Dispersed camping options near Crestview, Florida exist within the 210,000-acre Blackwater River State Forest, which contains several established campgrounds at elevations barely above sea level. The region's sandy soil creates distinctive camping conditions where some sites may flood during heavy rains. Military training operations from nearby Eglin Air Force Base occasionally cause noticeable aircraft noise at certain campgrounds in the area.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing access points: Blackwater River State Park provides excellent water recreation opportunities with multiple put-in locations. "The river and the surrounds are super quiet, peaceful and beautiful. Tubing, kayaking canoeing are all super here as is the bike riding, if you know where to go, (hint: follow the road to the boat ramp just north of the entrance)," shares a visitor at Blackwater River State Park Campground.
Lake fishing with boat ramp access: South Karick Lake Campground offers fishing in a 65-acre lake with convenient facilities. One camper noted that "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. Quiet, serene, and simply beautiful. The public boat ramp makes getting on the lake a breeze."
Hiking on established trail systems: Bear Lake Campground features several well-marked paths around the 103-acre lake. "The 4 mile Sweetwater trail travels around portions of the lake. Frogs bring their delightful chorus most the day and night...the Pig frog's song my favorite," writes one reviewer. The campground connects to multiple trail networks within Blackwater River State Forest.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom cleanliness at Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park. A reviewer shared: "Very well maintained campground. Sites are large with split rail fencing around each site. Restrooms are very clean. Family showers are also available, which is very helpful with little kids."
Private campsites with separation: Henderson Beach State Park Campground receives high marks for site privacy. "Clean and nice bathrooms, friendly people and private spots (large hedges separate you from neighbors)," notes one camper. Another mentions, "The sites are luscious and private. Walking path to a beautiful beach."
Winter camping comfort: Many campgrounds remain open year-round with pleasant winter conditions. A visitor to Blackwater River State Park reported, "Very nice campground. Secluded & not many campers when we went (February). Bathrooms were clean & warm." This makes the Crestview area suitable for off-season camping when temperatures are mild.
What you should know
Military flight paths: Several campgrounds experience noise from Eglin Air Force Base operations. A camper at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground mentioned: "I was here for the snow fall. The electric hook up was a saving grace. Now this is in the flight path of Eglin AFB." Another visitor to Blackwater River State Park noted: "The main reason I did not get this campground five stars, which really isn't their fault, but there's quite a bit of air traffic noise with helicopters and planes flying overhead."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. At Bear Lake Campground, a reviewer mentioned: "You are about a half hour to the nearest town, so get your essentials beforehand... There is no cell service...and no pay phones present." However, other parks report better coverage.
Sandy ground conditions: The region's sandy soil affects camping experience. At River's Edge RV Campground, a visitor noted: "The campground is mostly sand, but that is expected in Florida. Most was compact and there were no concerns of getting stuck." Proper equipment for sandy terrain is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom facilities with family options: Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park provides family-friendly bathroom facilities. "Family showers are also available, which is very helpful with little kids," reports one camper. These private bathrooms give families additional comfort and privacy compared to traditional shower houses.
Swimming access at neighboring recreation areas: Bear Lake prohibits swimming due to alligators, but offers alternatives. A visitor shared: "Bear Lake was quiet, very well kept... They informed you of gators in lake, they had fishing available for campers and a 2mile hike or 1mile car ride to krul lake for swimming."
Educational trail opportunities: Several campgrounds feature interpretive trails with educational content. One visitor to Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou mentioned: "Located near several trails with ample interpretive signs." These trails provide learning opportunities about local ecosystems and wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges to some campgrounds: GPS may give incorrect directions to certain locations. One RVer at Blackwater River State Park advised: "Caution, if you're coming from the east on 90 Google maps will have you turn at Cooper Lane. Continue on 90 until you get to Deaton Bridge Road. The other way will take you meandering through about 10 miles of small back roads."
Free camping option with basic facilities: Wilderness Landing provides no-cost camping with some amenities. A visitor explained: "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 (hot and cold) in the bath house with flushing toilets. Power outlets in the bath house as well... The best part is it's FREE! For up to 14 days."
Site selection for larger RVs: The best places to camp near Crestview for larger rigs are specifically designed pull-through sites. At River's Edge RV Campground, a reviewer appreciated "the fact of pull through sites which makes it easier for our 32ft trailer." Eagle's Landing RV Park also features "Gravel level lots. 30/50 amp at each" that accommodate bigger vehicles.
