Panther Pond Primitive Campground Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
00 review6265 County Rd. 832, Felda, Florida, 33930, United States
Panther Pond Primitive Campground Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
The campground charges $10 per night for camping, as indicated in user reviews.
About this campground
Deep within the untamed wilderness of Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest lies Panther Pond Primitive Campground, a hidden sanctuary where modern conveniences fade away and nature takes center stage. This remote retreat invites adventurous souls to pitch their tents along a peaceful loop of campsites, each thoughtfully equipped with a picnic table and fire ring complete with grill. While the amenities are deliberately minimal—portable restrooms and dumpsters mark the extent of modern facilities—the rewards are immeasurable: tranquility broken only by wildlife calls, star-filled skies unmarred by light pollution, and the rare opportunity to experience Florida as it existed centuries ago.
The campground provides primitive tent sites and one RV-compatible site. Some sites are located under a hammock, offering shade.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this remarkable preserve, where the landscape tells stories that predate European exploration. The surrounding forest stands as one of South Florida's last remaining windows into the pre-Columbian era, offering visitors a rare glimpse of what this region looked like when only indigenous peoples walked these lands. The Okaloacoochee Slough serves as nature's lifeline, channeling vital water flows that sustain the legendary Fakahatchee Strand and Big Cypress Preserve—two of Florida's most ecologically significant wilderness areas.
Weather and SeasonsNature's rhythms dictate the experience at Panther Pond throughout the year. Winter months bring a fascinating paradox—while temperatures drop to their most comfortable levels, the pond becomes a magnet for insect activity, creating a buzzing ecosystem that reminds visitors of the wetland's vibrant life force. As summer approaches, the air grows thick with humidity, transforming the slough into a sultry wilderness where mosquitoes reign supreme. Savvy campers come prepared with appropriate gear and repellent, knowing that each season offers its own unique window into this dynamic ecosystem.
ElevationThe campground rests at the subtle elevations characteristic of South Florida's ancient landscape, where even minor changes in height create distinct ecological zones.
Natural Features and SceneryPanther Pond serves as the campground's jewel, its dark waters reflecting towering cypress trees and providing a window into one of Florida's most pristine slough ecosystems. This untouched wilderness creates an extraordinary backdrop for wildlife encounters—from wading birds stalking the shallows at dawn to the thrilling possibility of spotting Florida black bears foraging in the distance. The surrounding landscape weaves together sawgrass prairies, cypress domes, and hardwood hammocks, creating a mosaic of habitats that support an incredible diversity of life.
Geological RegionNestled within the sprawling 32,370-acre Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest, the campground occupies a unique position in South Florida's geological story. This pristine slough system represents far more than just protected land—it's a functioning piece of the greater Everglades ecosystem, channeling sheet flow that nourishes both the famed Fakahatchee Strand and the vast Big Cypress Preserve. North of the Everglades proper, this remarkable landscape preserves the authentic character of pre-Columbian South Florida, offering campers the extraordinary opportunity to sleep beneath the same stars that guided ancient peoples through these wetlands thousands of years ago.
Campsite details
AccessibilityA handicap-accessible site is mentioned in user reviews, but no specific official details are provided.
Sites SizeSites are described as large according to one user review. Specific measurements are not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a quiet and peaceful atmosphere with shaded sites. Some sites are located under a hammock.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites offer varying levels of shade, and the loop layout ensures separation between sites.
Best CampsitesSite numbers are not specifically mentioned as the 'best,' but RV Site #16 accommodates pets.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time mentioned.
Check-out
No specific check-out time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit unclear from provided information.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows up to 8 guests.
Groups
Group camping information is not explicitly provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a loop with sites numbered 1-16. RV Site #16 allows pets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round as per user reviews, though no explicit dates are provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platform not explicitly stated, but primitive sites can be reserved.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability, though user reviews suggest limited usage of the campground.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
The forest offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The area is also noted for its opportunities for horseback riding and photography.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails in the forest, including the Tram and Twin Mills trails, are part of the Florida State Forest Trailwalker Program. Trails may require GPS navigation as markers are sometimes missing, according to one user.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are prevalent in the various canals, ponds, and ditches accessible by vehicle or hiking.Biking
Open forest roads are available for mountain biking, with no details on terrain difficulty.Wildlife viewing
The forest's wetlands provide excellent opportunities for observing a variety of wildlife species. One user noted the abundance of wildlife and great views.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are specified.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings with grills.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 5 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are present in the area, requiring campers to follow strict food storage guidelines. Mosquitoes are highly active near Panther Pond, even in cooler months.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Thunderstorm
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services not explicitly stated. The nearest ranger station can be reached at 863-612-0776.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not provided.
Trash and recyclingA dumpster is located at the south end of the campground for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Panther Pond, though no waterfront sites are available.
Common complaintsBug activity is a recurring issue due to the campground's proximity to the pond.
HostNo information about campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
6265 County Rd. 832, Felda, Florida, 33930, United States
Driving directionsFrom I-75, take exit 138 for FL-82 (Fort Myers) and east on FL-82. Follow FL-82 for 20 miles and turn left onto S Church Road. Follow S Church Road and then turn right onto Church Road/Felda Church Road. Follow Church Road/Felda Church Road for 6 miles and then turn left on FL-29 N. Follow FL-29 N for 2.5 miles and then turn right onto Keri Road. Follow Keri Road for 6.4 miles until you see the Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest sign.
The campground is accessible via gravel roads in excellent condition, as noted by user reviews. Seasonal closures or road challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Fort Myers (approximately 20 miles), LaBelle (distance and travel time not specified), Clewiston (distance and travel time not specified).
Nearby supplies
A Walmart is nearby for supplies, as mentioned in user reviews. LaBelle Heritage Museum and Barron Park in LaBelle provide additional amenities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Panther Pond Primitive Campground Okaloacoochee Slough State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peacefulness and remoteness of the campground, as well as its abundant wildlife and recreational opportunities. However, they also note the lack of potable water and electricity as major drawbacks.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean campsites, scenic views, wildlife sightings, shaded sites, proximity to hiking trails, and peaceful atmosphere.
Common Concerns
Issues with mosquitoes, lack of potable water, no electricity, and variability in the cleanliness of restroom facilities.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of bug spray, especially during warmer months. Carry GPS for navigating trails, and ensure all food is stored in bear-proof containers or vehicles.
Seasonal Insights
Summers are likely to have significant issues with mosquitoes. December reviews still noted high bug activity, suggesting year-round insect challenges. Cooler seasons may offer a more comfortable...
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Camper Quotes
- 'Absolutely gorgeous area with tons of wildlife and great views.' - Zachary Steele, Dec 2018
- 'Very primitive, so no water, power, or bathroom facilities just a couple of outhouses.' - Richard...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews generally praise the campground's quiet and cleanliness, mentioning Site #2 as a gem for solitude. However, specific site reviews are limited.
Accessibility Features
A user mentioned the presence of a handicap-accessible site, but detailed feedback from users with disabilities is not available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the tent-only sites, as explicitly stated in the authoritative source.
Last updated August 10, 2025