d
dawna B.
Scout
ScoutEmerald Beach RV Park
Leisurely stay
Well-maintained small RV park with 6 sites. We were all alone so we were able to get the only site with full shade all day. Pay in drop box by the mailboxes. First come first served.
Camping near Baker, FL
131 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Blackwater River State Forest dominates the camping landscape around Baker, Florida, with several established campgrounds and primitive sites scattered throughout the 210,000-acre pine forest. Karick Lake campgrounds, both North and South, provide electric and water hookups for RVs while maintaining a natural lakeside setting. The region includes several privately operated RV parks like Eagle's Landing and River's Edge that offer full hookups, while Wilderness Landing provides free primitive camping directly on the Blackwater River. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of amenities ranging from basic sites with no facilities to developed campgrounds with showers and electric hookups.
Camping availability remains consistent year-round at most locations near Baker, with Florida's mild winter climate making it popular for snowbirds. The area's sandy soil drains quickly after rain, though flooding can occasionally impact riverside campgrounds. Most developed sites require reservations, especially during winter months when northern visitors arrive. Wilderness Landing stands out as a free option with a 14-day stay limit, offering basic amenities without hookups. Roads to most campgrounds are well-maintained, though some forest service roads may require careful navigation after heavy rainfall. According to one visitor, "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 in the bath house with flushing toilets."
Water access represents a significant draw throughout the region, with multiple campgrounds situated directly on lakes or the Blackwater River. The clear, sandy-bottomed Blackwater River provides swimming and paddling opportunities, while Karick Lake supports fishing when water levels are favorable. Several visitors noted the peaceful atmosphere at lakeside campgrounds, with one camper describing Karick Lake South as having "a beautiful lakefront view" that is "quiet, serene, and simply beautiful." Forest trails connect many campgrounds, including a 4-mile Karick Lake Loop Trail that is part of the Florida Forest Service's Trailwalker Program. Campground hosts maintain facilities at state forest sites, while private RV parks typically offer more amenities including WiFi, though at higher nightly rates. Most campgrounds in the region are pet-friendly with standard leash requirements.
Best Campgrounds near Baker (131)
1. Blackwater River State Park Campground
"Beautiful Setting With Nearby Trails There are a couple short trails and a swimming beach at Juniper Lake, but I can't get excited about swimming in an area that has alligator warning signs on the"
"Yet another one of the state of Florida's fantastic state parks. You don't need the beach when you've got the pristine white sands of the shores of Blackwater river. "
from $20 / night
Check Availability2. Bear Lake Campground
"Bear Lake Campground within Bear Lake Recreation Area - Blackwater River State Forest is off the beaten path, high in the Florida Panhandle."
"Bear Lake Campground is a little piece of paradise! Nestled within the Blackwater River State Forest, you are surrounded by beautiful nature."
from $13 - $22 / night
Check Availability3. River's Edge RV Campground
"We liked our spot because it was tucked in the woods and we had no close neighbors. The rest of the campsites were in the open, but the distance between rigs was reasonable. "
"With big sites and the distance between neighbors are far apart really have a good privacy and safety. They have camper storage Boat ramp and some trail that you can walk you pups at."
from $30 / night
Check Availability4. North Karick Lake Campground — Blackwater River State Forest
"This is a great single loop 20 site campground right on the lake mostly rvers. Individual bathroom, shower rooms, clean, and nice."
"The campground is split up into two areas on either side of the lake (the upper and lower) and both have walking paths, camping, and lake access."
from $22 / night
Check Availability5. Eagle's Landing RV Park
"Quiet, friendly Campground was exactly what we needed when attending a Baseball Tournament at NorthWest Florida State College."
"going here for the last 4 years we love the people, they're very nice and good people, there lots are a good size, they're very reasonable with their price we're not going anywhere else when we're in Florida"
from $47 - $55 / night
Check Availability6. South Karick Lake Campground — Blackwater River State Forest
"The best parts of this recreation center are the 65-acre Karick Lake and the 4-mile Karick Lake Loop Trail, part of the Florida Forest Service's Trailwalker Program."
"Single loop campground mostly RVs most of the site right next to the lake quiet, peaceful, amazing simple getaway."
from $22 / night
Check Availability7. Wilderness Landing
"Want to be away from it all - this is the place. Grass sites, some shade."
"It is located right on the Blackwater River and has a boat launch and two pavilions with tables and barbeque grills right on the beach. The river is sand bottom and fairly clear."
8. Black Water River State Forest Primitive 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."
"Epic free spot just outside of the Black Water Forest State Park. Camp here for up to 14 days."
9. Hurricane Lake South Campground
"By far my favorite campsite in NW Florida. Remote but good roads all the way to it."
"Hurricane lake surrounds the campground so every camping spot has a view of the beautiful lake. I love that the tent campers are in a separate campground from RV campers."
from $13 / night
Check Availability10. Krul Lake
"We've never camped here, but have been numerous times swimming and walking trails. The water is beautiful and nice and cool."
"Lake was wonderful. They have lifeguards during the summer. There’s a small hiking trail from krul to bear lake. Clean bathrooms. Camp sites were clean and decently spaced apart."
from $25 / night
Check Availability
Drive Time
- 16 min from Crestview, FL
- 45 min from Pensacola, FL
- 1 hr 18 min from Daphne, AL
- 1 hr 39 min from Panama City, FL
Recent Camping Photos near Baker, FL
144 Photos of 131 Baker Campgrounds
Barry C.
South Karick Lake Campground — Blackwater River State Forest
Shannon J.
North Karick Lake Campground — Blackwater River State Forest
Ted H.
Bear Lake Campground
Desiree K.
Hurricane Lake South Campground
lydia B.
Krul Lake
Sherry P.
Krul Campground — Blackwater River State Forest
Wayne H.
Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping
sheila C.
Blackwater River Boat Ramp Camp
TIMOTHY O.
Blackwater River State Park Campground
Lance B.
Adventures Unlimited
Splash R.
Splash RV Resort & Waterpark
Paul M.
Open Pond Campground
Recent Reviews near Baker, FL
800 Reviews of 131 Baker Campgrounds
- BBiker T.Scout
Biker tent camp
Bikeers only
Bikes only not a rv park.
If you on a bike traveling that who we cater to.
Bike drawn trls welcome.
Jim
Ashley A.ScoutEmerald Beach RV Park
Best place for family
My family has been coming for 14 years and my kids grew up fishing crabing and swim
Jimmy G.ScoutBiker tent camp
From the owner
I ride.
Old school biker. In my 20s bike bedroll girlfriend gone!
I have lots of camping gear.so ride light if you like.
Simply a rest camp.
Bed roll over night 5 bucks 24 hours from arrival time .
So stop in cook food Z out split rested. Tent shaded or open.
Rates are one bike two persons.
Group stops need one week notice so can have larger black water control on site. An pre-paid.cost of black water rent none refundable. ( not my choice)
Call 24hours i will answer. If not riding myself.text also works.
Knees in the breeze jim
- B
Brandon J.ScoutMagnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve
Clean and quiet
Stayed in the back of the property being it was all that was left, but it worked out. The spots at A1-7 are very tight together but it is away from everything else making it quiet and somewhat secluded. It would be a great area for a group event. Would stay here again but in a different location in the campground.
- SShannon H.Scout
Trout Creek RV Park
Quiet Park very close to Destin, FL
We had a wonderful stay at Trout Creek RV Park! The park is peaceful, well-maintained, and the sites are spacious with easy access in and out. One of our favorite features was the beautiful boardwalk—it was the perfect place for a morning walk, enjoying nature, and unwinding after a day at the beach. Traveling with our dog was a breeze thanks to the fenced dog run. It gave our pup a safe place to stretch his legs and play, which made the trip even more enjoyable.
The location is ideal—close enough to Destin and the Emerald Coast to enjoy all the attractions, but far enough away to relax and escape the crowds. We can't wait to come back!
- VValeria S.Scout
Navarre Beach Camping Resort
Very disappointed
I rarely leave negative reviews, but this experience was incredibly disappointing. I reserved a specific campsite many months in advance for my birthday. Before arriving, I even received an email confirming that exact site. When I checked in, I was told they had given my reserved site to someone else and moved me to a different spot. The whole reason I booked so far in advance was to secure that particular location, so this completely defeated the purpose of planning ahead. What made the situation even worse was how it was handled. The manager never apologized or acknowledged the mistake. Instead, I was met with an attitude that made it seem like my frustration wasn’t justified. A sincere apology and some accountability would have gone a long way. To“make it right,” they offered a 20% discount, which honestly felt insulting given that they failed to honor a confirmed reservation on a special occasion. It wasn’t about the money—it was about keeping their commitment and treating customers with respect when they make a mistake. Unfortunately, what should have been a memorable birthday started with disappointment because of the park’s poor reservation management and lack of customer service. I hope they improve their processes and, more importantly, learn how to take responsibility when they let their guests down.
Nancy W.
LegendFred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park Campground
Nice rustic state park
The campsites are rustic in nature featuring sandy/gravel sites with lots of trees and good separation from your neighbor. It is a little tight for big-rigs because of the trees and narrow roads in the park but doable if you take your time. It is located between Niceville and Bluewater Bay where you will find everything you need nearby (restaurant, grocery, fuel, etc.). The campground is small and was very quiet. Mostly adults when we visited but they do have a playground and Junior Ranger activities for kids. Campsites have water and electricity, a picnic table and a fire ring, and some have water views. The campground is close to a military base which explodes ordinances at random times, so if you have a dog that does not do well with loud sudden noises, do not stay here. Our dog is terrified of sounds like that and, luckily, there was only one really busy day when they were exploding bombs. We enjoyed the hiking trails and water views. The individual trails are short (the longest one is a mile) but there are multiple ones so you can get a three-mile walk in. There is a boat launch (for trailerable boats and kayaks) which we definitely would have used had we been there longer. We would definitely stay here again as we like the quiet solitude in the park but convenience to stores, restaurants, etc.
- ssheila C.
TravelerBlackwater River State Park Campground
Great little state park right on the river and forest!!!
This a great state park.. so many river beaches and parking lots next to them. Great campgrounds with pretty good sized lots and gravel covered. Lots of trees between sites depending on which site you get! Has a private river beach access too for campers. A bunch of walking trails a place to rent kayaks and tubes right down the road!! The staff was awesome. The state forest is surrounding it with trails and places to camp everywhere. And the river was so nice.
Guide to Baker
The Blackwater River State Forest region near Baker, Florida sits in the northern panhandle at approximately 200 feet above sea level. The sandy soil throughout the camping areas creates well-drained campsites except after heavy rainfall events when riverfront locations may experience flooding. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, making Baker camping locations popular year-round with fewer crowds during weekdays.
What to do
Water recreation access points: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for paddling. At Blackwater River State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the pristine waterway. "You don't need the beach when you've got the pristine white sands of the shores of Blackwater river. The river and the surrounds are super quiet, peaceful and beautiful. Tubing, kayaking canoeing are all super here," notes Jim.
Fishing opportunities: Hurricane Lake offers productive fishing from shore or boat. At Hurricane Lake North Campground, anglers can fish without a boat thanks to purpose-built structures. "A good place to fish where they built a dock out in the water so if you don't have a boat you can still fish away from shore," reports L.S.
Trail systems: The Blackwater River State Forest contains several interconnected trails ranging from short loops to longer networks. "The hiking trails were quite near and the hikes were fun," says Sara S. about Blackwater River State Park, while Dale W. notes that Karick Lake features "the 4-mile Karick Lake Loop Trail, part of the Florida Forest Service's Trailwalker Program."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at Baker area campgrounds. At South Karick Lake Campground, Barry C. describes "a beautiful lakefront view. The Hosts were very attentive and welcoming," while Kevin L. calls it a "quiet, peaceful, amazing simple getaway."
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic nature, many campgrounds maintain clean facilities. At Krul Lake, visitors find "clean bathrooms. Camp sites were clean and decently spaced apart. Campground hosts were extremely kind and helpful," according to Marguerite L. Richard R. noticed at Blackwater River State Park that they had "clean shower houses, neat and tidy park, slept like a baby."
Privacy between sites: Site spacing varies considerably across the region's campgrounds. Bear Lake Campground tent sites provide good separation. Amanda K. recalls: "Given the season, we were the only ones on the tent side, so we were right up on the lake and I can't remember ever staying in a more beautiful site anywhere."
What you should know
Sandy terrain considerations: The forest's sandy soil affects camping experiences. For RV campers at River's Edge RV Campground, this means "the campground is mostly sand, but that is expected in Florida. Most was compact and there were no concerns of getting stuck," according to Meandering Life.
Varied bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality ranges widely across campgrounds. Wilderness Landing offers "clean restrooms, and free," reports Donna G. Karick Lake has "clean but dated restrooms with showers," notes Dale W., while at Blackwater River State Park, Donna G. found "clean restrooms with great water temperature and pressure."
Flooding potential: Proximity to waterways means some campgrounds experience periodic flooding. Haley A. experienced this firsthand: "We woke up the following morning to about 2-3 foot of water under our camper where the river had flooded. Most of the camp ground had been evacuated."
Limited cellular coverage: Service can be spotty throughout the forest. One reviewer at Blackwater River State Forest Primitive Camping notes being "on the edge of Verizon cell coverage service," while other campgrounds report limited or no connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Krul Lake offers supervised swimming during summer months. "They have lifeguards during the summer. There's a small hiking trail from krul to bear lake," shares Marguerite L. This makes it popular for families with children needing more structured water activities.
Site selection for space: Some campground loops provide better family accommodations. At Bear Lake Campground, Ted H. advises that "sites are close together but waterfront sites have extended area behind the site." These extra spaces give children more room to play safely.
Noise considerations: Proximity to military installations affects some camping locations. Lisa M. notes that at Blackwater River State Park "there's quite a bit of air traffic noise with helicopters and planes flying overhead. I think there is an airport nearby," which might disrupt afternoon naps for young children.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup variations: Amperage options differ across campgrounds. At Wilderness Landing, Stealie F. explains there are "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."
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds present maneuvering difficulties. Laurie A. experienced this at Bear Lake: "Most of the sites are good size but there is no easy way to get in some of them especially when it is packed as it was this holiday weekend. It was made more difficult when they added the wooden posts with site numbers in less than ideal places."
Supply planning: The remote location requires planning ahead. Dawn R. advises visitors to Hurricane Lake North to "make sure you take supplies, groceries trip is 20-30 minutes." Most campgrounds near Baker are at least 15-20 minutes from substantial grocery options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Baker, FL?
What camping is available near Baker, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, Baker, FL offers a wide range of camping options, with 131 campgrounds and RV parks near Baker, FL and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Baker, FL?
Which is the most popular campground near Baker, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Baker, FL is Blackwater River State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 36 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Baker, FL?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Baker, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Baker, FL.
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