Primitive camping near Tavares, Florida centers primarily within Ocala National Forest, where sandy terrain creates specific vehicle access challenges. Most sites require 4WD vehicles with high clearance, particularly during Florida's wet season when water crossings can exceed 12 inches deep. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons for most visitors.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Davenport Landing, anglers report productive catches along the emerald-green waters of the Ocklawaha River. Local fishermen confirmed "the fishing was great" at this primitive site, which requires navigating "a winding gravel road west of Route 19" with "divots and potholes along this narrow gravel, dusty roadway."
Hiking exploration: The 1.2-mile Davenport Landing Trail takes visitors to a former steamboat landing and Civil War-era gravesite. As one visitor noted, "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."
Stargazing: The tree canopy at Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers excellent stargazing from a large open area with shade trees. One camper described it as "very quiet and peaceful" and mentioned they "were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat."
Paddling access: For kayak and paddleboard enthusiasts, several primitive sites offer direct water entry points. At Davenport Landing, the access requires carrying watercraft down "somewhat steep" steps to the river basin, but rewards paddlers with "emerald-green waters shouldered with an abundance of spade-shaped lily pads."
What campers like
Seclusion factor: Freak Creek Dispersed Camping provides genuine isolation for those with proper vehicles. A reviewer mentioned it's "super secluded and quiet" though noted "depending when you stay there's at times people who show up to party and then leave." This site also offers kayak launch access.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple sites report diverse wildlife encounters. At Davenport Landing, campers should "be on the look-out for 'Coyo-Dogs' (a cross between canine species where a dog mates with a coyote) and black bear." Another reviewer confirmed: "I did spot a bear on my way in and scat along the road."
Easy access sites: Some areas offer simpler entry for those without specialized vehicles. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area features "large open area with great shade trees" and "easy pull through for RV" with tent spots and fire rings, making it more accessible than deeper forest locations.
Tree canopy: The forest coverage at several sites provides natural cooling from Florida heat. One camper at Davenport Landing noted the "dozen or so medium-sized Magnolias that blot out the sun's rays" while at Upper Hillsborough, visitors enjoyed sites that were "nicely maintained" despite summer heat.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access roads require appropriate vehicles at most primitive sites. At Trout Lake Primitive Sites, reviewers warn of "very narrow trails" where "you will leave with some new pinstripes" and note the "trail to the lake is so narrow I wasn't sure I was driving my Chevy Malibu through the forest because it was so overgrown."
Safety considerations: Several sites report safety concerns. One Lake Dorr visitor warned they "left because it felt unsafe" after a local "warned of violence, robbery, and killings in this area of the national forest." Even their "tow truck driver carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is."
Road conditions: Most access roads feature challenging terrain. At Blue Sink, "the Forestry Service recently chopped down trees and covered the easy access roads" requiring "ATV or creative backpacking to get there now" despite being "most beautiful place to stumble upon."
Seasonal timing: Summer brings increased humidity, insects and lower visitor numbers. Upper Hillsborough campers noted being "the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat" while spring and fall visits report more comfortable conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Choose beginner-friendly sites: Not all primitive sites suit family camping. One reviewer specifically cautioned against Davenport Landing for newcomers: "I wouldn't recommend this spot to beginners or inexperienced outdoor enthusiasts. There is a campground nearby that charges 10 bucks a night that I would recommend for families or beginners."
Prepare for limited facilities: Families need full self-sufficiency. At Upper Hillsborough, "there is a porta-potty, but I didn't check it out" and "the lack of trash cans was surprising." Campers advise: "Just take your trash with you, leave no trace."
Bring water purification: No potable water exists at any primitive site near Tavares. Trout Lake visitors reported having "no cellphone service" and feeling isolated, recommending families "plan on returning after antenna upgrade" if communication is needed.
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Only small RVs can access most primitive sites. Davenport Landing reports the "last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV" while another noted it's "Harley-Davidson approved" with "easy pull through for RV."
Ground conditions: Sand and mud create specific challenges for RVs. At Trout Lake, campers "started panicking and trying to find a turn around after going through a very soft sandy spot" and feared they'd "never be able to get out or reverse."
Town amenities: When supplies run low, limited options exist near primitive sites. One Upper Hillsborough camper noted "Golden Coral buffet in town" as one of few dining options when restocking supplies.
