Best Dispersed Camping in Florida

Despite being home to some of the most popular beaches in America, Florida has more freshwater springs than anywhere else in the world. While tourists flood the coastlines, you can head inland to one of Central Florida’s dozen spring systems to find a beautiful, serene spot that is perfect for camping in Florida.

One of the largest, clearest spots is Ginnie Springs, located 35 miles northwest of Gainesville. The year-round 72-degree water is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, scuba, and cave diving. The seven-spring system is a magnet for divers who love the underwater cave system, while the gentle current of the Santa Fe River attracts day tubers and kayakers. Pack a snorkel when you go camping in Florida to be rewarded with glimpses of bass, mullet, catfish, turtles, and other natural critters.

Plus, with over one hundred campsites, visitors to Ginnie Springs can also enjoy accessible camping spots complete with electric hookups. If you’re looking for a truly authentic Florida experience, wilderness sites are also scattered throughout Ginnie Springs’ 200 acres, many of which are right on the riverfront or a spring. You will truly be one with nature as you wake up next to your own crystal-clear spring, waiting for you to dive in.

Another nearby spring system perfect for camping is Rainbow Springs State Park, located 60 miles straight south of Ginnie Springs. Rainbow Springs is the fourth largest freshwater spring in Florida and feeds into the Rainbow River, giving the spring a gentle current that is great for tubing or canoeing.The Rainbow River campground has 60 sites ready for both RVers and tent campers, complete with electrical service.

There is no better way to get in touch with nature or experience camping in Florida than with the natural water systems of the state. These refreshing sites are a unique Floridian attraction that will make your next camping experience stand out above the rest. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find more unique spots for all your camping in Florida needs.

Best Dispersed Sites in Florida (33)

    1. Cobb Hunt Camp

    8 Reviews
    Olustee, FL
    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. Shell Key Preserve

    7 Reviews
    Tierra Verde, FL
    Website
    +1 (727) 453-6900

    "specifically cleared sites) so you do need to be mindful that there are lots of plants, shrubs, sticks and stones which can make being in a tent pretty rough if you don't have a good pad and a tarp to protect"

    "Shell Key is one of the larger uninhabited islands off of the west coast of Florida near St. Petersburg."

    3. 17 Mile Hunt Camp

    7 Reviews
    Osceola National Forest, FL
    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. Anclote Key Preserve State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Holiday, FL
    Website
    +1 (727) 638-4447

    "Anclote Key is an awesome spot for primitive camping — but you can only get there by water access!"

    "There four islands that combined make up the state park- There is a nice primitive camping area on the island not far from the lighthouse."

    5. West Tower Hunt Camp

    6 Reviews
    Osceola National Forest, FL
    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."

    6. Davenport Landing

    6 Reviews
    Welaka, FL
    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."

    7. Freak Creek Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Paisley, FL

    "If you don’t have 4wd and recovery gear I wouldn’t risk it."

    8. Upper Hillsborough Water Management Area

    2 Reviews
    Zephyrhills, FL
    Website
    +1 (352) 796-7211

    "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."

    9. Porter Lake Dispersed Camp

    2 Reviews
    Apalachicola National Forest, FL

    "This campground is at least 30 miles either way on F13 (dirt road to campgr )and other RTS to any type of civilization."

    "It’s near hunting and lots of road noise from the nearby bridge but overall it’s a nice overnight getaway from the daily grind. There’s toilets and a non potable spigot to clean off personal items."

    10. Peace River Banks Backcountry

    1 Review
    Arcadia, FL

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

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Showing results 1-10 of 33 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Florida

51 Reviews of 33 Florida Campgrounds



Guide to Florida

Florida offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking the freedom and adventure of dispersed camping, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Top Activities While Free Camping in Florida

Unique Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Visit the picturesque Cobb Hunt Camp, known for its quiet surroundings and the chance to spot local wildlife.
  • Enjoy the rustic charm of 17 Mile Hunt Camp, where you can unwind by the pond and soak in the natural beauty.
  • Experience the remote feel of Mystic Springs, a well-reviewed spot that offers a serene environment for relaxation and exploration.

Features Dispersed Campers Should Check Out

  • Take advantage of the free camping experience at Davenport Landing, where you can enjoy water access and a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Revel in the primitive camping experience at Buckhorn Hunt Camp, which provides a quiet escape with basic amenities like picnic tables.
  • Embrace the adventure of Crooked Creek Chickee, where you can fish and enjoy the unique experience of staying on a platform in the Everglades.