Tent camping near Olustee, Florida provides access to the natural ecology of northeastern Florida's pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. The region sits at a modest elevation of 140 feet above sea level with sandy soils that drain quickly after the frequent summer thunderstorms. Campers should prepare for hot, humid conditions from May through September when temperatures regularly reach 90°F, while winter nights can drop to the 40s.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Black Creek Ravine, campers can access the riverbank just 30 feet through the trees from the campsite. A reviewer noted, "My family hiked about 2.4 mi in to this campsite and stayed one night. We liked that you have to hike in, there is no car access."
Hiking trails: The Pioneer Trail in Jennings State Forest offers well-marked paths through diverse Florida ecosystems. "We hiked the beach pioneer trail and really enjoyed ourselves. The campsite is about a mile in and has a picnic table and fire ring. There is a stream nearby for water," shared one visitor who appreciated the trail's maintained stream crossings.
OHV recreation: Several areas permit off-highway vehicle use on designated trails. At East Tower Hunt Camp, visitors can combine camping with off-road adventures. A camper mentioned, "Tower is open where you can climb it if you want. Dollar general is only about 15 mins away."
What campers like
True seclusion: Many campers appreciate the privacy of hike-in sites like the Mule Landing Campsite which requires effort to reach. A visitor described it as "one of the best private hike-in campgrounds" with "enough room here for 2, maybe 3 small-to-medium sized tents with fairly level ground that is softened by all the downed leaves."
Natural sounds: The forested settings provide a natural soundtrack. At Jennings State Forest Hammock Campground, a camper mentioned, "It was quiet and felt secluded. The sites were close as you would normally get in an established campground but there was plenty of brush to separate each site."
Rustic amenities: Simple but functional facilities enhance the camping experience without detracting from nature. At Big Camp Hunt Camp, a reviewer mentioned it was "Nice and secluded, great for overlanders. Only downfall is the mosquitos."
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Summer brings intense heat and insects. One camper at Woods Ferry River Camp noted, "Chuck-will's-widow, owls and frogs will serenade you at night" but also warned about "raccoons and other nocturnal creatures and an occasional bear passing through."
Water considerations: Most primitive sites require you to bring all water or filter from natural sources. At Black Creek Ravine, a visitor explained, "You have water access from the river as long as you have a purification system, but you're on your own for bathrooms, electricity, etc."
Trail conditions: Sandy soil and varying terrain can make hiking challenging. A camper at Jennings State Forest described trails as "mostly soft sand, or grass" and noted that "cell service gets spotty but if your here to have your nose in your phone, you are missing out."
Tips for camping with families
Tree house alternatives: For families wanting structure with outdoor immersion, Camp Chowenwaw Park offers elevated camping. A visitor reported, "We stayed here for a night and loved it. There were short trails, a kayak/canoe launch, a pool, dock, fishing, and clean amenities."
Pool access: During hot months, swimming facilities provide welcome relief. At Camp Chowenwaw, "Pool was very nice and very strictly run by the local 'Y'. It was closed a lot due to distant rumbles of thunder but we did get a few minutes to enjoy."
Pack light for hike-ins: When bringing children to walk-in sites, minimize gear. A family at Camp Chowenwaw advised, "It was a good 10 minute hike with our gear to get to the tree houses from parking area near pool. Wagons are provided but pack light to save the trouble."
Tips from RVers
River landing access: For RVers wanting waterfront options, Bowman's Landing on the Santa Fe River offers tent and cabin camping with river recreation. A visitor described it as "Beautiful and peaceful vacation on the Santa Fe River."
Limited hookup options: Most areas near Olustee focus on primitive camping rather than RV amenities. While some sites like Jennings State Forest do accommodate smaller RVs, a camper mentioned, "There are designated camping sites and walk in camping sites" but noted limited availability during their visit.
Overflow campgrounds: During busy hunting seasons or holidays, established campgrounds fill quickly. A visitor to East Tower Hunt Camp explained, "Its a no frills free campground from the federal govt. There are no sites or reservations its just all dispearsed camping with in the boundary."
