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Best Tent Camping near Yankeetown, FL

709 Reviews

Tent camping opportunities around Yankeetown, Florida primarily concentrate in the nearby state forests and water management districts, with several primitive options in Withlacoochee State Forest and Goethe State Forest. The Potts Preserve River Primitive Campground offers tent-friendly sites along the Withlacoochee River, while Flying Eagle Preserve provides secluded tent camping approximately 25 miles east of Yankeetown. Most sites require advance reservations through Florida's water management district system, though some primitive areas operate on first-come, first-served basis.

Sites typically feature natural, ungraded terrain with minimal development, often set on sandy soil under oak and pine canopy. Walk-in tent sites predominate at Potts Preserve, where vehicles must be left in designated parking areas before carrying gear to riverside tent pads. Most primitive tent campgrounds provide fire rings and picnic tables, but amenities remain limited. Portable toilets are maintained at Flying Eagle Preserve, while Potts Preserve offers basic restroom facilities. Water access varies significantly between locations, with campers advised to bring sufficient drinking water. Florida's wildlife considerations necessitate proper food storage, particularly during warmer months when insects become problematic.

The primitive tent camping experience near Yankeetown offers genuine seclusion with ready access to water-based activities. Many sites position tent campers directly along the Withlacoochee River with opportunities for paddling, fishing, and wildlife observation. At Flying Eagle Preserve, tent sites provide deeper forest immersion though campers should expect occasional airboat noise from nearby waterways. The dispersed nature of these tent sites creates natural buffer zones between campers. A visitor to Potts Preserve commented, "You can no longer pull your vehicle in next to your campsite, but the river access from the primitive area makes it worthwhile." Another camper at Flying Eagle Preserve noted, "Pretty much the only thing we heard were airboats. We had a wonderful time and ran into very few people."

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Best Tent Sites Near Yankeetown, Florida (22)

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12 Photos of 22 Yankeetown Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Yankeetown, FL

709 Reviews of 22 Yankeetown Campgrounds

  • A
    Aug. 31, 2021

    Hog Island Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    Spacious camp sites!

    We loved the large sites. And pretty private. Wooded areas between sites. Nice clean restrooms and showers. Only 2 showers in the ladies bath house. It's old but clean. But it's sapose to be no pets. And a camper near us had a very large dog in a cage that barked all day. Very annoying. Bad area for ticks. Rangers check sites several times a day and are very nice. Also there is water but no electricity. We will go back. No generator after 10pm.

  • Alex M.
    Jul. 1, 2019

    Mutual Mine Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    Wide open spaces, very quiet!

    We hiked extensively in this tract and used Mutual Mine campground as one of our stop-overs. Very nice, open, flat areas to pitch tents and close to hiking trails. Fire ring at each site, options to hang your hammock. Bathrooms but no showers. Free potable water. You can also pull in a trailer but this is not a full-commercial type campground. More a cross between that and primitive camping…….perfect for backpackers!!

  • Todd M.
    Feb. 10, 2021

    Potts Preserve

    Great place to boondock!

    Great place to boondock! Spent 3 nights here by the pavilion. There are about 5 spots in the “primitive” camping area. Plenty of privacy and a kayak launch area. Spots have fire rings and a couple have picnic tables. Porta potty is clean. The back-country area was recently gated so RVs can no longer camp there. It’s now designated as tent-camping only. It’s a huge open space with entrances to walking trails and beautiful views of the river. The back-country area has an outhouse. It’s easy to get to and very quiet other than other campers and periodic airboats that zoom by.

  • Elliott B.
    Jul. 15, 2017

    Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest

    Old-Florida-style camping at its best.

    Crooked River Campground is located within the Croom Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest (Hernando County), and a short 5-mile drive from I-75. Thankfully the furthest away from the interstate which remains busy 24/7. The complex is on the shore of Silver Lake, which is part of the Withlacoochee River system, this campground is part of the Silver Lake Recreation Complex. The Withlacoochee travels around the different campgrounds here and there is a large day use boat ramp onto the lake away from the campgrounds.

    At Crooked River (The Native American name for the Withlacoochee) it seemed like every site was surrounded by dense undergrowth which really added more privacy. You can see from my campground and another random site I took a photo of that you are really nestled into the underbrush. If you want to get to the water there is a staircase which provides access to the Withlacoochee River for small boats. I took my folding kayak out and the water was very nice and refreshing against the unbearable heat of Florida. I think there was only 1 maybe 2 other campers while I was there and saw more people on mountain bikes going around the roads than anyone else.

    Local Features and Activities

    · Nature trail and boardwalk.

    · Fishing

    · Canoe trail

    · Sorry, no pets allowed

    Facilities

    • These are tent only primitive campsites with the standard uncovered picnic table and fire ring with a grate and/or a grill.
    • Flush restrooms and warm/hot water showers
    • The campground also is available for organized youth groups, but requires a reservation. You can’t do this online (at ReserveAmerica) like the normal sites. For reservations call (352) 797-4140.

    Directions: Take I-75 Exit 301 onto US98/SR50. You'll then turn east (away from Brooksville) and go about 1 mile until you reach the second stoplight at Croom Rital Road. Turn left and proceed north. Follow the signs to the Withlacoochee State Forest Silver Lake Recreation Area and turn right into the complex and follow the signs to the campground.

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 1, 2020

    Shell Mound Campground

    Remote to everyone except the bugs

    In the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge, this is a fairly remote campground away from everything. There are about 28 or so sites, with varying degrees of amenities (three sites are tent only with no hook ups, some sites have electric only, and some both electric and water). Cost depends on amenities: the tent only sites are going to be $10 a night in 2020 (it was only $5 a night for me this December), and sites with electric and water are $15. There was a dump station for RVer's as well. Bathhouse was clean if dated, with a fairly new shower stall. 

    The sites on the inside of the loop are all on a slope and have the playground, office, and bathhouse as the hub. The outside of the loop sites all back up to woods or marsh.  I was in tent site #9, which was right next to the marsh. It rained overnight and I noticed the site could flood if it had rained a lot. But my other option was next to some well established and loud RVer's next to the playground, and on a slope. I chose the flatter site next to the marsh, but I think that wasn't much better as it put me right in with the mosquitos and no see-ums. Bring your industrial strength bug spray!! 

    The campground is next to an arm of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge and so it's close to a few nice trails and a nice boardwalk and fishing pier. If you need ice or firewood or some basic groceries, head back out the way you came in and stop at tiny little Ms Dot's Grocery. She is super nice, has lots of knowledge of the area, and her ice (BIG cubes) is super cheap.

  • Elliott B.
    Apr. 5, 2018

    Cypress Glen Campground

    Wilderness camping, not too far from the Interstate and near some amazing bike trail systems

    Large sites, and well-maintained. Perfectly located just off the exit for Brooksville off of I-75, and right off the Withlacoochee Rails to Trail bike/hiking path and near the Croom Mountain Biking Trails. Friendly camp host and many like-minded cycling neighbors make this is a great spot to stop for the night! Watch out for curious rabbits, armadillos and enthusiastic (loud) screech owls if you are in a tent/bikepacking. All of the spaces are nicely spread out and are mostly shaded (needed here in Florida), there is electrical & water hook-ups and many of the sites have a partial view of Silver Lake. Water & electric at these sites are useful if you’re in an RV. However, if you’re in a tent I’d recommend the option of no electricity at Crooked River Campground just a wee bit farther into the recreation area and much nearer the river. While these are large shaded site with water, electric, and your standard picnic table, and a fire ring. The facilities were rustic and clean but by the end of the day they did need cleaning and the paper towels ran out. Would like it if they had reservations for the camp sites so I can use my credit card instead of bringing cash, though I know they will be switching to that later in the year!

  • Brenda S.
    Jun. 18, 2018

    Hart Springs Park

    Perfect "Spring" Weather

    Ranger Review: Wild Zora Bars and Paleo Meals to Go at Hart Springs, Fl

    Not far from the city of Gainesville sits the town of Bell, Fl home of many small springs. The spring we visited was Hart Springs. Hart Springs was just the right temperature on a hot summer day and a perfect location to enjoy Wild Zora Bars.

    Camp Ground Review:

    The Hart Spring has one of the largest swimming area with year-round 72-degree Fahrenheit water temperatures. The spring has an over bridge and concrete steps that lead down into the springs. Plenty of shade and Pavilions with grills close to the springs, playground, bathrooms and camp store. This park also has a splash pad, volleyball and basketball court. Beautiful ½ a mile-long boardwalk along the springs and the Suwannee River. Rentals of canoes and Kayaks available and cave diving is allowed for certified cave divers. The campground is located about 1 mile away from the spring accessible by a paved walking, bicycle or golf cart trail which is shaded by cypress, oak and pine trees. Campground has 71 sites (one loop), full hookups, and bathhouse with hot shower, washer and dryer. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring (no grill). Our site was #8 this site was deep, shaded and close to the bathrooms. Nice pool with bathrooms and a big pavilion with picnic tables and two grills for cooking at the pool. No alcohol. No pets (except at the RV campground) Reservations thru Reserve America website.

    Product Review:

    As a ranger for The Dyrt, I get to test various products. At Hart Springs I tested two products from Wild Zora: Wild Zora Bars and Wild Zora Paleo Meals to Go.

    What I thought about Wild Zora Bars and Paleo Meals to Go:

    1. Convenience- when spending the day at the springs, pool or on a hike it is nice to have a healthy snack with balanced nutrition without having to compromise on flavor.
    2. Very tender and easy to eat- Having children it is often difficult to find jerky or nutrition bars that are soft enough to chew, these bars are tender and eaten without difficulty. This is also beneficial for my older father who finds it difficult to chew most Jerky.
    3. Good balance of nutrition- it is nice to have a snack for both myself and my children that contains some vegetables. Unfortunately, we do not always get enough.
    4. The Paleo meals are easy to transport, requiring no refrigeration and very simple preparation. When you are ready to eat you simply add water, stir and allow the food to cook. Prep for camping and hiking can be very time consuming. Having meals that are ready to go when you are is not only a time saver but, in some cases, can make the difference between a hot meal and a cold sandwich.
    5. The texture of the Paleo Meals to Go was a bit softer than I would have anticipated, possibly I let it sit to long when preparing, but the flavor was very good, and the meal was filling.

    I would recommend Wild Zora bars to anyone that is looking for a snack for camping, hiking, or just an all-around healthy snack. I would recommend to anyone who likes camping, especially where space is limited, to try the Paleo Meals to go.

  • Mayra R.
    Aug. 23, 2021

    Shell Mound Campground

    Nice place, but a lot of bugs!

    I will try to make a general review much details is possible . Small campground, around 26 spaces.

    1- You can arrive at any time, having a vacant spot, you can set up your campsite and pay when the office opens in the morning around 7:30, no reservations, first come first serve, there it stays open 24hrs without a gate. Check-out at 12:00.

    2- There are three primitive spaces, which daily costs $10 per 2 people (9,19,22) 3- There are options with only electricity $20 (spaces 3-18) or with water and electricity $25 daily, all the other spots I haven't mentioned. 4- No card are accepted there. Cash only. (military's 50% off) 5- Spot 9 (primitive) has sun all day, grass with holes, no trees to provide shade, we stayed in it, very hot and uneven! 6- Pet-friendly Camp 7- Bathrooms with shower, clean. Safe place, "neighbors" were super friendly. 8- If you like fishing, you will find a lot of catfish's there. It has a ramp for the boats (lots of noise throughout the day and night, so bring earplugs to sleep). 9- BUGS! The place is full of bugs and mosquitoes especially in the afternoon, night and dawn, so don't forget to bring your repellent, make a fire to scare away insects, bring firewood, citronella candles or mosquitos coil, fan etc ... 10- Next to the boat ramp, there is a sink with fresh water that everyone can use. And on the left side of the sink, there is a small path that leads to a good fishing spot. (2 minutes walk) 11- The receptionist Gale is very nice!!! 12- No Wi-Fi. T-mobile's network worked well throughout Cedar Key. 13- Nearest gas station and market store is on Cedar Key downtown, 14 minutes by car. (Ice, firewood, drinks, bait) 14- In downtown Cedar Key parking is difficult to get, get there early. Golf cart for rent for $100. It has Kayak for rent and boat charter as well. 15- The small beach of Cedar Key, is extremely nice, has a park in front of it with restrooms, shower, drinking fountain, picnic tables and toys for children's everything public. 16- In the center of Cedar Key there is a great fishing pier that is really cool, many people fish there, in this pier also has public restrooms that stay open until 11pm. 17- Just in case, that there is an Auto Parts store next to the small Market in Cedar Key.

    I hope I helped you all. :)

  • Jessica S.
    Jul. 6, 2018

    Silver Springs State Park Campground

    A real old Florida feel

    We stayed here in the winter and the weather was very pleasant. The sites are all RV friendly with hookups but there are some sites that are designated as tent sites with a softer spot to stake in. Each site also comes with a standard fire ring and picnic table. The sites are large and spacious with shady trees surrounding each site. It is very quiet and peaceful. Note that pets are allowed in the campground area but not in any other areas.

    The bathrooms and showers are close by and are very well kept and clean. It was never crowded. There are also laundry machines and vending machines there as well.

    Near the campsites there are cabins for rent and a small museum. There is also a playground for children. Our favorite feature was that we were able to visit Silver Springs park free of charge if you brought your parking permit from the campsite. There are quite a few hiking trails near and one of them takes you directly to the park. Once in the park, you are able to rent kayaks or take the boat tour. The spring water is so clear you can see all of the fish swimming below!

    Silver Springs is definitely a great place to visit for a relaxing Florida getaway.

Guide to Yankeetown

Tent camping opportunities near Yankeetown, Florida extend into several pristine natural areas within Florida's state forest system. Located along the Gulf coast in Levy County, this region sits at elevations mostly below 25 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop to around 50°F, making November through April the most comfortable camping seasons.

What to do

Paddling the Withlacoochee: Access the river directly from Crooked River Campground, where campers enjoy secluded water exploration. "We shuttled some cars down that way so we could paddle far down and ride back. And have a lunch at the campsite afterwards. Perfect area for this," notes Tracy L.H.

Wildlife observation: The natural areas around Yankeetown support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Flying Eagle Preserve, you'll find "lots and lots of books though make sure you use protection," advises Gail W., referring to the mosquitoes that frequent the area.

Hiking forest trails: Many campgrounds connect to extensive trail systems. Colonel Robins Group Area offers "great hiking nearby at Perry Oldenburg, Big Pine and Chinsegut Conservation Center," according to Jeanene A.

Fishing opportunities: Local waterways offer productive fishing grounds. "We loved exploring the trail and then letting the kids play in the water while we tried to catch some bass," shares Danae N. from Crooked River Campground.

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Most primitive campsites offer natural buffers. "The spacious, private campsites were a plus. It truly felt like we were camping alone in the forest," notes Danae N. at Crooked River Campground.

River access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. "The large open pasture/meadow is no longer a vehicle area. There is a designated area to leave vehicles, and the sites on the river are walk in only," reports Charles V. about changes at Potts Preserve.

Natural forest immersion: Many tent sites are tucked into dense forest settings. "I love this place! Even though you can't bring your dogs here. There are a few group campsites here and some side by side, but most of the sites are secluded with dense forest in between each site," explains Kim S. regarding Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground.

Low cost camping: Several areas offer affordable or free camping options. "You make a free reservation and receive the gate code to get in," explains Gail W. about Flying Eagle Preserve.

What you should know

Reservation systems vary: Different managing agencies handle bookings. "Reservations must be made in advance with Division of Florida Forestry," notes Jeanene A. for Colonel Robins, while water management district sites like Flying Eagle require gate codes.

Bug protection essential: Insects are prevalent, especially during warmer months. "Mosquitoes but that is Florida camping bring bug spray and keep the fire going helps," advises Tianay F. from Crooked River.

Vehicle limitations: Many sites restrict where vehicles can park. "Very pretty nice but you can not drive up to the sites must walk an 8th of a mile to site," cautions J.A. about Flying Eagle Preserve.

Airboat noise: Waterways near camps often experience boat traffic. "Pretty much the only thing we heard were airboats," mentions Gail W., while Anthony E. notes at Potts Preserve that "Airboats are very noisy!"

Tips for camping with families

Riverside exploration for kids: Water access provides natural entertainment. "The kids really loved cooling off in the river and catching frogs, they all agree that this was there favorite part," shares Danae N. about Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground.

Site selection for space: Some campgrounds offer larger sites for family activities. "We had site 74 and really enjoyed it. It was huge and secluded! Our kids were able to run around and be noisy and we weren't worried about annoying our neighbors," reports Danae N.

Weather preparation: Sudden storms can cause flooding. "My only 'complaints' are that it flooded very quickly during the few thunderstorms we experienced," warns Danae N., highlighting the importance of proper tent placement.

Identify hazard plants: Natural areas contain native flora that can cause reactions. "There was some poison ivy in an easy to run into area. Worth noting," cautions Danae N. at Crooked River.

Tips from RVers

Portable gear transport: Since many sites require walking in, consider equipment to move gear. "You can't drive up to the river view campsites. So cart would be useful for that reason," suggests Rusty R. at Potts Preserve - River Primitive Campground.

GPS navigation challenges: Standard mapping apps may not correctly guide to some preserves. "Waze, google, and Apple Maps are all wrong," reports Patrick S. about Flying Eagle Preserve, suggesting specific alternate directions.

Limited amenities: Most primitive areas lack typical RV hookups. "Tent camping only, with a picnic table, fire ring and water faucet," notes Kim S., describing the basic facilities available at most sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Yankeetown, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Yankeetown, FL is Crooked River Campground — Withlacoochee State Forest with a 4.5-star rating from 38 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Yankeetown, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 22 tent camping locations near Yankeetown, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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