Newport Park Campground provides access to the St. Marks River with boat ramp facilities for water activities. The campground features full hookup sites, water/electric sites, and primitive camping options. Located on Highway 98, the park serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions including St. Marks Wildlife Refuge and Wakulla Springs.
What to do
Visit St. Marks Wildlife Refuge: Located directly across from Newport Park Campground, this natural area offers extensive wildlife viewing opportunities. "The St. Marks lighthouse is so close and a must see during all times of the day. We visited at least twice, once to walk along the beach and the second time to see the sunset," notes camper Della S.
Kayak the St. Marks River: Launch directly from camp for paddling adventures. "Called ahead and booked a tent site at this county campground... There's a boat ramp within walking distance if you've got one!" shares Tucker B. who stayed at Newport Park before paddling the river.
Explore horse trails: Equestrian campers visiting horse campgrounds near Panacea, Florida can access Tate's Hell State Forest trail system. This extensive forest offers numerous individual campsites along the Carrabelle River that accommodate horse trailers via maintained dirt roads.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Recent renovations at Tate's Hell State Forest have improved the camping experience. "The bathrooms/showers were less than 6 months old & were very clean. The caretakers were close to the bathroom & were very kind & attentive but very non-intrusive," reports Rosemarie B.
Budget-friendly options: Affordable camping rates make the area accessible for extended stays. James M. describes Newport Park as "Nothing fancy, but a nice spot to stay. They do have bathrooms and shower which are clean. They also have FHU, W/E and primitive."
Waterfront access: Many sites offer direct water access for fishing and boating. At Fort Braden Tract Primitive Campsites, Edward W. found a "Brilliant view of Lake Talquin, right on the water. Thickly treed so hanging hammocks and bear lines was no problem."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some properties require careful navigation. Catherine A. notes about Crazy 8 Ranch: "The road into her ranch is pretty rough and beat up, so use caution and go slowly."
Wildlife awareness: Alligators frequent waterfront areas throughout the region. At Fort Braden Tract, a camper reported: "Even got a visit from your friendly neighborhood alligator in the middle of the night, which when I realized after the fact what the sound was was terrifying."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping locations. At Newport Park, R C. observed: "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 RVs and trailers). Lot of electric light at night."
Tips for camping with families
Visit animal rescues: Children can interact with rescue animals at certain properties. Catherine A. recommends: "Make sure you bring plenty of carrots and apples for the animals! Feeding them was a big highlight of our stay!" at Crazy 8 Ranch.
Look for group sites: For larger family gatherings, dedicated group areas offer more space. Jeanene A. notes at Fort Braden Tract: "There was a group site in between that was very nice and we were told was often used by youth groups."
Consider noise sensitivity: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds more than others. "It is located on a busy HWY 98 so there is traffic noise during the day," reports James M. about Newport Park, though noise diminishes at night.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for hookups: RV campers should confirm availability of specific hookups. James M. confirms Newport Park offers varied options: "They also have FHU, W/E and primitive."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with hookups provide dump stations, requiring planning for longer stays. Catherine A. notes about Crazy 8 Ranch: "There's power and water hookups, but no dumping stations yet."
Campground size considerations: Larger RVs may find space limitations at some campgrounds. R C. observes Newport Park "isn't big (although it does seem to cram in these enormous RVs and trailers)," suggesting careful site selection for bigger rigs.
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