14 campgrounds with availability next weekend
Several RV parks dot the landscape around Ponce de Leon, Florida, providing convenient bases for exploring the Florida Panhandle. Paradise Mini Village And RV Park offers electric hookups with 50-amp service, though it's not suitable for larger rigs. Black Creek RV Park, located within 30 miles, features 52 spacious sites with full hookups including 30/50-amp electric, water, and sewer connections. The park caters exclusively to RVs and maintains a 4.5-star rating among travelers. Retroville 1960s-70 Drive In Movie/TV Themed RV Park provides a unique experience with its 10 big-rig friendly sites equipped with full hookups. One RV owner noted, "Each site is large with a sand and gravel base. Full hook-ups, good water, and sewage. We brought our 17 foot long tow vehicle and 33 foot camper and had no problem getting into our spot."
For RV campers planning their stay, most parks in the region operate year-round with varying amenities. Black Creek RV Park offers a sanitary dump station, while Hitchinpost RV Park and Campground, about 40 miles northeast, lacks this facility despite having sewer hookups at individual sites. Cell service varies throughout the area - Black Creek RV Park visitors report excellent connectivity with both Verizon and AT&T networks. Pet owners will find most facilities accommodate their furry companions, with designated pet areas at several parks. Reservations are recommended, particularly during peak winter months when snowbirds flock to Florida's milder climate. Some parks accept discount programs like Passport America, with Hitchinpost RV Park offering military, first responder, and senior discounts at $28 per day including tax.
"We held out till days before leaving for a 3 month trip before searching for an alternative in hopes we would be at the beach then that plan squashed by a Tropical Storm. "
"Outback Springs RV Park in Bonifay Florida is one beautiful place."
from $54 - $66 / night
"Tents, RVs full hookups, and nice cottages. We have a tiny trailer and there was torrential rain 2 days so locked up H@rvey and weathered the storm in a cottage."
"Great sites, most with full hookup. Cable tv provided. Five bars of cell service. The beach here is awesome, there is a tram to take you down. We will most definitely be back here!"
Available next weekend
from $24 - $130 / night
"The grounds were very clean, and although the waterfront area is a marshy slope (more like a slew off the river), it added to the quiet, tucked-away atmosphere."
"The park truly does look like a trip back to the 1960s Drive in but inside the office is the most fun with a hollywood museum and tons of memorabilia."
from $65 - $80 / night
"** I hesitate to even bring attention to it because parks like this get booked out in a hurry. It's off the beaten path, in the woods about 15 minutes from the closest ocean. "
"We had to use levelers but it was super easy. Quiet campsite. We were at the beach all day and only there to sleep, it was a quick drive down to the beach and worked perfectly for our plans."
from $26 - $60 / night
"Very quite, right off the interstate and less than a mile from the Ponce de Leon springs. Super friendly and helpful owner, full hookups and very easy access and parking."
"Open 4 years Very Big Big Rig Friendly with state of the art full hookup 20 30 50 amp level sites 7 back in's 17 pull throughs up to 110 feet 2 large shaded dog parks corral for Horses Family Friendly"
"It was very affordable and offered full hookups — we used the 30amp plug, water hookup, and sewer connection with no issues. Our pull-through spot had plenty of room, making setup easy."
from $30 - $45 / night
"The park is peaceful, well-maintained, and the sites are spacious with easy access in and out."
from $35 - $65 / night
"The only real downside is the cost and there is not much distance between sites. We paid $83/night and other than laundry and restrooms, there are no amenities. "
"Nice campground clean showers and restrooms and friendly staff"
GuideFull hook ups, big rig friendly. The hosts were extremely helpful and nice. Laundry room was great $2 a load with 2 washers and 2 dryers. Perfect stop to re group. Great location near gas, groceries and clothing stores
ScoutAfter almost seven years at Campout Alabama, I’ve stayed quiet about why I left. But watching one of the owners publicly boast about “new money” while remembering what went on behind the scenes is too much to swallow.
I remember credit cards declining when we needed supplies for his own business. I remember us practically begging for chlorine for the pool. I remember power lines in pine trees and box fans being used to cool breaker panels. That’s what comes to mind when I see the displays of wealth.
A mansion doesn’t impress me when the people keeping your business running are asking for basic supplies and payment. Bragging about wealth under those circumstances is embarrassing.
Before delivering another speech about “new money,” try explaining why the basics were such a struggle. Chlorine. Supplies. Paying people for their work. These are basic responsibilities of owning a business.
I cannot recommend Campout Alabama under this ownership. Almost seven years gave me plenty of time to form that opinion, and no amount of bragging changes what I experienced and so many others experience!
ScoutJust be forewarned this is NOT a normal camping experience. By far.
Firstly, there are no actual accommodations as advertised. The "camping" you will experience consists of no primitive sites, no RV hookups, no amenities to speak of, and many other inconsistencies despite what's being presented here. There are no private areas even for changing your clothes much less anything else. As it sits beside a major county roadway with a public boat ramp with roadside public parking making any chance of alone time impossible most days. You CANNOT per county ordinances have any unregulated fires or burning due to the lake being EPA protected. If you get caught disturbing any of the flora or fauna you are subject to possible fines or prosecution by FWC. Not one stump is to be disturbed at all. The advertisement is misleading regarding this property. For the amount of money being charged you may as well go a few more miles and get a room at a motel. It would be cheaper if you did. I gave two stars because of the lake itself. Which BTW, is NOT actually "visible " from this property itself. The best viewing and admiring is better at the PUBLIC areas that are county owned and somewhat maintained. The lake itself is public use for everyone. Not to mention that this property owner has a negative reputation for shady practices in the local area. Any observations of illegal practices should be reported to law enforcement.
TravelerSo we didn't actually stay here. We were at another campsite that was 30 minutes away with higher reviews. However, we stopped by to check this place out on our way to the Florida Caverns and we really wished we would of stayed here! This place was amazing. And the convenience of the gas station and corner store in walking distance plus all of the activities they had for kids. We surely would of enjoyed this place. And the view of the water and ability to fish and kayak were an added plus. Our kids were disappointed in me for not choosing this one. Definently keeping it saved for the next time we go though. And it was only 10 minutes from the Florida Caverns and close to several stores and not to far off Highway 10. There was plenty of spots and cabins when we went in October and spacious and not over-crowded.
TravelerThink The Dyrt forgot to mention that this site is for 50 years and older. My family and I were effected by Hurricane Isaias and were looking for a RV resort that hadn't lost power. We explained the situation to the resort manager and although we are in our 40s with 3 kids, they were very welcoming of us and so friendly. Mr. Glen, the owner, was a great person and I shared great conversation with him about his life. The view from the resort is amazing. Acres of land in a sloping hillside with gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. Small 4ft pool and very spacious and clean bathrooms and clubhouse. It SOOOO peaceful and quiet out here . I went along a trail that they have to read and watch the sunrise and was welcomed by deers that roam the land. This was a very gorgeous spot and I'll likely return in 9 years after I hit the age requirements to enjoy again😁. But we were so grateful for them being so accomodating given our circumstance.
ScoutMy campsite was turned into a construction zone. See pictures. My site should have not been available given the work that would be done. People all over my site, terrorizing my dog, using my picnic table as a staging area for supplies. Manager devoid of any form of empathy. They offered a site move(no thank you a day before departure) and 50% off(not adequate). AVOID AT ALL COSTS.
TravelerSmall campground. Peaceful. Mostly older people in small RVs. Oddly enough no issue with mosquitoes which was shocking! Very nice sites
GuideGrayton Beach State Park is an outstanding place to camp in December, especially if you enjoy birding, hiking, and spending time outdoors without the heat and crowds of the summer months.
December is a great time to explore the park. The cooler temperatures make walking the trails much more comfortable, and the campground has a peaceful, laid-back feel during the winter. Tent camping is especially enjoyable if you come prepared for the weather. Days can be mild and beautiful, but mornings and nights can get surprisingly cool, so warm layers and a good sleeping bag are definitely worth bringing.
For birding, Grayton Beach is a fantastic location. The combination of coastal dunes, pine forest, wetlands, Western Lake, and the Gulf creates several different habitats within a relatively small area. Early mornings are particularly enjoyable when the park is quiet and wildlife is active. Bring a good pair of binoculars and take your time around Western Lake and the trails through the wooded areas.
GuideTopsail Hill Preserve State Park is an excellent place for tent camping in December, especially if you enjoy hiking, wildlife, and having easy access to the beach without the summer crowds.
December is a great time to experience the park. The cooler temperatures make hiking much more enjoyable, and the campground is generally quieter and more relaxed than during the warmer months. The nights can get chilly, so I would definitely recommend bringing a good sleeping bag, warm layers, and something to block the wind. During the day, though, the weather can be perfect for exploring.
My biggest advice for December tent campers is to prepare for changing weather. You could have a beautiful mild afternoon followed by a cold and windy night. Bring layers, rain protection, and a windproof jacket rather than relying on one heavy coat.
Overall, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is one of the better winter camping destinations on the Florida Panhandle. You get the Gulf, hiking, birding, dune lakes, wildlife, and a comfortable campground all in one place. For someone who prefers quiet trails and beaches over hot weather and summer crowds, December may actually be one of the best times of the year to camp here.
Ponce de Leon, Florida sits on the northern edge of the Florida Panhandle, characterized by its limestone bedrock and natural springs. The region maintains a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers, making year-round camping possible with average temperatures ranging from 40°F in winter to 90°F in summer. Local campgrounds offer varying terrain from wooded sites to waterfront locations within driving distance of Gulf beaches.
Swimming and springs exploration: Located near multiple freshwater springs including the namesake Ponce de Leon Springs where visitors can swim in 68-degree water year-round. "We used this park daily to launch our paddle craft and let our dog swim in the bay. Dogs are not allowed on the beach in the county so this was a great place for her to play and swim," notes one visitor to Geronimo RV Beach Resort.
Beach access: Most campgrounds are within 30-45 minutes of Gulf beaches. "About a mile away is Legion Park, a county park with a boat launch, picnic areas with grills, and a playground," reports a camper. The area offers both Gulf beaches and calmer bay waters for different water activities.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and creeks provide fishing spots throughout the region. "Free Fishing, Free Paddle Boats 45 minutes to local Beaches very clean safe and owner lives in site #1," mentions a guest at Hitchinpost RV Park and Campground. Many campgrounds have private ponds or water access for fishing without leaving the property.
Private camping spaces: Many tent campers appreciate secluded sites. "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," shares a camper at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas receive consistent praise. "The bathhouses are very nice and clean. About 5 minutes from the beach, they do offer a shuttle. Nice pool area with fire pits," notes a visitor to 30A Luxury RV Resort.
Unique themes: Some rv parks near Ponce de Leon, Florida feature distinctive atmospheres. "We really enjoyed our few days at this park. Its newly open and full of details and has a great hollywood museum that must not be missed. Its very close to the 30a beach area but is hidden," describes a guest at Retroville 1960s-70 Drive In Movie/TV Themed RV Park.
Seasonal variations: Winter brings "snowbirds" while summer attracts family vacationers. "We were here for the snow fall. The electric hook up was a saving grace. Now this is in the flight path of Eglin AFB. The staff is excellent both friendly and helpful," mentions a camper at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds sit near major roads. "Right off I-10. Stayed 1 night. Owner is so nice. Park is well kept. Nice dog park. Little road noise but not horrible," reports a visitor to Hitchinpost RV Park and Campground.
Cell service coverage: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. "The park has amazing WiFi. I got great service with Verizon. My wife got great service with AT&T," notes a camper. "Wi-Fi and cell service were spotty during our stay, but we expected that based on reviews," shares another visitor to Retroville 1960s-70 Drive In Movie/TV Themed RV Park.
On-site activities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated recreation areas. "Great offering in a Preserve! Good trails, coastal dunes with lakes, fishing, paddling, beach, cabins, and tent camping including Glamping!" shares a visitor to Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Pet-friendly options: Most sites accommodate pets with designated areas. "The property has a couple of lakes where you can fish and some friendly goats and chickens, which added a fun, relaxing vibe," notes a camper at Hitchinpost RV Park and Campground.
Beach transport options: Consider how you'll reach Gulf beaches. "Either ride your bike or take the tram the mile to the boardwalk and beach. Clean showers, friendly staff at the camp store," recommends a visitor to Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Campground.
Level sites: Concrete pads are common but not universal. "We had to use levelers but it was super easy. Quiet campsite. We were at the beach all day and only there to sleep, it was a quick drive down to the beach and worked perfectly for our plans," explains a camper at Black Creek RV Park.
Site spacing: RV parks vary in how close units are placed. "The sites are very large and have plenty of space between them. All are concrete and level," notes a visitor to 30A Luxury RV Resort. This contrasts with some parks where "there is not much distance between sites."
Utility reliability: Full hookups function well in most locations. "We used the 30amp plug, water hookup, and sewer connection with no issues. Our pull-through spot had plenty of room, making setup easy," shares a camper at Hitchinpost RV Park and Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular RV campsite near Ponce de Leon, FL?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near Ponce de Leon, FL is Outback Springs RV Resort with a 4-star rating from 8 reviews.
What is the best site to find RV camping near Ponce de Leon, FL?
TheDyrt.com has all 121 RV camping locations near Ponce de Leon, FL, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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