Tent camping options around DeFuniak Springs, Florida extend into several state forests covering the Florida panhandle. The area sits on the Gulf Coastal Plain with elevations ranging from 100-200 feet above sea level, creating a landscape of longleaf pine forests and natural lakes. Forest roads throughout these camping areas can become challenging after rain with standing water creating access issues for standard vehicles.
What to do
Paddling on Eastern Lake: Eastern Lake Campground 2 at Point Washington State Forest offers excellent water access with a small dock for launching watercraft. "Great place to launch a canoe or kayak. I didn't have either but now I have a kayak and I will definitely put it on the lake on my next visit," notes Dale W.
Hiking the trail network: The Eastern Lake bike/hike trail provides three loop options ranging from 3.5 to 10 miles. "Point Washington also offers three hiking trail options on the Eastern Lake bike/hike trial. The hiker or bicyclist can travel the 3.5-, 5- or 10-mile loop. This trail is part of the Florida Forest Service's Trailwalker Hiking Program," explains one camper.
Multi-state hiking adventure: For more ambitious hikers, Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping connects to Alabama's Conecuh National Forest. "This is all primitive camping so be sure to bring EVERYTHING you need to camp. Also it is connected to Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, so there's lots of ground to cover to get some miles in. My group of camping buddies and I decided we wanted to knock out two states in one weekend."
What campers like
Lakeside views: Campers appreciate that Hurricane Lake South Campground provides water views from every site. "The sites were spacious and grassy. Hurricane lake surrounds the campground so every camping spot has a view of the beautiful lake. I love that the tent campers are in a separate campground from RV campers. This makes for a more peaceful camping experience," writes Desiree K.
Privacy between sites: The tent-only areas in Point Washington State Forest provide good separation. "The site was pretty and felt nicely distanced from the other three sites in campground #1. We didn't use the gravel tent space, but hung up hammocks in the nearby trees," mentions H M.
Different environment from nearby beaches: While close to popular coastal areas, the best tent camping near DeFuniak Springs offers a forest experience. "Nice secluded little spot close to our home in Fort Walton but still manages to feel like you're far away. Would recommend for a local getaway!" shares one camper at Point Washington.
What you should know
Gate code requirements: Eastern Lake Campground 1 has security measures in place. "Camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica. Also if very importance: you cannot get to site from 30A, google maps does not know if you link from this app - entrance is from hwy 98," warns Ty C.
Road conditions: After rain, forest access becomes challenging. "I came in a day after rain and there were numerous significant deep puddles to get through. I was grateful my Sprinter had knobby tires and was a little higher; even then at one point the puddle was so deep it covered my headlights! If it's been raining, small vehicles should think twice."
Campground positioning: Point Washington State Forest has two distinct camping areas with different advantages. "Campground 1 pros: can park in your site, further apart, no highway noise. Cons: only have access to a tiny part of the lake, breeze kind of blocked by trees. Campground 2 pros: beautiful lake view and easy access to water, prettier view, more breeze. Cons: traffic noise, cannot park in your site."
Tips for camping with families
Bring fishing gear: Pine Log State Forest Primitive Campsites offers fishing opportunities that kids enjoy. "Private maybe one person will drive down the road but they turn around pretty fast without a problem nice back country campground," notes Barb D.
Pack everything needed: With primitive camping being the norm, preparation is essential. "Black Water River State Forest is on the Florida and Alabama state line. This is all primitive camping so be sure to bring EVERYTHING you need to camp," emphasizes Wayne H.
Consider wildlife awareness: The forests have resident wildlife including alligators. "Many sites are on the lake edge but realize that there ARE gators in the lake and they have legs to crawl on land. I have been there maybe 50 times and have yet to see the first gator though."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for vehicles: Most forest campgrounds have restrictions on vehicle size. "The primitive area is really more geared for the tent camper with several nice flat spots to pitch a tent away from the parking area. However, there is room here for smaller rigs in the parking area. Rigs over 40' not recommended," advises Gregg G. at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have optimal seasons for RV use. "Beautiful place to stay in the Winter months October through May. Park open all year but late Spring and summer is insect and rainy season," notes a camper at Blackwater River State Forest.
Stay duration limits: Forest service lands typically have maximum stay restrictions. "I believe you can stay up to 14 days at a time before being required to pick up and move," mentions a reviewer at Hurricane Lake South Campground.
