Blackwater River State Forest includes several distinct camping options within the 211,000-acre forest, which spans through three Florida counties. Located approximately 45 minutes from Pensacola Beach, the forest features longleaf pine ecosystems and multiple waterways. Tent camping areas in this region often close during periods of high water, particularly after heavy rainfall events from June through September.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Fish directly from Hurricane Lake South Campground where multiple sites border the water. "A large dumpster provides a place to leave all your trash so there's no excuse not to leave a trace on your site when leaving," notes BRUCE M., who adds that only trolling motors are permitted on the lake.
Overnight backpacking: Connect trails between Florida and Alabama in the northern section of Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping. "My group of camping buddies and I decided we wanted to knock out two states in one weekend. It was perfect for that! There is an old lodging road that separate the two states. We camped in Florida the first night and Alabama the second night," according to Wayne H.
Farm activities: Visit the small working farm at Coldwater Gardens where visitors can observe sustainable agriculture practices. "Nice for a romantic getaway or for families. Lots to do. Little farm area with chickens and trials to hike," shares Marlene V., who also notes the property offers various accommodation types beyond traditional tent sites.
What campers like
Separate tent camping areas: Tent-only sections prevent noise disturbance from RV generators and provide a more authentic outdoor experience. At Hurricane Lake South Campground, "The sites were spacious and grassy. Each site had a fire pit, a picnic table and shared a water spigot," according to Desiree K.
Cross-state adventures: The forest's position along the Alabama border creates unique multi-state camping opportunities. Primitive camping areas allow access to both Blackwater River State Forest and Alabama's Conecuh National Forest. "The tall pines were beautiful and great for hanging. We even hit the beach during our stay an hour south," explains Wayne H.
Waterfront accessibility: Nearly all sites at Hurricane Lake South Campground offer water views. E-Moe-G reports, "Spent 2 nights @ the hurricane lake south. Beautiful spot to relax and decompress. I suggest bringing fishing gear if you are into fishing."
What you should know
Wildlife awareness: Alligators inhabit Hurricane Lake and other water bodies throughout the forest. "Many sites are on the lake edge but realize that there ARE gators in the lake and they have legs to crawl on land. I have been there maybe 50 times and have yet to see the first gator though," explains BRUCE M..
Seasonal considerations: The primitive camping areas experience significant seasonal fluctuations in usage. "I'd be willing to bet that this place would be heavily occupied by folks utilizing the boat ramp in the warmer months and wouldn't really be an option," notes Gregg G. about Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping.
Limited cell coverage: Most forest camping areas have minimal or no cellular reception. "This is on the edge of Verizon cell coverage service," reports Gregg G., specifically regarding the primitive camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Youth group camps: Several dedicated youth camping areas exist throughout the forest with more developed facilities than standard primitive sites. North Karick Lake Youth Group Camp and Hurricane Lake North Youth Group Camp both offer toilet facilities and water hookups.
Swimming options: While natural water bodies have safety considerations, some locations offer supervised swimming. At Bluff Springs Campground, "There are two man-made lakes one of which can be used as a swimming area. However, a certified lifeguard must be present during the use of the lake," explains Valeria B.
Educational opportunities: Multiple locations feature nature trails with interpretive information. "Stuff on-site is amazing. They even have a tree house you can rent out!" reports Marlene V. about the educational features at Coldwater Gardens.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest camping areas limit RV length. "Epic free spot just outside of the Black Water Forest State Park... there is room here for smaller rigs in the parking area. Please be respectful and don't hog the parking area so others can enjoy as well," explains Gregg G., who also advises "Rigs over 40' not recommended."
Self-contained camping: Becks Camp and most primitive areas require fully self-contained camping. "Definitely a bit out of the way but very pretty! Bring some bug spray, a boat, and some fishing gear! Has spots right on the water to camp!" advises Paul G.
Hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist within the forest system. "I stayed at the state park campground in site 19. It was a full hookup site and close to the bath house," shares Melissa A. about her overnight experience at one of the more developed areas.
