Equestrian camping near Pace, Florida offers diverse options for riders seeking trail access and horse-friendly facilities. The area features sandy-bottom rivers, multiple lakes, and extensive forest trails across state parks and wildlife reserves. Winter temperatures average 45-65°F while summer months reach 75-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Blakeley State Park Campground, campers can explore 21-26 miles of trails suitable for horses. "There are bathrooms and bath houses, fairly secluded campsites, along with 26 miles of trails which are easy to moderate with a flat surface," notes Julie D. These routes take riders through historic Civil War sites.
Tubing trips: Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve offers organized tubing on their creek for $5 per person. "They do not allow you to bring your own floats, but tubing with theirs is $5 per person. General admission was $5 per person. They have canoes," shares Sherry P. The approximately two-hour float includes stops along the way.
Fishing without a license: Several lakes at Magnolia Branch provide fishing opportunities without requiring an Alabama fishing license. "Ponds have fish to catch, don't even need an Alabama fishing license to fish," explains Mark S. The multiple water features throughout the property give anglers plenty of options.
What campers like
Private sandbars: Campers appreciate river access with dedicated spaces. At Wilderness Landing, "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," reports Stealie F.
Clean facilities despite primitive settings: Even at less developed sites, bathroom facilities receive praise. "Clean showers/toilet building. Pavilions and grills by the river," notes Salvador G. about Wilderness Landing. At Apalachee RV Campground, Amy B. observed, "The bathroom was clean, had a light, very soft toilet paper, and hand sanitizer."
Historical features: History enthusiasts value the preserved sites. "Walking auto cell phone tours of civil war, boat tours," mentions Kevin L. at Blakeley State Park. Caitlin M. adds that Magnolia Branch is "30 min from the WindCreek Casino Atmore and local shopping," providing convenient off-site attractions.
What you should know
Limited operating hours: Some parks have restricted access times. "Gate closes at 4:00 PM (Feb)," warns Stephen D. about Magnolia Branch. Local R. noted, "Upon arriving at the gate, we weren't even greeted... She said 'we're closed'. I asked what time they close daily and mentioned that google says open 24hrs and their website doesn't list hours and she said '4'."
Terrain challenges: Access roads can be difficult at some locations. "The only reason for a 3 is the rough drive getting there," explains Donna G. about Wilderness Landing. At Peaceful Camping in the Woods, Christopher M. describes the setup: "Parked in a clearing with 2 5th wheel renters on it...walked back into the woods along a trail and chose one of several camp clearings."
Campsite spacing varies: Some parks offer more privacy than others. "Large sites with plenty of space between," says Mark S. about Magnolia Branch, while others note closer proximities at different parks. "There is alot of space between sites," confirms Alana R. about Apalachee Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger interactions: Rangers at some parks make special efforts for children. At Coldwater Equestrian Campground, Terran B. found it "So well maintained, it is way back in the woods. Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time, but overall this is a great little place."
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Magnolia Branch, Angela notes, "Campground itself isn't large only about 50+ sites... Small lake/lg pond to fish in and river for swimming." However, jim warns, "The sprawling playground that aligns the campsites assures of loud, screaming children at all hours."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can observe local animals in their natural habitat. "Lots of wildlife including deer that come very close," reports John W. at Blakeley State Park. The varied ecosystems throughout the area's parks provide numerous opportunities to spot native species.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at some parks. "Some sites are level some are more difficult to level," warns John W. about Apalachee Campground. Michael notes at Blakeley State Park, "Some of the sites are so unlevel. But the historical tour of the park is amazing."
Hookup availability: Campgrounds offer various levels of service. Angela describes Magnolia Branch: "Most are full hook up with less then 20 being power and water only. Very well maintained and always making improvements." For primitive camping, Stealie F. notes that Wilderness Landing has "No hookups at the campsites but there is running water (hot and cold) in the bath house with flushing toilets."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across parks. "Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time," reports Terran B. about Coldwater Equestrian Campground. RVers working remotely should plan accordingly with alternative connectivity options when staying in more remote locations.
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