It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most popular destinations for RV’ers, and If you’re looking to go off the beaten path, there are still plenty of places to camp for free in Florida.
Since it costs nothing, there will be little to no amenities, like showers, electricity, freshwater refill, or dump stations.
Fortunately, that’s not an issue for RVers… we carry everything we need wherever we go.
Plus, your hard work will pay off. Dispersed camping provides you with your own private piece of Florida’s gorgeous landscape for FREE. In other words, more nature, fewer expenses, and zero people!
In the eastern United States, it’s more challenging to find these free camping opportunities as this area contains less public land than its western counterpart.
However, with just a little planning and preparation, you can have an amazing adventure boondocking in Florida!
Keep reading to learn more about boondocking in The Sunshine State and discover some of the best free camping spots you’ll love while visiting Florida.
Where And How To You Find Free Camping Spots In Florida?
Federally designated public lands can be difficult to find in Florida. That’s because 70.8% of the land is privately owned. It’s illegal to camp on any of this land unless given permission.
Instead, you’ll need to look for these types of free camping in florida to park your RV for free:
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- National Forest Land
- Wildlife Management Areas (WMA)
- National Grasslands
- County Parks & City Parks – Not all, so check signs or contact the city department
- Trailheads – Not all, so check signs or contact a ranger
- Rest Stops (Check for blue signs that ban overnight parking)
- Some Commercial Parking lots (Walmart, Bass Pro Shops, etc.). Call, and ask the business for permission first.
Best Apps and Tools for Finding Free RV Campsites in Florida
Okay cool, but where do I find these ever-elusive spots? After all, they often lack signs demarcating them as a public space.
Yep, we’ve got a solution for that too! These apps and tools are the best at finding specific, free RV campsites in Florida:
1. The Dyrt (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (FREE)
This app will allow you to find outdoor accommodations across Florida, whether you’re in a tent, trailer, RV, or cabin.
It provides millions of listings, reviews, prices, and tips from other campers who have already visited.
2. Free Campsites (Web Browser) (FREE)
Gotta love simplicity. And that’s exactly what Free Campsites provides. The site allows you to plan a travel route through Florida with their ‘trip planner’ option.
Not only will it provide text directions, but it’ll also show you any and all RV campsites along your way through The Sunshine State (free, or otherwise).
Unfortunately, there’s no app for this tool yet, but it’s easily accessible through most web browsers.
3. Campendium (iOS, Android, Web Browser) (FREE)
Campendium is the prettier, more user-friendly version of Free Campsites. It also provides you with more options than just finding RV campsites.
You can use filters to locate any, and every, type of outdoor accommodation.
It provides a plethora of useful information for RV-ers as well, including: last paid price, longest RV reported at site, and clearance access information.
And while it doesn’t have an app yet, you can add the Campendium’s icon to your phone’s home screen by following these helpful instructions (iOS / Android).
If All Else Fails, Use Your Map and Drive Down a Random Dirt Road
You just finished watching The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and now you’ve chosen a life of unwavering spontaneity, even if it costs you your life. Right on!
Ditch predictable apps and pick up a good ol’ Florida paper map. New maps will show you where you can find National Forest land as well as BLM and other public lands.
Drive to the areas marked on your map and then head down a random dirt road.
Well, not totally random. Some roads may prohibit you from using them.
However, if there’s no signs feel free to pull off 200ft from any road and set up camp. You can stay for up to 14 days.
Tips For Boondocking In Florida
Florida spans 65,757 square miles. Most of this enormous land area includes white sand coastlines and sub-tropical forests.
You couldn’t choose a more unique landscape for your camping trip in the U.S. While this can be exciting, some difficult obstacles do arise in such a wild environment.
Furthermore, the government, along with it’s citizenry, make every effort to preserve Florida’s wilderness.
We’ve included important tips to help you enjoy a safe and legal camping trip in The Sunshine State:
14-16 Day Limit, 60 Consecutive Day Reset Period
When it comes to something free there’s always a catch. Fortunately, this catch isn’t terrible. On average, free campsites in Florida have a 14-16 day limit.
Usually, the ‘maximum camping stay’ is posted in the area, but if it’s not, you should probably kick dirt after two weeks.
If you still want to camp after this initial period just move 25 miles away, and camp for another 14 days.
After that, however, you need to wait 60 consecutive days before you’re allowed to camp in the area again.
Leave No Trace
Florida forests are gorgeous, massive, and dense. It’s difficult for forest rangers to keep enormous wilderness areas clean.
Give them a hand, and keep nature pristine, by leaving no trace. This means taking all trash, human excrement, and other refuse with you.
Doing otherwise can result in fines, and worse, a degradation of nature.
Fire Restrictions
Florida might be less likely to catch fire compared to other dryer states; however, it still has its fair share of fire regulations.
Your best bet is to follow the specific rules for your campsite. Always call a ranger station if you’re unsure and report a fire if you see one.
Bring Mosquito Spray and Sunscreen
Florida has one season—Summer. It comes in two variants, wet and wetter. Needless to say, this hot, moist climate creates a few issues, namely mosquitoes and sunburns.
Buy some good bug spray and, while you’re at it, get sunscreen as well. The tropical sun will sizzle your skin in a couple hours.
Furthermore, when you’re boondocking you’ll find yourself further from cities and thus, closer to mosquitoes. A few itchy bites can ruin a trip fast. Protect yourself.
Check for Special Use Permits
Free camping in Florida differs from its other counterparts in the west in that it often requires you to get a permit.
Don’t freak out. These permits are still free and many of them can be acquired last minute; however, you do need to contact the Forest Service to secure them.
You can visit their website for more information.
Top 10 Boondocking Locations And Free Campsites In Florida
One of the most overwhelming parts of free in Florida is knowing how to find locations. To make your search we’ve put together a list of 10 best places for boondocking in Florida and the best things to do and see nearby.
Whether you’re seeking a true adventurous camping, trying to stick to a budget, or just trying to find a remote RV camping location of solitude, these beautiful Florida campsites are out there and waiting for you!
That said, here’s our top 8 picks for FREE, first come, first serve campsites in Florida:
1. 17-Mile Hunt Camp – Osceola National Forest
Hunters use it as an outpost, firefighters as a base camp, and now you can use it for some good ol’ fashioned boondocking! You’ll find this lovely scrap of land off the I-10 west of Jacksonville.
The flatwoods and dreary swamps take visitors back in time, providing them with a peaceful setting for fishing, hunting, and swimming.
Why do we love it?
You’ll love this free campground if you hate civilization. It’s the definition of primitive—no water, electricity, or sewage, and it’s far from any modern society.
Instead, you’ll find yourself in Osceola National Forest, a beautiful sub-tropical woodland with plenty to offer.
Just make sure you bring some bug spray as the mosquitoes can get gnarly in the summer.
Location
- 17-Mile Hunting Camp
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping in 17-Mile Hunting Campground visit HERE.
2. Du Puis Gate 3 Campground – Indiantown
Du Puis means, from the spring. After you visit this 21,875-acre wildlife management area you’ll understand why.
In the rainy season, the swamps fill with water, and even some of the Flatwoods flood.
You can explore the nature center which includes interpretive exhibits, check out the butterfly garden, or hike one of the many nature trails.
Outside the nature center, you’ll find fishing at a partially shaded pier, a Cypress boardwalk, and boundless opportunities for picnicking.
Why do we love it?
This campground stands above the others for one reason—more amenities. A public Equestrian Center sits at Gate 3, and includes, horse barns, paddocks, restrooms with showers, and a dump station.
There are also 32 miles of hiking trails to explore, fishing opportunities galore, and plenty of wildlife.
You could stay out here for way longer than you normally would and still feel comfortable.
Location
- Du Puis Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping in Du Puis Campground visit HERE.
It’s almost impossible to find a free beach camping florida. Fortunately, they do exist.
This little hidden getaway sits on the shores of Blackwater Bay, north of Navarre.
It’s also home to Fundy Bayou, a lazy strip of brackish water that ambles into the ocean inlet nearby.
Why do we love it?
This free Florida campground is literally on the beach. Need I say more?! The sandy shores provide excellent views of Blackwater Bay, an inlet to the Gulf of Mexico.
You can fish from the shore or lounge on the beach, but either way, you’ll be relaxed.
The surrounding trees provide plenty of shade for picnics or campfires. Make sure you bring a guitar so you can play some Jimmy Buffett songs.
Location
- Bayside Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping at Bayside Campground visit HERE.
4. Lake Panasoffkee Campgrounds – Wildwood
A wildlife management area originally acquired to preserve Lake Panasoffkee’s vast floodplain forest, pine flatwoods, marshes, and oak scrub.
Restoration efforts continue to make this natural landscape viable for both wildlife and recreational activities. These include hiking, fishing, birdwatching, and more!
Why do we love it?
There are actually a number of campgrounds around the lake so you can really spread your wings at this spot.
The nearby lake gives you endless outdoor activities. You can hike, horseback ride, or engage in any non-motorized water activity. It’s a nature lover’s dream come true!
Location
- Lake Panasoffkee Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to Do Nearby
For more information on RV camping at Lake Panasoffkee Campground visit HERE.
5. Dee River Campground – Inverness
Mosey on down to Potts Preserve and you’ll find this quaint little campground inside. The surrounding wildlife management area spans 8500 acres and contains an absurd number of species.
Shoot, you’ll even find the threatened Florida scrub jay. It offers more activities than a strip mall, including hunting, fishing, hiking, stargazing, birdwatch, and more!
Why do we love it?
Time to grow your armpit hair out. You’re going primitive. This site puts you in the middle Florida’s prettiest wilderness.
Nearby Dee River offers fishing opportunities and the surrounding forest gives you everything else: hunting, hiking, biking and more.
You can do all of this in almost complete privacy. It’s everything you want in a boondocking experience!
Location
- Dee River Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping in Dee River Campground visit HERE.
6. Pine Creek Landing – Apalachicola National Forest
Technically a boat ramp, but there are several grassy, level sites nearby. Since it’s a wider space there’s plenty of room for larger rigs.
Furthermore, the surrounding Apalachicola National Forest will immerse you in the classic Floridian woodlands.
There’s boundless wildlife across its whole breadth so get exploring!
Why do we love it?
If you own kayaks or enjoy fishing OR just like a good swim in the morning, this is the place for you.
Fortunately, fewer people use the boat ramp than you’d expect so you’ll still get relative privacy at this site.
Overall, it’s primitive but that’s really what you’re looking for when you want to boondock anyway!
Location
- Pine Creek Landing Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping in Pine Creek Landing Campground visit HERE.
7. Davenport Landing – Ocala National Forest
An old steamboat stop that’s no longer used. It can be found down a rugged road deep in the Ocala National Forest, home to some of the area’s most impressive landscape features.
Furthermore, a swimming hole with a rope swing lies only a short distance from the campsite. It’s a unique and rare place, even for Florida!
Why do we love it?
Another campsite that will reconnect you with your inner Neanderthal. This might be the most isolated site on our list; however, it’s also the cleanest, most pristine, and most private.
The lack of humans encourages more wildlife to hang around. Visitors have reported all types of local wildlife here. Keep your eye out for them!
Location
- Davenport Landing Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping at Davenport Landing Campground visit HERE.
8. Hickory Hammock – Lorida
Someone was lazy with the nearby city’s name. I mean seriously, Lorida, Florida? They just took the ‘F’ off.
Well, at least it’ll make it easier to find this awesome dispersed camping spot! It’s sheltered among Florida’s sub-tropical forests and offers plenty of privacy.
In fact, it has plenty of trees to set up a hammock—hence the name.
Why do we love it?
You’ll find more amenities than most other campgrounds on this list. Yet it provides some fantastic isolation, especially when it isn’t horseback riding season (AKA wetter weather).
It leaves you free to explore any way you like, even naked! (Seriously, check out our Nude Camping article).
Location
- Hickory Hammock Equestrian Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping at Hickory Hammock Campground visit HERE.
9. Kowechobe Campground – Clewiston
Dinner Island Ranch Wildlife Management Area is more than a mouthful, it’s a wildlife paradise.
Deep in central Florida, just above The Everglades, you’ll find this hidden gem.
A rugged road takes you to the campground, surrounded by sweeping vistas and abundant forests. It’s a wonderful place to get lost.
Why do we love it?
At this campground, you’ll find lush grass between your toes, a blue sky above, and a forest hugging you from every direction.
It’s peaceful, it’s secluded, and it’s free. What more can you ask for? Dinner Island Ranch houses a myriad of local wildlife.
You can walk from your campground and find deer, owls, alligators, and more. Bring a buddy and enjoy some of the most pristine nature in the United States!
Location
- Kowechobe Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to do Nearby
For more information on RV camping at Kowechobe Campground visit HERE.
10. Town of KICCO Campground – River Ranch
Take a long road through KICCO Wildlife Management Area to find this campground. It’s locked behind a gate. Don’t worry though! You can access it by going to this website.
They’ll give you a gate code after you register. KICCO is rife with alligators so be careful with small pets and children.
Why do we love it?
It’s right on the water! Make a cup of coffee in the morning and gaze out your window for spectacular views.
OR set up a lawn chair at night and listen to the alligators grumbling in the nearby swamps.
Still bored? Don’t be! You can take a short walk and go fishing or break out the kayaks and take a cruise. It’s an adventurer’s paradise!
Location
- Town of KICCO Campground
RV Campsite Information
Top Things to Do Nearby
For more information on RV camping at the Town of KICCO Campground visit HERE.
Florida is one of the most unique states in the lower 48. Its epic sub-tropical forests and gorgeous sandy beaches offer plenty of opportunities for free RV camping. If you’ve ever camped in Florida, we want to hear about it. Tell us your story in the comments below!
Do not forget to check freecampsites net florida to find more free camping in Florida.
FAQs
What are the best places to camp for free in Florida?
According to the reviews the best places to camp for free in Florida are:
- Ocala National Forest: This is the largest national forest in Florida, covering over 600,000 acres of pine, sand, and water. You can camp for free anywhere in the forest, except for designated recreation areas, as long as you follow the guidelines for dispersed camping. You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and swimming in the forest’s many trails, lakes, and springs.
- Big Cypress National Preserve: This is a vast wetland area that protects the freshwater flow to the Everglades. You can camp for free in any of the four designated backcountry campsites, which are accessible by foot, bike, or canoe. You will need a free permit from the visitor center to camp here. You can explore the diverse wildlife and habitats of the preserve, such as cypress swamps, hardwood hammocks, and prairies.
- Apalachicola National Forest: This is the largest national forest in Florida’s panhandle, spanning over 500,000 acres of pine flatwoods, wetlands, and coastal plains. You can camp for free anywhere in the forest, except for designated recreation areas, as long as you follow the guidelines for dispersed camping. You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and boating in the forest’s many trails, rivers, and lakes.
Free beach camping Florida: Are there any free places to camp on the beach in Florida?
Most of the beaches in Florida are either privately owned or part of a state park that charges a fee for camping. But, there are a few exceptions where you can pitch your tent or park your RV without paying anything.
Here are some of them:
- Shell Key Preserve: This is a small island near St. Petersburg that is accessible by boat only. You can camp on the beach for up to 10 days, but you need to obtain a free permit online and follow the rules of the preserve.
- Fort Pickens Campground: This is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola. You can camp on the beach for free, but you need to have a valid entrance pass to the national seashore and a reservation for the campground.
- Playalinda Beach: This is part of the Canaveral National Seashore near Titusville. You can camp on the beach for free, but you need to have a valid entrance pass to the national seashore and a backcountry permit from the visitor center.
Freecampsites net Florida: What are the best free campsites in Florida according to Freecampsites.net?
If you are looking for the best free campsites in Florida, you might want to check out Freecampsites.net. This website offers a comprehensive list of free and low-cost camping options in the Sunshine State, along with user reviews, photos, and maps.
Free camping in Panama City Beach: Are there any free places to camp near Panama City Beach?
There are several campgrounds and RV parks in the area that offer affordable rates and amenities. However, if you are looking for free places to camp, you will have a harder time finding them. Most of the public lands and beaches in Panama City Beach are either protected or developed, and camping is not allowed.
You may be able to find some dispersed camping spots in nearby national forests or wildlife refuges, but you will need to do some research and follow the rules and regulations of each site. Camping for free near Panama City Beach is not impossible, but it is challenging and requires planning ahead.
Dispersed camping Florida: What are the best places for dispersed camping in Florida
Dispersed camping means camping outside of designated campgrounds, usually on public lands. Not all public lands allow dispersed camping, so you need to do some research before you go.
Some of the best places for dispersed camping in Florida are:
- Ocala National Forest: This is the largest national forest in Florida, with over 600,000 acres of pine, scrub, and hardwood forests. You can camp anywhere in the forest, except near recreation areas, trailheads, or water sources. You need to follow the Leave No Trace principles and pack out all your trash and waste.
- Big Cypress National Preserve: This is a vast wetland area that protects the freshwater flow to the Everglades. You can camp anywhere in the preserve, except in designated wilderness areas or within 200 feet of any road, trail, or waterway. You need to obtain a free backcountry permit from the visitor center and display it on your vehicle and tent.
- Apalachicola National Forest: This is the largest national forest in Florida’s panhandle, with over 500,000 acres of pine flatwoods, swamps, and sandhills. You can camp anywhere in the forest, except near recreation areas, wildlife management areas, or archaeological sites. You need to follow the Leave No Trace principles and pack out all your trash and waste.
Free camping near Daytona Beach: Are there any free places to camp near Daytona Beach?
The Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area offers free camping for up to 14 days, with access to the beach, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
The Tomoka State Park also has free camping, as well as a museum, canoeing, and kayaking trails, and historical sites.
Another option is the Tiger Bay State Forest, where you can camp for free in designated areas and enjoy the natural beauty of the pine flatwoods and cypress swamps.
