Best Dispersed Camping near Lutz, FL
Dispersed camping near Lutz, Florida centers around several primitive sites that require water access or specific permits. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides free primitive camping with pull-through sites suitable for tents and RVs. The area features fire rings and shaded sites with no water or permanent restroom facilities. Two additional dispersed camping options require boat access: Anclote Key Preserve State Park and Shell Key Preserve, both offering true island primitive camping experiences.
Access to Upper Hillsborough requires navigation to designated camping areas, which some visitors report can be difficult to locate. The campground is accessible via drive-in or walk-in routes. Anclote Key and Shell Key Preserves are accessible only by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, requiring visitors to transport all necessary supplies across water. A recent review noted, "We kayaked out from Anclote river park and stayed two nights on the island. There are no amenities so we packed everything we would need in the kayak." Both preserves implement strict pack-in, pack-out policies with no permanent facilities.
These primitive sites provide isolation and natural experiences uncommon in developed Florida campgrounds. Upper Hillsborough offers quiet camping with maintained grounds though fire rings may be damaged. Reviews indicate the area is often uncrowded, with one camper stating "We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat." The island preserves offer more remote experiences with wildlife viewing opportunities and pristine beaches. Both Anclote Key and Shell Key feature clear water, abundant shorebirds, and largely undisturbed natural environments. Most day visitors leave the islands by evening, creating truly secluded overnight experiences. Shell Key Preserve requires a free camping permit and has regulations regarding campfires during sea turtle nesting season.
