Best Dispersed Camping near Winter Haven, FL

Winter Haven is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Winter Haven campgrounds just for you. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Winter Haven, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Winter Haven, Florida (2)

    1. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    3 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (352) 796-7211

    "Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!"

    "Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town."

    2. Peace River Banks Backcountry

    1 Review
    Arcadia, FL
    46 miles

    "Excellent backcountry camping between Zolpho Springs and Gardner. More camping down to Arcadia."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Winter Haven, FL

2 Photos of 2 Winter Haven Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Winter Haven, FL

5 Reviews of 2 Winter Haven Campgrounds


  • SukiDookie ..The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Very quiet and peaceful

    We were the only ones there for the weekend, probably because of the summer heat. However, it was nice and free. There is a porta-potty, but I didn’t check it out, so I’m not sure about the cleanliness. The grounds were nicely maintained, though. I do wish the fire rings weren’t so damaged, and the lack of trash cans was surprising. Just take your trash with you, leave no trace, and it was an enjoyable and free experience!

  • B
    Feb. 8, 2024

    bull creek WMA

    Hunt camp

    This is camp for hunters it's free and has pit toilets open area park anywhere in the camp. Lots of land to explore, hiking very close to Florida scenic trail.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 11, 2024

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Primitive, easy pull through sites

    Large open area with great shade trees, no water, privy. Easy pull through for RV. Tent spots. Fire rings. Harley-Davidson approved . Golden Coral buffet in town.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 12, 2021

    Peace River Banks Backcountry

    Old Florida Wilderness Camping

    The Peace River runs north to south. Excellent backcountry camping between Zolpho Springs and Gardner. More camping down to Arcadia. Canoeing and kayaking are preferred mode of transportation but I’ve seen others use Jon boats and airboats. Camping permitted on West Bank. No designated sites.

  • Nina O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 15, 2025

    Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    Nice and quite

    Didn‘t find the Main Camping area. Parked in one of the side roads. Didn’t run into anyone eventhough permit page indicated Booked out.


Guide to Winter Haven

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Winter Haven, Florida, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Dispersed campers should check out Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

Peaceful paddling at Peace River Banks Backcountry

  • For those who enjoy water activities, Peace River Banks Backcountry is perfect for canoeing and kayaking, allowing you to explore the serene waters while camping along the banks.

Outdoor adventures at Bull Creek WMA

  • Bull Creek WMA is a great spot for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, offering vast land for exploration and proximity to the Florida Scenic Trail for hiking. Discover more at Bull Creek WMA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are camping equipment rentals available near Winter Haven dispersed camping?

Equipment rental services specifically at Winter Haven dispersed camping areas are not indicated in user reviews. The dispersed nature of these sites typically means you need to bring your own camping gear. Peace River Banks Backcountry is accessible primarily by canoe or kayak, which might be rentable from outfitters in nearby towns like Zolpho Springs, Gardner, or Arcadia. For most dispersed camping in the area, it's advisable to come fully equipped or check with outdoor retailers in Winter Haven for rental options before your trip.

What camping amenities are available at Winter Haven dispersed sites?

Amenities at Winter Haven dispersed sites are minimal, as is typical for dispersed camping. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area provides basic amenities including porta-potties, fire rings (though some may be damaged), and shaded areas with pull-through access suitable for RVs and tent camping. At Bull Creek WMA, you'll find pit toilets and open camping areas. Neither location offers water hookups or electrical connections. These sites maintain the primitive camping experience, so campers should be prepared to bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water and sanitation equipment.

Is there free dispersed camping near Winter Haven?

Yes, there are free dispersed camping options near Winter Haven. Bull Creek WMA offers free camping primarily designed for hunters, with open areas where you can park anywhere within the designated camping zone. The area provides access to extensive land for exploration and is located near the Florida Scenic Trail. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area is another free option, offering a spacious camping area. While permits may be required, campers have noted being able to find spots even when the permit page showed as booked.