Mystic Springs Recreation Area, near McDavid, Florida, is a fantastic spot for those who appreciate the simplicity of primitive camping. With spacious sites that come with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills, it’s perfect for gathering around the fire and enjoying the great outdoors.

This campground is all about tranquility, with many sites offering beautiful views of the nearby river. Visitors have noted that it’s generally quiet, making it an ideal place to unwind and soak in nature. One camper mentioned, “It’s generally very quiet,” which adds to the peaceful vibe of the area.

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, there’s a boat ramp for easy access to the Escambia River, perfect for kayaking or fishing. Just keep in mind that the river can be swift, so it’s best suited for experienced paddlers. The campground also features clean facilities, including well-maintained porta potties, which campers have appreciated during their stays.

While reservations are required, the free primitive sites make it a budget-friendly option for families and groups. Just be aware that some campers have mentioned that not all reserved sites are occupied, so it’s good to plan ahead. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or a longer retreat, Mystic Springs offers a laid-back atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

Campers must reserve a site via www.nwfwater.com or by calling (850) 539-5999.

Mystic Springs Recreation Area

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Jay. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Jay and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping Near Jay, Florida

Nice sites spread throughout the recreation area. Although they are free they most be reserved online at www.camplife.com. the sites each have a picnic table, fire ring and grill. They are currently working to add pavilions at each site. Trash and a porta potty are located on site. There is also a boat launch for access to the Escambia River.

Another Free Riverside Campground

I've been at this camp site my whole life alot of good memories,fishing and solitude.very special place and has a history that I will never forget,🥵

Great for camping and a local cemetery is close,good for ghost hunting,js

Mystic Springs Campground is a reservation only, free primitive campground. Each site has a porta potty, garbage can &amp; covered pavilion with picnic table, fire ring &amp; grill.  Some sites are more difficult for large RV’s to navigate, but there are sites that will accommodate larger RV’s.  Several of the sites are on the river, with river view (through the foliage), and there is a boat ramp.   You could put in your kayaks (but  definitely would NOT suggest unless you are a pro due to very fast running river.  With a little climbing down to the bank in a few areas, fishing is an option.       I’ve been there multiple times &amp; have noticed that weekdays tend to be louder, as the few campers that are there,  are more prone to leaving their dogs outside to bark all night. (Not the parks fault-just poor camp etiquette). Weekends are usually pretty quiet.  I was there for New Years Eve weekend and beside a few fireworks early in the night, the campground was very quiet &amp; peaceful. 
In the warmer months, I’ve noticed ants being a bit of a problem in some areas.  

Reservation only, free primitive sites

Loved this place. It doesn’t look like it on the campground map, but most sites are secluded and come with their own picnic table, fire ring, and cover! The cover is amazing - you can put your tent, car or camper under it to stay dry. Makes me wonder why more campgrounds don’t have something similar. There’s a portapotty available, and it’s one of the cleanest I’ve visited.

Only issue with this place is the reservation system. I like that you can reserve a site in advance, but it seems like a lot of people take advantage of it and don’t end up showing. While I was here I think almost all the sites were officially booked, yet less than half actually were occupied. Please don’t do this if you’re staying here!

Oh yea, there was a pregnant cat at my site (6) as well. She was very sweet and maybe you’ll get to see her kittens if you stay here!

And it comes with a cat!

Stayed two nights, 2-3 bars Verizon, easy access, quiet, one train nearby around 9pm, spacious sites with cover, picnic tables, fire pit, standup grill, trash cans, clean ada porta potty w/ mirror. No potable water. Would definitely stay again. 
Requires free reservations via www.nwfwater.com, Mystic Springs CG. Keep in mind you can only have two open reservations at these campgrounds at one time and you can’t reserve consecutive campgrounds, must have days in between. 

Solid Campground 

I camped for 4 nights at site 7 next to the river. Beautiful and quiet.

Quiet solitude

I’ve camped at Mystic Springs numerous times. I book the group site. Very large &amp; spacious. Perfect for a large group or multiple people.  Plenty of room for several tents.  It has a fire ring, grill, covered structure with 2 picnic tables, a garbage can and a large portapotty.  It’s generally very quiet.  It’s a gated site so to me it feels more secure.  People do walk through the site occasionally but not too often. It’s primitive camping so no power &amp; no potable water. Most sites have water view. 


Primitive site with fire ring, grill, trash can, , large  portapotty and nice water view. 

A wonderful January camping trip !  It was about 45° but we stayed cozy by the fire pit .  Our site was super close to the water , less than 100 yards!  We had a picnic table too, perfect for meals outdoors.  Can't wait to come back when it's warmer! 


Photos of Mystic Springs Recreation Area

Real photos from real campers