Camping options near Jay, Florida include several primitive sites within the surrounding forests and recreation areas. The region sits at elevations between 100-200 feet above sea level, higher than much of Florida's typically flat terrain. Campers can access waterfront sites along rivers and lakes throughout Blackwater River State Forest where water levels fluctuate seasonally, sometimes dropping significantly during drier months.
What to do
Creek activities: Mystic Springs Recreation Area offers water access with covered sites for protection during sudden storms. According to one visitor, "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!"
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds throughout the region provide access to stocked lakes and flowing creeks. At Lake Stone Campground, the on-site manager enforces rules "to keep campground clean and family friendly" while providing reasonable fishing access without requiring an Alabama license at some nearby locations.
Hiking trails: Multiple forest paths connect various recreation areas. The 4-mile Sweetwater trail around Bear Lake offers wildlife viewing opportunities. One visitor noted that Bear Lake Campground provides "nice and easy hiking trails, one of the trails connects to Krul Lake which has a nice lake that you can swim in during the summer."
What campers like
Covered shelters: Many primitive sites feature roofed structures uncommon at typical campgrounds. At Mystic Springs, "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."
Private waterfront access: Certain campsites provide direct water views with minimal neighbor interaction. One camper at Coldwater Equestrian Campground mentioned, "A lot of the campsites are right on the water. You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only."
Wildlife encounters: The region supports diverse animal populations. According to a visitor at Under the Hoof: "Peaceful and tranquil out there" with opportunities to see farm animals on this working goat, chicken and tortoise farm.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Different recreation areas follow distinct booking protocols. For Mystic Springs, "Requires free reservations via www.nwfwater.com... 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."
Insect preparation: The humid environment supports large mosquito populations. One camper warned about Mystic Springs: "Good location, lots of mosquitoes though- make sure to pack plenty of bug spray!"
Site flooding concerns: Some camping areas experience drainage issues during rainy periods. A visitor noted that at Mystic Springs, "Sites flood, lots of gaters (if you have small pets this is sketchy), gets a little busy on the weekends with the boaters."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. At Bear Lake Campground, there is "No Verizon cellular service" according to recent visitors, requiring advance planning for communication needs.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Blackwater River State Park Campground provides safe swimming areas during warmer months. A visitor mentioned it's "Super silent, clean bathrooms, nice people, rangers are really helpful."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. At Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, they have a "sprawling playground that aligns the campsites" which creates an active environment for children.
Year-round comfort considerations: Family camping requires planning for temperature variations. One visitor to Blackwater River State Park noted: "Bathrooms were clean & warm" even during February visits, making off-season camping more comfortable.
Tips from RVers
Site maneuverability: Several campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. At Bear Lake Campground, "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."
Hookup positioning: Utility connections aren't always conveniently located. One RVer at Bear Lake noted, "Electric and water service is 10 feet beyond the pad" requiring longer hoses and cords than typically needed.
Gravel quality: Blackwater River State Park maintains exceptionally stable driving surfaces. One RVer was impressed enough to mention the "most astounding gravel driveway" which provided solid footing even during wet conditions.
