Tent campsites near Panama City Beach occupy coastal forest areas with sandy soil and pine flatwoods typical of Florida's panhandle region. These primitive sites offer alternatives to crowded beachfront camping at elevations typically less than 50 feet above sea level. Most dispersed camping areas require advance reservations and can be accessed via unpaved forest roads that become challenging after rainfall.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Point Washington State Forest contains multiple trail loops ranging from 3.5 to 10 miles. "I did the 10 mile single track flat bike route. I saw not much wildlife or birds. It was a foggy overcast day," notes Andrea S. from Point Washington State Forest.
Kayaking and canoeing: Eastern Lake Campground provides direct water access for paddle sports. "I had a beautiful view of Eastern Lake and easy access to the water where there is a small dock. Great place to launch a canoe or kayak," shares Dale W. from Eastern Lake Campground 2.
Beach visits: Most primitive campgrounds require a short drive to reach Gulf beaches. "For those like us who are in the area primarily because of beaches, be aware that while these campgrounds are very close to 30A by the way the crow flies, it's about 20 minutes by car to Seagrove," notes a camper at Eastern Lake Campground 2.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the solitude of forest camping compared to beach accommodations. "Very nice quite secluded spot. Camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica," writes Ty C. about Point Washington.
Clean facilities: Despite primitive conditions, most campgrounds maintain adequate facilities. "The site was pretty and felt nicely distanced from the other three sites in campground #1. We didn't use the gravel tent space, but hung up hammocks in the nearby trees," reports H M. at Point Washington State Forest.
Natural water sources: Some campgrounds offer natural water features. "This site also has a everflowing water supply that has been there for decades. It's sulfer water but it's clean and cold," mentions Jacob A. about White Oak Landing.
What you should know
Access roads can be challenging: Many primitive campgrounds have difficult approach roads. "I came in a day after rain and there were numerous significant deep puddles to get through. I was grateful my Sprinter had knobby tires and was a little higher; even then at one point the puddle was so deep it covered my headlights!" warns Jared from Point Washington.
Gate codes required: Many campsites require codes for access. "CG is within the State Forest about 2 miles in, off US98, on Level 2 roads. Follow 'Primitive camping area' signs to parking area, watching for route," advises a camper.
Water access varies by site: Water proximity differs between campgrounds. "Site is on the extreme northwest side of Eastern Lake, though with all the trees, there's not water views from the sites."
Environmental hazards exist: Tent camping near Panama City Beach comes with natural challenges. "Trash needed to be emptied and ticks are definitely out at this campsite but only in the woods so get fire wood along the dirt road on your way in to avoid the ticks and sticker bushes," cautions Katlyn A. about Cotton Landing.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water supplies: No potable water exists at most sites. "No hookups or water. We stayed at campsite #1 which had plenty of trees for shade and was closest to the water, but they all looked nice."
Consider site proximity to amenities: Some sites require walking from parking areas. "We stayed at campground 2 site 3, a stone's throw across the lake from the Old Florida Fish House. You can definitely hear the music coming from there, so you may or may not like that."
Prepare for mud: Weather impacts site conditions significantly. "We camped here on our vacation and LOVED it! It's not far from Destin and other popular locations, but it's a gem itself! There's plenty room to walk and explore, the trails are very well kept up and clean, and it's beautiful all around. I will say that the mud holes are huge and you definitely don't want to take a small car through it," advises Savannah S. about Point Washington.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access limitations: Many primitive sites aren't suitable for larger rigs. "I would not chance the forest roads in a sedan. You might be okay if it stays dry but if it rains you will not be in good shape."
Alternative RV options: For full hookups near beaches, consider established RV parks. "This is a very small campground where you park very close together. The park is very clean. No shade. Full hookups. Bath and showers and laundry," notes a camper about El Governor Motel & RV Park.
Site leveling considerations: Some primitive sites present leveling challenges. "Sites 1 and 2 slope down to their campsite, and would be difficult to sleep in your vehicle without balancers. Sites 3 and 4 are more flat and work fine for sleeping in your vehicle."
