RV parks near Apalachicola National Forest offer camping options from small riverfront sites to full-amenity coastal resorts. The region includes diverse environments spanning the forest's 632,890 acres of wetlands, pine flatwoods, and cypress swamps. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, while summer months reach 75-95°F with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: At Ed and Bernices Fish Camp and RV Park, campers enjoy direct river access. "I had fun kayaking down the river. Fishing was good. Caught stripped bass and smoked them, they were delicious," reports Elizabeth, who stayed at this small riverside park where sites include covered pavilions.
Dolphin watching opportunities: Visitors to the coastal areas can observe marine wildlife from several locations. "The view of the bay! Get a spot up front so you can watch the dolphins!" recommends Joyce T. who stayed at Coastline RV Resort. Many waterfront sites provide opportunities to spot dolphins directly from your campsite.
Beach activities: Several RV parks provide access to Gulf beaches. "This campground is amazing. You can walk across the street to the beach. The sunsets are beautiful!" notes Lori P. who stayed at El Governor Motel & RV Park in Mexico Beach, approximately 70 miles west of the forest.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Coastline RV Resort & Campground receives consistent praise for its bayfront location. "We had a wonderful stay. The place was very clean. The view. Wow! Just wonderful. This is my new favorite place to stay along the Florida Panhandle coastline," writes Joel P.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers emphasize well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "I felt like I walked into a spa when I opened the door, calming music started and the lights came on. The showers are big!" writes Joyce T. about Coastline RV Resort's bath facilities. Tallahassee RV Park also receives praise with one camper noting, "Restrooms are singles with showers and toilet. Nice and clean."
Fishing opportunities: Bayside RV Resort & Marina offers exceptional fishing access according to visitors. "Right on the Ochlocknee River going out to the gulf so you can catch redfish and trout off the pier at the site," notes Juke W. Similarly, El Governor provides beach fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: While some parks offer privacy, others place units close together. "Sites are VERY small... really great for parking but not socializing. With little outdoor space between RVs, most folks just keep to themselves," notes Jody J. about Tallahassee RV Park.
Weather considerations: The region experiences frequent summer storms and occasional flooding. "Part of the facility is subject to partial flooding during some parts of the year," warns Mark S. about Ed and Bernices Fish Camp, suggesting campers check conditions before booking during rainy seasons.
Price fluctuations: Tallahassee RV Park experiences significant rate variations during events. "Was about double the nightly rate ($90!!!!) due to a FSU football game over the weekend but the place was only about 25% of capacity," reports Bob W. Waterfront sites at most parks command premium pricing year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Limited kid-focused activities: Some parks explicitly mention limitations for children. "Great views, tight spaces, super clean, not recommended for kids for long stays," notes Joe N. about Ho-Hum RV Park. Consider bringing portable entertainment options if staying at adult-oriented parks.
Explore local wildlife centers: The area offers educational opportunities outside campgrounds. "My sister and her husband stayed on the river...Right on the Ochlocknee River going out to the gulf so you can catch redfish and trout off the pier at the site," reports Juke W., highlighting natural learning opportunities at Bayside RV Resort & Marina.
Consider pool availability: Some parks offer swimming pools suitable for families. "Pool looked clean and enjoyable by others," reports Jessica J. about Coastline RV Resort, while Panacea RV Park visitors note, "Pool is always clean and they have a fishing dock with an area to clean your fish."
Tips from RVers
Site positioning challenges: River Landing RV Park has received praise for accommodating challenging situations. "The park was packed, but she fit us in anyway she made a parking space she created a connection. She figured out how to get water to us," notes Mia F. about the owner's helpfulness during an evacuation.
Utility connections vary: Access to hookups requires planning at some parks. "While the site is long enough, the sewer connection is closer to the front of the site, so we could not park at the back. We had to be positioned to reach the sewer connection and work our rear slide around a large palm tree," reports Kevin A. about Carrabelle Beach RV Resort.
Supplies and provisions: Most rv parks Apalachicola National Forest have limited on-site stores. "Come prepared with all supplies because they have little on offer to buy," advises Rosina E. The nearest full-service grocery stores are generally in Tallahassee, Carrabelle, or Eastpoint, requiring advance planning for extended stays.
