Blackwater River State Forest offers equestrian camping near Miramar Beach, Florida, with facilities situated approximately 45 miles northeast of the beach area. The forest encompasses over 210,000 acres of longleaf pine ecosystem with sandy soil trails ideal for horseback riding. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while winter months provide more comfortable camping conditions with temperatures between 40-65°F.
What to do
River activities: Wilderness Landing provides direct access to Blackwater River with a boat launch for kayakers and canoeists. "The river is sand bottom and fairly clear. My big ol' malamute 'Stealie' loves the river!" notes Stealie F., who appreciates the natural swimming area.
Horse trail riding: The extensive trail system throughout Blackwater River State Forest offers miles of riding opportunities for equestrians. Dale W. describes Coldwater Equestrian Campground as a "perfect secluded equestrian camp with horse stable and trails," making it a destination for riders seeking forest experiences.
Sandbar relaxation: Coldwater Creek features natural sandbars where campers can enjoy water access. "You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only," explains Jennifer P., highlighting one of the natural features exclusive to registered campers.
What campers like
Free camping options: Wilderness Landing stands out for its no-cost camping. "Good spot for free. Clean showers/toilet building. Pavilions and grills by the river," reports Salvador G., highlighting the value despite the primitive accommodations.
Ranger interactions: The staff at Coldwater Equestrian Campground receives consistent praise for their engagement with guests. "Very friendly staff especially the Rangers. 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," shares Jennifer P.
Privacy and quiet: For campers seeking solitude, these forest campgrounds deliver. "Want to be away from it all - this is the place. Grass sites, some shade," states Ken R. about Wilderness Landing's primitive camping environment.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be challenging. "The only reason for a 3 is the rough drive getting there," mentions Donna G. regarding Wilderness Landing, suggesting high-clearance vehicles may be preferable.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is restricted throughout the forest. "Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time," reports Terran B., highlighting the remote nature of these camping areas.
Campsite proximity: The campsites at Coldwater Equestrian Campground lack privacy barriers. Dale W. notes, "Only complaint is the campsites are right next to each other with no screening between sites," which might affect those seeking more isolated accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger activities: Children camping at Coldwater Equestrian Campground often enjoy special attention from staff. Jennifer P. observed that rangers "didn't discriminate either...all the children at the campground got to take a ride" on the golf cart, providing entertainment during their stay.
Bathroom facilities: Families appreciate the maintained restroom facilities at Wilderness Landing. "Clean showers/toilet building," notes Salvador G., which can be especially important when camping with children.
Shade considerations: For summer camping with children, seek out shadier sites. "Most of the sites from #16 to #56 are shaded, some more than others," advises Jennifer P., which helps manage Florida's heat.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers should note the differences between the campgrounds. Wilderness Landing offers "no hookups at the campsites but there is running water (hot and cold) in the bath house with flushing toilets," according to Stealie F., while Coldwater provides water and electrical hookups at all RV sites.
Site specifications: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs equally. "All the sites are not the same size, some being larger than the others," Jennifer P. points out about Coldwater Equestrian Campground, suggesting RVers should request specific sites based on their vehicle dimensions.
Surface conditions: The ground composition varies between campgrounds and can affect setup. Jennifer P. observed that site #56 at Coldwater was "extra super sandy (beach sand) and would be a lot better if they removed some of it," which can impact leveling and stabilization for RVs.
