Point Washington State Forest and Blackwater River State Forest provide the majority of tent camping opportunities near Fort Walton Beach, Florida. These forest campsites typically sit 20-45 minutes from Gulf beaches, offering affordable alternatives to coastal accommodations. Most primitive sites in the area require navigating unpaved forest roads that can become challenging during rainy periods, with several campsites situated near freshwater lakes for fishing and paddling activities.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing at Eastern Lake: Eastern Lake in Eastern Lake Campground 2 provides calm waters ideal for paddling. A small dock makes launching easy, and the lake surrounds much of the campground. "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," notes Dale W.
Hiking forest trails: The Eastern Lake trail system in Point Washington offers three loop options of varying distances. "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," explains Dale W. Another camper completed "the 10 mile single track flat bike route" during their stay.
Fishing at Hurricane Lake: Hurricane Lake South Campground offers lakeside fishing opportunities with boat access. "Boats and fishing allowed but no gas motors only trolling motors," explains Bruce M. Another visitor recommends "bringing fishing gear if you are into fishing" when staying at this location.
What campers like
Quiet, uncrowded camping environments: Many tent campers appreciate the solitude of these forest campgrounds. At Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping, one visitor found "amazing spot! Just a few people there. Beautiful views!" Another camper at Hurricane Lake South noted the area is "remote but good roads all the way to it."
Separate tent camping areas: Hurricane Lake South separates tent campers from RV areas. "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. The sites are described as "spacious and grassy" with each offering "a fire pit, a picnic table and shared a water spigot."
Proximity to multiple outdoor environments: Pine Log State Forest Primitive Campsites provides backcountry camping options. One camper described it as "private maybe one person will drive down the road but they turn around pretty fast without a problem nice back country campground." These sites allow tent campers to experience Florida's interior while staying within driving distance of beaches.
What you should know
Forest road conditions: After rain, forest roads can become difficult to navigate. Regarding Eastern Lake Campground 1, one camper warned: "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!"
Reservation requirements: Most forest campsites require advance booking. "Point Washington State Forest primitive campsites, which require reservations through the ReserveAmerica system, can be accessed via forest roads 11 or 2 from U.S. Highway 98," explains one camper. The reservation includes gate access information when required.
Limited facilities: Prepare for basic accommodations. At Eastern Lake Campground 2, facilities include "a 'outhouse' no running water or hookups in the primitive camping area." Sites typically provide "picnic table and grill with a lantern pole and pea gravel area to set up tent."
Tips for camping with families
Consider ground conditions for tent setup: Some sites have gravel tent pads that may be uncomfortable. One camper mentioned, "The sites are a fine gravel, which was fine, but the ground was so hard underneath we couldn't drive one of our stakes in." Consider bringing appropriate stakes or alternative securing methods.
Pack for no-shower camping: Most primitive sites lack shower facilities. At Becks Camp, visitors should "bring some bug spray, a boat, and some fishing gear!" Sites often have "spots right on the water to camp" which kids enjoy, but prepare to manage without showering facilities.
Weather considerations: Florida's climate affects camping comfort. At Blackwater State Forest, one visitor noted it's a "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." Plan your tent camping near Fort Walton Beach during cooler months when possible.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV camping options: Several primitive camping areas that once accommodated RVs no longer do. For Becks Camp, one potential visitor warned: "Head's up. I just called to ask about reserving an RV site. They no longer have those types of sites."
Small rig options only: For those with compact RVs, some primitive areas can work. At Black Water River State Forest, a camper noted: "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. Please be respectful and don't hog the parking area so others can enjoy as well."
Consider service availability: Cell service may be limited. One Black Water River State Forest visitor mentioned being "on the edge of Verizon cell coverage service" and stated "rigs over 40' not recommended." Know your service needs before committing to these more remote camping options.
