Primitive tent campsites near Ebro, Florida can be found within a 30-mile radius, offering access to the region's cypress forests and freshwater creeks. The area sits at relatively low elevation (65-120 feet above sea level) with a subtropical climate that features hot, humid summers and mild winters. Most sites remain accessible year-round, though summer camping brings higher humidity and temperatures regularly reaching the 90s.
What to do
Hiking trails: Point Washington State Forest offers multiple hiking options, including a comprehensive trail system. "I did the 10 mile single track flat bike route. I saw not much wildlife or birds. It was a foggy overcast day," notes Andrea S. who camped at Eastern Lake Campground 1.
Water activities: Launch kayaks or canoes directly from several campsites to explore the waterways. At Eastern Lake Campground 2, Dale W. mentions, "I had a beautiful view of Eastern Lake and easy access to the water where there is a small dock. Great place to launch a canoe or kayak."
Wildlife observation: Watch for local fauna including white-tailed deer and various bird species. While bears are present in the area, sightings are uncommon. "Signs for active bears but we saw none," reports Andrea S. from her stay at Point Washington State Forest.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the seclusion offered at primitive sites. Derek K. notes about Eastern Lake Campground 2: "Campsites provide picnic table and grill with a lantern pole and pea gravel area to set up tent. Very glad I found this!"
Access to multiple destinations: The forest camping areas provide a strategic base for exploring both inland and coastal attractions. "Nice secluded little spot close to our home in Fort Walton but still manages to feel like you're far away," says Karen S. about Point Washington State Forest.
Minimal traffic noise: Campground 1 sites generally offer better sound insulation from nearby highways. Beth B. compared the campgrounds: "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."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest access roads can become challenging or impassable after rain. Jared from Point Washington State Forest warns: "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!"
Gate access requirements: Many primitive sites require gate codes provided through reservations. "This is a quiet Forest. I stayed at camp 1, site 1. There is a code to lock on gate when you go in," explains Andrea S.
Site amenities: Primitive sites typically include gravel tent pads and basic facilities. "Has a 'outhouse' no running water or hookups in the primitive camping area. Roads are easy to travel in a sedan," Derek K. shares about Eastern Lake Campground 2.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity: While tent camping areas feel secluded, beaches aren't far away. "The beach is right across the bay so it's a short drive to the ocean," notes Shea M. who stayed at Point Washington State Forest.
Prepare for insects: The forest and lake environments support mosquitoes and flies, particularly in warmer months. One camper at Eastern Lake Campground 2 mentioned: "My biggest negative is that when we were there the walls and floors of the pit toilet were covered with flies."
Plan for multiple nights: The camping experience improves with longer stays as you adapt to the primitive conditions. "We camped here on our vacation and LOVED it! It's not far from Destin and other popular locations, but it's a gem itself," shares Savannah S.
Tips from RVers
Limited options for large rigs: Most primitive camping areas near Ebro accommodate tents better than RVs. For RV camping, El Governor Motel & RV Park offers more suitable amenities but is further away: "Nice spot in Mexico Beach literally across the road from the beach...Gravel lots close to your neighbors and a little pricey but you are paying for location," says Brian.
Ground conditions: RV and van campers should check site levelness before setup. Jared points out about Point Washington: "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."
Watch the weather: Road conditions to primitive sites deteriorate quickly after rain, making access difficult for RVs. As Savannah S. notes: "The mud holes are huge and you definitely don't want to take a small car through it, that's the only downfall."
