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Best Tent Camping near Milton, FL

737 Reviews

Tent campsites throughout Blackwater River State Forest offer primitive camping options near Milton, Florida. Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping provides free dispersed sites with minimal amenities, allowing tent campers to stay for up to 14 days in secluded natural settings. Hurricane Lake South Campground features spacious, grassy tent sites along the lakeshore with fire pits and picnic tables, providing more established camping with water access and bathroom facilities.

Most primitive tent areas in Blackwater River State Forest require campers to be self-sufficient. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply at undeveloped sites, while designated campgrounds like Hurricane Lake South offer potable water spigots, vault toilets, and trash disposal. Sites typically feature natural terrain with minimal clearing, suitable for standard tent setups. Fires are permitted in most locations when fire danger is low, though some areas may have seasonal restrictions. Cell service is limited throughout the forest, particularly at remote backcountry tent sites.

Primitive tent camping areas provide excellent access to the Blackwater River for paddling and fishing opportunities. The forest terrain offers pine-shaded sites and proximity to hiking trails throughout the 200,000+ acre forest system. Tent campers often enjoy quieter experiences at the tent-only areas compared to developed campgrounds with RV access. For those seeking true backcountry tent camping, the forest's primitive sites offer greater seclusion with fewer amenities. A camper noted that the Hurricane Lake South Campground "sites were spacious and grassy. Each site had a fire pit, a picnic table and shared a water spigot."

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Best Tent Sites Near Milton, Florida (10)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Milton, FL

15 Photos of 10 Milton Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Milton, FL

737 Reviews of 10 Milton Campgrounds

  • Elizabeth G.
    Jul. 20, 2020

    Henderson Beach State Park Campground

    Quiet and secluded for the beach

    My family and I stayed here for one night in July 2020 as our midway point from GA to Texas. We stayed in site 44 and it was private and near the bathrooms. All the sites had gravel, a picnic table, and and a fire pit as well as a clothesline. There’s a path to the beach from the bathhouse. The bathhouse was very clean and there were men and women restrooms as well as private bathroom/showers.

    We fit 2 tents at our site. It was so humid and muggy I cowboy camped on the gravel with my picnic blanket and sleeping pad. Everyone else slept in the tents without the rain fly’s for some ventilation. It was a nice, clean, and quiet park and we felt very secluded in our site. There was WiFi and cell service (2 bars for Verizon).

    Each site has electric and water. There’s a dump station near the entrance/exit of the park. Overall, lovely experience and I would definitely stay here again.

  • Mary S.
    Oct. 24, 2018

    Blackwater River State Park Campground

    Canoe, kayak or float near this small, quiet campground

    This small, meticulously maintained campground has 30 full hook up sites split evenly between Magnolia Circle and Titi Circle. My only minor complaints are that the usable site space is all on gravel (very small pieces so it should still be comfortable for tents) and some sites are too close to each other. I prefer a grassy area (and some privacy) with my campsite, but the gravel is better for drainage when it rains. 

    Beautiful Setting With Nearby Trails

    There are a couple short trails and a swimming beach at Juniper Lake, but I can't get excited about swimming in an area that has alligator warning signs on the trail along a marshy area near the lake. The Florida Trail for long distance hikers is nearby. The Blackwater Heritage State Trail is a paved trail you can access near Milton for biking, skateboarding, etc. It's 8 miles and then there's a 1.5 mile Military Heritage Trail that continues to a Naval Air Station, but then you'll have to turn around and return the same way.

    Canoeing, Kayaking and Tubing

    Blackwater River is a popular location for these activities. We passed a rental place that had lots of rental equipment.

    Site Notes

    • See photos for site map as well as several site photos.

    • All sites are back in with gravel pads except for concrete on 5, 6 and 19.

    • All sites have a picnic table and fire ring on the gravel. There's green space/trees between most sites.

    • No separate tent pad but the gravel is small and should be ok for a tent if you have a sleeping pad.

    • Magnolia Circle: Sites 3 through 5 on Magnolia Circle back up to sites 16 and 17 on Titi Circle. That's a bit close for me, but no one was behind us. Sites 1/2 and 12/13 have no green space between them. I would avoid them unless you want to socialize with your neighbors.

    • Titi Circle: Just stay at 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 27 or 29 on the outside of the circle of you want some privacy. The other sites are too close to neighbors for my comfort.

    • You're not allowed to tie anything to trees. That seems to rule out hammocks but there's a clothesline between 2 posts; I guess you could fit one hammock.

    Amenities

    • Full hookup, i.e. electricity, water and sewer hookup, at all sites. Our site had 20, 30 and 50 amp outlets.

    • Super clean restrooms/showers are located between the two loops. Showers had good water pressure and hot water. Even the sinks had hot water.

    • Dump station

    • Instead of trash dumpsters, you're supposed to put your trash by your site post between 8 and 11 am. And there's a recycling barrel for aluminum on the way to the restroom.

  • Gregg G.
    Feb. 23, 2021

    Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping

    Small Camper/Truck Camper/Van

    Epic free spot just outside of the Black Water Forest State Park. Camp here for up to 14 days. The primitive area is really more geared for the tent camper with several nice flat spots to pitch a tent away from the parking area. However, there is room here for smaller rigs in the parking area. Please be respectful and don't hog the parking area so others can enjoy as well. We stayed here for 2 nights in late Febraury and were accompanied by a few others. I'd be willing to bet that this place would be heavily occupied by folks utilizing the boat ramp in the warmer months and wouldn't really be an option. This is boonedocking so no servics available. Pack it in and pack it out and be sure to leave no trace, so this can continue to be an option for be people to enjoy. On the edge of Verizon cell coverage service. Rigs over 40' not recommended.

  • lydia B.
    Mar. 19, 2022

    Henderson Beach State Park Campground

    Family Friendly

    We arrived at a very clean, gravel campsite with a picnic table, fire ring, water & electric access, as well as a clothes line. Because we were tent camping, the gravel made it difficult to pitch our tent on site. Luckily, we had enough space and privacy on our site to unload the car and sleep in the trunk of it. The bathrooms were kept very clean, and the showers were fantastic! The beach itself is kept extremely clean and is beautiful. The volunteers do a wonderful job around the campground. Here you will find a family friendly stay! I would for sure visit Henderson Beach again for the clean facilities, beautiful beach, and local attractions.

  • Sonyia W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2019

    Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore

    Excellent as always

    This was my third trip to Pickens and it was amazing as always.

    *The camping store is closed until they can find someone to run it. Wood and ice can be bought at the Tom Thumb just outside the park or at Walmart/Publix in Gulf Breeze.

    *Battery Cooper Rd was closed so those two batteries are inaccessible.

    *Loops B/D no longer have electric or dedicated water (there is a water spigot every few sites). Tent sites D24, D25, B6 have the best shade and space.

    *We stayed at A15 (right next to walking trail entrance) and my best friend on A14. Other good shaded sites on this loop are A4 (grass not level enough for tents), A6, A12, A19, A21, A24, A26, A35 (next to dumpsters though), A36 (okay but not great).

    *You can no longer hang anything from trees or power poles (hammocks, clotheslines etc). You also cannot having a shower looking tent (we have one for a changing tent only—no toilet or shower—and they made us take it down). Max two tents or camper and one tent per site (awnings/pop up shelter over picnic table don’t count towards the two).

    *I didn’t peek into the restrooms in loops B-E. A-loop restrooms were a little dated but clean and functional. The laundry/dish washing station was stellar.

    *The price for getting into Gulf Island National Seashore is now $20 and it’s a 7 day pass.

    *The campground now gives out two slips at check-in. One is for your car and one is to keep with you after 8pm so you don’t get kicked out of the area after dark.

    Everyone was very nice and helpful.

  • Sonyia W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2019

    Fort Pickens Campground — Gulf Islands National Seashore

    Excellent as always

    This was my third trip to Pickens and it was amazing as always.

    *The camping store is closed until they can find someone to run it. Wood and ice can be bought at the Tom Thumb just outside the park or at Walmart/Publix in Gulf Breeze.

    *Battery Cooper Rd was closed so those two batteries are inaccessible.

    *Loops B/D no longer have electric or dedicated water (there is a water spigot every few sites). Tent sites D24, D25, B6 have the best shade and space.

    *We stayed at A15 (right next to walking trail entrance) and my best friend on A14. Other good shaded sites on this loop are A4 (grass not level enough for tents), A6, A12, A19, A21, A24, A26, A35 (next to dumpsters though), A36 (okay but not great).

    *You can no longer hang anything from trees or power poles (hammocks, clotheslines etc). You also cannot having a shower looking tent (we have one for a changing tent only—no toilet or shower—and they made us take it down). Max two tents or camper and one tent per site (awnings/pop up shelter over picnic table don’t count towards the two).

    *I didn’t peek into the restrooms in loops B-E. A-loop restrooms were a little dated but clean and functional. The laundry/dish washing station was stellar.

    *There are dump stations (one in loop A and one for B-E) but no sewer hook ups per site.

    *The price for getting into Gulf Island National Seashore is now $20 and it’s a 7 day pass.

    *The campground now gives out two slips at check-in. One is for your car and one is to keep with you after 8pm so you don’t get kicked out of the area after dark.

    Everyone was very nice and helpful.

  • Rachel G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 22, 2020

    Blackwater River State Park Campground

    Dark water white sand!

    We stayed is site number 28. The sites are rather small and are equipped with table, fire ring, separate grill, clothesline, and some have hammock posts. Sites are gravel. All are full hook up with water, electric, and sewer. Bathrooms were great well stocked and very clean, hot water. Trash gets picked up daily from your site. There are many many trails to walk in this area. The campground has a great boardwalk trail that goes down to a Beach area and the river. There is also a parking area and boardwalk and Beach for day-use visitors. The river is excellent here it is dark clear water with white sandy banks. This park was immaculate everyone was so friendly you can tell they took pride in this park. There was a lot of rain when we went so river levels went way up. We launched kayaks from campground beach but there is also a boat ramp not far. This park is relatively small compared to others. There is not much in area. 30-45 minutes to Pensacola. Dollar general and Piggly wiggly grocery not far from park. Outfitter close to rent kayaks and shuttle on river.

  • G
    Jul. 12, 2021

    Big Lagoon State Park Campground

    Big Lagoon State Park - Florida - Nice, quiet state park.

    Stayed at Big Lagoon 7/8/2021 for 4 nights in 24” travel trailer. There is a mixture of sites that have dirt, gravel, sand, fully paved, partial paved drives.

    Our first site: # 45 was a back in and was in low area, near a marshy area. Entire site was muddy, and caked on to your shoes. (It had been pretty rainy the previous day, but we stayed at this site 2 nights and never really dried out.

    Went to Ranger who was very helpful and moved us, 1 site over: # 46. This site had a paved area for Trailer and wide cement area to walk in and out of.. a much better site. With the heavy foliage through out the park, sites are pretty private.

    If you look at the campground map, you will see the sites on the north side are a bit higher and elevation and did not seem to have any issue with water. When booking, read the description of the site, carefully, some are tent only, or very short drive so limited what you can put where.

    Campground is gated, and you are given a code for “off hours” entrance. Used rest rooms and shower. Very clean and really hot water. No water views, short walk to water BUT, board walk was still closed due to last hurricane. Looks very close to being done.

    Lastly: Campers: if you do not plan on keeping your reservation, please be kind and formally cancel. We wanted to move the first night but sign at Ranger stated “campground full” so we did not ask.. next morning there were at least 5 or 6 sites where people did not show nor cancelled.

  • Sam S.
    Jan. 18, 2022

    Mystic Springs Recreation Area

    And it comes with a cat!

    Loved this place. It doesn’t look like it on the campground map, but most sites are secluded and come with their own picnic table, fire ring, and cover! The cover is amazing - you can put your tent, car or camper under it to stay dry. Makes me wonder why more campgrounds don’t have something similar. There’s a portapotty available, and it’s one of the cleanest I’ve visited.

    Only issue with this place is the reservation system. I like that you can reserve a site in advance, but it seems like a lot of people take advantage of it and don’t end up showing. While I was here I think almost all the sites were officially booked, yet less than half actually were occupied. Please don’t do this if you’re staying here!

    Oh yea, there was a pregnant cat at my site (6) as well. She was very sweet and maybe you’ll get to see her kittens if you stay here!

Guide to Milton

Blackwater River State Forest offers multiple dispersed camping options spanning over 200,000 acres near Milton, Florida. The forest contains several primitive camping areas with varying levels of amenities across its pine-dominated landscape. Camping sites range from completely undeveloped backcountry locations to established primitive campgrounds with basic facilities. Elevation throughout the forest remains relatively flat, with most camping areas situated between 100-200 feet above sea level.

What to do

Paddling adventures: The Blackwater River provides excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing through Florida's natural landscape. At Becks Camp, one visitor noted, "Definitely a bit out of the way but very pretty! Bring some bug spray, a boat, and some fishing gear! Has spots right on the water to camp!"

Hiking explorations: Multiple trail systems wind through Blackwater River State Forest, connecting various camping areas. A camper at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping shared, "Black Water River State Forest is on the Florida and Alabama state line... it is connected to Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, so there's lots of ground to cover to get some miles in."

Fishing opportunities: Hurricane Lake and other water bodies offer freshwater fishing throughout the year. According to one experienced camper at Hurricane Lake South Campground, "I suggest bringing fishing gear if you are into fishing... Boats and fishing allowed but no gas motors only trolling motors."

What campers like

Affordable camping options: Many tent campers appreciate the cost-effective nature of camping in this area. One visitor to Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping described it as an "Amazing spot! Just a few people there. Beautiful views! Right by the state park, no toilets and showers here. Loved every part of it!"

Lake views: The established campgrounds around Hurricane Lake provide water access with scenic views. A reviewer described the experience: "Hurricane lake surrounds the campground so every camping spot has a view of the beautiful lake. I love that the tent campers are in a separate campground from RV campers."

Natural surroundings: The pine forest environment creates a peaceful backdrop for the best tent camping near Milton, Florida. At Coldwater Gardens, a camper shared, "Nice for a romantic getaway or for families. Lots to do. Little farm area with chickens and trials to hike. Stuff on-site is amazing."

What you should know

Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping conditions throughout the year. One visitor to Bluff Springs Campground mentioned returning to the same spot: "Very nice, quiet. love this place. Second time here. Same spot. Just love it."

Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife includes alligators in some water bodies. A regular visitor to Hurricane Lake South Campground explained: "Realize that there ARE gators in the lake and they have legs to crawl on land. I have been there maybe 50 times and have yet to see the first gator though."

Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies across the forest, particularly in primitive areas. One review noted primitive camping at Black Water River State Forest is "On the edge of Verizon cell coverage service."

Tips for camping with families

Separate camping areas: Some locations offer dedicated areas for tent campers. According to one parent at Hurricane Lake South Campground, "This makes for a more peaceful camping experience."

Educational opportunities: Certain campgrounds offer nature learning experiences for children. At Sunny Days Finca, which is "close to: East Bay Boat Ramp- 4.1 miles, Navarre Beach- 6.8 miles, Blackwater River- 20 miles," families can combine forest and beach experiences.

Safety considerations: Campground hosts often provide important safety information. One Hurricane Lake South Campground visitor mentioned, "We were greeted by the kindest friendliest host as we were setting up. He made sure we knew the rules and amenities."

Tips from RVers

Size restrictions: Many primitive camping areas cannot accommodate large RVs. A reviewer at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping cautioned, "The primitive area is really more geared for the tent camper with several nice flat spots to pitch a tent away from the parking area. However, there is room here for smaller rigs in the parking area. Rigs over 40' not recommended."

Limited hookups: Most tent camping near Milton offers minimal to no RV services. A visitor seeking RV accommodations at Becks Camp reported, "Head's up. I just called to ask about reserving an RV site. They no longer have those types of sites."

Stay duration limits: Forest service rules typically restrict camping duration. A reviewer noted about Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping: "Camp here for up to 14 days... This is boonedocking so no services available. Pack it in and pack it out and be sure to leave no trace."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Milton, FL?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Milton, FL is Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping with a 4.6-star rating from 5 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Milton, FL?

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