Wilderness Landing campground provides equestrian facilities for riders exploring the Blackwater River area in northern Florida. The campground features a horse corral and direct access to multiple trail systems through the surrounding forest. Located approximately 50 miles from Kinston, Alabama, this primitive camping area experiences a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Annual rainfall averages 65 inches, creating lush vegetation but sometimes challenging trail conditions.
What to do
River activities: Wilderness Landing offers direct access to Blackwater River with a boat launch and sandy beach area. "The river is sand bottom and fairly clear. My big ol' malamute 'Stealie' loves the river!" notes Stealie F.
Trail riding: Heart of Dixie Trail Ride maintains trails suitable for various experience levels. "This place has a lot of amenities pool, fishing, horse and atv trails that are great for beginner horseriders," reports Nicole H. The facility includes an arena for riding practice before hitting longer trails.
Fishing: Geneva State Lake provides fishing opportunities with two dedicated docks. According to Vand H., it's a "Beautiful park to camp next to the lake with 2 fishing docks." The lake contains bass, bream and catfish species.
What campers like
Affordability: Wilderness Landing offers free camping for up to two weeks. Salvador G. confirms the value: "Good spot for free. Clean showers/toilet building. Pavilions and grills by the river."
Natural springs: Blue Springs State Park Campground features cold spring water perfect for summer heat relief. John W. writes, "The springs area was shady, and the springs themselves were awesome (if you can stand the verrry cold water)."
Peaceful environment: Geneva State Lake provides quiet camping spots with minimal development. SJ W. describes: "It was so peaceful and the sunrises over the lake were breathtaking... Even had a ranger come through!"
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads, particularly after rain. Donna G. from Wilderness Landing notes: "Beautiful views, clean restrooms, and free. Other campers were very friendly. The only reason for a 3 is the rough drive getting there."
Limited amenities: Most equestrian camping near Kinston, Alabama offers basic facilities. Ken R. describes Wilderness Landing as "Primitive, Quiet and Free. Want to be away from it all - this is the place. Grass sites, some shade."
Water temperature: Blue Springs State Park features extremely cold water year-round. Deanna C. shares: "I tried it but found it too cold even though August in Alabama is very hot."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Blue Springs State Park offers family-friendly amenities beyond water features. According to John W., "There was lots of room for the grandkids to play and ride bikes."
Insect preparation: Equestrian camping in this region requires insect protection, especially near water. Deanna C. warns: "Bugs became a real issue as the sun began to set. Come armed with repellant."
Weekday visits: To avoid crowds at popular water features, schedule mid-week trips. Christopher P. suggests: "This place would be good to visit on a week day early in the morning."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven camping surfaces throughout the region. MtnBkr1984 notes about Blue Springs: "The campsites are not level and some of them you have to guess where to put the trailer."
Site selection: For RVers visiting Wilderness Landing, Stealie F. advises: "It's not on the big side of campgrounds but still has some of the amenities. No hookups at the campsites but there is running water (hot and cold) in the bath house with flushing toilets. Power outlets in the bath house as well."
Weather planning: SJ W. cautions about Geneva State Lake: "Wish I could have stayed longer but I didn't want to get stuck there in the rain. It was about 5 miles of dirt roads to get in there and they were well maintained but I didn't want to risk it."
