Newport Park Campground provides a balanced mix of waterfront camping opportunities along the St. Marks River for those seeking accommodations near Panacea, Florida. Located in the Florida Panhandle, this region features coastal marshlands at approximately 13 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while winters stay relatively mild with occasional frost.
What to do
Fishing at High Bluff Campground: Located within Lake Talquin State Forest, this primitive campground offers excellent fishing opportunities. "Several people used the boat ramp, but only one other camper. So the night was quiet. I could see how it could be well used for day picnics and fishing," notes camper J V. about the High Bluff Campground.
Wildlife viewing at Tate's Hell State Forest: The primitive campsites here provide secluded spots to observe local wildlife. "Nice place for dogs (req'd on leash) as no other campsites nearby. Very quiet, no water or electricity," reports Vince F. at Tate's Hell State Forest High Bluff Primitive Campsites. The forest contains diverse ecosystems including wetlands and pine forests.
Visit Apalachicola River: Torreya State Park offers unique hiking with elevation changes uncommon in Florida. "130 ft bluffs and great view of the Apalachicola River. Hike the many trails - we loved the 'Torreya Challenge' trail!" shares Jeanene A. The trail system includes several loops of varying difficulty.
What campers like
Secluded campsites: Tate's Hell primitive sites offer true isolation. "Each spot is so far away from each other that you feel completely secluded, which is nice. We stayed at Pidcock Rd. Even though nobody was around we still kept the dogs on leash because the spot is surrounded by water on 3 sides," writes Laura M.
Dark night skies: The lack of light pollution makes stargazing exceptional. "We camped at Pidcock Road Campsite #49 during the 2020 Leonid meteor shower. Nice place for dogs (req'd on leash) as no other campsites nearby," says Vince F. about camping at Tate's Hell.
Waterfront access: Holiday Campground on Ochlockonee Bay provides direct water access. "Nice little CG on the bay with a good number of direct bayfront sites. Some with pine trees for shade. Clean bathrooms. Swimming pool," reports Greg Z. The campground includes a mix of shaded and waterfront sites.
What you should know
Primitive facilities at some sites: Many forest campgrounds lack amenities. "No power, no water, no WiFi, no store. T-Mobile was very good with 300+ Mbps. The last 3 miles are dirt road, but in good condition as long as you can stay in the middle without traffic," explains Sebastian L. about High Bluff Campground.
Wildlife presence: Alligators are common near water. "Caught a beautiful sunset over the lake and saw a massive gator hanging out by the fishing pier. The gator was back in the morning as I was enjoying my cup of coffee out on the pier!" warns Tucker B. at High Bluff.
Hunting seasons: Be aware of hunting activity in surrounding areas. "If you come in from the river and try to camp, make sure it hasn't rained a lot which could make hiking up to a campsite challenging. They have both dispersed campsites and drive-up," explains Issa F. about Torreya State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Interactive farm experiences: Goat House Farm offers unique glamping close to Panacea, Florida. "The owner of the farm was so welcoming and accommodating. She even gave us a tour of the farm in the morning and we were able to play with a ton of goats and chickens! It was such a great experience with genuinely kind people," shares Dianna B.
Swimming opportunities: Some campgrounds include swimming areas. "I stayed with a larger group and we all had an amazing time," notes Dianna B. about Goat House Farm. The farm accommodates small groups with its three glamping sites.
Bathroom facilities: Check bathroom availability before booking primitive sites. "The vault toilet was well stocked with toilet paper and kept clean, but there was some trash around the campground," reports Stacie R. about High Bluff Campground. Many primitive sites lack restroom facilities entirely.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Newport Park: Choose sites away from the highway for less noise. "I did not like the proximity to the busy highway (noisy) and the campground itself isn't big (although it does seem to cram in these enormous rv's and trailers). Lot of electric light at night," advises R C. about Newport Park Campground.
Site dimensions and leveling: Check site specifications before booking. "For a 26" tt the spot was just enough, a little rough to back into. Entirely worth it. If you're looking for a peaceful, quiet place this is it. Be sure to fill your water before arrival as there is no spigot," shares Joey S. about High Bluff Campground.
Full hookup availability: Gulf View Campground offers complete RV amenities. "Easy to navigate, super clean and well maintained. The view is spectacular. Bathrooms are laid out super nice, clean and comfortable," notes Rhonda S. The campground provides water, electric, and sewer hookups at most sites.
