The Ponce de Leon area features limestone karst topography with multiple freshwater springs at approximately 200 feet elevation. The region sits within the Choctawhatchee River watershed, creating diverse wetland habitats alongside pine forests and sandy terrain. Camping sites near Ponce de Leon, Florida range from primitive sites with lake access to full-service RV resorts within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Cave diving and springs exploration: At Vortex Spring, divers can access underwater caves that extend over 1,600 feet horizontally. "I've been here a couple of times for diving and hanging out with friends this place was great. They have many things to do on property. Swimming, diving, water slides, swings, bike trails hiking trails, and Jeep trails," notes reviewer Rusty R.
Bird watching along forest trails: The pine forests support over 170 bird species. At Sand Pond Campground, a 2-mile Campground Trail connects three distinct ecosystems. Dale W. reports, "The two-mile Campground Trail, part of the Forest Service's Trailwalker Program, winds along the banks of Cyprus Pond, through the mixed hardwood/pine forest, and around Sand Pond. This is a nice and easy, well-maintained, level trail."
Coastal dune hiking: Just 30 minutes south, coastal dune ecosystems offer unique hiking terrain. "Keep in mind, this is a Preserve. Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" observes James M. about Topsail Hill Preserve.
What campers like
Private, spacious tent sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded tent camping with natural buffers. "There are only three primitive camping sites out here and they are very secluded. In site 3 we had a great view of the river and easy access to the hiking trails! If you like primitive camping, this place is the way to go," shares Ben G. about Pine Log State Forest.
Lake views and fishing access: Several campgrounds feature lakefront sites with easy water access. Twin Lakes Camp Resort has "a lot of wooden fishing docks. Boats to rent," according to Cynthia K., who adds, "Beautiful, picturesque campsites. A lot of them have lake views."
Clean, modern facilities: Twin Lakes Camp Resort receives consistent praise for its facilities. "Very clean campground with plenty of amenities," writes reviewer totorunner, while Michael T. notes it's "one of the top ten private parks we have visited. Lot of amenities, ked friendly, beautiful bathrooms."
What you should know
Summer heat requires preparation: The area regularly exceeds 90°F with high humidity from June through September. Adequate hydration and shade access are essential.
RV site spacing varies significantly: Some resorts pack in sites while others provide more space. Stephen D. observed at Twin Lakes: "Concert pads with full hook ups... A little close to your neighbors for me."
Seasonal water levels affect activities: Falling Waters State Park features Florida's highest waterfall, but flow depends on recent rainfall. "The falls and the lake were nice but depend on rainfall. We have been in a little drought so it was a trickle," reports Jerimmey M.
Primitive sites require preparation: Limited facilities at some forest locations. "There are 2 different camps in the forest. Sand pond, which has hookups for water and electric, very nice, well maintained and enjoyable. Then there is Primitive camping... 3 sites total along pine log creek, approx. 1/2 mile apart," explains Julie P.
Tips for camping with families
Water-based activities for kids: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming, paddling and fishing opportunities. At Grayton Beach State Park, "You can reserve campsites in Florida state parks 11 months in advance... We lucked out and snagged a coveted site on the lake due to a last-minute cancellation. Sites are generous and private with many trees separating the sites and it is a very quiet campground," shares Lee D.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many sites offer chances to spot local wildlife. "Hit the beach for a beautiful sunset each night. Biked in the forest across the street and biked up and down 30A a bit," reports Jeffrey S. from Grayton Beach State Park.
Tent sites with amenities: Some campgrounds combine primitive feel with basic comforts. At Topsail Hill Preserve, Travis D. explains: "We were at one of the few 'tent' campsites in the park. Our site was back off the road in the brush - very private even with a trail just on the other side of the bushes. Either ride your bike or take the tram the mile to the boardwalk and beach."
Tips from RVers
RV site surface quality: Site surfaces range from gravel to concrete pads. Jason R. noted at Sapphire Island RV Park: "This park is only a few years old. It has gravel sites, full electric and water and a central dump to empty your tanks when you leave."
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer full hookups with 30/50 amp service. "Water and electric but no sewer at site. There is a dump station," mentions Jerimmey M. about Falling Waters State Park.
Camp host support: Several locations have knowledgeable hosts. At Sapphire Island, "the camp host is a fully qualified RV technician (he fixed a broken water connection in our camper, great guy)," according to Jason R.
Military base proximity considerations: Some campgrounds are near military installations. Tara E. notes about Sapphire Island: "Good place to overnight if you are passing through. Eglin AFB is very close by, including a bombing range."
