Best Tent Camping near Inlet Beach, FL
Point Washington State Forest offers primitive tent camping options near Inlet Beach, Florida, with two distinct campgrounds providing a natural retreat close to the Gulf Coast beaches. Eastern Lake Campground 1 and Eastern Lake Campground 2 feature tent-specific sites within the forest, approximately 2 miles from Highway 98. Both campgrounds provide basic amenities for tent campers seeking a more rustic experience while remaining within driving distance of popular beach destinations along 30A.
Access to the tent campsites requires navigating forest roads that can become challenging after rain. Several campers noted significant puddles that may be difficult for low-clearance vehicles. Each primitive tent site includes a picnic table, fire ring, grill, and a framed gravel tent pad measuring approximately 12'x20'. Campground 1 features four tent sites with a shared pit toilet, while Campground 2 offers lakeside sites with similar facilities. One camper wrote, "The site was pretty and felt nicely distanced from the other three sites in campground #1." Reservations are required through ReserveAmerica, and campers receive a gate code for access upon booking.
The tent camping experience at Point Washington provides varying levels of seclusion and water access between the two campground areas. Campground 1 offers more privacy with sites further apart and less highway noise, though with limited lake access. Campground 2 provides beautiful lake views with easy water access, making it ideal for tent campers interested in paddling. According to one visitor, "Point Washington also offers three hiking trail options on the Eastern Lake bike/hike trail. The hiker or bicyclist can travel the 3.5-, 5- or 10-mile loop." The forest setting creates a peaceful atmosphere despite being relatively close to developed areas. Tent campers should note that the primitive nature of these sites means no running water or hookups are available, requiring proper preparation for a self-sufficient camping experience.