Tent camping options near Pace, Florida concentrate in the Blackwater River State Forest, a 211,000-acre pine forest spanning parts of Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Escambia counties. The forest contains several freshwater lakes and the Blackwater River, with camping areas that range from undeveloped backcountry sites to more established campgrounds. Winter temperatures typically average 45-65°F, making October through April the most comfortable camping season.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Black Water River State Forest offers multiple boat ramps and water access points for kayakers and canoeters. The Blackwater River features clear, tea-colored water flowing at about 2-3 mph through sandy-bottomed stretches. According to Wayne H., "Black Water River State Forest is on the Florida and Alabama state line... We even hit the beach during our stay an hour south."
Fishing opportunities: Hurricane Lake South Campground provides lakeside fishing for bass and bream. One camper notes, "Boats and fishing allowed but no gas motors only trolling motors... plenty of shade and potable water near your campsite."
Hiking trails: The forest contains over 30 miles of trails winding through pine flatwoods and along waterways. A visitor at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping shared, "This is all primitive camping so be sure to bring EVERYTHING you need to camp. Also it is connected to Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, so there's lots of ground to cover to get some miles in."
What campers like
Natural water features: The region's springs, rivers and lakes provide swimming and paddling options. A camper at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping wrote, "Amazing spot! Just a few people there. Beautiful views! Right by the state park, no toilets and showers here. Loved every part of it!"
Spacious, grassy sites: Many tent sites offer room to spread out, especially at Hurricane Lake South Campground. Desiree K. described, "The sites were spacious and grassy. Each site had a fire pit, a picnic table and shared a water spigot. Hurricane lake surrounds the campground so every camping spot has a view of the beautiful lake."
Multi-state camping potential: Bluff Springs Campground provides access to both Florida and Alabama wilderness. One camper explained their strategy: "My group of camping buddies and I decided we wanted to knock out two states in one weekend. It was perfect for that! There is an old lodging road that separate the two states. We camped in Florida the first night and Alabama the second night."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings heavy insects and rain to the region. A camper at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping advised, "Beautifull place to stay in the Winter months October through May. Park open all year but late Spring and summer is insect and rainy season."
Wildlife awareness: Alligators inhabit local waterways but rarely pose problems for careful campers. As one Hurricane Lake South visitor noted, "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."
Limited facilities: Most primitive camping areas have minimal or no amenities. Gregg G. reports about primitive camping: "This is boondocking 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. On the edge of Verizon cell coverage service."
Tips for camping with families
Glamping alternatives: Coldwater Gardens offers unique accommodations beyond standard tent camping. Marlene V. recommends, "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!"
Designated youth areas: Several youth group camps exist in Blackwater River State Forest with dedicated facilities for organized groups. These sites typically include restrooms, picnic tables, and water sources, making them suitable for families with younger children.
Swimming opportunities: Natural swimming areas provide cooling recreation during warmer months. Bluff Springs Campground features two man-made lakes where Valeria B. notes, "One of which can be used as a swimming area. However, a certified lifeguard must be present during the use of the lake."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: The best tent camping near Pace, Florida separates tent and RV camping areas. E-Moe-G shared about Hurricane Lake South: "Spent 2 nights @ the hurricane lake south. Beautiful spot to relax and decompress. I suggest bringing fishing gear if you are into fishing."
Size restrictions: Sunny Days Finca offers limited space for smaller rigs. Ashley F. notes it's a "flat, grassy area that's close to: East Bay Boat Ramp- 4.1 miles, Navarre Beach- 6.8 miles, Blackwater River- 20 miles. Don't forget your kayaks."
Access considerations: Some primitive areas accommodate small campers but not large RVs. As Gregg G. advises about Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping, "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."
