Florida's panhandle offers unique coastal cabin accommodations near Sumatra, Florida, situated between the Apalachicola National Forest and the Gulf of Mexico. The region's elevation rarely exceeds 100 feet above sea level, creating a flat terrain with numerous waterways. Many cabins near Sumatra feature river or bay views, with summer temperatures averaging 90°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 40°F.
What to do
Kayaking on Ochlockonee River: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for paddlers. At Ochlockonee River State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the diversity of paddling opportunities. "Tent camping limited but the 5 tent sites are ON THE WATER and the fishing is spectacular!" notes Shea A. about nearby Indian Pass Campground.
Fishing from riverside cabins: Many cabins include pavilions with electrical outlets specifically for fishing enthusiasts. "We loved this oasis outside of Port St. Joe! Tent camping limited but the 5 tent sites are ON THE WATER and the fishing is spectacular!" explains one visitor at Indian Pass Campground. For freshwater options, Ed and Bernices Fish Camp and RV Park offers "pavilions with a picnic table and new fire rings" where guests can "watch the river float past," according to Cristina P.
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts unique species not commonly found elsewhere. "We saw the white squirrels. On our walk through the nature trails we saw a doe (not the resident white deer)," reports Cyndi H. about her stay at Ochlockonee River State Park. Another camper at Torreya State Park Campground mentions, "Keep an eye open for bears and snakes as this is true Florida wilderness."
What campers like
Cabin location and access: Many cabins offer direct water views or access. "Beautiful location on the water," explains David M. about his experience at Indian Pass Campground. At Coastline RV Resort & Campground, Joyce T. recommends, "Get a spot up front so you can watch the dolphins!"
Clean facilities: Despite their rustic setting, many cabins maintain good cleanliness standards. "The bathhouse is clean and the water hot," notes one reviewer at Ed and Bernices Fish Camp. At Coastline RV Resort, a visitor was impressed with the restrooms: "I felt like I walked into a spa when I opened the door calming music started and the lights came on. The showers are big!"
Quiet atmosphere: Many cabin sites provide peace and seclusion. "It was the most peaceful place on the beach we have ever stayed! Takes me back to the days of camping as a kid," writes Crystal about Indian Pass Campground. Similarly, at Torreya State Park, Bryan T. appreciated "the view out of my back dinette windows to be unlike any I had ever seen in Florida."
What you should know
Booking challenges: Popular cabin rentals require advance planning. "We were only able to get one night because the campground was full," explained Cyndi H. about Ochlockonee River State Park. Many cabins book quickly, especially during peak season.
Limited supplies: Most cabins near Sumatra require bringing your own provisions. "There is a general store about 3 miles away and a wonderful little town (St. Joe) about 10 miles away," notes Nicole C. from Indian Pass Campground. For larger grocery shopping, plan to drive 20-30 minutes to nearby towns.
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings high temperatures and insects. "Lots of regular campers that seem to know each other, all very friendly and chatty. Lots of very squirrels, they beg for food (so cute)," reports Nicole C. from Indian Pass. At St. Andrews State Park Campground, campers advise that "the purple flag was up and we got eaten alive by jellyfish (as did many others)" during certain seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several cabins provide easy beach access for children. "The beach is just a few steps away," explains Nicole C. about Indian Pass Campground. At St. Andrews State Park, one visitor notes, "A special treat for the kids each year is the white tailed deer walking through the sites and the bike ride over to the 'Kiddie Pool' at the jetties."
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer features specifically for children. "It felt like we were miles from urban life, but in reality this park is very close to entertainment, shopping, food, etc.," says Sara S. about St. Andrews State Park. At T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park Campground, families appreciate that "There are hike in spots for those with tents who want to. There are very nice screened in cabins available."
Safety considerations: Wildlife encounters require supervision. "We loved this campground! It's a bit crowded but there's plenty of opportunity to stretch your legs being that it's steps away from the beach," notes September H., adding that Indian Pass is "extremely dog friendly which is a huge plus for us because our pup loves to swim."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer both RV sites and cabins with varying sizes. "Site 10 was on the end with no right side neighbors which made for good privacy," mentions Madison C. about Coastline RV Resort. At Ochlockonee River State Park, Marvin E. notes, "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."
Utility connections: Amenities vary widely between cabins and RV sites. "No septic, so you have to have your black/gray water pumped, but even that's not worth a rating deduction," explains one camper at Indian Pass Campground. Others appreciate full hookups: "Yes, there is 50 amps, water and sewer, but the water spigot is 25 feet from the coach and the turn-on switch is an inch underground," warns Angela M. about Ed and Bernices Fish Camp.
