Best Dispersed Camping near Waldo, FL

The rural outskirts of Waldo, Florida feature primarily dispersed camping options within the surrounding national forest lands. Several hunt camps serve as the main camping destinations within an hour's drive, including Cobb Hunt Camp, 17 Mile Hunt Camp, and West Tower Hunt Camp. These primitive sites typically offer minimal amenities but provide spacious, natural settings for tent camping and smaller RVs. Davenport Landing, located near Salt Springs, offers access to the Ocklawaha River with opportunities for fishing and paddling. Most sites are situated on flat terrain with sandy soil characteristic of north-central Florida, providing both open areas and shaded spots under magnolia, sweetgum, and pine trees.

Road conditions vary significantly when accessing these dispersed camping areas, with many requiring travel on unpaved forest roads that can become challenging after rain. As one camper noted about 17 Mile Hunt Camp, "Sites are spread out and the road is rough getting in. No water or electric. Porta potty on site." Most locations have a 14-day stay limit and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Basic amenities like portable toilets and trash receptacles are typically available during hunting season but may be absent at other times. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with Verizon coverage described as "spotty" at West Tower Hunt Camp and "minimal, if any" at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.

Wildlife encounters are common at these forest campsites, with campers reporting sightings of deer, wild turkeys, and occasionally black bears. Visitors to Davenport Landing should be aware of alligators in the nearby river. The camping experience varies significantly between locations, with West Tower Hunt Camp receiving praise for its cleanliness and spacious sites: "Most spots were very well spaced out. Porta potties and trash bins. Camp host was nice... it was a great place and had a nice feeling of seclusion without being too far from civilization." Seasonal considerations include increased occupancy during hunting seasons and potentially muddy conditions after rainfall. Campers consistently mention the peace and quiet as major draws, though some sites like Davenport Landing have received mixed reviews regarding long-term occupants.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Waldo, Florida (5)

    1. Cobb Hunt Camp

    8 Reviews
    Olustee, FL
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 752-2577

    "Trash and porta potty’s provided by National Forest."

    "Free no water or electricity, porta-potties . Most campers stay to themselves and there's room for privacy"

    2. Davenport Landing

    7 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 236-0288

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

    "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."

    3. 17 Mile Hunt Camp

    7 Reviews
    Osceola National Forest, FL
    39 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 752-2577

    "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."

    "This was our first time boondocking and it was the perfect site to try it out. We have a 26’ travel trailer and we did a few loops looking for a good site."

    4. West Tower Hunt Camp

    5 Reviews
    Osceola National Forest, FL
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (386) 752-2577

    "Camp host was nice and they have a 14 day stay limit. Verizon service was pretty spotty. Having a host with no charge threw me for a bit of a loop."

    "Lots of dispersed camping spots throughout, some right out in the open, and others are private. Campsites are scattered with nicely cleared areas within bush palms."

    5. Sandhill Hunt Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Osceola National Forest, FL
    45 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Waldo, FL

6 Photos of 5 Waldo Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Waldo, FL

27 Reviews of 5 Waldo Campgrounds



Guide to Waldo

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Waldo, Florida, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy a more rustic and secluded outdoor experience. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Cobb Hunt Camp

  • Located in the serene Osceola National Forest, Cobb Hunt Camp offers a peaceful environment with no amenities, making it ideal for those seeking a true back-to-nature experience.
  • Campers have reported good cell service with Verizon and T-Mobile, allowing for some connectivity while enjoying the great outdoors.
  • Although the official campground is currently closed, many have found success camping just beyond the entrance, enjoying the quiet and privacy of the area.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Waldo, Florida

  • When visiting 17 Mile Hunt Camp, be prepared for minimal amenities, including no water or electric hookups, but enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
  • The access road to West Tower Hunt Camp can be rough, so it's advisable to check the conditions before heading in, especially if you're driving a larger vehicle.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife while camping at Sandhill Hunt Camp, as the area is known for its natural beauty and diverse fauna.

Unique experiences for dispersed campers at Davenport Landing

  • While Davenport Landing may not be the most pristine option, it offers a unique opportunity to experience a more rugged side of camping, with some long-term residents adding character to the area.
  • Campers have noted the presence of a burning pit, which can be a downside, but it also highlights the raw, unfiltered nature of this camping spot.
  • Despite its challenges, Davenport Landing provides access to water, making it a convenient choice for those looking to cool off or enjoy some fishing nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Waldo, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Waldo, FL is Cobb Hunt Camp with a 4.1-star rating from 8 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Waldo, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.