Camping spots near Sanderson, Florida center around the Osceola National Forest, where the pine flatwoods and cypress wetlands create a distinctive north Florida wilderness experience. Most camping areas sit at elevations under 200 feet above sea level, and the forest's soft sandy roads can become challenging when wet. Portable toilets are typically available at dispersed sites during hunting season from September through January, though these facilities may be limited other times.
What to do
Hiking the Florida Trail: Access the Florida National Scenic Trail directly from Ocean Pond Campground, where you can take a "3-mile out-and-back hike from the campground along forest roads and a boardwalk for swamp views," according to one camper. The boardwalk segments are especially scenic with opportunities to spot wildlife.
Kayaking on Ocean Pond: The 1,700-acre lake offers excellent paddling opportunities. "Bring your boat, Ocean Pond is more of a lake than a pond," notes Chad P. Several campers mention the availability of paddle boats and kayaks at Island Oaks RV Resort, where "they have a variety of paddle boats and kayaks around for free use."
Swimming: Despite the tannic water color, several swimming options exist. At St. Mary's Cove, Mandy J. reports: "The water is Tannic (dyed dark from foliage). It felt amazing because there are cool springs feeding it from below, but completely discolored our bathing suits, so be aware."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best opportunities to spot herons, egrets, turtles and occasional alligators. Robert V. shared his experience: "Got to see a snake sunbathing next to two turtles with kayaking" while exploring the waterways near the camping areas.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: The remote nature of dispersed sites creates a quiet environment away from crowds. At 17 Mile Hunt Camp, Will J. notes, "It was really peaceful. There were only a few other people there and we hardly ever saw them." This sentiment is echoed across several forest camping areas.
Affordability: Most dispersed sites are free or low-cost. At Hog Pen Landing, Eric P. appreciates "Ten bucks a night for this beautiful view, clean bathrooms and trash cans. Very peaceful." Similarly, primitive sites at Ocean Pond Campground start at just $12 per night with America the Beautiful pass discounts available.
Lake views: Waterfront camping spots are particularly valued. At Hog Pen Landing, Christopher B. describes "Beautiful views to the east through missy covered cypress trees with palmetto and pine forest behind to the west." These waterfront sites fill quickly, especially during weekends and hunting season.
Private, well-spaced sites: Many campers mention the good separation between camping areas. At West Tower Hunt Camp, Brian notes that "most spots were very well spaced out" creating a feeling of seclusion without being too remote.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer brings high humidity and regular afternoon thunderstorms. Jack B. mentions that Ocean Pond Campground has "lots of bugs in summer," a common issue throughout the region's camping areas. Winter temperatures can occasionally dip into the 30s at night.
Road conditions: Forest roads accessing dispersed sites can be challenging. At 17 Mile Hunt Camp, Moe B. warns that "Ground can be soft, but luckily it had been dry for a few days, but you could get stuck in some spots." Higher clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing remote sites after rain.
Limited services: Most dispersed sites lack drinking water. Jamie W. notes that at Cobb Hunt Camp, "During hunting season, there are portable toilets, but no water." Campers should bring all necessary supplies as resupply options are limited near camping areas.
Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges from good to nonexistent depending on location. At West Tower Hunt Camp, J A. reports "no Verizon service," while at 17 Mile Hunt Camp, Moe B. found "Minimal, if any, cell service, so you will be disconnected pretty much."
Hunting season impacts: Sites become busier during hunting seasons, particularly in fall and winter. Michael W. noted that East Tower Hunt Camp gets "Jam packed with hunters" during season, making advance planning important during these periods.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, Osceola National Forest Ocean Pond Campground offers a designated swimming area. According to Tisch B., the campground is "Beautiful sunrise and sunsets and the full moon was amazing" making it ideal for family stargazing.
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer recreational amenities beyond just camping. At Island Oaks RV Resort, Jeremy R. shares: "We never had to leave the park, they had EVERYTHING... Heated resort pool with tiki pool bar & music, beach front lake with a massive inflatable obstacle course."
Wildlife education opportunities: The abundant wildlife provides learning experiences for children. Stuart K. notes that at Ocean Pond, "Wildlife is abundant: expect herons, egrets, turtles, occasional alligators, birds in the wetlands and forest edge."
Site selection for families: Choose sites close to facilities if camping with children. Mason B. simply stated his experience camping with kids at Ocean Pond Campground: "Took the kids camping for the second time and loved it."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: At several campgrounds, hookup locations can be problematic. At Island Oaks RV Resort, Victor D. advises: "Now I have 30 amp extension and a longer 50 amp power cord. Yes it is a dry county on Sunday but that's only one day."
Site selection for larger rigs: Certain areas accommodate bigger vehicles better than others. Christopher B. notes that at Ocean Pond Campground, "all the paved sites are nice" for RVs, while primitive sites might be wet after heavy rains.
Dump station access: Full-hookup options are limited, so planning for waste disposal is important. Kristen S. warns about Island Oaks: "The sewer connection is not sink and does not drain properly" suggesting campers bring extra connectors.
Level site considerations: At 17 Mile Hunt Camp, Will J. found "we didn't even need to level the camper - it was naturally flat," though this varies significantly by specific site within each camping area.
