Primitive tent camping near Navarre, Florida centers around the Blackwater River State Forest region with over 500 acres of backcountry camping. During winter months (October-May), temperatures average 50-70°F creating ideal conditions for extended stays. The forest roads throughout the region can become challenging after rainfall, with numerous sites requiring high-clearance vehicles when conditions are wet.
What to do
Kayaking access points: Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping provides excellent water access for paddlers. One camper notes, "There is an old lodging road that separate the two states. We camped in Florida the first night and Alabama the second night. The tall pines were beautiful and great for hanging. We even hit the beach during our stay an hour south."
Fishing opportunities: Becks Camp offers waterfront camping perfect for fishing enthusiasts. A camper advises, "Bring some bug spray, a boat, and some fishing gear! Has spots right on the water to camp!" The site is positioned for direct water access.
Hiking trail system: Several state forests offer interconnected trail networks. Point Washington State Forest features three hiking trail options ranging from 3.5 to 10 miles. A camper describes, "Lots of roads and trails to explore. I did the 10 mile single track flat bike route. I saw not much wildlife or birds. It was a foggy overcast day."
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Hurricane Lake South Campground offers waterfront sites with natural surroundings. A reviewer explains, "Remote but good roads all the way to it. South Camp is water only sites but COE has plans to upgrade with some electric sites and a new shower facility soon. Always has a resident host onsite who is helpful and can provide you with local tips."
Privacy between sites: Tent camping in Navarre area forests provides seclusion not found at developed campgrounds. A camper at Eastern Lake Campground 2 shares, "I spent two nights in campground 2 site 1. I had 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."
Nature immersion: The tent sites provide direct access to Florida's natural ecosystems. One camper reports, "Point Washington State Forest is located in the southernmost portion of Walton County. The primitive campsites, which require reservations through the ReserveAmerica system, can be accessed via forest roads 11 or 2 from U.S. Highway 98."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer brings increased heat, humidity and insect activity in tent camping areas near Navarre. Plan accordingly with proper gear and timing your visit.
Road conditions: Forest roads require caution, particularly after rainfall. A camper at Eastern Lake Campground 1 warns, "I will say that the mud holes are huge and you definitely don't want to take a small car through it, that's the only downfall."
Reservation systems: Most primitive tent sites require advance bookings. For Point Washington sites, "Your online reservation will include a four digit gate code, which you will need!" Sites typically cost $16 per night and can be booked through ReserveAmerica.
Tent pad construction: Most tent sites feature level gravel pads approximately 12'x20' with defined boundaries. A camper notes, "The site was pretty and felt nicely distanced from the other three sites in campground #1. We didn't use the gravel tent space, but hung up hammocks in the nearby trees."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for children: Choose campgrounds with water access but be aware of wildlife. At Hurricane Lake South, "many sites are on the lake edge but 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."
Pack-in requirements: Most primitive tent sites near Navarre require bringing all supplies. A camper shares, "This is boonedocking so no services available. Pack it in and pack it out and be sure to leave no trace, so this can continue to be an option for people to enjoy."
Glamping alternatives: Coldwater Gardens offers family-friendly accommodations beyond traditional tent camping. A visitor reports, "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. They even have a tree house you can rent out!"
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive tent areas near Navarre are not suitable for larger RVs. A camper at Black Water River State Forest cautions, "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."
Utility considerations: While most tent sites lack hookups, some campgrounds offer limited facilities. At Eastern Lake Campground 2, sites provide "picnic table and grill with a lantern pole and pea gravel area to set up tent" but no utility connections.
Cellular connectivity: Service can be limited in forested areas. A camper notes, "This is on the edge of Verizon cell coverage service," making it important to download maps and information before arrival.
