Primitive camping near Suwannee, Florida provides several options within the Osceola National Forest, where elevations remain consistently low at around 100-150 feet above sea level. The forest floor consists primarily of sandy soil with areas of cypress and palmetto throughout the camping zones. These free dispersed camping areas see significantly less usage during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity levels.
What to do
Trail exploration: The Florida Trail runs through sections of the Osceola National Forest near the hunt camps, offering day hiking opportunities. "We hiked in a few miles on the Florida Trail, so we had all our water supplies on our person. There's a little pond there that we were purifying water out of with no issue," notes a visitor to Cobb Hunt Camp.
Wildlife viewing: The hunt camp areas provide opportunities to observe native Florida wildlife when activity is minimal. "We did have to be extra careful with our little dog though because we did get the sense that something could try to eat it since the sites are in the middle of the woods," reports a camper who stayed at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Disconnected relaxation: Limited connectivity creates a genuine wilderness experience. "Nice place to unwind, I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer... not much cell service, no tv stations, I brought movies, really enjoyed myself," shares a camper about their experience at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed camping locations in the area offer good separation between camping spots. "Loved this spot. It had tons of space with space between camp spots. Quiet. Lots of locals during the day but settles down at night," notes a camper about primitive camping near Suwannee at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Book exchange: Some hunt camps offer unexpected amenities for backcountry sites. "Nice spots with a bathroom book exchange and power at the bathroom if you need it," reports a visitor to West Tower Hunt Camp, highlighting an unusual feature for dispersed camping.
Natural water features: Several camping areas include small ponds or water features. "We got an amazing spot with a view of the pond," shares a camper who stayed at 17 Mile Hunt Camp, while another notes, "Nearby clean pond too," demonstrating the natural water features available at some sites.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads can become problematic, particularly after rainfall. "The roads are a little rough, yet passable, it was a little wet because of a rain a day earlier," notes one camper about 17 Mile Hunt Camp. Another advises, "Sites are spread out and the road is rough getting in."
Campground closures: Some designated hunt camp areas experience temporary or extended 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," reports a visitor to Cobb Hunt Camp.
Noise considerations: Despite remote locations, some noise should be expected. "It's a hunt camp. But it wasn't hunting season necessarily. Heard many shots during the late afternoon when we got there, around 4p. Off and on until it got dark at 6:30p," explains a camper about 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Tent placement: Look for naturally level ground when setting up. "We ended up loving the site we picked. We were able to pull through instead of backing in, 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," shares a family who camped at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Safety precautions: Bring appropriate safety equipment for wilderness camping. "We did generally feel safe though and just made sure to take bear spray when we went out into the woods," advises a family camper at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Simple activities: Children may enjoy basic outdoor activities despite limited amenities. "My first night here was fantastic. I can stay up to two weeks here. It's December and there was only two other people camping here my site. I couldn't even see anybody," notes a camper at West Tower Hunt Camp, highlighting the seclusion that allows for unstructured play.
Tips from RVers
Ground stability: Check soil conditions before parking larger vehicles. "Nice primitive campground with well maintained dispersed spots. No picnic tables or fire rings but plenty of space. Nice and quiet. Lots of space for RVs as well. Just make sure to check the ground before you park. Very muddy, could get stuck," warns an RVer who stayed at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Amenities planning: Prepare for self-sufficient camping without hookups. "No water or electric. Porta potty on site. No Verizon cell service," notes an RVer about 17 Mile Hunt Camp, emphasizing the need to bring sufficient supplies.
Site selection: Take time to find an appropriate spot for your rig size. "We have a 26' travel trailer and we did a few loops looking for a good site. It was pretty easy to see where the areas for camping are but it's not as clear as a paid RV park," shares an RV camper about their experience finding suitable dispersed camping near Suwannee at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
