Dispersed camping locations in Osceola National Forest offer free camping near Starke, Florida. The forest's flat terrain becomes particularly muddy after rain, sometimes requiring high-clearance vehicles. Most hunt camps provide primitive camping with seasonal amenities depending on hunting schedules. Cell service varies dramatically between locations, with some areas completely disconnected from coverage.
What to do
Fishing access: At Davenport Landing, campers can access the Ocklawaha River for fishing. Local anglers report excellent catches, with one visitor noting, "If you are looking to catch and eat your meals, then this will certainly be an added bonus."
Historical exploration: Discover Civil War history on the 1.2-mile Davenport Landing Trail leading to a former steamboat landing. "If you have an explorer's mindset, you'll be richly rewarded here as there is a small gravesite from the Civil War that you can find along with middens along the Ocklawaha River hiding traces of the Timucuan Indians," reports one camper.
Wildlife observation: The forest areas contain diverse wildlife including black bears and alligators. A visitor at 17 Mile Hunt Camp warns, "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."
What campers like
Book exchange: West Tower Hunt Camp features an unexpected amenity. "Available is a bathroom and an outdoor cold shower. There is a book exchange in the bathroom," shares one reviewer who appreciated this unique feature.
Privacy between sites: Many hunt camps offer well-separated camping areas. At 17 Mile Hunt Camp, a camper noted, "We ended up loving the site we picked. It was really peaceful. There were only a few other people there and we hardly ever saw them."
Stable grounds during dry periods: While mud can be problematic after rain, campers report the terrain is quite manageable during dry spells. "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," reports a reviewer about their experience.
What you should know
Campground closures: Cobb Hunt Camp has experienced intermittent closures. "We arrived late and saw the campground was taped off and a sign read closed indefinitely. However, we drove just past the campground and found many others camped on the side of the road," explains one visitor who found alternatives nearby.
Limited or no connectivity: Cell service can be completely absent in some areas. A camper at 17 Mile Hunt Camp states, "Minimal, if any, cell service, so you will be disconnected pretty much."
Potential neighbors: At some locations, long-term campers may impact the experience. At Davenport Landing, a visitor observed, "There were obviously some long term residents that had set up shack here, and while they did not make the campground feel unsafe, they were trashing up the place."
Tips for camping with families
Location selection: Choose West Tower Hunt Camp for basic amenities. "Nice spots with a bathroom book exchange and power at the bathroom if you need it," notes one camper, making this location more suitable for families needing facilities.
Wildlife precautions: Teach children about wildlife safety protocols. According to forest campers, "You definitely want to keep your eyes peeled for alligators in this area" and be cautious about "Coyo-Dogs (a cross between canine species where a dog mates with a coyote) and black bear, both of which have been known to frequent this area."
Evening activities: With limited connectivity, prepare offline entertainment. One camper at Sandhill Hunt Camp suggests bringing board games, cards, and star charts for nighttime activities since electronic distractions won't be available.
Tips from RVers
Ground assessment: Check site conditions before driving in fully. "Just make sure to check the ground before you park. Very muddy, could get stuck," warns one RVer at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Daytime arrival: Plan to arrive during daylight for site selection. An RVer at Sandhill Hunt Camp suggests, "Big open spot. Last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV."
Self-sufficiency preparations: Come prepared with all necessities. "I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer," explains a visitor who enjoyed the experience by being fully self-contained.
