Tent camping near Florahome, Florida places campers in an area dominated by sandy pine flatwoods and freshwater marshes at elevations ranging from 100-140 feet. The region typically experiences humid subtropical conditions with summer temperatures averaging 90-94°F and winter lows around 40-50°F. Most primitive camping areas require visitors to pack in all supplies including drinking water, as natural water sources may contain tannins that color the water a tea-like brown.
What to do
Hiking Florida's National Scenic Trail: At Jennings State Forest, hikers can access well-maintained segments of longer trail systems. "We hiked the beach pioneer trail and really enjoyed ourselves. The campsite is about a mile in and has a picnic table and fire ring. There is a stream nearby for water," notes one visitor. The forest offers approximately 30 miles of marked trails through varied terrain.
Kayaking Black Creek: Black Creek Ravine provides river access for paddlers. "It is about 30 feet through some trees to the river, so if you were clever, I'm sure you could find it from a boat," explains one camper. The camping area requires a 2.4-mile hike to reach, keeping visitor numbers low.
Wildlife observation: The conservation areas around Florahome host diverse animal species. At Caravelle Ranch Wildlife Management Area, campers can explore 13,000+ acres of wilderness and wetlands. "There's a long-winding road to Little Lake George situated just due southeast of this CG with a handful of trail access points," writes one visitor, noting the wildlife viewing opportunities in the area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many tent camping areas near Florahome feature natural barriers between campsites. One camper at Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground notes, "The sites are close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site." Another visitor adds, "With 16 campsite each being semi private you will love the sounds of the wind in the trees and hawks flying over."
Riverside camping spots: Several campgrounds offer sites near water. A visitor to Black Creek Ravine shared, "Overall a really great campsite. There's a fire ring with a grill grate on it that we were able to easily cook our food over, there was a wood picnic table, and there was a taller wooden table, more like a bar or island."
Uncrowded wilderness: The relatively undeveloped nature of camping near Florahome appeals to many. At Jennings State Forest, a camper observed, "23k acre park, some 30 miles of trails, most well marked, with fording places for canoe/kayak on two different creeks. Horseback trails, an not a lot of people."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent sites require self-sufficiency. At Bayard Conservation Area, campers need to hike in several miles to reach designated sites. "The campsites are a few miles from the parking area. They include a fire ring and a picnic table," reports one visitor who enjoyed the primitive nature of the site despite "a bit of noise pollution from the surrounding area."
Water availability: Drinkable water is scarce at many locations. At Lake Delancy East, a camper noted, "We found the pitcher pump for water, but wouldn't bring up water. So come prepped with your own."
Wildlife encounters: Campers should prepare for local fauna. A Jennings State Forest visitor warned, "Many white spotted ticks," while others reported seeing deer, wild pigs, and various birds on their trips.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: For families not ready for tent camping, Camp Chowenwaw Park offers unique accommodations. "The treehouses are very cool and sleep four people. The camp is an old Girl Scout camp but was then purchased by Clay County. The park has a swimming pool and other places to camp besides the treehouses," explains one visitor.
Short hikes with rewards: Look for trails with interesting features for children. One family that camped at Bayard Conservation Area shared, "On our way to our campsite we were able to spot many animals including: deer, otter, turkey, and wild pigs."
Swimming options: During hot weather, water access becomes important. A Camp Chowenwaw visitor noted, "There were short trails, a kayak/canoe launch, a pool, dock, fishing, and clean amenities. There are lots of mosquitoes, so beware of that and bring bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-friendly options: Most camping near Florahome is primitive, but some sites can accommodate smaller RVs or camper vans. At Jennings State Forest, one RV user shared, "Apríl 9, 2021, Site #4, Camper Van... Picnic table, fire ring, pít toilet. Old campground deep in the woods."
Road conditions: Unpaved access roads can be challenging. As one visitor to Lake Delancy East advised, "GPS will not get you there. Go to Middleburg. Take Long Bay Rd. Left on Old Jennings Rd. Follow signs."
Generator policies: Some campgrounds restrict generator use, requiring self-contained power. Check site regulations before arrival, as many tent-oriented sites prioritize quiet natural surroundings.
