Newport Park Campground offers overnight options for campers exploring the Tallahassee region and St. Marks area. The campground provides both full hookup and water/electric sites along with primitive camping areas. Located on Highway 98, the park serves as a convenient base for visiting St. Marks Wildlife Refuge across the street and Wakulla Springs approximately 10 minutes away. Traffic noise is noticeable during daytime hours due to the busy highway location.
What to do
Visit the St. Marks lighthouse: Newport Park Campground provides easy access to this historic landmark. "The St. Marks lighthouse is so close and a must see during all times of the day. We visited at least twice, once to walk along the beach and the second time to see the sunset," notes camper Della S.
Explore wildlife viewing areas: The region offers exceptional bird watching opportunities. "We visited Alligator Point and Bald Point State Park. We saw a bald eagle and so many other species of birds," reports a Newport Park Campground reviewer.
Paddle the St. Marks River: The campground's proximity to water makes it ideal for kayaking and canoeing. "Called ahead and booked a tent site at this county campground... There's a boat ramp within walking distance if you've got one!" shares Tucker B.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Newport Park Campground maintains reasonable fees. "Sites run around $17 and there is centrally located bathroom and shower facilities," mentions Juke W.
Equestrian access: Crazy 8 Ranch provides guided horseback rides with direct trail access. "She offers guided trail rides in the adjacent state park," notes Catherine A., adding that the $25 nightly rate offers excellent value.
Primitive lakeside camping: Fort Braden Tract features secluded sites with natural surroundings. "Brilliant view of Lake Talquin, right on the water. Thickly treed so hanging hammocks and bear lines was no problem," shares Edward W., though he notes that sites are visible from the trail.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary: Campground bathhouse conditions can change. "They did have some trouble with the restrooms, they were closed for a short time when we arrived and closed again before we left. However, we did use the showers and the bathhouse was clean when it was operational," reports a Fort Braden Tract Primitive Campsites visitor.
Wildlife encounters: Alligators are present in regional waterways. "Even got a visit from your friendly neighborhood alligator in the middle of the night, which when I realized after the fact what the sound was was terrifying," shares Edward W. about camping at Lake Talquin.
Road conditions: Some horse campgrounds near Tallahassee, Florida have challenging access roads. "The road into her ranch is pretty rough and beat up, so use caution and go slowly," warns Catherine A. about Crazy 8 Ranch.
Tips for camping with families
Bring animal treats: Children enjoy interacting with rescue animals at equestrian campgrounds. "Make sure you bring plenty of carrots and apples for the animals! Feeding them was a big highlight of our stay!" recommends Catherine A. about her experience at Crazy 8 Ranch.
Consider noise levels: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "I did not like the proximity to the busy highway (noisy)... Lot of electric light at night. Ok for a short stay but not very conducive to being out in nature," advises R C. about Tate's Hell State Forest providing a quieter alternative with its dispersed camping options.
Check directions carefully: Some forest tracts can be confusing to locate. "It took us an extra try to find this location - first our directions lead us to the Lines Tract... Make sure you review your directions because there is not much of a signal out there," advises Jeanene A.
Tips from RVers
Water access: Equestrian campgrounds near Tallahassee typically provide water hookups but limited dump facilities. "There's power and water hookups, but no dumping stations yet," explains Catherine A. about the developing facilities at Crazy 8 Ranch.
Campsite selection: Some state forest campgrounds accommodate recreational vehicles despite their primitive designation. "Sites can be reserved... Many of these sites can accommodate a popup or RV, but there are no electrical, water or sewage hook ups in the state forest," notes irena J. about Tate's Hell State Forest.
Reservation requirements: Call ahead to secure spots at popular equestrian campgrounds. "Call ahead for your camping permit!" emphasizes Jeanene A. about camping in the Fort Braden Tract.
