Camping spots near Penney Farms, Florida range from primitive sites to full-service campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The area sits on Florida's sandy coastal plain at elevations between 30-100 feet above sea level, creating a mix of pine flatwoods and wetland environments. Most campsites in this region feature sandy soil that can become soft after rain, with temperatures regularly reaching 85°F from April through October.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: At Jennings State Forest, visitors access approximately 30 miles of trails through a 23,000-acre preserve. "The trails are well marked and we only saw a few others while hiking. There are new stream crossings placed in good locations and they keep your feet dry," notes one visitor about the beach pioneer trail, which includes a streamside campsite about a mile in.
Canoe and kayak: Camp Chowenwaw Park offers access to Black Creek with kayak launching areas. "The camp has access to black creek and is fun for kayaking," shares one camper. Some areas may have limited access during repairs, so call ahead to confirm launch availability.
Fishing opportunities: Black Creek Ravine provides shoreline fishing access for both day and overnight visitors. "It's about 30 feet through some trees to the river, so if you were clever, I'm sure you could find it from a boat," explains a camper who hiked to the riverside site with young children.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas for cooling off during hot months. "The pool is available but doesn't open til 10 am where as we were all ready to go earlier since it was HOT," mentions a summer visitor at Camp Chowenwaw Park, where the YMCA manages the pool with strict safety protocols.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the natural vegetation separating sites at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. "It's quiet, and the sites are relatively private. The volunteers are amazing, as are the Rangers that run the park," reports one visitor about the state park's layout.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings provide the best wildlife observation opportunities. "We were able to spot many animals including: deer, otter, turkey, and wild pigs," shares a camper at Bayard Conservation Area, where hiking trails traverse through varied ecosystems.
Budget-friendly options: For campers seeking economical accommodations, Jennings State Forest offers basic amenities at lower prices. "It's cheap. Seems like no one is around," reports one visitor about the experience at Hammock Campground, where the primitive sites create a more secluded atmosphere.
Water access: Sites near creeks, rivers, or lakes remain highly sought after. "We had the Squirrel Run cabin which had AC and 6 bunk beds. Which was great for our family of 6. No one else was there, so we had the whole area, campfire, mess hall, and bathroom to ourselves," explains a family about their Camp Chowenwaw experience.
What you should know
Ticks and insects: Multiple forest campsites report significant insect activity, particularly during warmer months. "Many white spotted ticks. No trails, but miles of unpaved road," cautions a visitor about Jennings State Forest, highlighting the importance of proper insect protection.
Weather considerations: Florida's unpredictable weather patterns affect camping conditions year-round. "It rained during this outing. Site #232 is not quite level, and the bedding is natural dirt," explains a camper at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, where drainage can be an issue after storms.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Summertime this place is a kids paradise. There were lots of families, parties and groups on the property when we went. Fall and Winter we are told is the best time to camp here but we were advised to book early!" notes a visitor to Camp Chowenwaw's treehouse camping area.
Road conditions: Sandy access roads throughout the region can become challenging after rainfall. "It was a good 10 minute hike with our gear to get to the tree houses from parking area near pool. Wagons are provided but pack light to save the trouble," advises a camper about Camp Chowenwaw Park's treehouse area.
Tips for camping with families
Treehouse camping options: Black Creek Ravine offers a unique camping experience for families seeking adventure. "My family hiked about 2.4 mi in to this campsite and stayed one night. We liked that you have to hike in, there is no car access," reports a parent who camped with children ages 3-9, highlighting the accessible difficulty level.
Swimming safety protocols: Pools at some campgrounds maintain strict safety requirements for children. "The only downside was the fact that they are very strict at the pool. The children had to do swim tests and wear a necklace denoting which portion of the pool they could be in," notes a family at Camp Chowenwaw Park.
Easy-access sites: For families with young children, choosing sites close to bathrooms and water sources reduces hiking distance. "Good size campsites with fire ring, picnic table, water and electricity. Our camp site was partially shaded," mentions a family camper at Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park.
Cabin alternatives: When tent camping proves challenging with young children, several parks offer cabin options. "We have stayed here many times. In cabins or in tent. We like to hike which there is plenty of. Canoe which they rent. Firewood is available," shares a repeat visitor to Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV campers note varying degrees of difficulty navigating campground roads. "I drove a commercial truck for years and I had to switch to back us in because it was so tight. We were asked to move our truck multiple times so other people could pull out or back in," cautions a visitor to Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.
Sewer connections: Drainage systems at some parks present challenges for RVers. "The sewer line was 4 inches off the ground, and at a 90-degree angle, gravity doesn't work well with this setup," reports an RVer who encountered difficulties at Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park.
Space between sites: RVers appreciate campgrounds with adequate separation between vehicles. "Just left STARK FLORIDA KOA. No shade but a huge amount of space between sites and set up on an angle which increased the sense of space," notes a visitor to the Starke-Gainesville N.E. KOA.
Winter camping availability: Seasonal visitors should research availability windows. "Snowbirds can no longer secure a reservation on their preferred site for the following season upon departure. Now we are put on a waiting list until November," explains a winter visitor to the KOA in Starke, highlighting changing reservation policies.
