Best Dispersed Camping near Wimauma, FL
Dispersed camping near Wimauma, Florida primarily includes island-based primitive sites accessible only by water. Shell Key Preserve allows primitive camping on its uninhabited barrier island in designated areas with required free permits. This preserve features white sand beaches and natural surroundings but has strict leave-no-trace requirements. Other water-access only options include Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground, where campers can set up tents after arriving by private boat or kayak. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area permits free primitive camping with drive-in access, while Peace River Banks provides opportunities for boat-in camping along natural riverbanks.
Water transportation is essential for most dispersed camping in this region. Shell Key and Anclote Key preserves require kayaks, canoes, or motorboats to reach camping areas, with paddling distances ranging from one to three miles depending on launch points. Sites lack amenities such as drinking water, showers, or permanent restroom facilities. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area features primitive pull-through sites accessible by vehicle with basic fire rings but minimal other facilities. Campers must pack out all trash at all locations, and portable toilets are required at Shell Key. Camping permits, though free, are mandatory at several sites.
These coastal and inland primitive camping options provide distinctly natural Florida experiences with varying levels of seclusion. Both Shell Key and Anclote Key offer opportunities to camp on essentially private islands once day visitors depart. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with numerous bird species, marine life, and native flora. Campers at Upper Hillsborough note the "large open area with great shade trees" and peaceful environment, while Peace River provides "excellent backcountry camping" in what one visitor described as "Old Florida Wilderness." Shell Key visitors should be prepared for rough sleeping conditions as "there are no specifically cleared sites" and you must be "mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough."
