Camping near Sopchoppy, Florida offers access to diverse natural habitats where the Ochlockonee River meets coastal wetlands. The region sits at the edge of Tate's Hell State Forest, with campsites typically situated at elevations under 50 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures average 45-65°F, making December through March the most comfortable camping season.
What to do
Fishing from piers: At Holiday Campground, the fishing pier includes cleaning stations for your catch. "There is a fishing pier and small beach. The bath house is sparkling clean and the pool is great!" notes Kim M.
Kayaking the rivers: Launch your kayak from Myron B. Hodge City Park to explore the Sopchoppy River. "Swim, fish, boat launch, pavilion. Beautifully landscaped, clean campground and facilities. Handicapped accessible," explains Lisa S. who stayed at a riverside site.
Wildlife viewing: Visit Ochlockonee River State Park for unique wildlife encounters. "We came to this campground after staying at St George Island state oro to complete a 2 week trip... got to see very close the unique white squirrel," reports Ronald H., who camped there during a hurricane approach.
Stargazing: The remote locations offer exceptional night sky viewing. A camper at Ochlockonee River State Park mentioned, "Rangers encourage campers to limit outdoor lights at night and the stars are amazing."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campsites in the area offer peaceful settings away from crowds. At Womack Creek Campground, "You'll see lots of stars on a clear night and will not be disturbed by the rest of the world!" according to Carrie F.
Clean facilities: Despite their remote locations, many campgrounds maintain good facilities. One camper noted of St. George Island State Park, "This is a great place to camp. The campground is well maintained and has all the amenities, and you are so close to both the gulf and the bay beaches."
Waterfront views: Campsites along rivers and coastlines offer scenic views. At Holiday Campground, "If you visit book a water front site in the teens #s, because your back yard is unbeatable," suggests Teresa S.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate natural barriers between sites. At St. George Island State Park, a reviewer mentioned, "There isn't a bad site, they all have privacy. Big pines mixed with palms and lovely breeze to keep it comfortable."
What you should know
Bugs can be intense: Insects are particularly active in warmer months. At St. George Island State Park, "the only downside to this location was the bugs—definitely recommend mosquito nets and a thermacell," warns Becca S.
Limited amenities nearby: The Sopchoppy area is remote with few services. "You'll see lots of stars on a clear night and will not be disturbed by the rest of the world!" notes a Womack Creek camper, highlighting its isolation.
Site sizes vary significantly: At Ochlockonee River State Park, "All of the spaces are very close to their neighbors, some are too close. This park is the tightest Fl State Park in our experience," according to Marvin E., though they praised the river access and activities.
Reservations recommended: Popular campgrounds fill quickly in peak season. At St. George Island State Park, "We stayed 2 nights over the weekend," notes one camper who secured a reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly facilities. A visitor to Bayside RV Resort & Marina mentioned, "Right on the Ochlocknee River going out to the gulf so you can catch redfish and trout off the pier at the site."
Consider age-appropriateness: Not all campgrounds are suited for children. A reviewer noted about Ho-Hum RV Park: "Great views, tight spaces, super clean, not recommended for kids for long stays."
Pack for bugs: Insect repellent is essential for comfortable camping with kids. A St. George Island camper mentioned, "the management did spray for bugs around sunset" but still recommended protection.
Check bathroom cleanliness: Bathrooms vary widely between campgrounds. At Ochlockonee River State Park, a camper noted, "Also used the women's restroom and although is not new the toilet and sink areas were really cleaned and the toilet paper was actually of a great quality."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many campgrounds have tight turns and limited space. At Ochlockonee River State Park, one RVer shared, "We read the reviews of the small spaces for big rigs and we confirm it as we arrived.. although it is a fact we still made it with our fifth wheel on campsite#9 designated for a 35'."
Consider pull-through options: Some campgrounds offer easier parking for larger rigs. At Ho-Hum RV Park, a camper mentioned, "All pull through sites except for waterfront. Pier to fish from. Right on the Gulf."
Check hookup availability: Water, electric, and sewer connections vary by campground. At Panacea RV Park, a long-term camper reported, "Gravel lots, not huge but big enough, we have a 40 ft 5th wheel and a very large truck and we had plenty of space to put up our gazelle tent."
Site surface types: Be prepared for various site conditions. A camper at Ochlockonee River State Park noted, "The road among the sites and the sites are all dirt but level to the eye. Only the handicap space has a concrete pad (#23)."
