Escape to Nature: Florida Boondocking & Crystal-Clear Springs
Published about 1 month ago • 2 min read
Volume 3, Issue 6 • February 19, 2025
What's up, fellow wanderer? Our dry camping adventure in Florida has gone better than expected. Jody found us some great spots using the Florida Water Management District websites, and so far, we have stayed at three great locations with more to come!
Hampton Tract
Lake Panasoffkee
Potts Preserve
Camping in WMD campgrounds is as simple as making a reservation (free), getting the gate code, and arriving! We spent some time over the weekend pulling together a consolidated map of all the campgrounds and boondocking spots we have stayed in. It was fun to relive some of the funnier moments and realize how much we have learned over the years!
When we first hit the road as full-time RVers, the idea of boondocking felt overwhelming. I loved the idea of camping off-grid, surrounded by nature, but the thought of being alone—without hookups, security, or a clear plan—made me anxious. Would we run out of power? How would we manage water? What if we got stuck somewhere with no cell service? The unknowns felt endless, and I wasn’t sure if we were ready for the challenge.
I was excited to make a return trip to Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River, FL to see the manatees. However, it has been so warm here that they have returned to the gulf! Strike two on seeing manatees. ☹️
We walked the boardwalk and loop trails hoping to see more wildlife, but that, too, was a bit of a disappointment. Sometimes that happens with nature I suppose.
I did get in some birding practice on the few birds we saw, so the trip wasn't a total waste!
Eastern Bluebird
Anhinga
Northern Mockingbird
Featured Photo of the Week
Have I mentioned how much I love the spanish moss draped over the crazy curves of the oak trees? It's a look that is unique to the deep south and I'm always fascinated with it when I get to see it again.
“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” – John Muir
What's Next?
Next week, we head back to a campground, Southern Palms. It is supposed to be a "resort" which could be fun! Jody has a work trip, so I'll be flying solo for most of the week, with several outings planned!
