Point Washington State Forest encompasses primitive camping areas near Inlet Beach, Florida, with forested sites approximately 2 miles from Highway 98. The forest roads can become challenging after rainfall with significant deep puddles that may require higher clearance vehicles. For tent camping near Inlet Beach, visitors should note that both campgrounds in Point Washington require reservations through ReserveAmerica, with campers receiving a gate code for access.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Point Washington offers multiple trail options for outdoor activities. According to Dale W. at Eastern Lake Campground 2, "Point Washington 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." Andrea S. mentions completing "the 10 mile single track flat bike route" during her stay.
Water activities: Campsites at Eastern Lake Campground 2 provide excellent lake access for paddling. Derek K. notes that "camping area 2" has "several spots on the water." Dale W. adds that Eastern Lake Campground 2 offers "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."
Wildlife watching: Forest camping provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. Andrea S. from Point Washington State Forest mentions "signs for active bears but we saw none" during her visit, indicating that wildlife is present in the area even if sightings aren't guaranteed.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere at Point Washington. According to Tobitha H., "It was so quiet there and we were the only ones at the campground, we enjoyed the peace and quiet, and the alone time." Ty C. describes it as a "very nice quite secluded spot."
Lake views and access: Campers at Eastern Lake Campground 2 particularly enjoy the water access. Beth B. notes that Campground 2 has "beautiful lake view and easy access to water, prettier view, more breeze" compared to Campground 1.
Proximity to beaches: While maintaining a forest setting, the campgrounds provide relatively easy access to Gulf beaches. Savannah S. states, "It's not far from Destin and other popular locations, but it's a gem itself!" Shea M. mentions "beach camping" with "the beach right across the bay so it's a short drive to the ocean."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads can present challenges, especially after rain. Jared describes "numerous significant deep puddles to get through" and 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!" Savannah S. confirms, "the mud holes are huge and you definitely don't want to take a small car through it."
Campsite amenities: Sites include basic amenities for tent camping. Derek K. from Baptism Hole Group Camp explains that "Campsites provide picnic table and grill with a lantern pole and pea gravel area to set up tent." Beth B. adds that "Every site has a fire pit, bbq pit, picnic table, and lantern pole."
Reservation requirements: All camping requires advance booking. James M. describes it as a "Primitive CH off the beaten path" where you follow "Primitive camping area signs to parking area, watching for route." Ty C. emphasizes that the "camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose your campground based on specific needs. Beth B. provides a useful comparison: "Campground 1 Pros: can park in your site, further apart, no highway noise; Cons: only have access to a tiny part of the lake, breeze kind of blocked by trees. Campground 2 Pros: beautiful lake view and easy access to water, prettier view, more breeze; Cons: traffic noise, cannot park in your site."
Local activities: The area offers numerous family-friendly options beyond camping. Karen S. from Pine Log State Forest describes it as a "Nice secluded little spot close to our home in Fort Walton but still manages to feel like you're far away." Barb D. notes it's "Private maybe one person will drive down the road but they turn around pretty fast without a problem nice back country campground."
Evening noise considerations: Some lakeside sites may experience sound from nearby establishments. According to ritalyon55, "We stayed at campground 2 site 3, a stone's throw across the lake from the Old Florida Fish House. You can definitely hear the music coming from there, so you may or may not like that. The first night it was a little loud but ended at 9:00. The second night it was soft enough my husband couldn't even hear it."
Tips from RVers
Access for vehicles: Most tent camping areas have limitations for larger vehicles. Beth B. advises, "I would not chance the forest roads in a sedan. You might be okay if it stays dry but if it rains you will not be in good shape." Derek K. offers a contrasting experience, stating "Roads are easy to travel in a sedan," suggesting conditions may vary seasonally.
Alternative RV options: For those seeking full hookups near beaches, El Governor Motel & RV Park provides options closer to the Gulf. Brian describes it as a "Nice spot in Mexico Beach literally across the road from the beach" though it has "Gravel lots close to your neighbors and a little pricey but you are paying for location."
