Camping spots near Bonifay, Florida range from primitive forest sites to developed state park facilities throughout the western Florida Panhandle region. Most campgrounds sit within 45 miles of Bonifay in surrounding counties, with many accessible via Highway 79 and Interstate 10. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, making year-round camping feasible while summer humidity necessitates proper cooling solutions.
What to do
Explore underground formations: At Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna, visitors can tour the natural limestone cave system. "The caverns are a must see in this park. Come early before they open as there is a line. The staff are friendly and very well organized," notes a camper. The park offers a unique geological experience with guided tours available most days.
Paddling adventures: Cotton Landing provides canoe access to Cypress Springs. "Real nice campground that is free by reservation only, book at camplife.com. Three small spots that are ideal for smaller setups or tents. From here it's a short paddle to Cypress Springs," explains a visitor. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting access points.
Lake fishing: Lakeview Campsites features 25 sites with direct lake access. "Lakeview Campsites have access to a huge lake and several other places to visit nearby," reports a camper. Shore fishing opportunities are available year-round with bass and bream being common catches.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Pine Log State Forest offers both developed and primitive camping options. "There are 2 different camps in the forest. Sand pond, which has hookups for water and electric, very nice, well maintained and enjoyable. Then there is Primitive camping- absolutely the best way to reconnect with nature, enjoy the natural forest and all natural amenities," reports one camper. The primitive sites are approximately half a mile apart along Pine Log Creek.
Farm experiences: Moonpie Farm and Creamery offers a working farm camping experience. "Want to get the full experience? Help out on the farm! Collect eggs or milk cows," notes a visitor. The farm store provides fresh products, and campsites are situated either in the pine forest or open areas.
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at many campgrounds receive consistent praise. At Twin Lakes Camp Resort, campers appreciate the attention to cleanliness: "This is one of the best campgrounds we've ever stayed! Beautiful, picturesque campsites. A lot of them have lake views. Bathrooms/showers are gorgeous." Most developed campgrounds in the region provide shower facilities, though primitive sites typically do not.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Water features vary dramatically based on recent rainfall. "The falls are quite beautiful and there is a nice trail that takes you right down to where you are facing the falls and you can look down into a long dark pit," notes a camper at Falling Waters State Park, but another visitor mentioned, "There is a tiny 'waterfall' but not something that's gonna make you say wow once you get to the end."
Road conditions: Several campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads. At Pine Log State Forest, "We have about 1 mile of dirt road to get here. Some campsites can be tight if you have a big rig. Within the past year, they have removed some trees to make it easier to maneuver in the campground."
Reservation requirements: At Cotton Landing, camping is "free by reservation only, book at camplife.com." Most established campgrounds in the area require advance bookings, especially during winter and spring seasons when snowbirds increase demand for sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: State parks often feature designated swimming areas. At Pine Log State Forest, campers report: "This was a very quiet and peaceful campground. We stayed on a campsite right next to the pond. It made for fantastic sunsets!" Swimming areas typically have limited facilities, so bringing portable shade is recommended.
Playgrounds: Some developed campgrounds include playground facilities for children. "Oh, and the playground was very nice and the covered pavilions were nice," reports a visitor at Falling Waters State Park. Playground equipment varies by location, with most situated near campground common areas.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. At Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, "Hit the beach at sunset for lovely views and grazing deers." Bringing binoculars enhances wildlife spotting for children at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campers note variations in site spacing throughout the region. At Hitchinpost RV Park, a visitor reported: "Our pull-through spot had plenty of room, making setup easy. The property has a couple of lakes where you can fish and some friendly goats and chickens, which added a fun, relaxing vibe."
Hookup availability: Electric service varies by location. At Pine Log State Forest, campers note that Sand Pond campground offers "hookups for water and electric, very nice, well maintained and enjoyable." Most developed RV sites in the region provide 30/50 amp service and water, but full sewer hookups are less common.
Site leveling: Many campgrounds feature gravel or concrete pads. "Sites are level gravel with a picnic table, fire ring, and even a handy towel-drying rack," notes a camper about Falling Waters State Park. Bringing leveling blocks remains advisable for RV campers at less developed campgrounds.
