Best Equestrian Camping near Mary Esther, FL

Coldwater Equestrian Campground in Blackwater River State Forest offers 55 RV/tent campsites and one tent-only site alongside 60 horse stalls. All campsites include water and electrical hookups with sanitary dump station available. Campers have access to restrooms, showers, and a reservable dining facility. The campground sits along Cold Water Creek with easy water access from most sites. Sites vary in size and shade coverage, with positions 16 through 56 offering more tree cover. Wilderness Landing provides another horse-friendly option near Mary Esther with primitive camping and horse corral facilities. Clean shower and toilet buildings are maintained at this free campground. The campsites at Coldwater lack privacy screening between sites, creating an open camping environment.

Direct access to numerous horse trails begins at the Coldwater campground, situated deep in the wooded sections of Blackwater River State Forest. Many campsites position directly on the water with a private sandbar reserved exclusively for campers. Cell service is limited throughout the area, creating a truly secluded experience. The campground rangers maintain an actively friendly presence, particularly helpful for families with children. For longer stays, Hidden Lake Resort offers additional horse-friendly accommodations with more developed amenities including electric hookups, picnic tables, and RV storage options. The sandy conditions at some waterfront sites can be challenging for setup, but most visitors find the location worth the minor inconvenience. Reservations are recommended for equestrian campers due to the popularity of these horse-friendly destinations.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Mary Esther, Florida (3)

    1. Wilderness Landing

    4 Reviews
    Baker, FL
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 689-5790

    "Want to be away from it all - this is the place. Grass sites, some shade."

    "It is located right on the Blackwater River and has a boat launch and two pavilions with tables and barbeque grills right on the beach. The river is sand bottom and fairly clear."

    2. Coldwater Equestrian Campground — Blackwater River State Forest

    3 Reviews
    Jay, FL
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 957-6161

    $9 - $22 / night

    "This beautiful equestrian campground offers 55 RV/tent campsites and one tent only site and 60 horse stalls. All campsites have water and electrical hookups."

    "Lots of trails to ride your horses. A lot of the campsites are right on the water. You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only. The showers and bathrooms were always clean and nice."

    3. Hidden Lake Resort

    Be the first to review!
    Jay, FL
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (850) 910-1494

    $47 - $63 / night

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Mary Esther, FL

7 Reviews of 3 Mary Esther Campgrounds



Guide to Mary Esther

Equestrian camping near Mary Esther, Florida centers around Blackwater River State Forest, where riders access over 600 miles of multi-use trails. The region's sandy soil provides natural drainage during Florida's rainy season, making year-round camping possible. Wilderness Landing and Coldwater Recreation Area serve as primary bases for horse-friendly camping in northwestern Florida.

What to do

Creek swimming access: Coldwater Recreation Area provides direct water access from many campsites with a private sandbar exclusively for campers. "The river is sand bottom and fairly clear. My big ol' malamute 'Stealie' loves the river!" notes Stealie F. about the nearby Wilderness Landing.

Horse trail riding: Numerous equestrian trails begin directly from Coldwater campground, offering routes for all skill levels. "Lots of trails to ride your horses," confirms Jennifer P. who stayed at campsite #56.

Riverside picnicking: Wilderness Landing offers picnic facilities along the water. "Pavilions and grills by the river," reports Salvador G., making it convenient for day-use visitors seeking free waterfront access.

What campers like

Peace and quiet: The remote location creates a secluded atmosphere for horseback riders and campers. "Want to be away from it all - this is the place. Grass sites, some shade," says Ken R. about Wilderness Landing.

Clean facilities: Despite being a free campground, Wilderness Landing maintains good standards. "Clean showers/toilet building," notes Salvador G., while another camper adds, "running water (hot and cold) in the bath house with flushing toilets."

Friendly atmosphere: The social environment appeals to many visitors. "Other campers were very friendly," reports Donna G., reflecting the community spirit found at horse-friendly campgrounds throughout the area.

What you should know

Limited connectivity: Cell reception is minimal throughout the forest areas. "Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time," reports Terran B. about Coldwater Equestrian Campground, creating a true disconnect from digital life.

Site variations: Coldwater's campsites differ significantly in size and shade coverage. Jennifer P. notes, "Most of the sites from #16 to #56 are shaded, some more than others. All the sites are not the same size, some being larger than the others."

Access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigation on rough roads. "The only reason for a 3 is the rough drive getting there," explains Donna G. about Wilderness Landing, suggesting visitors should prepare for potentially challenging access.

Tips for camping with families

Ranger interactions: Coldwater's rangers actively engage with young visitors. Jennifer P. shares, "Faye (one of the rangers) is great. We had our 3 year old granddaughter with us and she came by at least twice a day to give her a ride on the golf cart and printed of pages she could color on rainy days."

Beach-like play areas: Sandy shorelines provide natural play spaces for children. "Pavilions with tables and barbeque grills right on the beach," describes Stealie F. about Hidden Lake Resort, offering family-friendly recreation areas.

Extended stay options: Free camping at Wilderness Landing allows for budget-friendly family trips. "The best part is it's FREE! For up to 14 days," notes Stealie F., making it possible for families to enjoy longer vacations without campsite fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Mary Esther, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Mary Esther, FL is Wilderness Landing with a 3.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Mary Esther, FL?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 equestrian camping locations near Mary Esther, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.