Free dispersed camping in subtropical hammocks with crystal-clear springs to swim in.
Ocala NF in central Florida has free dispersed camping (called 'dispersed' or 'primitive' here) on most forest roads, and the springs — Juniper, Salt, Alexander — are 72°F year-round and unreal turquoise.
Why it's special
Florida boondocking that doesn't feel like a parking lot. Springs that stay 72°F all year, palms, sand pine scrub, and bears.
Best time to go
November through April. Summer is humid and buggy.
Getting there
From Ocala, FL east on FL-40, multiple forest roads branch north and south.
Know before you go
- Free dispersed, 14-day stay.
- Florida black bears are active; food storage matters.
- Mosquitoes get serious in any warm month.
- Some roads close seasonally for hunting.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Hopkins Prairie and Lake Eaton are scenic dispersed corridors.
- Juniper Springs swim area is iconic — go on a weekday.
- Cell service is decent on FL-40, weak on side roads.
- Pack a screen room or a Thermacell.
Combine with
Apalachicola NF, Crystal River, Cedar Key.