Florida does not appear on many boondocking lists. But Free Florida Boondocking from Panhandle to Everglades is found the US Forest Service and the Florida Water Management Districts. Perhaps it’s because huge cities like Miami, Jacksonville, and Tampa are synonymous with Florida. All of those major centers, though, are on the shore, leaving Florida’s interior primarily undeveloped and open to camping.
| ALL HUNTING CAMPS IN FLORIDA ARE SUBJECT TO CLOSURE TO THE PUBLIC DURING HUNTING SEASONS. ALWAYS CHECK FOR CHANGES IN AVAILABILITY BEFORE TRAVELING TO OR CAMPING ON THOSE SITES. |
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About Florida Boondocking
Camping in Florida is a little more challenging than camping in the western states, where there is plenty of BLM and National Forest land. Wetlands cover 29 percent of the state, which isn’t always the best area to park an RV. Many of the best places to boondocking in Florida are in Water District Management Areas, which allow you to camp for up to six nights.
Most people think of Florida as a beachy paradise, but the best dry camping spots are inland, where lush forests and shimmering lakes reign supreme. So don’t be dismayed; there are still plenty of locations to camp, and many of them are close to some of Florida’s most popular attractions.
Want more ideas to round-out your trip to Florida?
A lot of great ideas are in these posts!
- 15 Everglades National Park Free Campsites (Updated 2022)
- Best Tips for Camping the Dry Tortugas for 3 Days
check out our video
22 Free Florida Boondocking Panhandle Sites
Jump directly to the 30 Northern Florida Boondocking Sites
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Jump directly to the 21 Southern Florida Boondocking Sites
1. Free Florida Boondocking – Goose Pasture Campground
Address
Monticello, Florida
GPS: 30.202837, -83.967889
Elevation: 13′
Management: Public – Suwannee River Water Management: District (Official)
The road in is Dirt and 6 miles from a paved road. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 10 at Goose Pasture Campground.
2. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Buckhorn Hunter’s Campsite
Address
Sopchoppy, Florida
GPS: 30.34996, -84.52782
Elevation: 108′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
Located in the Apalachicola National Forest off of Hwy 267, no amenities except for firewood and a hunter’s rack for hanging game, nice grassy area with lots of shade.
3. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Buckhorn Hunt Camp
Address
Bloxham, Florida
GPS: 30.334658, -84.534958
Elevation: 111′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
The road in is Dirt and 2 miles from a paved road. Buckhorn Hunt Camp is open Year Round. You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at Buckhorn Hunt Camp.
4. Free Florida Camping Spots – Secluded Pond Near Tallahassee
Address
Crawfordville, Florida
GPS: 30.328337, -84.456492
Elevation: 82′
Management: Public – National Park Service
The road in is Dirt and .5 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 45 feet. You may stay 14 days at Secluded Pond Near Tallahassee. It’s a nice primitive dispersed camping location as far as I can tell. There’s no site numbers, fire rings or amenities.
5. Free Florida RV Parking – Otter Hunt Camp
Address
Bloxham, Florida
GPS: 30.307655, -84.615135
Elevation: 107′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
Otter Hunt Camp is open Year Round. You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at Otter Hunt Camp. Camping is allowed anywhere on the Apalachicola National Forest for a maximum of 14 days, except during general gun season.
6. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Brown House Hunt Camp
Address
Bloxham, Florida
GPS: 30.303196, -84.509682
Elevation: 77′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
Brown House Hunt Camp is open Year Round. You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at Brown House Hunt Camp.
7. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Pope Still Hunt Camp
Address
Shadeville, Florida
GPS: 30.224056, -84.475838
Elevation: 62′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
Pope Still Hunt Camp is open Year Round. You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at Pope Still Hunt Camp.
8. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Big Gully Landing and Hunt Camp
Address
Bristol, Florida
GPS: 30.241436, -85.029244
Elevation: 27′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at Big Gully Landing and Hunt Camp.
9. Free Florida Boondocking – Florida River Island
Address
FSR 188 off of Hwy.379
Bristol, Florida
GPS: 30.18425, -85.085288
Elevation: 31′
Management: Public (Official)
The road in is Dirt and 2 miles from a paved road. Florida River Island is open All year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is unlimited. You may stay Not Posted at Florida River Island.
10. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Cliff Lake Hunt Camp
Address
Wilma, Florida
GPS: 30.140189, -84.932
Elevation: 56′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
Cliff Lake Hunt Camp is open Year Round. You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at Cliff Lake Hunt Camp.
11. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – White Oak Landing and Hunt Camp
Address
Bristol, Florida
GPS: 30.098318, -85.112877
Elevation: 19′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
White Oak Landing and Hunt Camp is open Year Round. You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at White Oak Landing and Hunt Camp. Camping is allowed anywhere on the Apalachicola National Forest for a maximum of 14 days, except during general gun season. During General Gun season, camping is only allowed in hunt camps and at developed recreation areas.
12. Free Florida Camping Spots – Cotton Landing and Hunt Camp
Address
Sumatra, Florida
GPS: 30.05187, -85.072273
Elevation: 15′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
Cotton Landing and Hunt Camp is open Year Round. You may stay 14 days (or longer in hunting season) at Cotton Landing and Hunt Camp. Camping is allowed anywhere on the Apalachicola National Forest for a maximum of 14 days, except during general gun season. During General Gun season, camping is only allowed in hunt camps and at developed recreation areas.
13. Free Florida RV Parking – Apalachicola River WEA – Lister Landing
Address
Listers Landing Road
Wewahitchka, Florida
GPS: 30.008503, -85.125291
Elevation: 33′
Management: Public – State Park
Apalachicola River WEA – Lister Landing is open all year. This is a free dispersed campsite. First come -> First Camped. Reservations not accepted. This location is at low elevation, beware of heavy rains.
14. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Apalachicola River WEA – Willis Landing
Address
6741 County Road 381
Wewahitchka, Florida
GPS: 29.975966, -85.072977
Elevation: 33′
Management: Public – State Park
Apalachicola River WEA – Willis Landing is open all year. This is a free dispersed campsite. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. This location is at low elevation, beware of heavy rains.
15. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Devil’s Hole
Address
Off of Walsingham Bridge Road
Youngstown, Florida
GPS: 30.493152, -85.519295
Elevation: 49′
Management: Public – WMD Florida Water Management: (Official)
The road in is Dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days at Devil’s Hole. Devil’s Hole is a 40-foot swallet sinkhole that connects to the Floridan Aquifer. Preserving this area is essential for protecting groundwater resources.
16. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Cotton Landing Recreational Area
Address
3008 Highway 277
Vernon, Florida
GPS: 30.65593, -85.680817
Elevation: 33′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Free with reservation, I had no problem making reservations but I am already registered with the NWFWM district site.
17. Free Florida Boondocking – Caryville Public Boat Ramp
Address
4664 Boat Ramp Road
Caryville, Florida
GPS: 30.774923, -85.826697
Elevation: 52′
Management: Public – County Park
There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 1 night at Caryville Public Boat Ramp. Free overnight with RV.
18. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Cow Lake Landing
Address
1109 Cedar Log Lake Road
Caryville, Florida
GPS: 30.680543, -85.876458
Elevation: 41′
Management
Located on an oxbow lake along the Choctawhatchee River, Cow Lake is a semi-primitive campsite location with a portable toilet only. Cow Lake Landing is a remote location along the river not far from Morrison Springs.
19. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Blackwater State Forest Boat Ramp
Address
Holt, Florida
GPS: 30.710808, -86.866233
Elevation: 32′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service
There is free primitive camping here. The entrance is about 100yds past the State Park main entrance.
20. Free Florida Camping Spots – Wilderness Landing Park
Address
Baker, Florida
GPS: 30.802824, -86.767187
Management: Public – County Park (Official)
Boondocking, camping and boat ramp.
21. Free Florida RV Parking – Kennedy Bridge Paddle Launch
Address
Baker, Florida
GPS: 30.93294, -86.734491
Management: Public (Official)
Nice camping spot on Blackwater River in Baker Fl. I have launched my kayak from here as well as camped here as a short getaway. It is a free designated camp area with the usual regulations.
22. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Webb Landing Ramp
Address
Webb Landing Road
Molino, Florida
GPS: 30.731876, -87.285081
Elevation: 17′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt and 5.8 miles from a paved road. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Webb Landing Ramp. Free camping in the swamp. Boat launch into the Escambia River. Long dirt road in. Get here via Gin road at Chumuckla Springs Rd. Follow Gin Road all the way and the last half mile or so it changes to Web Landing Road. Google maps will send you down dead ends with no place to turn around.
30 Northern Florida Boondocking Sites
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1. Free Florida Boondocking – Hatbill Park
Address
100 Hatbill Rd
Mims, Florida
GPS: 28.605987, -80.962349
Elevation: 4′
Management: Public – County Park (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Hatbill Park is open weekends. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay weekend at Hatbill Park. Primitive camping by permit on weekends. This 15-acre park offers sport fishing from shoreline or boat. Features include a boat ramp accessing the St. Johns River and port-o-lets.
2. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Buck Lake WMA – Group
Address
Unnamed Road
Mims, Florida
GPS: 28.677248, -80.961226
Elevation: 20′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service
The road in is Dirt. Buck Lake WMA – Group is open all year. The maximum RV length at Buck Lake WMA – Group is 15 feet. This is a free camping area maintained by the ST. Johns River Water Management: Designed only for free tent camping in Florida. RVs, travel trailers or pop ups are not allowed- strictly primitive tent camping only.
3. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Buck Lake WMA – Old Timers
Address
Unnamed Road
Mims, Florida
GPS: 28.695457, -80.900645
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
This is a free camping area maintained by the ST. Johns River Water Management: District. In order to camp here, you must obtain a permit. The gate is locked and entry will not be granted without a permit. A permit maybe obtained here.
4. Free Florida Camping Spots – Flat Island Preserve (hike-in)
Address
Leesburg, Florida
GPS: 28.778683, -81.9028
Elevation: 66′
Management: County
I actually found this as I was heading out of town. Camping is free if go get a permit (Anyone camping overnight must first obtain a free permit (with $50 refundable deposit) from the Lake County Water Authority.
5. Free Florida RV Parking – Lake Panasoffkee
Address
7519 NW 18th Way
Wildwood, Florida
GPS: 28.865233, -82.132236
Elevation: 64′
Management: Public (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Lake Panasoffkee is open See text. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. You may stay 8 days at Lake Panasoffkee. We visited the location on a weekend in early May. We were the only campers there. We hiked for about three hours on Saturday and only ran into two other groups. The trails were pretty damp with puddles of water. I think that we could have avoided getting out feet wet if we had really tried.
6. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Flying Eagle Preserve
Address
11080 East Moccasin Slough Road
Inverness, Florida
GPS: 28.820237, -82.248913
Elevation: 43′
Management: Public (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Flying Eagle Preserve is open year round unless a hunt is in progress. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days at Flying Eagle Preserve.
7. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Potts Preserve
Address
2700 Dee River Road
Inverness, Florida
GPS: 28.904539, -82.305068
Elevation: 42′
Management: Public (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Potts Preserve is open Open to the public when a hunt isn’t happening. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days at Potts Preserve.
8. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Ox-bow Trail Head / Withlacoochee River (hike-in)
Address
Dunnellon, Florida
GPS: 29.006879, -82.387767
Elevation: 36′
Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt and .1 miles from a paved road. Ox-bow Trail Head / Withlacoochee River (hike-in) is open Year round outside hunting season . There are 6-15 campsites at this location. Quiet although it is fairly close to the road but not a busy one at all. Nice wildlife and bird watching.
9. Free Florida Boondocking – Off Old FR68
Address
Old FR 68
Silver Springs, Florida
GPS: 29.261745, -81.92286
Elevation: 52′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Dirt. Off Old FR68 is open Outside of general gun season. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Off Old FR68. his campsite is off limits during general gun season when all camping is restricted to designated camping areas and campgrounds.
10. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Three Nut Camp
Address
Ocklawaha, Florida
GPS: 29.119856, -81.909084
Elevation: 66′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
Three Nut Camp is open Outside of general gun season. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Three Nut Camp.
11. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Lake Mary Dispersed
Address
Forest Road 14-0.3
Ocklawaha, Florida
GPS: 29.070022, -81.833596
Elevation: 69′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Dirt. Lake Mary Dispersed is open year round unless a hunt is in progress. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 14 days at Lake Mary Dispersed.
12. Free Florida Camping Spots – Trout Pond Primitive Campsites
Address
Forest Road 14-0.3A
Ocklawaha, Florida
GPS: 29.051581, -81.828599
Elevation: 65′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Trout Pond Primitive Campsites is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay 4 nights at Trout Pond Primitive Campsites. In the deep shade of oaks overlooking a large wet prairie, two designated primitive campsites are available for an evening of solitude at Trout Pond.
13. Free Florida RV Parking – Umatilla , FL SE 222nd Ct
Address
Umatilla, Florida
GPS: 28.996768, -81.780271
Elevation: 141′
Management: Public – National Park Service (Unofficial)
Just a pull off circle along the road in the middle of nowhere in Ocala National Forest….was quiet remote area.
14. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Island Ponds
Address
Unnamed Road
Umatilla, Florida
GPS: 28.996077, -81.75681
Elevation: 59′
Management: Public – Forest Service
The maximum RV length at Island Ponds is 16 feet. Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in Florida’s Seminole Ranger District. First come -> first camped. No reservations are accepted. This location is at low elevation.
https://www.google.com/maps?daddr=28.996077,-81.75681
15. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Lake Dorr Dispersed
Address
Ron Paul Drive
Altoona, Florida
GPS: 29.002743, -81.604793
Elevation: 59′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
Lake Dorr Dispersed is open all but general gun season. General gun season runs Nov-Jan and dispersed camping is not permitted on the Ocala National Forest during that time period. You may stay 14 days at Lake Dorr Dispersed.
16. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Baptist Lake Dispersed
Address
Unnamed Road
Altoona, Florida
GPS: 29.022127, -81.66735
Elevation: 52′
Management: Public – Forest Service
The road in is 4×4. Baptist Lake Dispersed is open all year. You may stay 14 days at Baptist Lake Dispersed.
17. Free Florida Boondocking – Blue Sink
Address
Altoona, Florida
GPS: 29.0606, -81.669703
Elevation: 82′
Management: Public – Forest Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. You may stay two nights at Blue Sink. Blue Sink is a beauty spot in the Ocala National Forest, a sinkhole that’s become a popular swimming hole.
18. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Ocala National Forest
Address
Altoona, Florida
GPS: 29.126029, -81.65119
Elevation: 49′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
The road in is Gravel. Ocala National Forest is open Year Round. The maximum RV length at Ocala National Forest is a Little RV. You may stay 14 days during a month at Ocala National Forest. Dispersed camping means primitive tent camping wherever you like throughout the forest. RV too, but little ones. Many soft sandy trails.
19. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Grasshopper Pond
Address
Astor, Florida
GPS: 29.130385, -81.618435
Elevation: 55′
Management: Public – Forest Service
The road in is 4×4. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. Free, dispersed camping adjacent to the crystal clear blue waters of Grasshopper Pond, an excellent swimming hole. The road in is very sandy, deep in some places.
20. Free Florida Camping Spots – Davenport Landing
Address
Possum Bluff, Florida
GPS: 29.47117, -81.775505
Elevation: 25′
Management: Public – Forest Service (USDA) (Official)
Davenport Landing is open Year Round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. You may stay 4 days in 14 at Davenport Landing. Free primitive camping. Only 3 campsites. Stay is limited to 4 days in 14.
21. Free Florida RV Parking – Caravelle Ranch WMA Main
Address
120-127 Caravelle Ranch Road
Palatka, Florida
GPS: 29.518673, -81.750732
Elevation: 26′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife
Camping is allowed only in the designated primitive campsites located near the main entrance off of SR 19. Two rivers and a network of trails and unpaved roads provide easy access to a variety of habitats.
22. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Moses Creek Conservation Area (tents only)
Address
Saint AUG BEACH, Florida
GPS: 29.763636, -81.275427
Elevation: 10′
Management: Public – Sjrwmd (Official)
Large, green and secluded with huge old trees. Gorgeous night skies. But arrived to find the last guests trash. This site is rarely tended to. Only primitive tent camping is allowed on district lands and only at designated locations. No travel trailers, campers or RVs are allowed.
23. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Bayard WMA – Davis Landing
Address
Bayard Conservation Area Red Trail
Green Cove Springs, Florida
GPS: 29.958595, -81.615598
Elevation: 7′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife
Bayard WMA – Davis Landing is open all year. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. There are two campsites on this part of Bayard. Both are first come first serve only and are hike in only.
24. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Osceola WMA road
Address
Lake City, Florida
GPS: 30.24324, -82.52683
Elevation: 151′
Management: Public – State Park
This is a primitive site in a pine tree stand. The Sandy/dirt road goes back further than where I parked but was flooded. I camped for 3 nights in a opening in the pine trees.
25. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Cone Bridge
Address
Benton, Florida
GPS: 30.445074, -82.670441
Elevation: 88′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Unofficial)
The road in is Dirt and 1mi miles from a paved road. Cone Bridge is open Year-round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Camping near a boat ramp at the end of a dirt road. Located 1 mile off of HWY 441 on Cone Bridge Rd. It is about 20 miles north of Lake City.
26. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Sandhill Hunt Camp
Address
North F R 272
Lake City, Florida
GPS: 30.382873, -82.511359
Elevation: 135′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Sandhill Hunt Camp is open all year. Primitive camping area to the northwest of Big Gum Swamp Wilderness.
27. Free Florida Camping Spots – Big Camp Hunt Camp
Address
Road 212
Sanderson, Florida
GPS: 30.39517, -82.442375
Elevation: 135′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Big Camp Hunt Camp is open all year. Primitive camping area on the north edge of the Big Gum Swamp Wilderness.
28. Free Florida RV Parking – Seventeen Mile Hunt Camp
Address
17 Mile Camp
Sanderson, Florida
GPS: 30.335866, -82.38205
Elevation: 138′
Management: Public – Forest Service
Seventeen Mile Hunt Camp is open all year. The maximum RV length at Seventeen Mile Hunt Camp is 22 feet. Free Dispersed camping in the National Forests in Florida’s Osceola Ranger District. First come -> first served. No reservations accepted. This location is at low elevation, beware of heavy rains.
29 Free Florida RV Boondocking – Holton Creek River Camp
Address
Jasper, Florida
GPS: 30.429804, -83.035998
Elevation: 66′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Overnight parking is not permitted and vehicles are not welcome. The Holton Creek River Camp provides 5 screened shelters, a picnic pavilion, restrooms with hot showers, and a tent-camping area.
30. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – American Beach Burney Park
Address
Fernandina Beach, Florida
GPS: 30.569603, -81.443946
Elevation: 10′
Management: Public (Official)
Parking lot has showers and flush toilets. No security. Free camping right on the beach! Camping or sleeping in the parking lot is not allowed
17 Central Florida Boondocking Sites
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1. Free Florida Boondocking – Ashley Equestrian Camp
Address
13347 Ranch Road
Dade City, Florida
GPS: 28.361873, -82.117557
Elevation: 78′
Management: Public (Official)
The road in is Dirt and 1.5 miles from a paved road. Ashley Equestrian Camp is open year round unless a hunt is in progress. There are 16-29 campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days at Ashley Equestrian Camp. Open to non-equestrian campers, this campground is part of the SWFWMD managed Green Swamp West Tract.
2. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Cypress Creek Preserve
Address
5550 Parkway Blvd
Land O’ Lakes, Florida
GPS: 28.243549, -82.420467
Elevation: 64′
Management: Public (Official)
Separate sites available for equestrian, group and primitive camping. Sites have picnic tables, fire rings and/or grills. A free reservation is required and must be displayed on dashboard at campground.
3. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Washburn Equestrian Area
Address
14501 Morris Bridge Road
Thonotosassa, Florida
GPS: 28.118802, -82.297459
Elevation: 45′
Management: Public (Official)
The road in is Dirt and <1 miles from a paved road. Washburn Equestrian Area is open year round unless a hunt is in progress. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days at Washburn Equestrian Area. Reservations can be obtained via phone or the SWFWMD website.
4. Free Florida Camping Spots – Oak Ridge Equestrian Area
Address
15847 Morris Bridge Road
Thonotosassa, Florida
GPS: 28.148255, -82.265427
Elevation: 51′
Management: Public (Official)
The road in is Dirt and 0.5 miles from a paved road. Oak Ridge Equestrian Area is open year round unless a hunt is in progress. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 7 days at Oak Ridge Equestrian Area.
5. Free Florida RV Parking – Alston Tract
Address
42144 Deems Road
Zephyrhills, Florida
GPS: 28.17402, -82.122631
Elevation: 90′
Management: Public (Official)
This free equestrian camping area is managed by the SWFWMD located within the Upper Hillsborough Preserve. A free permit is required to camp here.
6. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Lake Marion Creek WMA (tents only)
Address
Huckleberry Island Road; Haines City, FL
Davenport, Florida
GPS: 28.164296, -81.535746
Elevation: 75′
Management: Public – South Florida Water Management: (Official)
Lake Marion Creek WMA (tents only) is open year round. You may stay 8 days at Lake Marion Creek WMA (tents only). Permitted camping here is free, but requires obtaining a Special Use License and combination for the locked gate on Huckleberry Island Road which leads to the designated camping area. RVs and trailers are prohibited.
7. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Alafia River Corridor
Address
931 Old Welcome Road
Lithia, Florida
GPS: 27.87277, -82.11621
Elevation: 92′
Management: Public – County Park (Official)
Primitive camping only. Group areas available. Letter of authorization required from Hillsborough County Conservation and Environmental Lands Management: Department.
8. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Three Lakes WMA
Address
Hwy 441
Florida
GPS: 27.962605, -81.01181
Elevation: 59′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Three Lakes WMA is open Year-round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Camping is permitted only at hunter-designated camping areas (pdf file) during hunting season and at designated campsites on the Florida Trail throughout the year.
9. Free Florida Boondocking – Alafia River Corridor
Address
931 Old Welcome Road
Lithia, Florida
GPS: 27.87277, -82.11621
Elevation: 92′
Management: Public – County Park (Official)
Primitive camping only. Group areas available. Letter of authorization required from Hillsborough County Conservation and Environmental Lands Management: Department.
10. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Three Lakes WMA
Address
Hwy 441
Florida
GPS: 27.962605, -81.01181
Elevation: 59′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Three Lakes WMA is open Year-round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location. Camping is permitted only at hunter-designated camping areas (pdf file) during hunting season and at designated campsites on the Florida Trail throughout the year.
11. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Hal Scott Regional Park and Preserve of St Johns River WMD
Address
4500 Dallas Blvd., Orlando, FL
Wedgefield, Florida
GPS: 28.477439, -81.110121
Elevation: 59′
Management: Public – Water Management: District (Official)
Shaded underneath an oak canopy on the outskirts of pine flatwoods, this site has a covered pavilion with picnic table, a fire ring with grill attachment surrounded by 2 benches and a table, and room for multiple tents.
12. Free Florida Camping Spots – Green Swamp — Hampton Tract
Address
18490 Rock Ridge Road Lakeland, FL 33809
Lakeland, Florida
GPS: 28.269016, -81.969562
Elevation: 105′
Management: Public – SW Florida Water Management: District (Official)
The road in is Dirt. Green Swamp — Hampton Tract is open By reservation only. This site will accommodate both equestrian and non-equestrian campers. Reservations at: http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/make_a_reservation.php?site=44
13. Free Florida RV Parking – North Grade Rd. – Richloam WMA
Address
North Grade Road
Webster, Florida
GPS: 28.502921, -82.01694
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Campsite on the North Grade Rd. In the middle of the forest. Very quiet location. A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.
14. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Holder Mine Camp
Address
Inverness, Florida
GPS: 28.80913, -82.37518
Elevation: 46′
Management: Public – State Forest (Official)
In Inverness South of HWY 44 in Withlacoochee Management: Area Down Trail 10 Rd. which is now graded. to your right is the Loop with Electric and water hook ups and Restroom with showers. to the left is the primitive with portable toilets dispersed throughout. There are over 50 sites there. The price is $10 per night. – A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.
15. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Sawgrass Island Preserve
Address
Dona Vista, Florida
GPS: 28.94657, -81.75683
Elevation: 62′
Management: Private – Utility Company (Unofficial)
Maintained by the Lake County Water Authority, this 1200 acre site near Umatilla, FL is a jewel of nature and solitude. Camping is free but reservation is requested at 352-324-6141. There are several picnic tables, 8 trails but no water or electric. A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.
16. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Palm Bluff Conservation Area of St Johns River WMD
Address
1275 State Route 415 Osteen, FL 32764
Deltona, Florida
GPS: 28.890731, -81.139903
Elevation: 26′
Management: Public – water Management: district (Official)
The road in is Gravel. Tent Only Located in a mesic hammock near state road 415, this site is equipped with a fire ring with grill attachment surrounded by 4 benches, 1 picnic table, and potable water pitcher pump.
17. Free Florida Boondocking – Longleaf Pine Preserve
Address
Florida 400
DeLand, Florida
GPS: 29.061998, -81.184732
Elevation: 39′
Management: Public – County Park
This location is at low elevation, beware of heavy rains.
21 Southern Florida Boondocking Sites
Jump directly to the 22 Free Florida Boondocking Panhandle Sites
Jump directly to the 30 Northern Florida Boondocking Sites
Jump directly to the 17 Central Florida Boondocking Sites
1. Free Florida Boondocking – Starvation Slough Campsite
Address
Micco Road
Lorida, Florida
GPS: 27.466753, -81.155373
Elevation: 10232′
Management: Public (Official)
Free car camping (vehicle accessible). You must contact the South Florida Water Management: District to get access. Each day, they issue up to 3 camping permits that allows for 6 people each.
2. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Hickory Hammock Equestrian Campground
Address
McArthur Road
Lorida, Florida
GPS: 27.44768, -81.176964
Elevation: 49′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Hickory Hammock Equestrian Campground is open year-round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 8 days at Hickory Hammock Equestrian Campground.
3. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Oak Creek WMA Campsites
Address
Micco Bluff Road
Okeechobee, Florida
GPS: 27.446068, -81.142922
Elevation: 37′
Management: Public (Official)
There are 1-5 campsites at this location. The camping area is divided up into two huge sections, the north is considered the air boat camp and the south is a primitive camp. Both are situated under oaks.
4. Free Florida Camping Spots – Istokpoga Canal Boat Ramp And Campsite
Address
Lorida, Florida
GPS: 27.400939, -81.160616
Management: Public – Southern Florida Water Management: District (Official)
Camping slips behind a boat ramp parking lot off Rt 98 just south of Rt 621. Look for the boating sign the area is on the left. Fire pits and picnic tables at each site, potable water at a central location.
5. Free Florida RV Parking – S-65C Campsite
Address
Lorida, Florida
GPS: 27.400342, -81.115624
Elevation: 33′
Management: Public (Official)
On the Kissimmee River. Boat Ramp. Contact South Florida Water Management: District for access. There was talk of it disappearing in 2008. Know before you go.
6. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Yates Marsh North Campsite
Address
Lofton Rd
Okeechobee, Florida
GPS: 27.316457, -81.021336
Elevation: 28′
Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)
Free. Reservation required! This camping area is operated by the South Florida Water Management: District, and you must contact them and get a permit before accessing it.
7. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Deep Creek Preserve
Address
Arcadia, Florida
GPS: 27.060897, -82.021727
Elevation: 26′
Management: Public – Bureau of Land Management: (Official)
This is a free, primitive campsite in Arcadia FL. I went there with a group of 6 & we had a great time. The site is equipped with a fire ring & a picnic table but is very isolated & quiet.
8. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Allapattah Flats WMA
Address
Unnamed Road
Indiantown, Florida
GPS: 27.189685, -80.45463
Elevation: 36′
Management: Public – South Florida Water Management: District (Official)
The road in is Dirt and less than 1 miles from a paved road. Allapattah Flats WMA is open Year Round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 25 feet. You may stay 8 days at Allapattah Flats WMA.
9. Free Florida Boondocking – Jones/Hungryland WEA
Address
Indiantown, Florida
GPS: 26.995125, -80.275158
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
Jones/Hungryland WEA is open year round. There are 6-15 campsites at this location. You may stay 14 days at Jones/Hungryland. Camping is allowed only at designated campsites. A no-cost permit is required and camping subject to permit provisions. Permits may be obtained by making a reservation at http://myfwc.com/viewing/recreation/wmas/lead/jones-hungryland/camping/
10. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Stuart Causeway
Address
Jupiter, Florida
GPS: 26.941482, -80.082725
Elevation: 7′
Management: Public – Beach and boat ramps (Official)
The road in is Paved. Stuart Causeway is open year round. You may stay overnight at Stuart Causeway. Parked here on and off for months without incident. Had restrooms and beautiful views.
11. Free Florida Boondocking Spots – Rotenberger WMA – Miami Canal
Address
Miami Canal Road
Belle Glade, Florida
GPS: 26.378342, -80.798348
Elevation: 98′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife
This is a free dispersed campsite. Reservations are not accepted at this campsite. This location is at low elevation.
12. Free Florida Camping Spots – Dinner Island WMA
Address
17665 County Road 833
Clewiston, Florida
GPS: 26.499657, -81.130686
Elevation: 36′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife
Camp year-round at one of the two designated camping areas. Kowechobe Camp is an open field with easy access for trailers. Hammock Camp is located under an oak hammock with plenty of shade and a vault toilet. You will need to bring your own water.
13. Free Florida RV Parking – CREW Cypress Dome Trails (Gate 5)
Address
980 Corkscrew Road (C.R. 850)
Immokalee, Florida
GPS: 26.456392, -81.562752
Elevation: 26′
Management: (Official) South Florida Water Management
The road in is Dirt and 1 miles from a paved road. CREW Cypress Dome Trails (Gate 5) is open year round. There are 1-5 campsites at this location.
14. Free Florida RV Boondocking – Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area
Address
Vero Beach, Florida
GPS: 27.614361, -80.75758
Elevation: 34′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt. There are 1-5 campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is 15 feet. Free vehicle accessible campsite. Personal vehicles only. I read it as no RVs.
15. Free Florida Boondocking Locations – Empty Lot/area along to SR. 41
Address
Naples, Florida
GPS: 25.910786, -81.365099
Elevation: 7′
Management: (Unofficial)
You may stay overnight at Empty Lot/area along to SR. 41. There is a large empty lot/area next to a Marathon Gas station at the intersection of SR. 41 and SR 29. I spent a night over there and nobody bothered me. There is nothing else around – forest and bushes for miles so I doubt anyone will care if you are here.
16. Free Florida Dispersed Camping Locations – Boat Ramp
Address
Miami, Florida
GPS: 25.763403, -80.67374
Elevation: 16′
Management: Public (Unofficial)
You won’t need an alarm, as the air boats will wake you up in the morning?
17. Permit Florida Boondocking – Clubhouse Beach
Address
Florida
GPS: 25.1292, -81.03889
Management: Public – National Park Service (Official)
Open prairies of succulent coastal plants dotted with shady buttonwoods surround you as you journey towards the shore of Florida Bay. The trail ends at Clubhouse Beach; a permit for backcountry camping required.
18. 5 Permit Florida Boondocking Locations – DuPuis WMA
Address
23500 SW Kanner Highway
Indiantown, Florida
GPS: 27.0105, -80.55088
Elevation: 30′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
The road in is Dirt and less than 1 miles from a paved road. DuPuis WMA is open year round but access is limited during hunting seasons. There are 30 or more campsites at this location. A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.
19. Permit Florida Boondocking Spots – KICCO WMA – Town of KIC
Address
Florida Trail
River Ranch, Florida
GPS: 27.6778, -81.146817
Elevation: 49′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service
You may stay 8 days at KICCO WMA – Town of KIC. A free Special Use License is required to camp at this location. To receive a Special Use License for overnight camping or day time vehicle access please visit our website. A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.
20. Permit Florida Camping Spots – KICCO WMA – Rattlesnake Hammock (tents only).
Address
Florida Trail
River Ranch, Florida
GPS: 27.690496, -81.152288
Elevation: 56′
Management: Public – Fish and Wildlife Service (Official)
You may stay 8 days at KICCO WMA – Rattlesnake Hammock (tents only).
21. Permit Florida RV Parking – Shell Key (boat in)
Address
Saint Petersburg, Florida
GPS: 27.6589, -82.740097
Management: Public – County Park (Official)
Boating, camping, and beach-going activities are permitted in public use areas of the preserve, see designated areas and camping rules. A PASS or PERMIT is required at this campsite.
FAQs on Florida Boondocking
Is There Boondocking in Florida?
There is, indeed! However, it is not the same as boondocking in the West. Many of these locations are in Florida’s more natural areas, which many visitors are unlikely to have seen.
Is Wild Camping Allowed in Florida?
From the Panhandle to the Everglades, free camping is available thanks to the US Forest Service and the Florida Water Management Districts. The Ocala, Apalachicola, and Osceola forests are part of the US Department of Agriculture’s National Forest System in Florida. The great thing about Florida is that free camping is lawful as long as you stay on state property and follow a few basic rules. State-owned land will be managed by the National Park Service and the United States Forest Service. (In Florida, BLM Camping does not exist! The BLM is massive in the west, but not so much in the east.)
Can you Boondock in the Ocala National Forest?
The majority of the over 400,000 acres are open to dispersed camping. It’s simple to find a wilderness campground off the beaten path thanks to a network of crisscrossing forest roads. Free RV Parking with Hookups — only one of the 14 built campgrounds has hookups.
Where Can I Camp on the Beach For Free?
In Florida, you are not permitted to sleep on developed beaches, which are areas where people own homes, or in front of restaurants. There are, however, sites along the beach monitored by the National Park Service and the United States Forest Service that are excellent places for free camping in Florida. (BLM Camping does not exist in Florida! BLM is huge out west but not so in the East.)
Can you Boondock in Key West?
You are not permitted to boondock in or near the Florida Keys. There are no sites in the Florida Keys, particularly in Key West, where you may pitch a tent or sleep in a regular car without being disturbed by the police.
Finding Free Florida Boondocking Locations
Free camping, especially in the eastern United States, is almost unheard of. But, thanks to the U.S. Forest Service and the Florida Water Management Districts, free camping in Florida can be found from the Panhandle to the Everglades. NOTE: There is no free camping in the Florida Keys, but it’s such a spectacular spot, it’s worth the splurge on a state park campground or RV park!
The Ocala, Apalachicola, and Osceola forests are part of the US Department of Agriculture’s National Forest System in Florida. This land covers 1.2 million acres across the state and attracts over 1.1 million visitors each year. When planning your free Florida camping trip, the environment ranges from untouched wetlands and prairies to barrier islands, providing a broad selection of ecosystems to choose from.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection oversees five Water Management Districts in the Sunshine State. The protected territory around these districts lends itself to free wilderness camping spots, while each district’s fundamental objective is to sustainably protect the water supply and quality.
Free Camping in Florida’s National Forests
While there aren’t any fees, camping in Florida’s National Forests does come with regulations. List of Florida Dispersed Camping Areas. The USDA reminds campers of the following courtesies when camping for free in the dispersed areas:
✔ Always leave no trace
✔ Be bear aware
✔ Minimize waste
✔ Do not camp within 100 feet of a water source
✔ Select a previously used primitive site to minimize environmental impact whenever possible
✔ Adhere to local campfire restrictions
✔ Be aware of the rules of the national forest, such as the 14-day stay limit
✔ Check in with the local ranger station to stay informed
Free Florida Camping in the Water Districts
In Florida’s Water Management Districts, you’ll find some of the state’s greatest, pristine wilderness and free camping spots. The following are the five Florida Water Management Districts:
Northwest Florida WMD
Suwanee River WMD
St. Johns River WMD
Southwest Florida WMD
South Florida WMD
Each Water Management District has its own set of rules, so check out the official district website before pitching your tent on their property. While camping is generally free, several campsites on WMD land gratefully welcome donations.
Free Florida Boondocking in Wildlife Management Areas
Hunters and equestrians can typically camp in Florida Wildlife Management Areas. Camping is generally fairly rustic and seasonal, with a few exceptions. Seasons, rules, permits, and costs differ from one site to the next. Some wildlife management area campgrounds require campers to get free camping reservation permits prior to arrival. The main site for Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission concerning camping is at Camping on Wildlife Management Areas. WMAs are divided into five groups. To see if camping is available, check the following areas: Northwest, North Central, Northeast, Southwest, and South. These locations can be managed or unmaintained, hosted or un-hosted, and located in a field or with actual camping sites.
Whether you’re spending a month in the state or simply taking a getaway weekend close to home, Florida Boondocking has a free camping spot waiting for you. We have divided Florida into 4 major parts to make your search easier. This enables you to plan your itinerary of Florida Boondocking, Free RV Parking and Camping Sites to combine several locations within a short distance.
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