Suggestions

[mynameisgeorgel]

I need some suggestions for a short 2-3 day backpacking trip on the florida trail. I'm located in Brunswick Georgia, about an hour north of jacksonville so I'd like something within a few hour drive if possible.

[JaxHiker]

The closest section would be Olustee. You can do Olustee to Deep Creek which is about 20-25 (less if you park at the trailhead, more if you park at the country store). I'd probably head west, though, and hit the Suwanee section around White Springs.

[mynameisgeorgel]

How does camping and stuff work. The florida trail website makes it seem like that section of the trail is surrounded by hunting clubs (seems dangerous) and you have to camp at designated areas and get a permit. Is there a forum or anything that has detailed info.

[JaxHiker]

I guess technically the section I was referring to is Osceola but it starts at Olustee. We hiked through Cobb Hunt Camp but that's the only official one I recall. There might have been some hunters at Turkey Run but I can't recall for sure. I know there were some at West Tower. I don't recall anything about only camping in designated areas but I also don't recall many areas you can camp that aren't "designated". There weren't too many openings in the palmetto. If we needed a permit I've never heard that.

[WingedMonkey]

There are no hunt clubs on National Forests in Florida, only on private land. General gun doesn't stat doesn't start until November 12, in Osceola Forest and North Florida. You may camp anywhere on the forest under the dispersed camping rules.
Like Jax said shade and cleared spots together are rare on that section.
I agree if you are going this time of year head to the Suwanee River section, cooler temperatures and better water supply.

[WingedMonkey]

I might not have been clear about camping. Dispersed camping is not allowed in Osceola Forest during general gun hunting season (Nov 12-Jan 8). Then you must camp at designated spots.