Tent camping near Paxton, Florida centers around the pine-dominated ecosystems of Blackwater River State Forest and surrounding state lands. The region features low-lying sandy terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet, and seasonal weather that brings heavy rainfall during summer months. Forest roads throughout the area frequently develop deep puddles after rain, creating access challenges for standard vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hurricane Lake South Campground provides shoreline fishing directly from campsites with lake views. A reviewer noted, "By far my favorite campsite in NW Florida... Boats and fishing allowed but no gas motors only trolling motors."
Mountain biking trails: Point Washington State Forest maintains extensive trail systems with varying difficulties. A visitor shared, "Did the 10 mile single track flat bike route. I saw not much wildlife or birds. It was a foggy overcast day."
Kayaking access: Eastern Lake Campground 2 offers direct water access with a small dock. According to one camper, "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."
Wildlife observation: Multiple forest areas have active wildlife. One camper at Point Washington mentioned, "Signs for active bears but we saw none," while another at Hurricane Lake South noted they've visited "maybe 50 times and have yet to see the first gator."
What campers like
Separation from RVs: Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping offers tent-focused areas away from larger rigs. A reviewer explained, "The primitive area is really more geared for the tent camper with several nice flat spots to pitch a tent away from the parking area."
Budget-friendly options: Free camping exists at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping with a 14-day stay limit. A visitor shared, "Epic free spot just outside of the Black Water Forest State Park. Camp here for up to 14 days."
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping provides the best experience according to one camper: "Beautifull place to stay in the Winter months October through May. Park open all year but late Sping and summer is insect and rainy season."
Secluded atmosphere: Eastern Lake Campground 2 provides peaceful camping despite proximity to civilization. One reviewer mentioned, "I had a great time camping in Point Washington State Forest. My only caution is be prepared for the forest roads."
What you should know
Gate access systems: Eastern Lake Campground 1 requires a code for entry. A camper advised, "Very nice quite secluded spot. Camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica."
Road conditions: Forest roads become problematic after rain events. One visitor warned, "The mud holes are huge and you definitely don't want to take a small car through it," while another reported puddles "so deep it covered my headlights!"
Campsite layouts: Many primitive sites feature specific tent setups. At Eastern Lake Campground 2, "Campsites provide picnic table and grill with a lantern pole and pea gravel area to set up tent."
Tent site surfaces: Gravel tent pads are common but can present challenges. A camper at Eastern Lake noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Campground selection: Coldwater Gardens offers family-friendly amenities beyond basic tent camping. A reviewer mentioned, "Nice for a romantic getaway or for families. Lots to do. Little farm area with chickens and trials to hike."
Bathroom facilities: Pit toilets vary in cleanliness and quality. One camper at Eastern Lake Campground 2 reported, "My biggest negative is that when we were there the walls and floors of the pit toilet were covered with flies."
Animal visitors: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Hurricane Lake South warned about "pinecones falling from mischievous squirrels who will enjoy bombing you from above while laughing at you with their friends."
Access to beaches: Despite proximity to coastal areas, beach access requires planning. A camper advised, "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."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Pine Log State Forest Primitive Campsites and other regional campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. A camper at Black Water River State Forest noted, "Rigs over 40' not recommended."
Cell service: Connectivity varies throughout the region. One camper at Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping reported being "On the edge of Verizon cell coverage service."
Parking arrangements: Some campgrounds require walk-in access to sites. At Eastern Lake Campground 2, a camper noted, "You walk a short distance from a parking lot to your campsite," making equipment transportation a consideration.
