Pine Log State Forest, located near DeFuniak Springs, Florida, features a mix of longleaf pine habitat and cypress wetlands at approximately 100 feet above sea level. The region experiences humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers, making it suitable for year-round camping. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV accommodations with several glamping alternatives for those seeking upgraded amenities.
What to do
Fishing on local lakes: Twin Lakes Camp Resort provides fishing docks and direct access to two lakes surrounding the property. According to a reviewer, "Surrounded by 2 lakes this is a nice clean camp ground... They have fishing docks and a nice little store when you check in and has a bathhouse with laundry facilities."
Beach access with tram service: Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground offers beach trips via a complimentary tram. "Either ride your bike or take the tram the mile to the boardwalk and beach. Clean showers, friendly staff at the camp store," notes one visitor. The park also features coastal dunes with freshwater lakes suitable for paddling and fishing.
Scuba diving and swimming: Vortex Spring offers diving opportunities in a natural spring. A camper reports, "There are many things to do on property. Swimming, diving, water slides, swings, bike trails hiking trails, and Jeep trails." The spring maintains consistent water temperature year-round, suitable for novice and experienced divers.
Wildlife viewing: St. Andrews State Park Campground maintains nature trails with diverse wildlife. One visitor noted, "There is also a nature trail with a freshwater swamp (featuring gators, of course). We saw lots of other wildlife around, including deer and rabbits."
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Sand Pond Campground in Pine Log State Forest offers private tent camping areas. A camper explained, "There are only three primitive camping sites out here and they are very secluded. In site 3 we had a great view of the river and easy access to the hiking trails! If you like primitive camping, this place is the way to go."
Clean facilities: Twin Lakes Camp Resort maintains immaculate amenities. One reviewer commented, "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."
Beachfront camping: Camp On The Gulf provides direct beach access with sites on the sand. A camper described the experience: "Great bathrooms, stellar scene, friendly neighbors. Love this concept and if you don't mind lots of eyes on your site, beach camping is the coolest."
Peaceful surroundings: Bass Haven Campground offers a quiet setting for glamping near DeFuniak Springs. A reviewer noted, "Quiet little place. Beautiful scenery, nice & helpful people, great location. Would go back again."
What you should know
Size and accessibility constraints: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Camp On The Gulf, "Parking your rig is TIGHT. Like super tight. 2 nice pools and all other amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry, sewer, etc. Easy access to local shopping and dining."
Power limitations: Twin Lakes requires careful energy management. As one camper reported, "Our 30 amp camp site could not support AC and a microwave for 30 seconds without tripping the breaker."
Reservation planning: Popular glamping sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. For St. Andrews State Park Campground, one visitor advised, "Just be sure to book the campsite well in advance, this place is super popular and fills up very quickly."
Military base proximity: Eglin AFB FamCamp is near an active airfield. A camper noted, "Be aware however Camp Robbins is located just south of Eglins airfield so if roaring and screaming fighter jets first thing in the morning is not for you scratch this camp off your list."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Eglin AFB FamCamp offers amenities for families with Department of Defense IDs. A visitor mentioned, "Great staff, close to commissary and exchange. Fun things to do on base. Department of defense ID is required for entry!"
Protected swimming areas: St. Andrews State Park provides safe swimming options. One camper highlighted, "A special treat for the kids each year is the white tailed deer walking through the sites and the bike ride over to the 'Kiddie Pool' at the jetties."
Water recreation options: Topsail Hill Preserve offers diverse water activities. A camper suggested, "We didn't get to hike as it was already pretty late in the year (quite hot). Hit the beach at sunset for lovely views and grazing deers."
Bring bicycles: Larger campgrounds like Topsail Hill benefit from personal transportation. According to a reviewer, "Highly recommend bringing your own bikes to get to both the beach and to explore the lake areas with a bit more biking."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Sites vary significantly in size and layout at most campgrounds. For Sand Pond Campground, a camper advised, "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."
Utility management: Check amperage before booking. One Twin Lakes visitor warned, "We had an empty site next to us for 2 nights, so it was all good!"
Dump station alternatives: When facilities are limited, ask about options. At Vortex Springs, a camper noted, "We were told to find an empty site that had sewer and just dump there. We had to move to two different sites to find a sewer hookup that worked."
Gate access codes: Some campgrounds use security systems. A Twin Lakes camper mentioned, "The gate has an access code, but they text you with the code. I didn't check my texts, so there was some confusion on my part."
