Dispersed camping near Fargo, Georgia in the Osceola National Forest provides primitive backcountry experiences in a subtropical ecosystem. The forest spans approximately 200,000 acres across the Florida-Georgia border with elevations rarely exceeding 150 feet above sea level. Forest roads throughout the area can become impassable after heavy rainfall, particularly during summer thunderstorm season.
What to do
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forest contains diverse ecosystems including pine flatwoods and cypress swamps where campers can spot wildlife. "Loved this spot. It had tons of space with space between camp spots. Quiet. Lots of locals during the day but settles down at night," reported a visitor at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Pond fishing: Several hunt camps offer access to small fishing ponds. "We got an amazing spot with a view of the pond. Ground can be soft, but luckily it had been dry for a few days, but you could get stuck in some spots," noted one camper about their experience at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Hiking access: The Florida National Scenic Trail passes through portions of the forest near camping areas. "We hiked in a few miles on the Florida Trail, so we had all our water supplies on our person. There's a little pond there that we were purifying water out of with no issue," shared a visitor at Cobb Hunt Camp.
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Many sites provide separation from other campers for a true wilderness experience. "My first night here was fantastic. I can stay up to two weeks here. It's December and there was only two other people camping here my site. I couldn't even see anybody," reported a camper at West Tower Hunt Camp.
Book exchange: West Tower Hunt Camp maintains a community book exchange in the bathroom facility. "Nice spots with a bathroom book exchange and power at the bathroom if you need it," noted one visitor.
Self-sufficient amenities: Some camping areas offer more facilities than typical dispersed sites. "Host was very nice. Bathroom and shower but no hot water," mentioned a camper about their experience at West Tower Hunt Camp.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for standard vehicles, especially after rain. "Sites are spread out and the road is rough getting in. No water or electric. Porta potty on site. No Verizon cell service," explained a visitor about 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by location and provider. "Minimal, if any, cell service, so you will be disconnected pretty much," noted a camper at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Temporary closures: Campground status can change without website updates. "Cobb Camp Osceola is closed though the website makes no mention of the closure. There are people camping just beyond the campground without issue. Nice and quiet spot with 0 amenities," reported a recent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: The remote location requires extra precautions with children. "We did have to be extra careful with our little dog tho because we did get the sense that something could try to eat it since the sites are in the middle of the woods. We generally felt safe tho and just made sure to take bear spray when we went out into the woods," shared a camper at 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Entertainment planning: With no facilities for entertainment, bring activities. "I'm in a travel trailer so I had the chance to take advantage of all the amenities my camper has to offer, the roads are a little rough, yet passable. Not much cell service, no tv stations, I brought movies, really enjoyed myself," advised a visitor to 17 Mile Hunt Camp.
Water supplies: No potable water is available at most sites. "We camped there with my boys in a tent, and they had a blast just playing in the dirt. If you drive in and car camp you can easily bring water with you," noted a family that stayed at Cobb Hunt Camp.
Tips from RVers
Ground assessment: The soft terrain requires careful site selection. "We did a few loops looking for a good site. It was pretty easy to see where the areas for camping are but it's not as clear as a paid RV park. We ended up loving the site we picked. We were able to pull through instead of backing in, the ground wasn't too muddy so we didn't get stuck," advised an RV camper at Cobb Hunt Camp.
Extended stays: Some primitive camping areas allow longer stays than developed campgrounds. "This place was very clean and most spots were very well spaced out. Porta potties and trash bins. Camp host was nice and they have a 14 day stay limit," reported an RVer at West Tower Hunt Camp.
Self-sufficiency requirement: Come prepared with all necessities. "Not great for the backpacker, but probably pretty great if you're driving in and hunting out of your tent or camper," noted a visitor to Cobb Hunt Camp.
