Review with photos of FREE camping at Istokpoga Canal between Sebring and Okeechobee in Florida.
At A Glance
- South Florida Management District – Istokpoga Canal.
- Free – Large open area to book.
- Book up to a year out.
- Hosted and Gated – get the lock combination via email after booking.
- Generators OK, 11 pm to 7 am quiet time
- Tents or any kind of RV
- 7 nights max
- Toilets nearby, water near the host, no power, no showers, no dump
- GPS – 27.40215, -81.16013
Location Map
Zoom into the area between Lake Okeechobee and Sebring. The campsite has a purple icon.
My Experience at Istokpoga Canal
About halfway between Okeechobee and Sebring.
It is a beautiful open area near a canal that connects Lake Istokpoga and the Kissimmee River but it is not a quiet setting for two reasons:
- Expect to see and hear airboats at the boat ramp just 200 yards away. This makes for noisy weekends and even during the week at times.
- A main Amtrak railway line is also nearby and trains blow their horns when approaching the many road crossings in the area.
Setting up camp in the treeline instead of along the fence does help with noise reduction but your solar will not perform well. So it is a decision you have to make. The campground is popular and often you must take what is available.
I got used to the noise and throroughly enjoyed the camping experience at Istokpoga. The camp host was helpful and actively involved in ensuring everyone was aware of the rules.
There are a dozen or so lightly-graveled sites (mostly under the trees) and 6 or so established spots in the treeline towards the back. The expectation is to park next to a picnic table if you can. There are spots with good sun for solar but these are popular!
Do come prepared with enough food and fuel for the duration of your stay because grocery shopping is at least 30 minutes away.
I highly recommend The Gator Shack restaurant/bar about 12 minutes away towards Sebring. Great food and service but go early on weekends! It is extremely popular.
Cell service is spotty. Verizon shits from one to two bars and from nothing to streamable within a few yards! You may have to try it out before settling in a spot.
Photos
About the Florida Water Management Districts
Please read my article about the Florida Water Management Districts and the booking process BEFORE booking! It will save you time and frustration.