Marianna, Florida sits in the Florida Panhandle at about 167 feet above sea level, making it one of the higher elevation points in the state. This region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters that rarely drop below freezing. The area's limestone-rich terrain creates unique camping environments with spring-fed waterways and diverse forest ecosystems.
What to do
Fishing at Lake Seminole: Three Rivers State Park Campground provides excellent fishing access with both bank fishing and pier options. According to a camper, "Easy fishing access. There are a few campsites that sit right on Lake Seminole. Easy access to the water either off the bank, on the pier or rent a canoe/bring a boat and drop in" (Savannah C.).
Wildlife viewing: The region's diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife observation opportunities. A visitor to Three Rivers State Park Campground noted, "Fabulous birding including bald eagle nests" (Christina). The park's location at the confluence of three rivers creates ideal habitat for diverse species.
Hiking challenging terrain: Unlike Florida's typically flat landscape, Torreya State Park offers remarkable elevation changes and strenuous trails. One hiker shared, "There's a hiking loop called the Great Challenge. It's so difficult, meandering up and down in elevation for 9 miles, that you may give up. Camping is grand—so much wildlife" (Issa F.).
Scuba diving in springs: The crystal-clear waters near Marianna provide unique diving opportunities. A visitor to Vortex Spring explained, "Primarily setup around Scuba Diving. Dive shop on site. Cabins, group cabins, tents and RV sites" (Ron R.). These limestone springs maintain consistent temperatures year-round.
What campers like
Clear water visibility: The spring-fed waterways around Marianna offer exceptional clarity. A camper at Florida Caverns RV Resort noted, "The water is AMAZING! You can see all the way to the bottom. Very beautiful" (Tara E.). This visibility makes swimming and water activities particularly enjoyable.
Secluded primitive camping: For those seeking solitude, Pine Log State Forest provides isolated tent sites. A camper reported, "There are only three primitive camping sites out here and they are very secluded. In site 3 we had a great view of the river and easy access to the hiking trails!" (Ben G.).
Yurt camping: Yurt accommodations at Torreya State Park Campground provide a comfortable glamping experience near Marianna, Florida. A reviewer mentioned, "The Cracker Cabin is great as is the Yurt - both are booked often and must be reserved in advance" (Jeanene A.). The yurts offer a blend of comfort with nature immersion.
Budget-friendly options: Camping in this region offers affordable vacation options. A visitor to Three Rivers State Park noted, "For the price of this one at 16 a night we will totally be back" (Larry M.), while another mentioned that High Bluff Campground costs "$17 per night with all fees included" (Ch C.).
What you should know
Hurricane recovery impacts: Several campgrounds in the region are still recovering from severe weather events. At Three Rivers, a camper observed, "Unfortunately, due to hurricane Michael last year, 80% of their trees were destroyed" (Lauren W.). While facilities have been repaired, the landscape continues to regenerate.
Limited amenities at certain sites: Some campgrounds prioritize natural settings over conveniences. A visitor to High Bluff Campground noted, "No power, no water, no WiFi, no store. T-Mobile was very good with 300+ Mbps. The last 3 miles are dirt road" (Sebastian L.).
Site size limitations: Some campgrounds have constraints for larger vehicles. A Three Rivers camper mentioned, "Sites are small and very close together" (Larry H.), while another noted, "Sites very close together with no privacy" (Christina).
Road conditions: Access roads to certain campgrounds require careful navigation. A reviewer warned about Pine Log State Forest: "We have about 1 mile of dirt road to get here. Some campsites can be tight if you have a big rig" (Eric R.).
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: The natural water features provide safe swimming for children with proper supervision. At Sand Pond Campground, a camper mentioned, "We stayed on a campsite right next to the pond. It made for fantastic sunsets!" (Jennifer D.).
Playgrounds and amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific family-friendly features. A visitor to Seminole State Park Campground shared, "The playground close to the camping loop is nearly complete and looks super fun for the Littles" (jessica O.).
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystem creates learning experiences for children. At Torreya State Park, a visitor noted, "If you're lucky you may be able to see a panther or an indigo snake" (Issa F.), providing opportunities for wildlife education.
Safety considerations: When choosing a yurt camping experience near Marianna, Florida, be aware of environmental factors. One camper at High Bluff Campground cautioned, "You have to love the lonelyness here... Then it becomes really lonely, dark and quiet out here" (Sebastian L.).
Tips from RVers
Electric capacity issues: Some campgrounds have limited electrical capabilities. A visitor to Florida Caverns RV Resort noted, "Electric capacity lacking. Only had an amp hookup but needed outlets for our popup" (Jenn B.).
Bathroom quality varies: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Seminole State Park Campground praised, "Bath house was super clean and always stocked" (jessica O.), while a Three Rivers camper simply stated, "Bathrooms clean" (Christina).
Site levelness and surfaces: RV sites have varying quality. At Seminole State Park, a camper noted, "Newly renovated after Hurricane Michael, the upper loop had new gravel pads and plenty of space between sites" (jessica O.). This information helps RVers plan accordingly for leveling needs.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer convenient waste disposal. A reviewer at Three Rivers State Park appreciated how "the trash area and dump station were placed away from campers" (L&A C.), creating a more pleasant camping environment.
