Equestrian camping sites near Fort Walton Beach, Florida occupy terrain within the Blackwater River State Forest, approximately 40 miles northeast of the city. The region features sandy soil, pine forests, and freshwater creek systems with moderate temperature swings between 30-95°F seasonally. Most equestrian-focused campgrounds maintain stalls separate from camping areas and enforce regulations requiring negative Coggins test documentation for all horses.
What to do
Creek exploration: Access Cold Water Creek directly from Coldwater Equestrian Campground where campers enjoy water activities. "A lot of the campsites are right on the water. You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only," notes Jennifer P. in her review.
Trail riding: Navigate the extensive network of forest trails accessible from multiple camping locations. According to Terran B., Coldwater Equestrian Campground is "way back in the woods" offering seclusion for riders seeking quiet trail experiences away from populated areas.
Boating access: Launch watercraft at Wilderness Landing which provides direct river entry. "It is located right on the Blackwater River and has a boat launch and two pavilions with tables and barbeque grills right on the beach," explains Stealie F., noting the "sand bottom and fairly clear" water conditions.
What campers like
Free camping options: Several locations offer no-cost stays with basic amenities. "Good spot for free. Clean showers/toilet building. Pavilions and grills by the river," reports Salvador G. about Wilderness Landing, while Ken R. describes it as "Primitive, Quiet and Free."
Well-maintained facilities: Rangers actively maintain campground cleanliness and order. Jennifer P. mentions, "The showers and bathrooms were always clean and nice. Even though we didn't use it, there's a large community center on site to use" at Coldwater Equestrian Campground.
Staff interaction: Personnel provide exceptional service at established horse campgrounds. "Very friendly staff especially the Rangers. Faye (one of the rangers) is great... she came by at least twice a day to give [our granddaughter] a ride on the golf cart and printed pages she could color on rainy days," shares Jennifer P.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Electronic communications are unreliable in forest locations. Terran B. notes that at Hidden Lake Resort, "Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time" despite enjoying the campground overall.
Site variations: Campsite quality differs significantly within the same facility. Jennifer P. observed at Coldwater: "Most of the sites from #16 to #56 are shaded, some more than others. All the sites are not the same size, some being larger than the others."
Access challenges: Remote locations require navigation on forest roads. Donna G. notes about Wilderness Landing, "The only reason for a 3 [rating] is the rough drive getting there" despite enjoying the "beautiful views, clean restrooms, and free" camping.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger activities: Children receive special attention from staff at certain locations. Jennifer P. shares that at Coldwater Equestrian Campground, the ranger "didn't discriminate either...all the children at the campground got to take a ride" on her golf cart, creating memorable experiences.
Water recreation: Sand-bottom waterways provide safe swimming areas for families. "The river is sand bottom and fairly clear. My big ol' malamute 'Stealie' loves the river!" notes Stealie F. about the Blackwater River access at Wilderness Landing.
Communal spaces: Shared facilities enhance group camping experiences. Salvador G. mentions "Pavilions and grills by the river" at Wilderness Landing, providing gathering spaces for family meals and activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Service connections vary significantly between campgrounds. Dale W. reports that at Coldwater Equestrian Campground, "All campsites have water and electrical hookups. There is a dump station, restrooms, showers, and a dining facility available by reservation."
Site privacy considerations: Proximity between camping spots affects visitor experience. Dale W. notes his "only complaint is the campsites are right next to each other with no screening between sites" at Coldwater Equestrian Campground.
Length of stay limits: Free camping options typically restrict duration. Stealie F. points out that Wilderness Landing permits camping "For up to 14 days" without charge, making it suitable for extended RV stays with budget constraints.
