Tent camping options near Sumatra, Florida concentrate primarily within Apalachicola National Forest, where multiple primitive sites offer access to Florida's largest national forest. The area's flat coastal plain terrain features sandy soils and pine forests, with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can occasionally drop below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Paddling Owl Creek: Campers at Hickory Landing Campground access excellent paddling opportunities. "The paddling is great on owl creek," notes Dawna J., who appreciates the campground's seclusion and primitive nature.
Boat launch access: Whitehead Landing provides direct river access with a small boat ramp. "There's a nice little boat ramp on the river," mentions John P., making it convenient for fishing excursions without needing to transport watercraft far from camp.
Hunting excursions: During deer season, many campsites serve as bases for hunters. Whitehead Landing becomes particularly active during hunting seasons, as one camper notes: "The campground is popular as a hunters camp during deer season, and features a boat ramp, so there is some occasional fishing traffic through the grounds."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Whitehead Landing offers exceptional value for campers seeking affordable accommodations. "At only $3/night, you can't beat the peace and quiet! These campsites include a metal fire ring and picnic tables," explains Zack W.
Off-grid connectivity: Despite the remote setting, some campgrounds maintain cellular connections. At Whitehead Landing, John P. reports: "Decent Verizon signal, no T-Mobile. Non-potable water spigot."
Small, peaceful campgrounds: Camp Mack provides a compact but tranquil environment. "Small campground in National Forest. 10 sites. Very quiet. We felt very safe," shares a reviewer named Travels W., adding "Pulled in around 3:00 on a Saturday afternoon. Only 3 other sites were being used."
What you should know
Site amenities vary significantly: Some campgrounds offer more facilities than others. "This site has open areas for more room to spread out, picnic tables and restrooms," describes Jacob A. about White Oak Landing Campground.
Cleanliness challenges: Visitors should prepare to clean up after previous campers. At Whitehead Landing NF Campground, a reviewer cautions: "Only downside is that most of the fire rings seem to double as garbage cans by other campers as they are leaving, despite the nearby receptacles. So expect to pick up someone else's trash before you can build a fire."
Wildlife considerations: Ticks present a concern for campers at certain sites. At Cotton Landing, Katlyn A. advises: "Ticks are definitely out at this campsite but only in the woods so get fire wood along the dirt road on your way in to avoid the ticks and sticker bushes."
Tips for camping with families
Off-season timing: For families seeking solitude while tent camping near Sumatra, Florida, visiting during non-hunting seasons provides a quieter experience. "Loved my stay at this location... people I met there were great, no drama and bathrooms were decent," reports a Cotton Landing visitor about camping during slower periods.
Facility considerations: Families should note bathroom availability varies between campgrounds. Whitehead Landing offers "a pit toilet that is surprisingly clean, trash receptacles, and water spigots," according to a recent visitor, though water is non-potable.
Space requirements: When camping with children, select sites with room to spread out. Hickory Landing Campground offers more space between sites, with one camper noting, "This camp ground is very secluded and the sites are fairly private."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: RV camping options remain limited near Sumatra. Camp Mack accommodates smaller RVs but with minimal amenities. "Only seven camp sites all of them next to one another. River runs along the border of the camp there is a boat launch," notes Jacob F.
Discount opportunities: Federal pass holders can save on camping fees. At Camp Mack, one RVer shared: "$10 a night. With the America The Beautiful lifetime pass, we paid $8.50."
Size restrictions: Large RVs face significant challenges in this region's campgrounds. None of the sites near Sumatra accommodate big rigs, and most access roads require careful navigation with smaller recreational vehicles.
