Equestrian camping near Cantonment, Florida offers access to extensive trail networks within Blackwater River State Forest. The forest spans 213,000 acres across Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton counties with elevations ranging from 10 to 290 feet above sea level. Campgrounds in this region often feature basic facilities with varying levels of privacy between sites and natural buffers.
What to do
River activities: At Wilderness Landing, campers enjoy direct access to Blackwater River. "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," according to Stealie F., who notes the river is pet-friendly too.
History exploration: Blakeley State Park Campground offers 26 miles of trails with historical significance. Julie D. shares that "You will walk through historic civil war sites, trails that were once the streets of the town of Blakeley. A beautiful hike on boardwalks along the Blakeley River then through a swamp on deep into woods amongst ancient oaks." The park offers both walking and auto cell phone tours focused on Civil War history.
Horse trail riding: The extensive trail network at Coldwater Equestrian Campground provides numerous options for both day rides and multi-day journeys. Terran B. notes the campground is "way back in the woods" creating a secluded riding experience, though cell service can be limited in these remote areas.
What campers like
Spacious sites: At Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, campers appreciate the generous site sizing. Mark S. reports "Large sites with plenty of space between. They rent tubes to float the creek or canoes to paddle the ponds in the park. Ponds have fish to catch, don't even need an Alabama fishing license to fish. Super quiet."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained facilities at primitive sites. Salvador G. notes that Wilderness Landing offers a "Good spot for free. Clean showers/toilet building. Pavilions and grills by the river." This makes the primitive camping experience more comfortable for those without onboard facilities.
Water access: Jennifer P. appreciated her Coldwater Equestrian Campground experience: "A lot of the campsites are right on the water. You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only. The showers and bathrooms were always clean and nice." Site #56 was highlighted for its waterfront location, though she noted the extremely sandy soil could be challenging.
What you should know
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have leveling challenges. At Blakeley State Park Apalachee Campground, John W. observed "Some sites are level some are more difficult to level." Similarly, at Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, the site pads are "gravel but fairly level," according to Angela.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. Wilderness Landing allows stays "for up to 14 days" for free according to Stealie F., making it an exception to the reservation requirements common at other campgrounds.
Road conditions: Access roads to some of the more remote sites can be challenging. Donna G. noted about Wilderness Landing: "Beautiful views, clean restrooms, and free. Other campers were very friendly. The only reason for a 3 is the rough drive getting there."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. Angela notes that at Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, there's a "sprawling playground that aligns the campsites" though Jim cautions this "assures of loud, screaming children at all hours" if quiet is your priority.
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife in the area. John W. shares that at Blakeley State Park Apalachee Campground, there's "Lots of wildlife including deer that come very close" to campsites, creating natural viewing opportunities without special equipment.
Junior Ranger programs: Nicole G. reports that Blakeley State Park offers educational activities: "We woke up to begin the junior ranger packet for our kiddos (provided at checkout) and hiked and explored all day." These structured activities help engage children with the natural and historical aspects of the park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are limited in the area. Stealie F. notes that at Wilderness Landing, 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."
Privacy considerations: Site spacing varies significantly between campgrounds. Dale W. mentioned that at Coldwater Equestrian Campground "the campsites are right next to each other with no screening between sites," which can impact the camping experience for those seeking more privacy.
Pull-through access: Some campgrounds offer easy-access sites. Aaron D. stayed at "RV Spot 2. It was a pull through spot and easy to get into. The spot was somewhat flat but we had to maneuver to get even and then still needed leveling blocks" at Blakeley State Park Campground, noting the extra effort needed for leveling despite the convenient pull-through design.
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