EAST TOWER CAMP

camping in osceola national forest

For Floridians who cherish the raw beauty of the outdoors and seek a truly authentic camping experience, East Tower Camp in Sanderson, FL, presents a unique opportunity. Nestled within the expansive Osceola National Forest, this primitive camping area offers a distinct alternative to more developed campgrounds. It’s a place where you can truly get back to nature, enjoying the simplicity of the wilderness while still being accessible to some creature comforts.

East Tower Camp is well-known among locals, particularly hunters and those with large recreational vehicles, for its spacious sites and "big rig friendly" nature. It stands out by offering a less structured, more open camping environment, allowing visitors to choose their own spot within a vast, forested area. While it’s certainly not a luxury resort, its appeal lies in its straightforward, no-frills approach to outdoor living, making it an ideal choice for those who value solitude and self-sufficiency.

In this article, we’ll dive into what makes East Tower Camp a noteworthy destination for Florida's outdoor enthusiasts. We'll cover its specific location, the essential services you can expect, and the key highlights that draw campers back to this rugged haven. Our aim is to provide a clear, factual overview to help you decide if this unique primitive camping experience is the right fit for your next adventure in our beautiful Sunshine State.

East Tower Camp is located in Sanderson, FL 32087, USA, deep within the Osceola National Forest. This strategic placement in North Florida makes it an accessible option for residents across the northern and even central parts of the state. The camp's direct proximity to the Osceola National Forest means visitors are immediately immersed in a vast natural landscape, characterized by flat, forested terrain with a mix of pine and hardwood trees.

Accessibility to East Tower Camp is generally good, even for larger vehicles. While it’s a primitive camp, its "big rig friendly" reputation indicates that the roads leading to and within the main camping areas are manageable for RVs and trailers. The camp is located "near the highway," suggesting reasonable proximity to major routes, which simplifies travel for those coming from different parts of Florida. Its location also puts it within reasonable driving distance to local amenities, with a Dollar General store about 15 minutes away for essential supplies. This balance of feeling remote while remaining relatively accessible is a significant benefit for Floridians looking for a true escape without venturing too far off the beaten path.

As a primitive camping area, East Tower Camp focuses on providing a basic, yet functional, experience for campers. The services offered are minimal, catering to those who are largely self-sufficient and appreciate a more rugged outdoor environment.

• Spacious, Dispersed Camping: Unlike campgrounds with marked, individual sites, East Tower Camp offers a large area where campers can choose their own spot. This allows for greater privacy and flexibility, accommodating everything from tents to large RVs.
• Trash Cans: Conveniently, trash cans are provided within the camping area, which is a key amenity for maintaining cleanliness in a primitive setting. Campers are encouraged to utilize these and help keep the area tidy.
• Shade and Sun Options: The expansive natural environment allows campers to select areas with ample shade from trees or open spots for sun exposure, depending on their preference and the time of year.
• Big Rig Friendly: The camp is known for being accommodating to large RVs and trailers, making it a viable option for those with bigger vehicles who might find other primitive sites challenging.
• Drinking Water (Seasonal/Limited): Public information indicates that drinking water may be available, though typically during specific times like hunting season, and it's always advisable to confirm availability or bring your own.
• Parking: Ample parking is available within the large camping area.

• Primitive, Free Camping: A major highlight is that East Tower Camp is a free, primitive campground operated by the federal government (U.S. Forest Service). This makes it an incredibly budget-friendly option for extended stays or quick getaways.
• "Big Rig Friendly" Environment: Its reputation for accommodating large RVs is a significant feature, providing spacious areas where larger vehicles can maneuver and park comfortably.
• Proximity to Osceola National Forest: Being embedded within the Osceola National Forest means direct access to vast wilderness for activities like hunting (primarily during general gun season), hiking, and nature viewing.
• Privacy and "Nooks and Crannies": The large, open layout allows campers to find secluded spots and "nooks and crannies for privacy," appealing to those who prefer a more isolated camping experience away from crowded sites.
• Minimal Noise: Despite being near a highway, reviews suggest "not much noise," indicating a relatively peaceful environment for relaxation.
• Hunting Camp: East Tower is primarily utilized as a hunt camp, particularly during general gun season, making it an ideal base for hunters exploring the surrounding Osceola National Forest.
• Nearby Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park: The camp is close to the historic Olustee Battlefield, offering educational and historical exploration opportunities for campers interested in Florida's past.
• Proximity to Ocean Pond: Ocean Pond, a popular recreational spot for swimming and boating, is also within a reasonable distance, providing additional outdoor activity options.
• Working Fire Tower: There is a tower on-site that visitors can climb, offering unique views of the surrounding forest.

Address: Sanderson, FL 32087, USA

Note: As a primitive, federal campground, specific direct phone numbers for East Tower Camp are generally not provided. For inquiries, it is best to contact the Osceola National Forest Ranger's Station directly. The National Forests in Florida Supervisor's Office can be reached at 850-523-8500. It's always wise to check the U.S. Forest Service website for the Osceola National Forest for the most current information regarding conditions, alerts, and any temporary closures before planning your trip.

For Floridians who embrace a rustic, self-reliant camping style, East Tower Camp in Sanderson offers an authentic and accessible outdoor experience right in our own backyard. Its prime location within the Osceola National Forest makes it a perfect launchpad for hunting expeditions, nature photography, or simply unwinding amidst Florida's unique forested landscape. The "big rig friendly" aspect is a significant advantage for many local RV owners, providing ample space and ease of access that can be hard to find in more structured campgrounds.

While some visitors have noted challenges with litter, the presence of trash cans and the understanding that this is a primitive, free-use area means that visitors play a vital role in maintaining its natural beauty. The removal of portable toilets as of January 2022 further emphasizes the primitive nature of the camp, underscoring the need for campers to be prepared with their own facilities and practice Leave No Trace principles. The limited cell service (Verizon was one bar in a tiny spot) reinforces the idea that this is a place to disconnect and truly immerse oneself in nature.

Ultimately, East Tower Camp is ideal for those who value privacy, open space, and a no-frills connection with the wilderness. It's a testament to Florida's diverse camping opportunities, offering a counterpoint to the many resort-style parks. For locals seeking a free, spacious, and genuinely primitive escape, especially if you're an avid hunter or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest in a larger vehicle, East Tower Camp provides a valuable and rewarding outdoor experience in North Florida.

EAST TOWER CAMP

Sanderson, FL 32087, USA