A planning guide, not a campsite directory. We have not verified individual campsites. This page summarizes what land managers publish; your exact location and dates decide what is allowed. Last checked October 15, 2026.
📋 Rules at a glance
| Topic | What the agency says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| National Forests in Florida | Camping or maintaining a campsite is limited to 14 days within any 30-day period unless a site is posted differently. The order is forest-wide and has no end date. | National Forests in Florida |
| Where | Dispersed camping is not allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas. Keep sites at least 100 feet from streams and other water. | National Forests in Florida |
| Hunting season | During general gun season in Wildlife Management Areas, camping is allowed only in designated campsites. | National Forests in Florida |
| Waste and fire | Pack out trash; bury human and pet waste at least 6 inches deep and 100 feet from water. Use existing fire rings and burn to ash. | National Forests in Florida |
🗺️ Land you will run into
National forests
The page does not identify specific dispersed camping areas in Ocala, Osceola or Apalachicola, so check the forest’s alerts page or call the district office. Big Scrub (Ocala) and Cobb Hunt Camp (Osceola) are designated campgrounds, not dispersed areas.
State and water management district land
We did not verify camping rules for Florida state forests, wildlife management areas or water management districts. Confirm with the managing agency before you stay.
✅ Also plan around
- Residency: Establishing residency on the forest is prohibited.
- Pets: Pets are allowed in most areas but must be leashed.
Hazards: Heat, storms and hurricane season, mosquitoes, and soft sand roads. Check the National Weather Service for current forecasts.
➡️ Next steps
- First boondocking trip: beginner guide
- Resource calculator: what runs out first?
- BLM RV camping guide and national forest RV camping guide
- Overnight RV parking guide for travel nights
- Florida RV parks and campgrounds in our directory for a paid, serviced stay
- Florida Keys RV travel guide
❓ Common questions
How long can I camp in Florida national forests?
Up to 14 days within any 30-day period unless a site is posted with different limits.
Is there dispersed camping on the Florida Keys?
We did not verify any. See our Florida Keys guide for campgrounds.
📚 Official sources
Checked October 15, 2026. Rules, closures and local orders change; confirm with the land manager before you travel.