Best Dispersed Camping near Winter Haven, FL
Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area offers primitive camping opportunities about an hour northwest of Winter Haven. The area features large open spaces with shade trees and pull-through sites suitable for RVs and tents. Fire rings are provided, but the area lacks drinking water, toilets, and trash facilities. A porta-potty is available, though its condition varies. "The grounds were nicely maintained," according to one visitor on The Dyrt, who also noted "the fire rings weren't so great" and advised campers to "take your trash with you, leave no trace."
Peace River Banks Backcountry provides a more remote dispersed camping experience accessible only by boat. Camping is permitted along the west bank between Zolfo Springs and Gardner, continuing south to Arcadia. This waterway accommodates canoes, kayaks, Jon boats, and airboats. No designated sites exist in this undeveloped wilderness setting. As one camper described it, this area offers "Old Florida Wilderness Camping" with no facilities or amenities of any kind. Both camping areas are free and allow pets, though alcohol is prohibited.
