Campsites near Havana, Florida combine riverside settings with forest landscapes, creating diverse camping conditions across Lake Talquin's extensive shoreline. The region maintains a subtropical climate with summer temperatures averaging 90°F, while winter nights can drop to the 40s. During spring months, local campgrounds experience less crowding and moderate temperatures, making it the preferred season for tent campers seeking lakeside spots.
What to do
Fishing from dedicated piers: High Bluff Campground offers a well-maintained fishing pier where anglers regularly sight wildlife. A camper noted, "Stayed the very same day an there were several spots available. Very quiet. It looks like most people go there to fish."
Kayaking the Ochlockonee River: Ed and Bernices Fish Camp and RV Park provides direct river access with rental sites featuring covered pavilions. "I had fun kayaking down the river. Met great people. Everyone was kind and friendly. Fishing was good. Caught stripped bass and smoked them, they were delicious," shared a visitor.
Hiking the Fort Braden trail system: The trail network features three loop trails with elevation changes uncommon for Florida. "Nice hiking with huge trail network at Fort Braden on adjacent property but the bummer is that there was way to connect to them from campground due to swamp and geography," mentioned a Coe Landing Campground reviewer.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: At Eastbank Campground, campers appreciate the open layout with partial shade. "Lakefront, open, grassy campground with scattered trees that provide partial shade for many sites. Very friendly and helpful staff. Old, but clean restrooms. Nice views of lake and great sunsets," according to a recent visitor.
Budget-friendly camping: High Bluff Campground offers affordable rates compared to other options in the area. A camper reported, "$17 per night with all fees included. Very quiet. A very well maintained dirt road to get there."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds provide opportunities to see native wildlife. One reviewer at Williams Landing noted, "Inexpensive with friendly host. Not overcrowded. Quiet and peaceful next to beautiful lake," making it a good spot for nature observation.
What you should know
Cell service variations: While some remote sites have surprisingly good coverage, others have limited connectivity. At High Bluff Campground, a camper reported, "No power, no water, no WiFi, no store. T-Mobile was very good with 300+ Mbps."
Access road conditions: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "The last 3 miles are dirt road, but in good condition as long as you can stay in the middle without traffic," noted a High Bluff camper.
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings insects and heat that can affect camping comfort. A camper at Coe Landing observed, "The only reason I would drop a star (but it's not their fault) is because there were SO many mosquitoes at night."
Water availability: Several primitive sites require bringing your own water supply. A Fort Braden Tract primitive camper advised, "Fetch your own water from the lake. No modern amenities."
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Goat House Farm offers unique camping with livestock present. A family noted, "The male goats hang out right beside you and your tents. (Be sure to keep your tents closed or they will sleep with you too, ha!) The kids absolutely loved it."
Swimming safety: Lakes in the area have steep banks and wildlife concerns. At Fort Braden Tract, a camper warned, "Steep bank on this sight though so fewer worries about him actually visiting camp," when referring to an alligator sighting.
Covered camping options: Several campgrounds offer pavilions that provide shade and weather protection. At Ed and Bernices, a family appreciated, "We had our own pavilion with picnic table electric water great lighting and plenty of room from the next camper."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Tallahassee RV Park, site location makes a difference in experience. One RVer advised, "Avoid site 46 which is by the dumpster. Site 44 is by the road. It is a very busy road with lots of noise, but it was better than being by the dumpster."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. A camper at Williams Landing reported, "The sites are pull thru, which was nice as I am still not that great at backing up my little trailer. They are all on a grade so leveling out was a fun experience."
Hookup locations: Position your RV carefully to reach connections. At Ed and Bernices Fish Camp, a camper noted, "The water spigot is 25 feet from the coach and the turn-on switch is an inch underground so Deborah had to dig it out for us."