Richloam Tract Primitive Camp Zone North
00 review15003 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida, 34601-4201, United States
Richloam Tract Primitive Camp Zone North
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for camping at the Richloam Tract Primitive Camp Zone North.
About this campground
Deep within the Richloam Tract of Withlacoochee State Forest lies a secluded primitive camping zone that beckons to those seeking authentic wilderness immersion. After a rewarding four-mile trek from the parking area, adventurers discover North Camp Zone—a minimalist's paradise where the only amenities might be a weathered fire ring or rustic picnic table left by fellow wanderers. Here, the forest becomes your entertainment system: days filled with wildlife tracking and botanical discoveries give way to evenings of crackling campfires and some of Florida's most spectacular stargazing, far from the glow of city lights.
The Richloam Tract Primitive Camp Zone North is strictly a primitive camping site with no formal facilities or services. It caters to hikers and those seeking a back-to-basics camping experience.
Historical SignificanceYour journey follows paths once traveled by Native Americans who named the nearby Withlacoochee River for its serpentine curves—a 'crooked river' that has shaped both the landscape and local culture for centuries. This remarkable forest earned international recognition when the World Wildlife Fund crowned it #1 on their prestigious '10 Coolest Places You've Never Seen in North America' list in 1999, acknowledging what outdoor enthusiasts have long known: this is one of Florida's most extraordinary natural treasures.
Weather and SeasonsThis corner of Sumter County offers comfortable camping conditions through much of the year, with pleasantly dry air and temperatures that typically hover between a refreshing 68°F and a warm 80°F during the cooler seasons. Smart campers plan around the summer months when Florida shows its dramatic side—particularly during peak rainy weeks like Week 20, when over 1.4 inches of precipitation can transform the landscape into a lush, glistening wonderland. The 'dry' humidity that characterizes much of the year makes for ideal hiking conditions and comfortable nights under the stars.
ElevationThe gentle Florida terrain creates an accessible wilderness experience, with subtle elevation changes that add interest to your hike without demanding technical climbing skills. While specific elevation data awaits future documentation, the relatively level topography makes this an ideal destination for backpackers of varied experience levels.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living tapestry where towering slash and longleaf pines create cathedral-like canopies overhead, while ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss stand as silent sentinels along your path. The landscape shifts between dense, mysterious woodlands and sun-drenched pine sand hills, each ecosystem supporting its own cast of characters. Lucky visitors might spot majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, white-tailed deer melting into the shadows at dusk, or the prehistoric-looking gopher tortoises that have called this land home for millennia. Come autumn, the forest floor erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers, transforming familiar trails into enchanted pathways.
Geological RegionThe Richloam Tract showcases the remarkable diversity of Withlacoochee State Forest, a vast wilderness spanning five counties and encompassing multiple ecosystems. Ancient geological forces created the distinctive pine sand hills that rise like golden islands from the forest floor, while wetter areas nurture stands of majestic bald cypress with their distinctive knees poking through dark water. This varied terrain, sculpted over millennia, provides critical habitat for an impressive array of wildlife, from the iconic bald eagle to the humble yet ecologically vital gopher tortoise. The interplay of open savannas, dense hammocks, and transitional zones creates a constantly changing landscape that reveals new wonders with each visit, particularly during wildflower season when the understory transforms into a natural garden.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for this campground. Campers should prepare for a hike-in, hike-out experience, which may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not explicitly described, but as a primitive camping zone, they are likely small and minimally delineated.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not specified, but the area is marked by yellow bands on trees, suggesting dispersed camping.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers should prepare for a four-mile hike to reach the campground and bring their own water and supplies.
Best CampsitesSite 001, as this is the only site explicitly listed.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Not specified in the official descriptions.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe camp zone is delineated by yellow bands on trees, suggesting a small primitive camping area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but users are advised to contact WSF Dispatch for updates on prescribed burns and hunting season safety.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required; walk-in basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a walk-in basis, as no reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyNot specified.
Activities you can enjoy
The Richloam Tract Primitive Camp Zone North offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, star gazing, wildflower viewing, and nature study. Nearby attractions include professional sports, art galleries, and theme parks within a 1-1.5-hour drive.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity at this campground, with trails leading to and from the site. The hiking distance from the parking area to the camp zone is approximately four miles.Fishing
Fishing is available within 10 miles of the campground, including river and stream fishing.Swimming
Swimming options exist greater than 10 miles from the campground, including river swimming and ocean access.Biking
Biking is listed as an available activity within the facility, but specific details about trails or terrain are not provided.Boating
Boating opportunities, including canoeing and kayaking, are available within 10 miles of the campground. Rentals are accessible at further distances.Wildlife viewing
The site offers opportunities for observing local wildlife such as bald eagles, fox squirrels, and white-tailed deer. The surrounding forest provides excellent habitats for various species.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are available at ocean access points greater than 10 miles from the campground.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned for this location.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are accessible within 10 miles of the site.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Some areas may have fire rings; no specific rules on campfires are mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal hunting and prescribed burns may pose risks; contacting WSF Dispatch is recommended. No potable water or restroom facilities are present.
Active alertsUsers are advised to confirm safety conditions with WSF Dispatch regarding prescribed burns and hunting season.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located greater than 10 miles away, including hospitals, medical clinics, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated, but autumn may be more scenic due to wildflower blooms.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available within the camp zone. Campers are expected to pack out all their waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe Withlacoochee River and Little Withlacoochee River are nearby but not immediately accessible from the campsite.
Common complaintsLack of potable water and restroom facilities. Accessibility challenges due to the four-mile hike-in requirement.
HostNot specified.
Campground Map
15003 Broad Street, Brooksville, Florida, 34601-4201, United States
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 75 north to Exit 301, bear right onto the exit ramp, turn right (east) on SR-50/US Hwy 98 S and continue to go east on SR-50. You will cross US-301 continuing east on SR-50, you will then turn right (south) onto Clay Sink Road and go approximately 1 mile to the trailhead parking area at the Richloam Fire Tower on the west side of Clay Sink Road. You will be east of CR-575 and west of SR-471.
Access requires driving on SR-50 and Clay Sink Road. The trailhead is accessible by car, but the campground itself is a hike-in/hike-out site located approximately four miles from the parking area.Nearby places
Brooksville (~20 miles), Tampa (~50 miles), Orlando (~50 miles), Clermont (~40 miles), Lakeland (~45 miles)
Nearby supplies
Potable water is available at the Richloam Fire Tower. Grocery stores, fuel, and camping supplies are greater than 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
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Last updated August 10, 2025