Top Free Dispersed Camping near Tavares, FL

Looking for the best Tavares dispersed camping? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Tavares just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Tavares, FL (9)

    Camper-submitted photo from Blue Sink

    1. Blue Sink

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    35 Saves

    Area may be unavailable. Please check with the local USFS Ranger station to check on status.

    Many people enjoy this solitude and primitive experience, but knowing your limits, skills and abilities is a must. Following certain rules and regulations will help make your experience safer and ensure settings remain unspoiled. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/florida/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=70792&actid=34

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    • No image available
      • No image available
        • No image available

          4. St. Johns River Dispersed Spot - Ocala NF

          1 Review
          139 Saves

          Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of dispersed camping - camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers with few services or facilities. Additional skills are necessary for a successful trip. It is your responsibility to know your limits and abilities before you try this experience. Certain rules and regulations will make your experience safe and ensure settings remain scenic and unspoiled. Leave No Trace. Be Bear Aware. Minimize Waste. Pack it in, pack it out. Dispose of all garbage in proper receptacles. Bury all human and pet waste at least 6 inches deep and at least 100 feet away from any water source. Camp Considerately. Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas or less than 100 feet from streams and other water sources. Pick a previously used site. Plants, soil and wildlife are impacted by new campsites. Make your campsite less visible, so other visitors can experience a “wild” setting. Avoid camping in the middle of a clearing or meadow. Be aware of forest boundaries. Get permission before camping on private property. Control your Campfire. Do not camp in an area with campfire restrictions listed under Alerts & Notices and Forest Supervisor's Orders. Use existing fire rings, fire pans or mound fires to minimize scarring rocks, soil and plants. Gather and use down and dead firewood. Do not cut standing trees or limbs off standing trees. Burn all wood and coals down to ashes. Make sure campfires are dead out and cold to the touch before leaving. Douse them with water and stir with a shovel. Know the Rules. Generally, there is a 14-day per month stay limit on the National Forests in Florida. Establishing residency is against federal regulation. Groups of over 75 people must obtain a special use permit from the nearest national forest office. Pets are welcome in most areas but must be kept on a leash. Camping is allowed only in designated campsites during general gun season, as defined in Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission regulations for the Wildlife Management Areas.

          • Pets
          • Fires
          • Phone Service
          • Tents
          • Dispersed
          • Alcohol
          • No image available
            • No image available
              • No image available
                Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Landing

                8. Davenport Landing

                5 Reviews
                1 Photo
                52 Saves

                Many people enjoy this solitude and primitive experience, but knowing your limits, skills and abilities is a must. Following certain rules and regulations will help make your experience safer and ensure settings remain unspoiled. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/florida/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=70792&actid;=34

                • Pets
                • Fires
                • Phone Service
                • Tents
                • Group
                • Dispersed
                Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
                Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
                Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
                Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
                Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area
                Camper-submitted photo from Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

                9. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

                1 Review
                11 Photos
                30 Saves

                Primitive and backcountry camping available. No amenities available.

                • Pets
                • Fires
                • Reservable
                • Dispersed
                • Picnic Table
                • WiFi

              Recent Dispersed Reviews In Tavares

              10 Reviews of 9 Tavares Campgrounds


              • EThe Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Trout Lake Primitive Sites
                Jan. 26, 2024

                Trout Lake Primitive Sites

                Nice secluded sites

                Set of primitive spots near lake. Main road entry is packed dirt; smaller access road to sites is two-track about 1/4 mile through woods — very narrow tree clearance. 4WD recommended. Just barely scraped a FWD Promaster through the trees, into a pullout just before sand started. Poor cell service even with booster. Plan on returning after antenna upgrade. Not the cleanest but passable.

              • MThe Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Lake Dorr
                Nov. 13, 2023

                Lake Dorr

                Area Unsafe and Had to Leave. Please avoid.

                Attempted to stay at this campground but left because it felt unsafe. Spoke to a local that warned of violence, robbery, and killings in this area of the national forest.

                Got stuck in sand on the way out and had to wait for a tow truck. Tow truck driver carried a gun because of how unsafe the area is and warned us not to stay.

                Please avoid the Ocala NF!

                If you do decide to come to this campground, avoid north part of Ron Paul Drive. You’ll either get stuck in sand or have issues to low/tight trees. Drive further south of the other side of Ron Paul Drive.

              • J
                Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Landing
                Sep. 4, 2023

                Davenport Landing

                Sketchy

                There are some permanent party there seemed like 2 dudes in a truck with a big tent mad sketchy looking I wouldn’t recommend straight out of a horror movie

              • Destiny R.
                Camper-submitted photo from Blue Sink
                May. 4, 2022

                Blue Sink

                Blue Sink

                Most beautiful place to stumble upon. You may need ATV or creative backpacking to get there now. The Forestry Service recently chopped down trees and covered the easy access roads.

              • Sam S.
                Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Landing
                Jan. 14, 2022

                Davenport Landing

                Yes, this is a place to sleep if you need it

                I would not come back here again. 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. For example, at our site there was a literal burning pit of garbage that we had to set up next to. We had to douse the fire just to not feel nauseous. Suffice to say, we left very early the next morning and never looked back.

              • D
                Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Landing
                Jan. 1, 2022

                Davenport Landing

                Nice….but.

                Really nice area unfortunately there’s a homeless commune.  we set up camp earlier in the day when there was only a few people hanging out wasn’t until a few hours later when I realized that they were living there. Then the rest of them showed up. It got super rowdy. Not to mention the whole area smells like burning plastic.

              • DThe Dyrt PRO User
                Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Landing
                Feb. 4, 2021

                Davenport Landing

                Quiet spot

                Pulled in around 9:30 pm. Big open spot. Last 100 yards driving back in were very bumpy but no problem with our van. Not sure about a larger RV. But great Tent/van spot.

              • Frank E.
                Camper-submitted photo from Davenport Landing
                Aug. 28, 2019

                Davenport Landing

                Generally quiet primitive camping with water access

                Pprimitive, no reservations, gets some traffic visiting historic site.



              Guide to Tavares

              Camping near Tavares, Florida, offers a mix of natural beauty and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

              What to do:

              • Kayaking and Canoeing: Many campers enjoy paddling in the nearby springs. At Silver Springs State Park Campground, one visitor said, "We had our own kayaks so we put in at the head springs and paddled down to the campground." The river is beautiful and perfect for a leisurely float.
              • Hiking: Trails abound in the area. A reviewer at Lake Louisa State Park Campground mentioned, "There are lots of paved roads outside the campsite loops for biking," making it easy to explore the surroundings.
              • Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot various wildlife. One visitor at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground shared, "We saw so many deer I lost count," highlighting the area's rich biodiversity.

              What campers like:

              • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A guest at Hillsborough River State Park Campground noted, "Restrooms and showers were very clean," which adds to the overall camping experience.
              • Privacy Between Sites: Many campgrounds offer a sense of seclusion. A reviewer at Tomoka State Park Campground mentioned, "The campsites seem very private due to vegetation and trees," making it a great choice for those seeking a quiet getaway.
              • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of the staff. At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, one visitor said, "The rangers were amazing and patrolled the campground on a regular basis," ensuring a safe environment.

              What you should know:

              • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Blue Spring State Park Campground advised, "If you find yourself out-of-luck in finding an available campground site to reserve, try your luck at booking one of the cabins."
              • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack certain amenities. A visitor at Salt Springs Recreation Area pointed out, "No public phone for emergency calls," so it's wise to plan accordingly.
              • Noise Levels: Depending on the time of year, some campgrounds can get noisy. A reviewer at Juniper Springs Recreation Area mentioned, "Expect to hear lots of partying," which might not be ideal for everyone.

              Tips for camping with families:

              • Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly amenities. At Lake Louisa State Park Campground, one camper said, "There’s a playground and a small beach to put your feet into water," making it a great spot for kids.
              • Plan for Nature: Bring along nature-friendly activities. A visitor at Wekiwa Springs State Park Campground noted, "The trails are absolutely gorgeous," perfect for family hikes.
              • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone happy with snacks on hand. A camper at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground mentioned, "Pools, restaurants, shops, and fun activities going on all the time," so there's no shortage of options.

              Tips from RVers:

              • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Hillsborough River State Park Campground said, "Maneuvering a larger rig might take some time backing into sites," so be prepared.
              • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. A visitor at Lake Louisa State Park Campground appreciated, "The bathrooms are very clean and upgraded!" which is a plus for RVers.
              • Plan for Dump Stations: Know where the dump stations are located. A camper at Silver Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "There is a dump station," making it easier to manage waste during your stay.

              Camping near Tavares, Florida, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

              Frequently Asked Questions

              • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Tavares, FL?

                According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Tavares, FL is Blue Sink with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

              • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Tavares, FL?

                TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Tavares, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.