Just moved to Orlando, FL. Want to find good places to hang.

**matthiastrek** · 02-08-2015, 13:04

I have been in Orlando for two weeks, and I have visited some parks, both urban and forest. I was wondering if there are any places where its is ok to set up a hammock. I ask because last time I set up a hammock in a public park, I got a ticket for "camping".

**FLRider** · 02-08-2015, 14:50

Don't know about Orlando proper, but there are several areas around central FL where hanging is not only okay but wonderful.

Ocala National Forest has multiple campgrounds and the whole forest is available for dispersed camping when it's not general gun season (it's not right now). The Florida Trail runs the length of it, as well.

St. Johns Water Management District has several areas around north central and northeast FL that are available for camping (some require a free permit available through the website); hammocks are perfectly allowed.

Southwest Florida Water Management District also has many areas where camping is available. As far as I know (I don't have personal experience with this district), hammocks are okay there as well.

South Florida Water Management District also maintains lands in your area. I'm not familiar with them, either, though, so it may behoove you to check things out before going.

Florida State Parks also have camping in your area. Note, though, that not all of them allow hammocks and--for those that do--you'll need 2" straps for both your hammock and tarp. Definitely call ahead to find out if the particular park you want to go to has spots available for hammocking.

Hope it helps!

**choltzapple** · 02-11-2015, 09:11

Try Moss Park. It is a nice laid back place. I've never had any troubles setting a hammock up for a nap or while camping.

**Gumbo** · 02-11-2015, 09:32

Originally Posted by matthiastrek

I have been in Orlando for two weeks, and I have visited some parks, both urban and forest. I was wondering if there are any places where its is ok to set up a hammock. I ask because last time I set up a hammock in a public park, I got a ticket for "camping".

Welcome to Florida! FLRider gave you some excellent advice. Hanging in Florida State Parks is a relatively new concept. Just five years ago, the idea of attaching anything to trees was a serious offense and even now can carry some hefty fines.

Our experience has always been that if it's your first time camping in an area, go ahead and call first ask about the policy and then politely explain what responsible hammock hanging looks like. Offer to show them your gear.

Most importantly, don't do anything that will give our hanging community a bad name. You know the old saying, "It only takes one to mess it up for everyone."

Keep an eye out in the Trips Planning folder, Florida has an active hanging community this time of year. Around April plenty of folks transition to kayak camping (cool spring fed water FTW) and stick with that through the hottest months. We do have die hards who camp year round and there are 2 summertime hikes to Hidden Pond I think. The "No Underquilts Hang" and the "Summer's Last Gasp Hang." I hope that helps.

Looking forward to the chance to hang with you sometime.