Review with photos of FREE camping at Potts Preserve Wildlife Management Area managed by the South West Florida Water Mgmt. Near Inverness in Florida.
At A Glance
- South West Florida Management District – Potts Preserve.
- Free – Three adjacent camp areas to book, walk-in tents, River Campsite, and Equestrian Campsite.
- Tent Area – tents only. No generators
- River Area – All types of RVs. No Generators.
- Equestrian Area – All types of RVs. Generators are okay – 10 pm to 7 am quiet time.
- Porta Pottis at each camp area.
- Combination Locked gate – code in an email when booked. 7 nights max. Book up to 30 days out
- Tent and River Camping 28.91536, -82.28273
- Equestrian Camping 28.90459, -82.30737
Location Map
Zoom into the area to the North East of Inverness. The campsite has a purple icon.
My Experience
Wonderful location if you want to visit family in The Villages.
I booked the River Primitive Campsite on North Hooty Rd. About 6 sites under trees near the river but you cannot see it. For access, you have to walk 0.2 miles to the backcountry camping area.
Airboats were loud during the day but peaceful at night. Mosquitoes were manageable. Verizon was spotty with one bar but it worked!
Sites are large and spaced apart and you just grab one you like. Arrive early for the best sites!
Very pleasant stay. East short dirt roads after the gates.
The equestrian site is an open field and would’ve been better for my solar because I had little sun in the trees. Larger RVs should book the equestrian sites.
Tip – Do not book the primitive backcountry sites unless you want to park and carry your tent at least 100 yards! Book either the River or Equestrian campsites.
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.