioning foot paths … while on the other hand, you will discover trails that are in dire need of some decent pruning as well as those, due to recent rainfall, will be either flooded or too muddy to trudge through.
History sidebar: the name Princess Preserve comes from the widow Angela Cutting who remarried a Russian prince and assumed the title of princess (although there was no coronation). The entire park is managed by Flagler County Parks & Recreation, which I have to say (apart from the bathroom / shower facilities) have done an outstanding job at not just preserving this amazing nature destination, but the county is in overdrive in its restoration efforts of the place, as you will see with the main lodge and nearby buildings and horse stable that have recently received a very nice refurbishment.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a smattering: (1) Here at Pellicer Campground, you will not be impressed by the port-O-potty bathroom options, but if you cross the covered bridge, you can either head towards the main lodge where to the left is a fairly decent restroom facility, but if you’re looking for a nice hot shower, you will have to make your way over to the Equestrian Campground, so this is the one (fairly massive) downside to Princess Place Preserve – just one shower facility in the entirety of the Preserve, which I score just a 5 out of 10; (2) Everywhere you go the water is non-potable, so be sure to bring your own fresh water to drink; (3) Interested in taking advantage of the historic tours that are offered here? Just note that they are first-come, first-served, so upon arriving here, be sure to ask a Park Ranger for first availability – typically, the tours are offered each day around 2pm; (4) If you are a biker, like I am, you will definitely want to bring your wheels here, where all of the main roads and even most of the trails are simply perfect for riding on and the expansive nature of Princess Place Preserve will give you miles and miles to explore without biking on the same trail twice!; (5) When you want to get cleaned up and venture out to visit some of the nearby haunts, be sure to check out Rodie’s Place in Hammock Beach, which is a funky local cooking institution that has an amazing upscale menu of which I highly recommend the skillet baked brie, Nashville hot chicken sandwich and the homemade coleslaw; and (6) My pro-tip for Pellicer CG is this - call ahead to verify that the road into this CG or the surrounding roadways aren't flooded - I've been here half a dozen times and at least half the time, the roads are inundated with water from the rivers, so tread carefully (or wear boots!).
Happy Camping!
- CCindy W.
ScoutWilderness RV Park Estates
We are in a travel spot. Lots of highway noise. Pretty area mostly owners only
- Mary B.Traveler
Fore Lake Campground
Roads are rough, Bathrooms are clean, host seemed like a good guy. Here during off season but the beach looked like fun
Stacey R.
GuideSilver Springs State Park Campground
All amenities on site
Sites have full hookups which is awesome for a state park. Also picnic tables, grills and a fire pit. The sites are big and relatively private. To visit the spring you can hike or drive. Being you camping receipt to get in free. Glass bottom boat tour is $15 for adults but there is a nice walking path and you can see manatees in the spring from the shore. The restaurant was nice, good pizza!
Eric K.GuideLake Dorr Dispersed
Lake Dorr Dispersed Camping
Spent two nights here again. Sept. 27th and 28th. During the day time there were a lot of Love Bugs. My camping kitty loved chasing them. At night or at sun down I was bombarded with bugs. Even if I tried to attract them to a higher light and I was in the dark, didn't help. So this time of the year, sunset = go inside.
Also, the description above is wrong.
This dispersed camping area within Ocala National Forest DOES NOT provide water hookups, restrooms, and picnic tables along with standard amenities like trash service and campfire permissions.
The campground DOES NOT maintain water availability throughout the site and DOES NOT HAVE ANY clean restroom facilities.
Other than that, I will be back.
- Eric K.Guide
Lake Dorr Dispersed
Lake Dorr Dispersed camping
Spent two nights here again. September 27th and 28th. This is a great dispersed camping area. You only need to know your limits with soft sand. During the day there were a lot of love bugs and the water was great. As soon as the sun sets, at this time of the year the bugs were terrible. Even if you tried to attract them up in the air with a Devos light you will be bombarded. Sunset = go inside. Other than the night time bugs, it's a great place. I will be back.
- BBrian B.Guide
Faver-Dykes State Park Campground
Best state park I stayed in
This place is out nice roads getting in here as a brackish Creek great fishing boats very clean spots are spread out nicely, groomed, fire pits, and picnic tables easy access right off 95
- dd I.Guide
Silver Springs State Park Campground
Enjoyed it
Great little spot, easy access to silver springs. Glass boat tour was cool - just the right amount of cruising time before little ones breaking points! Ice cream afterwards of course and good local pizza joint.
Guide to Pierson
Dispersed camping options around Pierson, Florida range from paddling destinations to secluded forest sites. The region sits at the northern edge of the Ocala National Forest with an average elevation of 42 feet and sandy soil conditions that can challenge vehicle access during wet seasons. Spring and fall bring temperatures between 60-85°F with lower humidity than summer months when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: At Hontoon Island State Park Campground, visitors can paddle the St. Johns River and surrounding waterways. "We've rented pontoons at Hontoon at least a half dozen times and done the circle from there to Blue Springs, then to Dead River & back to Hontoon. Plenty of gators, BIRDS, turtles, MANATEES, bountiful green scenery," reports Rebecca E.
Swimming in natural springs: Lake Dorr Cabin offers water activities just steps from your accommodation. "You have your own private boat slip, 100ft long dock for fishing & swimming, canoes/paddles/life jackets on site," writes Aubrey O. The cabin includes two tent sites for additional camping space.
Hiking the Florida Scenic Trail: The national scenic trail passes through Ocala National Forest Farles Prairie Recreation Area, providing access to long-distance hiking opportunities. "If you're hauling water gear or want to hike/backpack a section of the Florida Scenic Trail (FL Keys to GA state line), this is a lovely place to hang out on the small lake," notes Peggy M.
What campers like
Remote locations for solitude: Campers appreciate the seclusion at Freak Creek Dispersed Camping for its isolation. "It's super secluded and quiet. Depending when you stay there's at times people who show up to party and then leave. Sites are primitive," shares Adamm A.
Walk-in sites near water: Seminole State Forest Primitive Campsites offers tent sites with water access. Meghan C. explains, "Drive up then walk in campsite on the water with no neighbors. The walk from where you can park to the actual site is also not that long (about a quarter mile away), but it can be prone to flooding."
Accessible fishing spots: Bass fishing opportunities abound throughout the area. At Farles Prairie Recreation Area, campers mention "good bass fishing" on the small lake, while Seminole State Forest offers creek access where "the site is situated between the spring and Blackwater Creek," according to Billy A.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many dispersed sites require off-road capability. At Freak Creek Dispersed Camping, "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," warns Hilary G.
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas have minimal amenities. "Vault toilets are not cleaned regularly so come prepared with sanitizers if you need to use them," advises a camper at Farles Prairie Recreation Area.
Hunting awareness: Check hunting schedules before planning tent camping trips. At Seminole State Forest, Mike G. notes, "This is a good place to come to see the stars! Jumper camp is a primitive area with a picnic table and a fire ring. Great for large groups or a backpacker, One thing to remember is this is a hunting area so pay close attention to the hunting schedule!"
Tips for camping with families
Island camping adventures: Haw Creek Preserve State Park Dispersed offers a unique camping experience accessible via wooden walkways. Stuart K. shares, "Unlike many other primitive campground sites, this particular spot is somewhat easy to access – in that there's a perfectly fabricated wooden plank pathway to follow, albeit for at least a ¼ mile... whatever you typically plan to HAUL to your primitive campsite, here, rest assured, you can pull with a wagon or hand-trailer."
Cabin alternatives: For families uncomfortable with tent camping near Pierson, Lake Dorr Cabin provides a middle ground. "Super cute secluded cabin directly on the lake... Cabin sleeps 6/8 comfortably and has 2 tent sites as well," notes Aubrey O.
Wildlife education opportunities: Hontoon Island State Park provides excellent wildlife viewing for children. "There was a great playground for the kids and we enjoyed a nice long hike as well," says Sara S., while another visitor mentions abundant wildlife sightings including "gators, BIRDS, turtles, MANATEES."
Tips from RVers
Site access limitations: Most primitive camping areas around Pierson restrict large RVs. At Bluff Landing, Adamm A. warns, "I would have said 5 stars but when choosing my options on what I was looking for I said rv accessible. Well it is for a half mile maybe... 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."
Smaller trailers only: Brian from Bluff Landing advises, "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."
Pack out trash: Campers frequently mention trash issues at primitive sites. "Camp sights had a lot of trash. I cleaned what I could till I ran out of space to bag any more," reports Brian at Bluff Landing, highlighting the importance of proper waste management for RV campers visiting these natural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent
campsite near Pierson, FL?
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pierson, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pierson, FL is Buddy Martin Road Campsite - Lake George Forest WMA with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find
tent camping near
Pierson, FL?
What is the best site to find tent camping near Pierson, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 52 tent camping locations near Pierson, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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