Point Washington State Forest offers primitive camping options beyond the more developed beach campgrounds near Inlet Beach. The forest encompasses over 15,000 acres with distinct camping areas featuring basic amenities. Forest roads accessing these campsites can flood after heavy rain, requiring vehicles with higher clearance during wet conditions.
What to do
Kayaking on Eastern Lake: At Eastern Lake Campground 2, campers can launch directly from the small dock by site 1. "Great place to launch a canoe or kayak. I didn't have either but now I have a kayak and I will definitely put it on the lake on my next visit," notes Dale W.
Beach activities within reach: St. Andrews State Park Campground provides multiple beach access points about 45 minutes from Inlet Beach. "The snorkeling can be great depending on how recently a storm has passed through. We rented a boat and spent a few hours on Shell Island. Because it is difficult to access there are very few people out on the beech," reports Matt S.
Bike trail exploring: The extensive trail network surrounding pet friendly camping near Inlet Beach offers varying difficulty levels. At Sand Pond Campground, "The two-mile Campground Trail, part of the Forest Service's Trailwalker Program, winds along the banks of Cyprus Pond, through the mixed hardwood/pine forest, and around Sand Pond. This is a nice and easy, well-maintained, level trail," shares Dale W.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds in the area provide chances to observe local wildlife. "We saw lots of other wildlife around, including deer and rabbits," notes Sonyia W. about her stay at St. Andrews State Park.
Private camping sites: Henderson Beach State Park Campground offers exceptional site privacy despite being close to populated areas. "Right in the heart of Destin but the best beach on the coast if you're not looking for crowds but if you are looking for space to spread out. The campground basically has a huge portion of the beach just for it. Everything supper clean and nice. Sites are spread out and private," explains Larry.
Lake views for relaxation: Several campers appreciate the peaceful water views available at certain sites. "We stayed on a campsite right next to the pond. It made for fantastic sunsets!" Jennifer D. shares about her experience at Sand Pond Campground.
What you should know
Gate code requirements: For access to primitive camping areas, you'll need reservation information. "Camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica. Also if very importance: you cannot get to site from 30A, google maps does not know if you link from this app - entrance is from hwy 98," advises Ty C. about Eastern Lake Campground 1.
Road conditions after rain: Many forest access roads become challenging after precipitation. "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!" reports Jared about Eastern Lake Campground 1.
Scout
