Tent campsites near Kinston, Alabama are predominantly located within Blackwater River State Forest across the Florida state line. The forest spans over 210,000 acres of longleaf pine ecosystem with camping options positioned around several lakes. Seasonal considerations include hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters where nighttime temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hurricane Lake South Campground, fishing is permitted with electric trolling motors only. One camper noted, "I suggest bringing fishing gear if you are into fishing. I was motocamping so I couldn't fit my fishing gear on my bike."
Wildlife observation: Hurricane Lake South Campground offers opportunities to spot local wildlife, though visitors should maintain awareness. While alligators inhabit the area, one frequent visitor shared, "I have been there maybe 50 times and have yet to see the first gator though." Squirrels are more commonly encountered, with the same camper mentioning they "will enjoy bombing you from above while laughing at you with their friends."
Water activities: The multiple lakes in Blackwater River State Forest provide various water recreation options beyond fishing. Water access points are available at several campgrounds, though swimmers should follow posted safety guidelines due to wildlife.
What campers like
Peaceful setting: The separation between tent and RV camping areas creates a more natural experience. A visitor to Hurricane Lake South Campground commented, "I love that the tent campers are in a separate campground from RV campers. This makes for a more peaceful camping experience."
Spacious sites: Tent sites provide ample room with basic amenities. According to one camper, "The sites were spacious and grassy. Each site had a fire pit, a picnic table and shared a water spigot."
Accessible remoteness: Swindalls Campground and other area camping options provide a remote feeling while remaining accessible. A Hurricane Lake visitor mentioned, "Remote but good roads all the way to it... A magical place, plenty of shade and potable water near your campsite."
What you should know
Campground host services: North Karick Lake Youth Group Camp and several other campgrounds in the forest have resident hosts who enforce rules and provide information. One camper reported, "We were greeted by the kindest friendliest host as we were setting up. He made sure we knew the rules and amenities."
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds in the area have basic bathroom facilities but limited or no shower access. A camper noted, "There are bathroom facilities although, no showers." Another mentioned, "Communal bathroom located near the Campground host but no dedicated shower at time of this posting."
Stay limits: A maximum stay policy is enforced throughout the forest. According to a regular visitor, "I believe you can stay up to 14 days at a time before being required to pick up and move."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety protocols: When camping with children near Hurricane Lake or other water bodies, establish clear boundaries due to wildlife presence. Though alligator sightings are rare according to campers, basic water safety precautions remain important.
Waste disposal: Teaching proper waste management is simplified by available facilities. One camper mentioned, "A large dumpster provides a place to leave all your trash so there's no excuse not to leave a trace on your site when leaving."
Group camping options: Hurricane Lake North Youth Group Camp provides dedicated facilities for family or youth organization outings, with reservation requirements for group sites.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Camp Paquette Youth Group Camp and several other campgrounds in the forest offer varying levels of hookups. Most provide water access points and some have electric hookups, but services vary by specific campground area.
Road conditions: Access roads to tent campsites near Kinston are generally well-maintained. A regular visitor confirmed, "Remote but good roads all the way to it," making navigation possible for most vehicles including those towing smaller campers.
Dump station access: While primitive tent sites dominate the region, some campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities for RVs. Check with campground hosts about specific availability as this varies by location within the forest.
