Point Washington State Forest offers primitive camping options located 2-10 miles from Panama City Beach on forest roads with variable conditions. The forest contains multiple tent camping areas across 15,000 acres of longleaf pine ecosystem. Eastern Lake Campground has both walk-in tent sites and drive-up options depending on which camping area you select, while Pine Log State Forest features more remote camping opportunities with minimal amenities.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Eastern Lake Campground 2 provides direct water access with a small dock for launching watercraft. "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," notes one visitor who plans to bring their kayak on return visits.
Hiking trails: Explore the Eastern Lake trail system with multiple loop options ranging from 3.5 to 10 miles. The trails are part of the Florida Forest Service's Trailwalker Hiking Program. A camper described them as "very well kept up and clean" with trails that are "beautiful all around."
Fishing access: White Oak Landing Campground provides access to freshwater fishing with less crowds than coastal areas. "This site is just off hwy 65. It has open areas for more room to spread out," reports one camper. The natural water source at this location remains "clean and cold" year-round.
What campers like
Seclusion from tourist areas: Despite being near popular beach destinations, Point Washington State Forest offers a peaceful retreat. "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!" reports one camper who appreciated the quiet forest setting.
Privacy between sites: Campsites at most forest locations have good spacing. At Hickory Landing Campground, "This camp ground is very secluded and the sites are fairly private. The paddling is great on owl creek," according to a recent visitor.
Beach proximity: The best tent camping near Panama City, Florida often combines forest settings with relatively quick access to 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."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest roads can become challenging after rain. "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," warns a camper at Point Washington State Forest.
Pit toilet conditions: Most primitive camping areas have basic toilet facilities that receive varying maintenance. "My biggest negative is that when we were there the walls and floors of the pit toilet were covered with flies. With a little maintenance that could be mitigated," notes one camper.
Reservation requirements: Most tent sites require advance booking through ReserveAmerica. "Your online reservation will include a four digit gate code, which you will need!" explains a camper who visited Point Washington State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near water access: Families often prefer campsites with water activities nearby. "Eastern Lake Campground 2 site 1. I had a beautiful view of Eastern Lake and easy access to the water where there is a small dock," suggests a camper, noting this setup works well for family activities.
Consider ground conditions for tent setup: Some tent sites have challenging surfaces. "The sites are a fine gravel, which was fine, but the ground was so hard underneath we couldn't drive one of our stakes in," reports a family who camped at Eastern Lake.
Beach alternative: Cotton Landing provides a less crowded option for families seeking water access. "Loved my stay at this location... people I met there were great, no drama and bathrooms were decent," shares one visitor, though they caution about ticks in wooded areas.
Tips from RVers
Post-hurricane recovery status: After Hurricane Michael, many campgrounds have reopened but with changes. At Raptor Ranch at Tyndall AFB, "The campground doesn't have as much shade or as many trees as it had before the hurricane in 2018, but it is back open for business and is a great place for military and veterans to park their campers short or long term."
Beach proximity RV options: For RVers wanting oceanfront access, El Governor Motel & RV Park offers convenience despite tight spacing. "Nice spot in Mexico Beach literally across the road from the beach. We were a little concerned as our lot backed up to the road and there was no security we could see. Gates open 24-7, but had no issues."
Site size considerations: Many RV parks in the area have limited space. "This is a very small campground where you park very close together. The park is very clean. No shade. Full hookups," cautions one RVer about El Governor RV Park.
