Camping opportunities near Paxton, Florida include equestrian facilities and wilderness sites throughout the Blackwater River State Forest region. The area features sandy-bottomed creeks and rivers with a mix of wooded and waterfront campsites. Primitive camping and sites with hookups are available within 30 miles of Paxton, with several locations offering specific accommodations for horses.
What to do
Explore river access points: Geneva State Lake provides waterfront camping with fishing docks and hiking trails. "It was so peaceful and the sunrises over the lake were breathtaking," notes camper SJ W. about the Geneva State Lake experience.
Take horses on forest trails: The forest offers designated equestrian trails for riders bringing their own horses. "This beautiful equestrian campground offers 55 RV/tent campsites and one tent only site and 60 horse stalls," explains Dale W. about the trails at Coldwater Equestrian Campground.
Enjoy swimming beaches: The sandy river beaches provide natural swimming areas during warm months. "The river is sand bottom and fairly clear. My big ol' malamute 'Stealie' loves the river!" shares Stealie F., highlighting the river features at Wilderness Landing.
What campers like
Free camping options: Some sites offer no-cost camping for budget-conscious travelers. "Good spot for free. Clean showers/toilet building. Pavilions and grills by the river," reports Salvador G. about Wilderness Landing.
Secluded woodland settings: The remote location limits cell service but provides genuine forest immersion. "So well maintained, it is way back in the woods. Cell service was on the struggle bus the whole time, but overall this is a great little place," describes Terran B.
Ranger interaction: Staff regularly visit campsites and assist visitors. "Very friendly staff especially the Rangers. Faye (one of the rangers) is great... she came by at least twice a day to give her [granddaughter] a ride on the golf cart and printed of pages she could color on rainy days."
What you should know
Payment systems: Some sites require online payment rather than on-site collection. "The camping price is $2 per night, no reservation is needed, and is online payment," explains Vand H. about the Hidden Lake Resort procedures.
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging, especially during wet conditions. "The only reason for a 3 is the rough drive getting there," notes Donna G. about reaching certain campsites.
Site characteristics: Campsite features vary significantly, with some having more amenities than others. "All the sites are not the same size, some being larger than the others... A lot of the campsites are right on the water. You even have a private huge sandbar for campers only."
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly ranger activities: Some horse campgrounds near Paxton, Florida offer special attention for children. "She didn't discriminate either—all the children at the campground got to take a ride," shares Jennifer P. about ranger interactions at Geneva State Lake.
Beach access considerations: River beaches offer child-friendly play areas, but supervision is essential. "It is located right on the Blackwater River and has a boat launch and two pavilions with tables and barbeque grills right on the beach."
Weather planning: Consider potential weather impacts on access roads when planning family trips. "I didn't want to get stuck there in the rain - it was about 5 miles of dirt roads to get in there and they were well maintained but I didn't want to risk it," cautions SJ W.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some locations have uneven sites requiring preparation. "I drive a 20' van - so non level is ok for me but these sites were not level," shares SJ W.
Hookup availability: Equestrian campgrounds near Paxton offer various levels of hookups for RVs. "All campsites have water and electrical hookups. There is a dump station, restrooms, showers, and a dining facility available by reservation," explains Dale W.
Stay limits: Check maximum stay durations when planning longer visits. "The best part is it's FREE! For up to 14 days," notes Stealie F. about restrictions at Wilderness Landing.
