Blackwater River State Forest offers equestrian camping options near Gonzalez, Florida with various accommodations for riders and horses. The forest includes sandy terrain with numerous water crossings throughout the trail system. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-65°F, making it an ideal season for extended trail riding without the heat and insects of summer months.
What to do
River activities: Access the Blackwater River from Wilderness Landing for swimming and boating. "The river is sand bottom and fairly clear. My big ol' malamute 'Stealie' loves the river! The best part is it's FREE! For up to 14 days," notes a camper at Wilderness Landing.
Historic exploration: Visit Blakeley State Park for Civil War history within 30 minutes of Gonzalez. "2000 acres. Walking auto cell phone tours of civil war. Boat tours. Big pull through rv spots and a tent campground. Awesome," reports Kevin L. from Blakeley State Park Campground.
Fishing: Cast a line in the numerous ponds and creeks throughout the area. At Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, "Ponds have fish to catch, don't even need an Alabama fishing license to fish. Super quiet," according to Mark S.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Sites away from crowds provide a true wilderness experience. "Parked in a clearing with 2 5th wheel renters on it...walked back into the woods along a trail and chose one of several camp clearings. Level ground, dry, lots of deer. We will return!!" writes Christopher M. from Peaceful Camping in the Woods.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept shower and restroom buildings. "Good spot for free. Clean showers/toilet building. Pavilions and grills by the river," reports Salvador G. about Wilderness Landing.
Trail access: Direct connections to riding trails make equestrian camping convenient. "The campground itself is beautiful. Large sites with plenty of space between. They rent tubes to float the creek or canoes to paddle the ponds in the park," says Mark S. from Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor connectivity. "So well maintained, it is way back in the woods. Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time, but overall this is a great little place," shares Terran B. about Coldwater Recreation Area.
Varying site conditions: Some campsites have limitations or special features to consider. "We stayed at spot RV Spot 2. It was a pull through spot and easy to get into. The spot was somewhat flat but we had to maneuver to get even and then still needed leveling blocks," notes Aaron D. from Blakeley State Park Apalachee Campground.
Operating hours: Some recreation areas close early. "Gate closes at 4:00 PM (Feb). Restrooms sketchy. But nice sites," reports Stephen D. about Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve.
Tips for camping with families
Junior ranger programs: Some parks offer educational activities for children. "Woke up to begin the junior ranger packet for our kiddos (provided at checkout) and hiked and explored all day. We were super happy at the food truck that was there so we didn't have to go off site for lunch," shares Nicole G. from Apalachee RV Campground.
Beach areas: Sand beaches along creeks and rivers provide natural play areas. "Clean beach area. Nice place with couple fishing lakes and creek. They do not allow you to bring your own floats, but tubing with theirs is $5 per person," notes Sherry P.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report seeing deer and hearing coyotes. "We heard coyotes at a distance which was amazing," writes one camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring adequate leveling equipment for uneven sites. "Some of the sites are so unlevel. But the historical tour of the park is amazing. So much information about the civil war. Other than the rv sites being so unlevel the park is really nice," cautions Michael from Blakeley State Park.
Hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of services. "Small friendly very clean park. All paved and pets welcome. Only negative would be the pool isn't heated however they have a nice hot tub," reports John G. about Anchors Aweigh RV Resort.
Sandy conditions: Prepare for beach-like sand at some sites. "It was very quiet at night with barely any lights. The cell service was pretty good since it close to town," notes Aaron D.
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