Tent campsites near Santa Rosa Beach, Florida sit within coastal forest areas that receive approximately 65 inches of annual rainfall. These primitive sites are located 2-5 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico shoreline at elevations between 10-30 feet above sea level. Access roads in these forested camping areas become challenging after rainfall events, with puddles sometimes deep enough to submerge headlights on vehicles.
What to do
Biking forest trails: The Eastern Lake bike/hike trail in Point Washington State Forest offers 3.5-, 5- or 10-mile loop options for campers seeking active recreation. "I did the 10 mile single track flat bike route. I saw not much wildlife or birds. It was a foggy overcast day," notes reviewer Andrea S.
Kayaking Eastern Lake: Bring watercraft to Eastern Lake Campground 2 for direct lake access from your campsite. "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," writes Dale W., who regretted not bringing his own kayak during his visit.
State hopping: Plan longer backpacking trips that cross state boundaries. "Black Water River State Forest is on the Florida and Alabama state line... It is connected to Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, so there's lots of ground to cover to get some miles in. We camped in Florida the first night and Alabama the second night," explains Wayne H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers appreciate the separation between camping areas. 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. Hurricane lake surrounds the campground so every camping spot has a view of the beautiful lake," according to Desiree K.
Wildlife observation opportunities: The forests support various wildlife, though sightings aren't guaranteed. "Signs for active bears but we saw none," notes Andrea S. about her stay at Point Washington. At Hurricane Lake South, Bruce M. mentions, "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."
Solitude during off-peak times: Many primitive tent sites remain uncrowded outside summer months. "It was so quiet there and we were the only ones at the campground, we enjoyed the peace and quiet, and the alone time," writes Tobitha H. about her experience at Point Washington State Forest.
What you should know
Gate access procedures: Some campgrounds require advance planning for entry. At Point Washington State Forest, "Camp site has locked gate, should receive gate code once reserve with reserveamerica. Also if very importance: you cannot get to site from 30A, google maps does not know if you link from this app - entrance is from hwy 98," explains Ty C.
Vehicle limitations: Low-clearance vehicles face significant challenges, especially after rain. "I came in a day after rain and there were numerous significant deep puddles to get through. I was grateful my Sprinter had knobby tires and was a little higher; even then at one point the puddle was so deep it covered my headlights!" warns one camper.
Tent pad conditions: Prepare for gravel tent pads that may require special consideration. At Eastern Lake Campground 2, one camper 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
Seasonal timing: Winter months provide the most comfortable camping experience for families. At Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping, Ray N.P. advises camping during "Winter months October through May. Park open all year but late Spring and summer is insect and rainy season."
Swimming considerations: Though lake access exists at some campgrounds, be cautious about swimming. Hurricane Lake South campers should be aware that "there ARE gators in the lake and they have legs to crawl on land," though sightings remain rare according to regular visitors.
Bathroom planning: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. Eastern Lake Campground 2 has pit toilets that may need maintenance, as one camper noted: "My biggest negative is that when we were there the walls and floors of the pit toilet were covered with flies. With a little maintenance that could be mitigated."
Tips from RVers
Small RV access only: The primitive camping areas accommodate smaller recreational vehicles with limitations. At Black Water River State Forest Primitive Camping, Gregg G. advises: "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. However, 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."
Road conditions for RVs: Forest road quality determines accessibility for larger vehicles. "I would not chance the forest roads in a sedan. You might be okay if it stays dry but if it rains you will not be in good shape," notes Beth B. about Point Washington forest roads, suggesting even more caution is needed for RVs.
Cell service limitations: Expect minimal connectivity at most primitive sites. Black Water River State Forest is described as being "On the edge of Verizon cell coverage service" by one RV camper who stayed there for two nights in February.
