Camping Florida on a Budget: Free and Cheap Campsites Surrounded by Nature and Wildlife
Published April 18, 2026
Florida is more than just beaches and theme parks; it is also the perfect location for campers wanting to camp without spending a fortune. In Florida you will find peaceful forests and hidden lakes to oceanfront campsites where you can fall asleep to the sounds of waves. In the Sunshine state you can find free and low-cost camping options for every type of traveler. Whether you just want to pitch your tent or are looking for options to park your RV, these spots let you enjoy nature, wildlife, and unique landscapes. Here you will find affordable campsites across Florida. A few of the sites I have personally stayed at, and I will include pictures of those locations. Although this list is small, I will add to it as we begin to camp more throughout Florida. Here are a few reasons why you should camp in Florida.
Affordable outdoor camping without sacrificing adventure
Variety of landscapes: forest, beaches, lakes, and rivers
Wildlife encounters and unique experiences
The lane less traveled is where I always want to be.
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The reviews of the items in this article are based on my own opinions, and I only recommend products, tours, or accommodations that I have personally used or would use during my own travels. Disclosure policy
What is Dispersed Camping in Florida?
Dispersed camping is a location away from developed campgrounds with little to no amenities. Most locations are free or have a minimal fee. These locations often have a maximum number of days you can camp usually up to 14-days. You can often find these locations in the middle of nowhere surrounded by natural beauty, often in solitude from others. Camping in the middle of nowhere is so peaceful and one of my favorite places to camp.
Top Tips for Camping at Free Campsites in Florida
Camping at free campsites in Florida requires a little extra preparation since many of these areas are primitive and lack amenities. By following basic outdoor safety practices, you can enjoy a safe and responsible camping experience while helping to preserve Florida’s natural landscapes and still enjoying your camping experience.
You must camp at least 100 feet from water, trails, and roads.
You must bury human feces 6 inches deep and 100 feet from any water source.
In the summer months, be prepared for more people, mosquitos, heat, and afternoon thunderstorms.
Follow local fire regulations. Use existing fire rings, keep fires small and controlled, fully extinguish fires when leaving or sleeping.
Leave no trace and pack out what you bring. Leave campsites cleaner than when you arrived. Nothing is more frustrating than staying at a campsite full of trash. Clean it up people!!
Camp in previously used areas to avoid environmental impact.
Respect wildlife. Never feed wild animals and store food properly.
Check to see if a free permit is required before camping.
Free Camping Locations in Florida (Wildlife Management Areas)
If you are looking for free affordable places to camp while enjoying nature, there are several great options across Florida. One lesser-known spot is Hickory Hammock Campground, a quiet primitive campground surrounded by wetlands and wildlife, making it a peaceful place for camping. For more remote and dispersed camping, the vast wilderness areas of Ocala National Forest and Apalachicola National Forest provide opportunities for primitive camping surrounded by forest, springs, and wildlife. Another natural area worth exploring is Withlacoochee State Forest, where campers can find primitive campsites, hiking trails, and scenic landscapes that make it feel far from the city. These locations are perfect for budget travelers looking to experience Florida’s natural beauty with low camping costs.
Hickory Hammock Equestrian Campground on McArthur 1 Road in Lorida
This location is FREE, but you do have to register online to use this campground, which is super easy to do by using the above link. This location is managed by South Florida Water Management District.
Amenities include pit toilets, shelter with picnic tables, cold shower, water spigot, dumpster. Each campsite had a fire pit and picnic table. There is a stable available for your horse.
Although this location wasn’t the nicest manicured campground, I think we picked the best campsite surrounded by trees which was beautiful and quiet. We did not have a horse, neither did anyone else staying there and they didn’t question us being there although this is an equestrian campground.
APPS: Campendium (Hickory Hammock Equestrian Campground)
YouTube short of this location
Read more details on this specific campground on my blog.
Other Free Camping Areas in Florida
Ocala National Forest located near Ocala
Dispersed camping is free and allowed in any area, like Juniper Springs and Salt Springs, away from developed recreation areas. You can camp up to 14-days, and you must be at least 100 feet from any water source, trail or road. You will need to bring your own water and pack out any trash. No permit required outside of hunting season and some areas are first-come, first-served. The only restriction is you cannot primitively camp during hunting season which runs from November to January.
This area is known for black bears, so proper food storage is a must. Bear proof containers are provided at campgrounds, or you must store all foods in your car.
In Ocala National Forest you will find lakes, springs, hiking trails, canoeing, and wildlife offering plenty of recreational use for you to enjoy.
Apalachicola National Forest located near Tallahassee
There is several free dispersed camping away from developed campgrounds and several locations throughout Apalachicola National Forest. There are no amenities at dispersed campsites. This area is known for sandhills, rivers, and secluded forest areas and is good for hiking, off-roading, and birdwatching.
A few dispersed campsites are:
Porter Lake Dispersed Camp
Buckhorn Hunt Camp
Withlacoochee State Forest located near Inverness and Dade City
There are multiple free primitive dispersed camping locations within this state park. No pass is required for groups of 5 or less. You will need to contact the Withlacoochee Visitors Center at (352) 797-4140 regarding permit for larger groups. Within this park you can find hiking trails, rivers and lots of wildlife.
Blackwater River State Forest located near Milton
Blackwater River State Forest is one of the largest State Forests in Florida. You can find a beautiful stream that flows through the forest along with multiple plant and tree species. Primitive camping can be found just outside the park near the Florida Alabama state line. You can find free dispersed camping along trails and rivers and can stay up to 14-days. The sites are truly primitive, and you will need to bring all needed supplies for your camping trip.
You can find canoeing, kayaking, biking, picnicking, horseback riding, camping and a tall pine forest throughout the park.
Apps: The Dyrt
Check out my blog post:A List of Free Boondocking Locations across the United Statesfor more free camping locations.
Cheap but Well-Equipped Campgrounds in Florida Under $20
If you want budget friendly camping without giving up basic amenities, several affordable campgrounds across Florida offer a balance between cost and comfort. Campgrounds like Panther Pond Campground provide a peaceful campsite surrounded by nature while offering facilities such as restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings.
Panther Pond Campground located in Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
This campground provided a quiet place to stay on our way to Everglades National Park. The Okaloacoochee Slough consists of 32,370-acres throughout the forest which provides the opportunity for hiking, biking, and fishing. This is a smaller campground with 16 camping sites, with 15 of those sites being for tents only. This campground does not accommodate larger RV’s. We stayed here in our campervan and didn’t use a tent and were still able to stay here.
Address: Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest, Forest Road, (Wild Cow Grade), Clewiston (or Felda) Florida
GPS: 26.55327, -81.29609
Camping rates: $9.09 a night plus booking fees (2024 fees)
Cell signal: Yes, Verizon
Amenities included a picnic table and fire ring at each site. There are port-a-potties and a dumpster at the end of the road across from the pond. There are no utility or sewer hookups at this location. Generators allowed but need to be off by 10pm. Watch out for snakes!
Reservations are requiredfor this campground.
This campground is located 1 hour 46 minutes from the Shark Valley entrance of Everglades National Park. Address: 36000 SW 8th St, Miami, Florida
2 hours 43 minutes to the Ernest F Coe Visitor Center entrance of Everglades National Park. Address: 40001 State Road 9336, Homestead, Florida
1 hour 17 minutes to Gulf Coast Visitor Center which is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian (2024). You can still launch kayaks/canoes from this area, but you cannot enter the Everglades from this entrance. Address: 815 Oyster Bar Lane, Everglades City, Florida
Other Cheap Camping Areas in Florida
Florida Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) - minimal fee required with registration
Lake George WMA offers multiple primitive camping opportunities with a minimal fee of $15 a night plus tax. There are 8 different campsites each offering a variety of options from hiking, biking, canoeing, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, fishing and more. You need to reserve your campsite online.
Amenities include fire ring with grill, picnic table, port-o-let, and pavilion with some amenities varying per site.
Seminole State Forest offers primitive tent camping in certain areas. Most spots provide a fire ring with grill and picnic table. Pets are allowed. Camping rates start at $9.01 a night plus reservation fees. Reservations are made online.
Beachfront Camping in Florida on a Budget
Beachfront camping can be a luxury and often times comes with a higher cost. However, Florida has some beautiful parks that allow beachfront camping for a smaller fee. Here are a few camping locations within Florida with beach front access.
Fort De Soto Campground is located in central Florida at Fort De Soto Park on the west coast.
This park offers a beautiful location with biking and hiking trails and ocean views,
Reservations can be made up to six months in advance, and you can stay up to 14-days within a 30-day period. Waterfront sites start at $48.03 a night.
Amenities include water and electric hookups, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Dump stations, modern restrooms with showers, laundry facilities, camp store and free Wi-Fi at the camp store are available. Pets are allowed.
Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715
Shell Key Preserve located on an island about 15-20 minutes away by vessel from Fort De Soto Park.
Shell Key Preserve allows for island primitive camping only. Camping is $6 per permit per night for up to 6 people and does not include Fort De Soto camping. Each vessel must be registered to camp on the island. There are no facilities on the island, and you are required to bring your own portable toilet for your personal use. Camping is only allowed on the southern end of the island in public use areas. No alcohol or pets are allowed on the island. If you bring your own vessel there is an additional $6 a night fee for parking at the boat ramp. Camping reservations can be made online.
Shell Key Island map below.
Here you will find some of the best Free Camping Locations Near National Parks
Luxurious Tent Glamping in Florida
Check out these luxurious tent glamping options available throughout Florida making this the perfect option if you need a camping experience with amenities such as restrooms, kitchen, patios, and more. These locations still give you the quiet serene setting but come with amenities for your convenience. You can click the links below to book each site.
Idlewild Lodge and RV Resort - located in Lake Panasoffkee, here you will find family units, year-round swimming pool, sun terrace, outdoor fireplace, play area and more.
Lakeside Glamping Escape - full glamping experience with lake and river views available for boating or fishing. Full amenities in the glamping tents include air-conditioning, balcony, fully equipped kitchen and more.
Florida Yurt Escape in Nature - What a unique way to camp in Florida in a yurt. Stay 15 miles from Disney in Kissimmee in a luxury yurt with amenities that include a fully equipped kitchen, free toiletries and TV.
Charming Secluded Tent Cabin in Sarasota - another fun luxurious tent glamping experience. Enjoy outdoor seating by the outdoor fireplace, patio, and private bathrooms.
This blog post talks about Road Tripping Through Virginia’s Trails: Hiking and Boondocking Along the Way
Other Beachfront Camping Areas in Florida
St George Island is located in the panhandle in Northern Florida
St George Island is the perfect location for beachgoing, fishing, stargazing and sunsets. This area allows you to kayak, fish, swimming, boating, hiking, and camping. Enjoy blue waters, white sands, and possible dolphin sitings.
Amenities include fire ring with grill, electric and water hookups, picnic tables, and domestic animals are allowed.
Camping rates start at $24 a night plus reservation fees.
Long Key State Park located in the Florida Keys
At Long Key State Park, you have the opportunity to explore the beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. You can swim, kayak, birdwatch, picnic or go hiking. The park currently only offers hike-in tent camping. Park entrance fees are additional and start at $4.50 for one person.
Camping rates: start at $22.50 plus registration fees.
Address: 67400 Overseas Highway, Long Key, FL
Curry Hammock State Park located in the Florida Keys
Another beautiful state park in the Florida Keys is Curry Hammock State Park. Here you can see the beautiful peregrine falcons each year, go biking, fishing, kayaking, hiking, or camping. State Park entrance fees start at $4.50 for one person. Pets are allowed at your campsite but not on the beach.
Camping rates: start at $36 plus registration fees.
Address: 56200 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL
Essential Tips for Budget Camping in Florida
Budget camping in Florida can be a great way to travel cheaply and still have money to enjoy all of the attractions Florida has to offer. Here are some ways to help save money while camping in Florida.
Book Florida State Parks instead of private campgrounds
Check regulations - even free sites may require a free permit or have seasonal restrictions
Use ReserveAmerica for cheaper campsites
Choose parks with free activities such as hiking, kayaking, fishing and more
A List of Essential Camping Gear I Recommend for Florida
Bug Soother bug spray made in the USA that we love to use
10 Safety Essentials You Should Never Forget When Camping in Florida
First Aid Kit - a well-stocked first aid kit is an important items to pack
Plenty of drinking water - at least 1 gallon of water per person per day
Rain gear - Florida weather changes fast, especially in the summer
Bug spray - Mosquitoes, no-see-ums, and ticks are common in Florida
Flashlights or headlamps - Campgrounds can get very dark at night, especially in the wooded areas
Emergency phone power banks - important for navigation through the parks especially if hiking
Sun protection - because duh, it’s Florida, the Sunshine State
Emergency whistle - helpful in case you would get lost on the trails
Bear proof containers - for wildlife safety, keep food out of reach of wild animals
Lighter - if campfires are allowed, a long lighter is essential
Best Time of Year to Visit for Cheap Camping in Florida
Camp during shoulder season
Avoid spring break weeks, major holidays and winter weekends (snowbird season)
Cheapest and best times to camp in Florida are:
Late April - early June due to the heat
September - early November
Avoid hurricane season which is typically June 1 - November 30
Wildlife Awareness and Safety
Camping at free or budget friendly sights in Florida also require the importance of staying aware of the wildlife that call these areas home. When camping in remote areas or public land like the Ocala National Forest or the Apalachicola National Forest, always store food in sealed containers, keep your campsite clean, and dispose of trash properly to avoid attracting animals. Maintain a safe instance from wildlife, especially near lakes, rivers, and marshes where alligators may live.
Keep food in sealed containers or coolers
Use bear proof containers in areas where bears are possible
Never leave food out overnight
Trash bags (dispose properly)
Use a whistle to scare animals if needed
Watch for:
Alligators near water
Raccoons stealing food
Snakes in wooded areas
Black bears in wooded areas in or near National Forests. They are more likely to come out in the early morning or dusk and nighttime.
Tips for Finding Free or Cheap Camping in Florida
There are so many free and cheap camping locations within Florida. Here are the apps you should download to help you locate boondocking locations.
Harvest Hosts - requires a yearly fee to have access to free camping locations. We used this program for a year, and you can read my Harvest Host review here.
Plan Your Next Cheap Camping Trip in Florida
Camping for free or at low-cost locations throughout Florida is the best way to explore the state. From well-maintained campgrounds in Florida State Parks to remote areas within the state. There are endless opportunities to experience forests, rivers, and beautiful landscapes. Wherever you decide to stay you will find peace in the area off the beaten path. Florida offers something for every camper. Stay at one of these campsites for a memorable outdoor adventure while keeping your costs low which is always my goal when traveling across the United States. Although camping on the west side of the United States offers way more remote free camping locations, you can still find some good, secluded sites in Florida as well.
Enjoy the journey,
Follow me on social media to discover more travel ideas
Instagram @adoptinglifesjourney
Pinterest /adoptinglifesjourney
If this post was helpful, follow me on Instagram @adoptinglifesjourney and
Hashtag your photos at #adoptinglifesjourney
Need help planning a vacation? I am also a travel agent. Follow me on social media and send me a DM @exploringsunsetstravel for more travel inspiration or for a FREE travel quote. There is no cost to you for using me as your travel agent.
Check out offers on Disney to plan your dream vacation.
Evolution Travel - Jennifer Sloan (evotravelagent.com)
Want to book a cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line, click the QR code below to start planning
New blog posts
Traveling in a campervan is an exhilarating experience as you take on the open road and travel to faraway places where you can get a sense of adventure or slow it down and find peace in nature as you explore this great land. Make sure you have the necessary items for traveling.