Primitive camping options near Ebro, Florida provide access to the region's natural resources spanning across both pine forests and coastal ecosystems. The area sits at a relatively low elevation ranging from 10 to 60 feet above sea level with sandy soil that can affect vehicle access during rainy conditions. Most forest service campsites require advance reservations and contain limited amenities compared to the developed state parks within 30-45 minutes driving distance.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Pine Log State Forest offers freshwater fishing opportunities in Sand Pond. "I could have sat looking over it for days," notes Matthew G. about the lake at Sand Pond Campground.
Kayaking in coastal dune lakes: Eastern Lake in Point Washington State Forest provides unique paddling experiences. A visitor reports, "CG is within the State Forest about 2 miles in, off US98, on Level 2 roads. Follow 'Primitive camping area' signs to parking area, watching for route."
Snorkeling near jetties: The protected area at St. Andrews creates ideal conditions for beginners. "Best area for protected, near shore snorkeling. A small area located inside rock jetties provides the perfect area for amateur and intermediate snorkeling," explains Denise K. about St. Andrews State Park.
Hiking forest trails: Pine Log State Forest features accessible trails through mixed ecosystems. "The two-mile Campground Trail, part of the Forest Service's Trailwalker Program, winds along the banks of Cyprus Pond, through the mixed hardwood/pine forest, and around Sand Pond. This is a nice and easy, well-maintained, level trail," describes Dale W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many forest campgrounds offer secluded camping experiences. "Very private secluded camp ground. Very clean and nice facilities. The host was terrific," shares Matthew G. about camping at Sand Pond.
Beach access options: Multiple state parks provide convenient beach entry points. "Hit the beach for a beautiful sunset each night. Biked in the forest across the street and biked up and down 30A a bit," writes Jeffrey S. about his experience at Grayton Beach State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse ecosystems support various wildlife observation opportunities. "You really feel like you are in a pine forest all by yourself," notes Angeline S. about Pine Log primitive sites, while another visitor at Topsail Hill Preserve mentions evening wildlife: "Hit the beach at sunset for lovely views and grazing deers."
Off-leash pet areas: Some camping areas include designated spaces for pets. A visitor to Southern Grace Lavender Farm mentions, "They have a nice sized enclosed dog run, complete with a bucket of toys and balls, fresh water (continuously filled), and a poop scoop."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Forest service roads often require appropriate vehicles. A camper at Point Washington State Forest warns: "We camped here on our vacation and LOVED it! I will say that the mud holes are huge and you definitely don't want to take a small car through it, that's the only downfall."
Seasonal closures affect primitive sites: Flooding can impact camping availability throughout the year. "I initially had a reservation at one of the primitive camp grounds, but my reservation was cancelled due to flooding that closed all three primitive camp grounds," reports Dale W. about Pine Log.
Beach restrictions for pets: Several parks prohibit dogs on beaches. "No pets allowed on the beach - if you have a dog, ask the rangers for the brochure listing dog beaches in FL. We drove to Panama City Beach to go to the dog beach at Pier Park, which was a nice alternative," advises Denise about Grayton Beach State Park.
Gate codes required: Some forest campsites have restricted access. "Camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica," notes a visitor to Point Washington, adding "you cannot get to site from 30A, google maps does not know if you link from this app - entrance is from hwy 98."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Some campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. "We really enjoyed this campground. About 10min walk to putt putt golf, beach, and water park. Shady, clean, 2 pools are very nice," notes Courtney B. about Raccoon River Campground.
Bike-friendly options: Multiple parks feature bike trails for family exploration. A visitor to Topsail Hill reports, "We stayed with two small tents in T6, which had some shade but was also adjacent to an open field area, which would be great for kiddos who want room to spread out and play games."
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting comfort while camping, cabins provide an option. "Cabin rental, ice, pool, fishing, boat dock, clean bathrooms, playground, etc. There is a nice gas station/small store just up the road too," describes Jason B. about Live Oak Landing.
Junior ranger programs: State parks often provide educational activities for children. A visitor to St. Andrews mentioned, "Wildlife viewing is good and park has interpretive center."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: RV sites vary significantly between parks. "Sites have FHU with cable. Sites are very tight, Closest sites we have experienced at any campground," notes Clay M. about Raccoon River Campground, while Eric R. notes about Sand Pond: "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."
Distance to attractions: Many campsites require driving to reach beaches or shopping. "Far yet close…that's the first thing that comes to mind. Far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the beach areas but close enough to enjoy them just the same," explains a camper about Sand Pond, noting it's "just 15 miles north of PCB."
Parking challenges: Some sites have limited parking space. "Sites 1 and 2 slope down to their campsite, and would be difficult to sleep in your vehicle without balancers. Sites 3 and 4 are more flat and work fine for sleeping in your vehicle," advises Jared about Point Washington's Eastern Lake camping area.
