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Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping

6 Reviews

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping, near Holt, Florida, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a true wilderness experience. This area is all about getting back to basics, with primitive camping that encourages you to bring everything you need for a comfortable stay.

The scenery here is stunning, with tall pines and beautiful views that make for a perfect backdrop. Campers have raved about the peacefulness, with one visitor noting, “Amazing spot! Just a few people there.” You’ll find no frills here—no toilets or showers—so be prepared to rough it a bit. But that’s part of the charm, right?

This location is also a great jumping-off point for exploring the surrounding areas, including the Conecuh National Forest in Alabama. Many campers have enjoyed the chance to camp in two states in one trip, making it a unique adventure. Just remember to pack in what you need and pack out your trash to keep this spot pristine for future visitors.

If you’re looking for a place to unwind and connect with nature, Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping is a solid choice. Just be sure to respect the space and leave no trace, so everyone can enjoy this beautiful slice of Florida wilderness.

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
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35 min away

Zen Rustic Tiny Cabin - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

Zen Rustic Tiny Cabin - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

38 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Location

Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping is located in Florida

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

30.71085858 N
86.86619175 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 11/19/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 11/19/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 11/19/25
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 11/19/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

  • Electric Hookups
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Emily B.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Nov. 10, 2025

Location is off

This spot is pinned at the boat ramp parking, but that is not actually the campsite you can turn on that numbered road j28 and there’s a couple different parking. Lots with paths to the campgrounds. We’re here right now. It’s been pretty nice. Kind of a lot of drinking from some other people here and they trashed the place I guess is why you can’t drive down to the campsite so we tried to clean up a little bit at our site while we were here.

Siteprimitive
Month of VisitNovember
M
Reviewed Oct. 24, 2021

Nice overnight stay

This was a nice place to stop for an overnight stay. We stayed at the state park campground in site 19. It was a full hookup site and close to the bath house.

Site19
Month of VisitOctober
Wayne H.
Reviewed Mar. 8, 2021

Northern Florida backpack Camping

Black Water River State Forest is on the Florida and Alabama state line. This is all primitive camping so be sure to bring EVERYTHING you need to camp. Also it is connected to Alabama’s Conecuh National Forest, so there’s lots of ground to cover to get some miles in. My group of camping buddies and I decided we wanted to knock out two states in one weekend. It was perfect for that! There is an old lodging road that separate the two states. We camped in Florida the first night and Alabama the second night. The tall pines were beautiful and great for hanging. We even hit the beach during our stay an hour south.

  • Review photo of Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping by Wayne H., March 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping by Wayne H., March 8, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping by Wayne H., March 8, 2021
  • (10) View All
Gregg G.
Reviewed Feb. 23, 2021

Small Camper/Truck Camper/Van

Epic free spot just outside of the Black Water Forest State Park. Camp here for up to 14 days. The primitive area is really more geared for the tent camper with several nice flat spots to pitch a tent away from the parking area. However, there is room here for smaller rigs in the parking area. Please be respectful and don't hog the parking area so others can enjoy as well. We stayed here for 2 nights in late Febraury and were accompanied by a few others. I'd be willing to bet that this place would be heavily occupied by folks utilizing the boat ramp in the warmer months and wouldn't really be an option. This is boonedocking so no servics available. Pack it in and pack it out and be sure to leave no trace, so this can continue to be an option for be people to enjoy. On the edge of Verizon cell coverage service. Rigs over 40' not recommended.

  • Review photo of Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping by Gregg G., February 23, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping by Gregg G., February 23, 2021
  • Review photo of Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping by Gregg G., February 23, 2021
  • (5) View All
Showing results 1-6 of 6 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is dispersed camping allowed in Blackwater River State Forest?

Dispersed camping is allowed in designated primitive areas just outside of the Black Water Forest State Park. These areas offer free camping for up to 14 days. The primitive camping areas are located near the Florida-Alabama state line, with some sites connecting to Alabama's Conecuh National Forest. This gives campers access to extensive hiking opportunities across both forest systems. The primitive areas are most suitable for tent camping, though there is limited parking space for smaller rigs in some locations.

What primitive camping facilities are available in Blackwater River State Forest?

Black Water River State Forest primitive camping is truly basic - you'll need to bring everything required for your stay. The camping areas feature several flat spots ideal for pitching tents away from parking areas. There are no toilets, showers, or hookups at the primitive sites. Some parking is available for smaller rigs, but facilities are minimal by design. The primitive nature of these sites offers a more secluded and authentic outdoor experience compared to the state park's developed campground.

Do I need permits for backcountry camping in Blackwater River State Forest?

No formal permits are required for backcountry camping in Blackwater River State Forest, but it's always advisable to check with forest management for any recent regulation changes. The primitive camping areas allow stays up to 14 days. While permits aren't needed, be prepared to practice Leave No Trace principles, as there are no facilities. For overnight backpacking trips that span between Florida and the connected Conecuh National Forest in Alabama, be aware of potential boundary-specific regulations.

Can you camp directly on the Blackwater River in Florida?

Yes, camping opportunities exist near the Blackwater River, offering beautiful views of the water. The primitive camping areas provide access to the river, though specific site locations may vary in their proximity to the water. For the best river experience, visit during the dry season (October through May) as late spring and summer bring insects and increased rainfall. The combination of river access and forest setting creates a picturesque camping environment popular with outdoor enthusiasts seeking a natural Florida experience.

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