Equestrian camping opportunities exist approximately 58 miles from Elberta, Alabama, within the expansive Blackwater River State Forest. This northwestern Florida region features rolling hills with native longleaf pine forests covering nearly 210,000 acres. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, making off-season equestrian camping viable for riders seeking year-round trail access.
What to do
Ride historic trails: Blackwater River State Forest offers multiple designated equestrian routes through diverse forest ecosystems. "This beautiful equestrian campground offers 55 RV/tent campsites and one tent only site and 60 horse stalls. All campsites have water and electrical hookups," notes Dale W. about Coldwater Equestrian Campground — Blackwater River State Forest.
Explore Civil War sites: The Spanish Fort area provides educational riding opportunities through historic battlefields. "There are bathrooms and bath houses, fairly secluded campsites, along with 26 miles of trails which are easy to moderate with a flat surface. You will walk through historic civil war sites, trails that were once the streets of the town of Blakeley," writes Julie D. about Blakeley State Park Campground.
Access water recreation: Several equestrian campgrounds provide water access for both horses and humans. "Cold Water Creek runs along the north edge of the campgrounds with easy access from the camp sites. A very beautiful area," explains Dale W. about Coldwater Recreation Area.
What campers like
Spacious parking for trailers: Horse owners appreciate designated areas for larger rigs. "Big camping spaces- semi private. Kayaking trails all around in the park and local. Close by to big city life but camping in the wild yonder," notes Christie M. about Apalachee RV Campground - Blakeley State Park.
Private horse areas: Some campgrounds offer dedicated equestrian facilities separate from general camping. "A lot of the campsites are right on the water. You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only. The showers and bathrooms were always clean and nice," shares Jennifer P. about her experience at Coldwater Recreation Area.
Attentive staff: Rangers at equestrian facilities often provide exceptional service. "Very friendly staff especially the Rangers. Faye (one of the rangers) is great. We had our 3 year old granddaughter with us and she came by at least twice a day to give her a ride on the golf cart and printed of pages she could color on rainy days," explains Jennifer P.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: While Florida equestrian facilities remain open year-round, conditions vary significantly. "We were there for Mother's Day weekend, which was cooler than normal with lows in the 50s. Friday night it rained and was quiet. Saturday the park was very busy, partly because things were finally opening up after quarantine," reports MomSolo about Blakeley State Park.
Site leveling challenges: Several equestrian campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "Some of the sites are so unlevel. But the historical tour of the park is amazing. So much information about the civil war. Other than the rv sites being so unlevel the park is really nice," explains Michael about Blakeley State Park.
Limited connectivity: Cell service can be unreliable at some horse campgrounds. "So well maintained, it is way back in the woods. Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time, but overall this is a great little place," notes Terran B. about Coldwater Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Junior ranger programs: Children can participate in educational activities while adults ride. "Woke up to begin the junior ranger packet for our kiddos (provided at checkout) and hiked and explored all day. We were super happy at the food truck that was there so we didn't have to go off site for lunch," shares Nicole G. about her experience at Peaceful Camping in the Woods.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many horse trails double as wildlife observation areas. "Parked in a clearing with 2 5th wheel renters on it...walked back into the woods along a trail and chose one of several camp clearings. Level ground, dry, lots of deer. We will return!!" explains Christopher M.
Ranger-led activities: Some equestrian facilities offer special programs for young visitors. "She didn't discriminate either..all the children at the campground got to take a ride. Lots of trails to ride your horses," notes Jennifer P. about ranger interactions at Coldwater Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Setting up equestrian rigs requires daylight hours. "We booked in the improved camping section and came in a little later than I had wanted to set up. We arrived at 7:00pm. I have never been greeted by a more enthusiastic staff member who just kept saying we would love it," shares Nicole G. about her experience at Anchors Aweigh RV Resort.
Site selection strategy: Not all equestrian sites provide equal privacy or access. "Most of the sites from #16 to #56 are shaded, some more than others. All the sites are not the same size, some being larger than the others," explains Jennifer P. about Coldwater Recreation Area.
Sandy site considerations: Prepare for variable ground conditions at horse facilities. "We stayed on site #56 and it was right on the water. It was also next to the road. The site was extra super sandy (beach sand) and would be a lot better if they removed some of it," cautions Jennifer P.
